Need stereo input!

Stereo, security systems, vehicle electronics, and electrical-related discussions
Post Reply
CassAndI
Posts: 2
Joined: Sat Apr 08, 2017 6:07 am

Need stereo input!

Post by CassAndI »

Hey all, first post! :)

I have a week to come up with an input solution for my stereo, so I need some opinions.

SHORT STORY: Third-party aux input on factory stereo has quit working. I have a road trip in 9 days, and would really really like a solution by then. I use my smartphone, so am okay with aux. Bluetooth would be really nice, but will depend on the price range, as my budget is quite limited. Need recommendations. Another Adapter? Aftermarket Stereo? What kind?

LONG STORY: Last year I purchased a used 2004 manual 6-speed GT, and have absolutely loved it. I listen to Spotify and Podcasts all the time on the road, so aux input is a biggy for me. This package didn't originally come with any input capability, but the previous owner had installed a box that connects to the back of the stereo unit which essentially adapts it to an aux input cable that runs out the front.

Just the other day, I was listening to a podcast via smartphone plugged in to the aux. I unplugged it for a moment to untangle the cable with the charging cable, plugged it back in, and since then the only audio I get is very quiet, crackly, and only on the left side speakers. Essentially useless. I will say know just about NOTHING when it comes to electrical, speakers, stereos, etc., so I have no idea what happened.

I was originally going to find a similar adapter to the one installed, maybe with bluetooth this time (Like this one: http://www.discountcarstereo.com/A2D-BLAU.html), but seems like for the price I may as well look at replacing the entire stereo with an aftermarket that has bluetooth capabilities. Like I mentioned before, I know nothing about wiring stereos (am good at following instructions though :) ), and have less than 2 weeks to figure this out. So what are y'all's suggestions?

Preferences:
Bluetooth would be nice, but not a necessity.
Dimmable lights, or something that's not too bright. I always have my dash lights as dim as they'll go as I'm a bit more sensitive to lights at night.
Buttons that aren't the size of a mustard seed (Seriously, I don't understand the tiny buttons on all the aftermarkets. I love the factory buttons. Big and easy to hit without taking your eyes off the road. I don't need extra screen space. Not a huge deal, but bigger buttons would be a plus)


Any and all quick input (pun intended) is greatly appreciated!!
302LVR
Posts: 56
Joined: Tue Mar 01, 2016 2:04 pm
Location: South Florida

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by 302LVR »

I recently purchased an aftermarket touch-screen dvd in-dash unit and i'm very pleased with all the features it has and spent only about $225 with a 3yr extended warranty. Purchase included dash trim kit as well as plug and play harness and it was a breeze to connect(you can watch a youtube video and the wires are color coded so you know where they go connected too). Don't worry about not having any previous audio know-how its a pretty simple diy task if u can dedicate 1 day to it. I would say the most time consuming task when i did the install was cutting off the tabs i wouldn't need on the plastic dash kit(instructions tell you where to cut with a Dremel imitation tool i bought for like $10 at harbor freight.

You'll also need a 10mm socket with at least a 10" extension, about a dozen or more 12-14 gauge (removed) connectors, an electric wire crimping tool and wire cutter, and an antenna adapter(from Mini-Barb to universal radio)...I used Metra part number 40-GM10 which i picked up on ebay for like $5-$6. As previously mentioned, i'm very happy with all the features this radio has including bluetooth music streaming plus hands free calling, navigation, dvd, etc. Screen also allows various dim settings. Here's the head unit i installed on my 03' Vibe GT.
https://www.sonicelectronix.com/picture ... id=2968191
I'll try n upload a pic of the finished product whenever i can. Oh and hint, i went on Retailmenot.com and found a coupon for an extra 5% off my total purchase at checkout. Good luck.
pakong
Posts: 96
Joined: Thu Oct 20, 2016 6:05 am
Location: Richmond, VA
Contact:

