CaveVan Forum

VW T4 "Eurovans" => Interior! => Topic started by: Cole on June 08, 2015, 07:19:01 pm

Title: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 08, 2015, 07:19:01 pm
I've been sitting here researching car stereos. There are some amazing units for cheap these days.

But, I'd like to see what everyone is using.

Be honest, tell us how you like it.

Show us pictures so we can see how they look in the Eurovan!


Just to keep this interesting. I installed this in "Night Fury" for the new owner.

It was a few years old. $600ish new, but today I think you can buy better stereos with more features for right around $100.

I also painted parts of the face and trim to make it look nicer in the van.

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5612/15402175248_eeb0a6f661_z_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: albertr on June 08, 2015, 08:37:20 pm
here's my double-din parrot "asteroid smart":

http://www.iral.com/~albertr/EVC/stereo.html

-albertr
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Micah on June 09, 2015, 06:22:57 am
I've been looking for a good replacement speaker for the 4.5 stock speakers in the rear side panels. Do you have any suggestions? Have you found a replacement that works well with the stock setup?

Thanks,

Micah
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 09, 2015, 04:10:01 pm
What do you guys think of this one?


http://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KDX320B/JVC-KD-X320BTS.html?tp=5684
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: kjeff on June 09, 2015, 07:47:35 pm
It's not cheap and you could modify your own but a Reinforcement bar for a double din stereo install is available
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 09, 2015, 07:56:03 pm
I've considered that. Many times. I think using something like the Apple Play Alpine ILX-007 might make it so that only part of the bar needs trimmed since it has such a shallow mounting depth.

http://alpine-usa.com/product/view/carplay-ilx-007/
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: kjeff on June 09, 2015, 10:27:23 pm
I love that Apple Play... Saw them at Best Buy, just not sure I want to jump through the hoops it would require to do it right
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Suthernvanman on June 10, 2015, 05:52:51 am
I've got an 03 Weekender with a blown rear right speaker.  Was thinking I'd replace with the Pioneers that GoWesty pitches.  Anyone know why they say 'install is a bit tricky, recommend pro install?'

http://www.gowesty.com/ec_view_details.php?id=23319&category_id=355&category_parent_id= (http://www.gowesty.com/ec_view_details.php?id=23319&category_id=355&category_parent_id=)

I've been looking for a good replacement speaker for the 4.5 stock speakers in the rear side panels. Do you have any suggestions? Have you found a replacement that works well with the stock setup?

Thanks,

Micah
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: rcowan on June 10, 2015, 09:04:20 am
On the rear speakers, the grille snaps into the factory speaker frame.

I have not done it, but the only way I can see to put a replacement speaker in there is to cut the factory speaker out of the frame and mount a new speaker in that frame if you want to keep the factory grille. Not impossible at all but a little "tricky" is probably a good description. :-)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Marshy on June 10, 2015, 11:18:46 am
From what i've read, possibly on the vortex, (but can't confirm) the VW VOLK-L OEM head unit should plug and play with our vans.
It's double-din at the face, but single-din behind so it will clear the knee bar.
Lights match the factory red/indigo and there's much less risk of a broken window.
Has built in CD player with mP3, Aux in, USB port and bluetooth. Even the mic for phone calls is built into the face.
Anyone want to risk the $500 to see if its compatible?
(http://www.originalcaraudio.com/Volkswagen/Images/VW121_3.JPG)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Lugboot on June 12, 2015, 11:50:15 am
This is a timely thread--looking to replace the stereo before our road trip to CO.  Was wandering around Crutchfield's site yesterday and am leaning towards this one:

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-wVhrOZCb9UN/p_113KDCX599/Kenwood-Excelon-KDC-X599.html?tp=5684

Thoughts?
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Suthernvanman on June 12, 2015, 01:04:12 pm
Mine is the Blaupunkt Toronto 420 BT.  I like it well enough - seemed pretty reasonable at $160 shipped.

I like that the install took 5 minutes - pop out / pop in.  Sounds good.  BT phone calls work well.  USB works ok (sometimes shits itself trying to read iPhone and unit must power cycle.)  Tactical nav on map apps is nice versus Garmin/ipod set up in my 4Runner (can't hear the Garmin if enjoying music at volume.) iPhone is always charged.  Especially like the remote control that came with it - keep it in the back and can adjust volume if needed. 

I wish that streaming BT music had more signal, looses too much for my liking.  I'd rather have my dedicated 160gb 6th gen iPod cradled permanently but the head unit takes over the interface of the iPod and creates a horrible user experience.  If I could do this, I'd put the iPod in center console and wire to back of head unit.  Also - and I think this is more of an EV thing - I have to power it up each time I start the van - doesn't seem to remember it was on.

