Vibe/Matrix audio compatibility?

[mfpr]

When cross shopping for a Vibe and Matrix, I noticed Toyota offered a combination cassette/single CD audio system, but was not available for the Vibe. I do listen to books, etc. on cassette and was wondering if anyone knew if it is possible to replace the single CD unit from the Vibe with the cassette/CD unit from the Matrix. I have the "Moon & Tunes" package in my Vibe, if that makes any difference. I'm hoping I can order the unit from the parts department of a Toyota dealer and either have them install it or my Pontiac dealer. Any suggestions?

[VibeInTx]

If you're going to change the stereo anyway, you'll most likely get a better deal with an aftermarket radio.

[mfpr]

I stopped at Circuit City this afternoon and they did have a stereo with a cassette player, but I would have to have a CD changer installed since their unit did not have both an in-dash CD and cassette. I also like the look of the OEM audio unit better. The aftermarket unit did not have the red lighting like the rest of the dash displays either.Mike

[mfpr]

I have tried plugging a portable cassette player into the 110V outlet and there is a constant hissing noise when playing a tape. Has anyone else tried plugging in a cassette player into the outlet and if so, did you get the same results?Mike

[Stands Alone]

The wife & I also like to listen to audio books when we're on a long drive. I bought a cheapo casette player from Wal-Mart and then plugged it in to the AC outlet. It works OK but would be a lot nicer if there was an in Dash unit. I'm curious as to the Matrix unit. ????

[mfpr]

How is the sound from your portable cassette unit? Do you get a hissing noise during playback? If you don't, what brand do you use?Mike

[Stands Alone]

Cassette made by GE. Wal-Mart sells it for about $20. Minimal hiss noticeable between songs. Kenny Loggins tape. I didn't turn up the sound much. Now if I had a real, in dash player, we could just crank it up. All we really wanted the deck for was audio books. I've got a jillion cassettes like everyone else. Been buying CDs for awhile.

[VibeInTx]

If audio quality isn't too important (i.e. using only for books on tape), you may want to look into a cassete with an FM modulator. That way, you can keep the factory stereo, and the cassete will play through an FM station. If you can find something the right size, it'd be cool to mount it in the armrest w/the 12V outlet.

[VibeInTx]

For example, I found this FM modulator that will work with any RCA connection input:http://www.crutchfield.com/cgi-bin/S-Yv ... KSIF200You can then use any el-cheapo casette player, and put it all in the armrest. You can even use a walkman, and convert the headphone out signal to RCA.

[mfpr]

I sent an email to a Toyota dealer advertising discount parts on the web, and got a quote of $500.39 for the head unit with cassette and single CD. He did not specify if it came with a new face plate or if the head unit is simply a "plug-in" to my existing OEM amp and speakers. I sent an email asking those questions, but have not yet had a reply.Mike

[Sub-Vibe-R]

I was using cassettes for compilation but now I got a CD burner... Much better then cassettes.May be transfering his old cassettes on CD's will be easier then put a tape deck in his Vibe?

[mfpr]

Most of the cassettes I play come from the library. They are learning material, etc. and once I listen to them, I don't need to hear them again. That's why it would be impractical for me to burn CD's from the tapes.Mike

[Toyotaman]

mfpr,you should be able to install any GM stereo with CD & Cass. in your Vibe. The cheapest way would be to buy a used system. Its very simple to swap it. The units in Cavaliers, Sunfiers and other Pontiacs should be compatible. The unit in Matrix is also a GM stereo, made by Delco.