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by pakong »

I also use this http://www.ebay.com/itm/232232167010?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT and this http://www.ebay.com/itm/252606935167?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT with my after market system on my 09-10 1.8L Base Vibe
sjlufi
Posts: 3
Joined: Wed Oct 26, 2016 4:16 pm

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by sjlufi »

pakong wrote:I also use this http://www.ebay.com/itm/232232167010?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT and this http://www.ebay.com/itm/252606935167?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT with my after market system on my 09-10 1.8L Base Vibe
do you have a photo of those installed?
User avatar
ImUrOBGYN
Posts: 438
Joined: Mon Jun 10, 2013 8:23 pm

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by ImUrOBGYN »

Have you tried simply following the aux plug wire back to be sure it hasn't come loose or something equally easy to fix? Anywhere that wire has ran, I imagine is an easy job to get to. Center console is easy to remove, top to bottom. You'd have to remove a chunk of it to replace the stereo if you want to anyway. Might as well check that wire now. It's free.

You may also consider a bluetooth receiver that uses a FM modulator that will play through the stereo. That would probably be the simplest way to go about it for someone who doesn't consider themselves electronics savvy.

If you do go with installing a new stereo, be sure to purchase a harness, as well. Makes things waayyyy easier to install. Good luck.
I spent a lot of money on booze, birds and fast cars. The rest I just squandered. - George Best
ImageImageImage
pakong
Posts: 96
Joined: Thu Oct 20, 2016 6:05 am
Location: Richmond, VA
Contact:

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by pakong »

sjlufi wrote:
pakong wrote:I also use this http://www.ebay.com/itm/232232167010?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT and this http://www.ebay.com/itm/252606935167?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT with my after market system on my 09-10 1.8L Base Vibe
do you have a photo of those installed?
I've installed this
http://www.ebay.com/itm/252606935167?_t ... EBIDX%3AIT but not the other yet in my Vibe. I do have both installed in my RAV4. In my Vibe I had to use a small Sandisk USB flash drive otherwise my knee keeps kicking it. I will send pictures tonight here or inbox you. It's really easy to do. Wiring the dual USB power is a little more difficult.
pakong
Posts: 96
Joined: Thu Oct 20, 2016 6:05 am
Location: Richmond, VA
Contact:

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by pakong »

Here are some pictures.
Image

Image

Image
ImN3XU5
Posts: 45
Joined: Sun Jun 05, 2016 8:32 am
Location: Cincinnati, OH

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by ImN3XU5 »

pakong wrote:Here are some pictures.
Image

Image

Image
Hey I see you replaced your factory stereo in your 2nd gen. Do you have the Monsoon sound system with the sub? If so, were you able to still use it with the new stereo? And do your steering wheel controls still work? I'm thinking about replacing mine with a touchscreen unit that supports Android Auto and want to still be able to use the controls and the sub.
pakong
Posts: 96
Joined: Thu Oct 20, 2016 6:05 am
Location: Richmond, VA
Contact:

Re: Need stereo input!

Post by pakong »

Hi ImN3XU5
I did indeed replace the factory stereo in my 2010 Vibe. It didn't have the factory stereo, it already had a Sony in there that was a mess. I upgraded the stereo to an Alpine 149BT, I added the monsoon subwoofer and I'm still looking for a panel before I cut the one I have. I added the steering wheel and the combination light lever because I added fog lights and the wiper level on the other side for the variable intermittent wiper. I can't figure out where the steering wheel control plugs in. I read in some post that it was under the steering wheel towards the ignition side. I am attempting to do it tomorrow in addition to the big three upgrade and alternator upgrade. I can post pictures if you're interested. It doesn't seem like too many people are on here anymore. i'm using 1 gauge for the big three upgrade. I'm not sure if I will do the engine. I jacked up the car to do the fog lights and there is some kind of box that blocks the view from underneath the car. :D
Post Reply