Budget Kenwood KDC-MP345U Install

Ok all the posts & suggestions for upgrading the stock stereo inspired me to try it, so I plunked down $109 to crutchfield (thanks to a $20 online coupon) and bought the budget line 2010 Kenwood KDC-MP345U CD Receiver. It has IPod control through a USB input & has an AUX port so I can play my Sandisk Clip on occasion.

All I can say is why did I wait 3 years to swap out that stupid non-JBL stock stereo?

Using the free installation gear, I managed to solder my own harness & decided to use my stock mounting brackets with the rest of the METRA kit to give it a more solid feel (which was recommended to me here Thanks Rich!). Once I did that, it was a little tricky making the rest of the kit work, but its all in & I like it.
The sound difference is awesome for the $. Here is some quick pics.

The kit arrives two days after ordering


After Install

 

I just put the exact same radio in my Tacoma and yeah for someone who is just looking for an upgrade over stock and to not go all crazy and drop a bunch of money you can't go wrong. Made the stock speakers sound better, but they are still crap and I replaced them too.

I went with the silver mounting kit though. I don't like the change from silver in the A\C controls to the black directly above. Kit works great though either way.