Best way to add mp3 playback to 2003 Matrix

[Khumarahn]

Hello everybody.

I've got 2003 Toyota Matrix with navigation unit and 6 cd changer under passenger seat. I like how the system looks like, but it is useless in the current state - I don't have navigation cd, radio doesn't work, and I have nothing on cd-s.

I am looking for update to the HU or may be new HU. The untimate goal is playback of my files from sd card or usb drive.

At this point I found I could by ipod integration kit ISGM73 from pac-audio:
http://www.pac-audio.com/productDetails ... egoryID=36" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
This is 120 dollars, and I would have to buy ipod for some 150 dollars more, and I don't like that.

There are some companies that produce mp3 readers that cheat HU into thinking that they are cd changers, like
http://www.ycarlink.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
http://www.xcarlink.com/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
But sadly they have nothing suitable for my car.

Getting AUX may be a good idea, but I'm try to avoid it...

So, my question is: how did you solve this problem? And also: what new stereo can be installed into 2003 Matrix/Vibe, and what parts (like harnesses, amplifiers, etc) would I need?

[scottstoked]

There are a lot of options for head units out there. If you're looking to bypass CDs altogether, this JV KD-X40 has a front USB port that you can plug a thumb-drive into. You can also customize the LED colors to match your interior.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KDX40/J ... ml?tp=5684" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

If you order from Crutchfield or Sonic Electronix, they'll include the harness, antenna adapter, install instructions and dash kit for your Matrix.

Does your Matrix have a factory amplifier? With the Vibe, it comes with the Moon and Tunes package. If so, you might need a line level converter like this one. Otherwise you may experience a slight hiss/white noise sound through your speakers and have way too much gain (volume) through your HU.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_142SLC4/Sc ... erview-tab" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[Khumarahn]

Thanks a lot for reply!!

I don't think my Matrix has amplifier. Though I am not absolutely sure. At least it is not behind head unit, or driver seat, or passenger seat. And I don't have moonroof/sunroof.

harness, antenna adapter, install instructions and dash kit

this is all I need, right?

How good is JVC stereo you gave link to?

[scottstoked]

If you had the factory amp, it would be under the front passenger seat. Sounds like you don't need the line level thingy. Crutchfield or Sonic will give you everything you need.

I've had two JVC head units in the past and they were both excellent. This one appears to be excellent as well if you look at the numerous user reviews.

If you look at this thread, you can see what my last JVC HU looked like installed in my '03 Vibe.
viewtopic.php?f=18&t=37136" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

BTW: They also make a Bluetooth version of this HU (JVC KD-X50BT) if you're interested in having handsfree calling.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KDX50BT ... X50BT.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;