Wanted to get XM in my car, and the ability to use an Ipod, vs. the factory (OEM standard) Sanyo unit which made neither possible. Went to Best Buy, which has done three XM installs to handle the whole thing. Went with a Sony unit, (CDX-GT300) ($139.00) which has more power than the factory Sanyo unit, and allows for XM compatability with a xm tuner box and controller box which is also required ($100 in total more).
This unit allows one to change channels on XM, see the selections, etc. on the face without using another unit like the "roady" etc. Also allows for direct connection with much better sound quality given that you are not going through an FM station for the input, etc. Antenna was placed between the defrost vents and windshield, and is very discreet. XM tuner was placed in front of the head unit, and the xm receiver forward of the footwell box on the passenger side, as there is not enough space in forward of the head unit for the tuner and controller.
The sony unit also has a single 1/8" input on the front panel for an Ipod or any other MP3 player (requires about a $10 cable) Unit also plays single CD's or MP3 CD's. Kept the original wiring harness plug and Sanyo unit for OEM status return if ever so desired. This unit does not allow for controlling your ipod from the unit if you also have XM as their is only one "auxilliary in" on the back of the unit....This is not a problem for me, as the radio is tough to use in its physical location down low vs. most cars: i.e. making controlling the music via the Ipod when using an Ipod actually much easier than via the head unit's controlls.
The only downside from this approach is that the ipod is not being charged simultaneously. The Sony unit comes with a remote, and that is HANDY given it is MCLONGDISTANCE to the head unit for the driver...Installed ran about $370 all in, and it sounds great and gives you all options.....The price included a 4 year warranty for the unit, which I usually never buy, but these units with removable face plates can give contact wear over time, particularly in a car that rides pretty firm.....thought it was worth the price, and the tunes and options are Great!
This unit allows one to change channels on XM, see the selections, etc. on the face without using another unit like the "roady" etc. Also allows for direct connection with much better sound quality given that you are not going through an FM station for the input, etc. Antenna was placed between the defrost vents and windshield, and is very discreet. XM tuner was placed in front of the head unit, and the xm receiver forward of the footwell box on the passenger side, as there is not enough space in forward of the head unit for the tuner and controller.
The sony unit also has a single 1/8" input on the front panel for an Ipod or any other MP3 player (requires about a $10 cable) Unit also plays single CD's or MP3 CD's. Kept the original wiring harness plug and Sanyo unit for OEM status return if ever so desired. This unit does not allow for controlling your ipod from the unit if you also have XM as their is only one "auxilliary in" on the back of the unit....This is not a problem for me, as the radio is tough to use in its physical location down low vs. most cars: i.e. making controlling the music via the Ipod when using an Ipod actually much easier than via the head unit's controlls.
The only downside from this approach is that the ipod is not being charged simultaneously. The Sony unit comes with a remote, and that is HANDY given it is MCLONGDISTANCE to the head unit for the driver...Installed ran about $370 all in, and it sounds great and gives you all options.....The price included a 4 year warranty for the unit, which I usually never buy, but these units with removable face plates can give contact wear over time, particularly in a car that rides pretty firm.....thought it was worth the price, and the tunes and options are Great!
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