Upgrading 3rd gen audio

[c1rca491]

I just got an 01 4runner and I want to replace the stock system. Not looking for anything too crazy. Just a cleaner sound without distortion. Another thing is I am a college student on a BUDGET. I want to replace one piece at a time. I am unsure if I want to keep the stock HU and replace the speakers right now or to keep the stock speakers and replace the HU. I will only be replacing the front components. Right now I want to spend around $150 for the upgrade. Which one will make the most difference? Thanks!

 

[mistaj0hnny]

Keep the stock speakers and replace the stock HU. It will improve the sound quality a lot. You should be able to find a pretty decent HU within your budget. Go with Alpine or Pioneer.

 

[Wizzle]

I agree. I am new to 4runners but when my 2000 had the stock head unit in it the sound was horrible. I thought all the speakers were blown. I switched to a kenwood I had in my truck and the sound was 100 times better, no blown speakers at all. Just my two cents.

 

[Claustin10]

I'd suggest a head unit first. I just completely re-did the audio in my 4runner. When I installed the new head unit, the difference in sound quality was significantly better. The speakers made a much smaller difference.

Here's what I installed:
Sony DSX-S100 HU-$125
Kicker DS40- $40
Kicker DS60- $55

 

[MTDewX8]

get a HU that has a USB/Aux for the the options of not having to change out CD's.

talk about a nice feature. sound will come as you have $ to add. but HU is the best place to start