Looking for head unit info?

da5176

Hey guys, I'm wondering if anybody out there can tell me anything about the head unit in my 06 Toyota Highlander. It's the standard unit they put in the car. What I'm wondering is how much power does it put out? One place told me it was a pretty good unit comparable to around $200-$300 of a new one. Another place told me it was just a plain old stock radio that I would defiantly benefit from replacing it. Does the second place just want to sell me on a new radio or would there be much difference in replacing it. I already replaced the fronts with Infinity components and the back with MTX co-axials. I also added a 12" Infinity sub powered by a 300W Rockford Fosgate amp. If replacing the radio would make a definite difference what would you guys suggest I replace the radio with? My budget would be up to $250 installed. I rarely listen to things cranked up really loud. I want a full range sound that sounds good at any volume. Thanks for any help:)

1996blackmax

I think replacing it will give you more tuning options, as well as the ability to plug in other things.

What do you want out of the HU?

da5176

I'm looking for more power if a new HU would give that to me and maybe a cleaner sound. The DVD player plays softer than the radio stations do.

1996blackmax

Are you planning on upgrading later to an amplifier? A HU's built in amp will only give you so much power, nothing compared to an external amplifier. An external amplifier will give you both, more power, and cleaner sound.


I will say that since you say that there is a mismatch in volume in sound sources, I will throw my HU as an example. Eclipse units allow you to adjust the volume of each source relative to the radio. This way your sound stays constant between sources. That is a nice thing that comes in handy.

If you really do not want an amp, I would look to see if Panasonic still makes their high output HU's.

exalted512

panasonic is going to start using class t amps in their HUs pretty soon. They claim youll be able to run a small sub off of it. Pricing is supposed to be around $500
-Cody

98thumpin

but for the good bass, get a real amp

iworkfortweeter

its going to give you better sound quality if you replace it...as previously stated, it'll give you TONS of options that thing doesn't have. keep in mind that may be a double-spaced unit, so either get a double spaced hu, or buy a compatible kit for installing a single unit.
good luck!