Took the plunge

I really like it!! I mounted it on top of the plastic piece that is above the glove box. It is underated for it output. It drives my Polk Audio's hard and very clear. I have not had any issues at all with it. The install was very simple, did not require alot of extra adjustment adn is not visible at all. It is perfect for what I wanted.

 

Set up looks great.
I'm considering this same model, but I'm wondering about the connection for the ipod/iphone. Right now I've got the adapter that lets me connect an ipod into the stock radio as if it's a CD changer (not using the AUX input). I've got those cables running into the glove box and just keep the ipod in there.

Since this HU allows a lot more functionality out of the iphone (like pandora), I'm wanting the cable to be a bit more accessible for the iphone, but I still like the idea of hiding the ipod away and having it connected for just basic listening purposes.

Any ideas?? I don't guess there's a way to split the USB and have one go to the glove box and one go to a port below the A/C??

Thanks!

 

Awesome, you should compile a write up of your install.
I know what parts I want in my system but not totally sure on what wiring and whatnot needs to be run, itd be good to see how you installed yours

 

video!

 

What parking break bypass did you use?

 

Love the set up. I was thinking of getting the 8500 because I have an Android phone....I saw in one of your posts you said the 550 synced fine with Android....I was under the impression you had to have the 8500 to run android. Also, have you run any of the GPS apps through the radio yet? Can you run GPS and listen to radio or pandora? I Have read some complaints where you cannot listen to radio while running GPS???? Any help you have answering these questions would be greatly appreciated!

 

I run GPS through my phone and am able to continue listening to the music. If I use the headunit the music is cancelled and only audible is the direction notifications. It works well with my Iphone to where the only break in the music is the notifications, for example "turn right in XXX feet" etc.

My wife has the samsung G3 and has not had any issues at all. You do not need the 8500 to sync successfully with an Android phone.

 

I guess I should have taken more pics...

I can answer any of your questions if you IM me or post here. as for the wiring it is not complicated if you take it one piece at a time. I utilized as many harnesses as I could to make the install that much easier and to limit the amount of cutting/splicing I had to do to the OEM wiring.

I did my install one piece at a time so that I could answer any questions from member on "how it sounds with the headunit and stock speakers", and "how much of a difference did just the amp make".

My goal with this install was to not lose any original equipment function while achieving much greater sound without completely breaking a budget. I am very happy with the results and it is perfect for my needs. It took alot of research and time on TW to come up with the best system for what I wanted.

Thanks to all who offered thier time and assistance!!

 

Dont remember the exact name of it but it was the only one compatibe with the 5500 and was $20 on Amazon.

 

Love this setup - very much along the lines of what I want to do. How does the truck sound overall when you have it all turned up? i.e. do you have a rattle trap now since you didn't install any sound deadener?

Great job

 

9 months later and it is still perfect for what I wanted. All the speakers/subwoofer/amp/deck are mated together well and not one part of the system is over bearing. The subwoofer is perfectly blended to the speakers and they provide a complete sound. all the auxiliary parts work flawlessly and I have had no issues other than fine tuning to do to the system. No I don't have any issues with the truck sounding like a "rattle trap" lol. It sounds great and since I tuned the deck/amp etc it sounds perfect for what I wanted. I still intend on installing sound deadener but there is no immediate need. Good luck with your system.

 

OP Thank you for the thread I have been considering this same setup and you answered a lot of my questions. Thanks again now to save up some $$$

 

Gladly, I hope this thread helps. I know how the $$$$ goes, I did a lot of research while I was saving up and am 100% happy with my choices. PM me with Q's if you come up with any.


I am in and out for a couple weeks at a time so if I don't get right back to you that is why.

 

Cool that thanks Buddy I am hoping in the next few weeks I'll have it narrowed down and/or ordered.

 

I'm about to purchase some Polk DXI651s for the front and back speakers in my 2000 PreRunner.

How do the Polk's sound? I've got a good Kenwood head unit.

 

can you use the stock mic? or do you have to run the aftermarket one. I love the stock mic and location

 

I did not use the stock mic (from whayt I read, the one that comes with the head unit is way better quality). I put the mic on the plastic that connects the mirror to the window. It is hard to even see.

I did get the stock satelite antena to work for SirusXM.

I have the 8500 model head unit and love it except for the screen resolution. Impossible to see with sunglasses on and really washed out in the sun. I have been playing with the settings for week now with no improvement.

 

Thanks

 

I too have the 8500 and have the same issues with washout. During a sunny day it is really hard to see anything on the screen. I have tried several different angles and mounting brackets and have even cut the dimmer wire so it is at it's brightest at all times and nothing seems help. Pretty disappointed in that aspect. The functions of the unit are outstanding. I have a Samsung Galaxy 3 and use a Samsung Allshare cast wireless hub attached to the unit so it is completely wireless. I can run everything through the head unit. It completely mirrors my phone, not like Appradio that I think is crap. you just go to settings on the phone and go to "more Settings" and go to the very bottom and click on screen mirroring and it brings your phone screen up on the head unit. Can do navigation, internet, Watch Netflix, check emails...EVERYTHING. Do not have to plug anything into the phone. Also does Pandora wirelessly. LOVE IT...If I can just figure out this screen issues!!!!!! I will try you get some pictures.

 

The polls have a solid full sound. Are you installing them front or rear? I have the DXI651s in he rears, the are a great fill speaker, I prefer the component speakers in the front for better soundstage.