Is it true that Entune system does not allow for aftermarket speakers?

you do not lose any functionality running an amp. Amplifiers purely "turn up the power" going to the speakers, some amps have crossovers and eq's in them, but you don't lose any controls from the factory HU

 

So I will be able to adjust the Equalizer settings on the aftermarket amp from the OEM head unit? And still be able to use the steering wheel controls? They mentioned having to run a "speed wire" from the OEM HU to the secondary amp.

 

correct, speed wire is just a product that runs 4 sets of speaker wire in a single package. Makes it easier than running 4 separate speaker wires. I would recommend an amp with no eq, most don't have eq just crossovers

 

The speedwire cable carries the speaker level outputs from the back of the HU to the amp. In this configuration you need to use an amp that accepts speaker level outputs, not all do. The amp that I use (Arc Audio XDi 450) doesn't have equalizer settings on it, only gain, crossover, and bass boost settings. The steering wheel controls work the same and you still use the HU bass/treble/fader controls like you would without an amp.

I replaced the factory speakers with Hybrid Audio speakers, added the Arc Audio amp and the sound is 10X better IMO.

 

thanks zinger, I forgot to highlight that point. Although you can alternatively use a line converter like an LC7i from audio control to convert if you want to use a different amp. The Arc Audio amps are fantastic though, been looking at some SEs for a while

 

Which sub did you go with?

 

Getting ready to go in my 2027

 

Controlled with a helix dsp 2

 

And 2 12" tw3 for bass

 

I like it bc818. HATs are stellar speakers, what amp are you running them off?

 

I have always been a fan of JL. Those sound like they are worth a look though.

 

TXTaco13, I run a JL HD900.5 so I am with you on the JLs but Arc SE's, Brax, Sinfoni they all crush JL for signal quality, but price wise JL definitely wins.

 

Arc aufio 1200.6 for speakers and arc audio 1100.1 for subs

 

Where did you get this sub boxes?!? I have a set of tw3's but haven't found a good place to get a quality box! Please do share!

 

I still have the stock head unit. Replaced my door speakers. Had to use mounting brackets. Links as follows:

$18 Metra 82-8146 6" x 9" Front Speaker Adapter Fits SELECT 2002-UP Lexus and Toyota Vehicles

https://www.amazon.com/Metra-82-814...&qid=1485227357&sr=8-1&keywords=metra+82-8146
and

$20 Metra 82-8148 6" to 6.75" Speaker Adapter Fits Select Toyota/Lexus/Scion 1998-2025 Vehicles, Black

https://www.amazon.com/Metra-82-814...&qid=1485227357&sr=8-2&keywords=metra+82-8146
Much better clarity in the mids and highs. Bass is a lot more clear also. Still rolls off around volume of 30. Soon I will be adding and amp and sub. I would say, yes, get new door speakers. I'm pleased with mine. Would purchase and install them again if I had to do it all over again.

 

Contact mr. Marv. He custom built these for my setup/truck. He can build whatever you'd like. He is very knowledgeable and does amazing work

 

Curious, how does the premium factory JBL head unit/speakers sound compared to the standard head unit, has anyone compared the two? And is it possible to upgrade to the JBL?

 

JBL sounds better than the standard, though what that means to each person will differ. To find out what it means to you, grab a USB stick with your favorite music and visit a dealer with both in stock.

Possible and feasible are two different things. There's no easy end-user or dealer-install upgrade path, has to come from the factory. I'm sure with enough money for parts and rewiring you could do an upgrade but it'd be cheaper to go with full aftermarket replacement at that point.

 

I upgraded my speakers to jbl,s and I'm happy with the results.

 

Go to a different shop. They don't know what they are doing.