I really, really like the look of that Alpine Apple Carplay unit - that's the shit.

btw - iPhone mount is from 'ProClip' works well.

(http://sgadv.smugmug.com/VanMan/Interior/i-bJs3Dzr/0/L/DSCN1987-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Christian on June 12, 2015, 04:48:59 pm
From what i've read, possibly on the vortex, (but can't confirm) the VW VOLK-L OEM head unit should plug and play with our vans.
It's double-din at the face, but single-din behind so it will clear the knee bar.
Lights match the factory red/indigo and there's much less risk of a broken window.
Has built in CD player with mP3, Aux in, USB port and bluetooth. Even the mic for phone calls is built into the face.
Anyone want to risk the $500 to see if its compatible?
(http://www.originalcaraudio.com/Volkswagen/Images/VW121_3.JPG)

You can swap in this stereo without changing the stereo cage to a double DIN unit (which is a pain in the butt). But you do need the trim piece below the unit, as the stock trim piece covers the climatronic and the dash cubby.

The trim piece is part number: 7D182007501C
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 12, 2015, 04:52:05 pm
Well I just bought a couple of these! One for my Blu.O van and one for the unspoken for nameless black MV I'm about to convert.(it came without a stereo)

Bluetooth, pandora, iHeart Radio, CD(for the old skool),  etc.


I was planning on buying the JVC above @$89 but these Sonys defiantly looked and felt higher quality in person. $80 more but I don't want to put anything cheap feeing in a van.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 12, 2015, 07:38:42 pm
(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/435/18564992958_2d2095b99a_o_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 12, 2015, 09:44:44 pm
Okay. I just finished installing 2 of these Sony MEX-N5100BT stereos.

One in a factory Westfalia and one in one of my conversion tintop to Poptop vans.

You can see the difference in climate controls. The conversion gets the dual zone auto climatronic.

There were several nice things about these stereos. One of the nice things is the ability to customize the face colors to work with the Eurovan interior.



Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Christian on June 13, 2015, 12:01:20 am
Definitely a personal taste thing, Cole. Those stereos would drive me NUTS! I hate all that techno bright light crap on the aftermarket stereos.





Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 13, 2015, 06:16:57 am
Quote
Definitely a personal taste thing, Cole. Those stereos would drive me NUTS! I hate all that techno bright light crap on the aftermarket stereos.

There is no more "techno bright light crap" on these than the stock radio.

Both of these vans came missing their factory stereos.

The whole point of buying a stereo with adjustable display color was to match the colors of the factory unit.

These are now set up to perfectly match the stock stereo dash lights. Red buttons and blue display. My photo above with the colors set right just doesn't show it very well. For some reason the camera makes the stereo lights seem bright and pink, they are not. They are a deep red that matches the stock dash lighting.


Here is what the factory VW radio looks like lit up (image from a GTI but same radio and dash lights)

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/263/18578327190_2ebdf3a461_o_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Itsamoto on June 13, 2015, 09:10:51 am
From what i've read, possibly on the vortex, (but can't confirm) the VW VOLK-L OEM head unit should plug and play with our vans.
It's double-din at the face, but single-din behind so it will clear the knee bar.
Lights match the factory red/indigo and there's much less risk of a broken window.
Has built in CD player with mP3, Aux in, USB port and bluetooth. Even the mic for phone calls is built into the face.
Anyone want to risk the $500 to see if its compatible?
(http://www.originalcaraudio.com/Volkswagen/Images/VW121_3.JPG)

Maybe I'm just not coordinated - or have really bad eyesight - but I do prefer chunky button radios, physical dials. Tactile feedback devices are highly under rated.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on June 20, 2015, 07:32:07 am
In a 1993 I just bought.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/277/18898638612_b0ff2563ee_k_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Itsamoto on July 20, 2015, 08:27:32 am
In a 1993 I just bought.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/277/18898638612_b0ff2563ee_k_d.jpg)

Love the switches on the dash - they rock(er)!  :D

Any information on what they all do or are for?
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Itsamoto on July 20, 2015, 08:40:24 am
Here's my current setup -- its a Kenwood DDX 719.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/360/19815258915_9d97fe4b91_c.jpg)

This was installed by the previous owner -- and at first I thought this was going to be great with all the bells and whistles. The features work fine with it, but in practical use I have become less thrilled about it -- to the point where it needs to go.

