Overhead Mic is trash. Any better alternatives?

So the overhead mic in the roof liner is absolute crap. I'd like to replace it with something better if that's possible. I haven't seen anyone through search go through the steps of citing which replacement aftermarket mic could or would do the trick. Any suggestions. Is it a specific type of mic? Is there a better location to put a new mic? I also have wireless carplay as well via dongle.

Can I splice a new mic wire in its place? How about something I can mount on the dash? How about connectorization into my stock non-JBL head unit? Special connector or 3.5mm jack?

 

Are people you are talking to complaining? I recall a few years back that this was an issue for some, but I forget what they did to correct it. Some sort of setting change if I recall.

 

Yeah, people are telling me that I sound far away like I'm using two cans and a string. I'm not expecting high-fidelity sound from phone to phone, but it needs to be better than what people are telling me.

 

To further troubleshoot have you tested it with a different phone?

 

No. I'm the only user/owner of the truck and I only have one phone.

 

I believe you can adjust the mic volume going to your caller. Should be on the head unit screen when on a call.

 

I get the same response from people I talk to using the truck's Bluetooth. From what I've heard, the problem is coming from the stock head unit. Not sure how true that is though. I would love to find a better alternative than replacing the entire stereo.

 

It’s so shitty i used to raise my voice and kind of talk upward at the mic in the ceiling, but i got tired of that so now i keep an old pair of airpods in the truck and i just pop one in to take a call.
Wayyyy better

 

That's a good fix! I wish there was a way to disconnect the phone's Bluetooth from the truck stereo taking phone calls, but keep the phone's Bluetooth connected to the truck stereo for your phone's music. My wife's Toyota Highlander has that feature.

 

Where do you suggest he hardwire the the phone?

 

I’ve experiencing echoing and low mic volume with a few people. We restart both our phone & that solve the problem. Twice I have to delete and add my phone to the car to solve the issue.

I don’t know why it happen, but I do notice it happen after my phone software update.

give that a try for both phone. If still happen, try on a different vehicle?

 

Never had a problem with the mic on my 2018 non JBL head unit.

I did replace it last year with a Kenwood that came with a mic that mounts on the steering column.

 

I have a 2021 Sport and don't have any issues with the mic. When I speak to other people they always ask where am I calling from as my voice is crystal clear. I tell them through my truck stereo system.

 

I'm just looking to see if anyone has an alternative mic they use that is better? Installation is no issue. I just want to make sure that it would work well, sound good, even with background noise cancellation, and not like I'm in infinite hallway with barely any volume.