My biggest complaint is that the buttons are very tiny, and the screen easily gets washed out in sunlight -- makes operation a chore. In night driving, even with the screen at it's dimmest setting, the thing still glows far too much and really distracts. I end up turning it off (if I can find the off button) just to let my eyes rest and be able to see out the van better. Light pollution is a good term for this thing. Also, the screen warms up considerably and that extra "screen heat" is another annoyance.

In comparison to all the other stock vw radios I've had (of this vintage) -- having a radio that is dims with the interior dash lights is actually a really desirable feature for night driving.  Makes me really want to put a double din mk4 radio with multifunction wheel in the van.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: mech23 on July 21, 2015, 09:10:34 am
Here's my dash in road mode. The radio is a VW RMT200 which I like for the simple OE look, an actual volume knob, the lighting matches the dash, streaming Bluetooth audio, no adapter harness required (literally plug and play), and decent sound quality.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Kafercup on September 11, 2015, 12:47:47 am
If you switch to a double-din on a Weekender (non-rear a/c and non-climatronic) this in the trim piece you will need for the climate controls 7D1819075E.  It is a bit hard to find as it was only for manual climate controlled vans with factory navigation. 

Here is the parts diagram showing the specific fitment:  http://www.auto-parts.spb.ru/cat/au/au.mycat?SelPg&t=4GThFSpk4RVtZOEVoj6JLNEluDOzPcWZ9QrhFdI7YSXgZONqAGbhFmBA4IZgROGf7SvFwTSSY4tx5NG9FLCJD_BQPnDQLFqgHPlWwNhyKHDiUesOu1YsP6D0KRGCi1u36hZ9MmPGURG43Pi8TLcpGKNHxZ3fbk387oXEd08wKg1MqureEYyQMCi4lM1AG9wCkiHZRXBAbQCO
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on September 12, 2015, 08:53:36 am
Good Stuff!


This is the solution I just used in EuroVanGogh to add a backup camera and bluetooth.

Cheap and simple. Programable button color to make it match the stock green back light.

(https://farm6.staticflickr.com/5771/21344442732_7bdc60dec0_c.jpg)

Works with the screen open or closed so you can use it like a normal radio most of the time.

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/776/21168303029_fd83871396_c.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: lotus54 on September 13, 2015, 03:28:12 pm
My MV came with a stereo that worked fine- but the stupid little buttons were way too small and I could never see them (Old)

I like knobs for the usual stuff.

Someone pointed this one out and I've been quite happy with it.
Has a SD card reader, a rear and front USB that reads the phones quite well.
Plus Bluetooth for music and/or phone.

All of it works quite well.
  Plus not a lot of money at all!

it won't win any stereo competitions- (ha) but the car is noisy enough that it sounds good enough.

(http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm256/lotus54/misc/IMG_0181_zpseppscfed.jpg) (http://s298.photobucket.com/user/lotus54/media/misc/IMG_0181_zpseppscfed.jpg.html)

I have not wired up the two USB outlets on the left yet.
In fact I had one failed one so need to get more)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Itsamoto on September 13, 2015, 11:29:49 pm
(http://i298.photobucket.com/albums/mm256/lotus54/misc/IMG_0181_zpseppscfed.jpg) (http://s298.photobucket.com/user/lotus54/media/misc/IMG_0181_zpseppscfed.jpg.html)

Nice and simple - I like it!

Knobs, USB, SD and Bluetooth - it would be perfect for me if it didn't say "Toronto" on it.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: carlh on October 05, 2015, 08:11:04 pm
Mine is the Blaupunkt Toronto 420 BT.  I like it well enough - seemed pretty reasonable at $160 shipped.

Also - and I think this is more of an EV thing - I have to power it up each time I start the van - doesn't seem to remember it was on.


Between the stock VW and Blaukpunkt wiring, the 12V switched and 12V constant are flipped.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: sanfranman on November 02, 2015, 05:43:58 am
You can swap in this stereo without changing the stereo cage to a double DIN unit (which is a pain in the butt). But you do need the trim piece below the unit, as the stock trim piece covers the climatronic and the dash cubby.

The trim piece is part number: 7D182007501C

I'm owned by a 2003 Eurovan Mv Weekender. I'm planning on installing the Alpine ILX-007 in a custom frame that will allow it to sit on top of the reinforcement bar and angle up and a little more toward the driver.  I'm looking for the piece that will replace the stock pocket and climate control knob cover and just cover the climate control knobs.   These VW parts diagrams and descriptions are really tough to understand.   I believe the part I need is item number 2 in the attached diagram.   Is the part referenced above (7D182007501C) that part?
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Itsamoto on November 02, 2015, 08:10:24 am
I'm owned by a 2003 Eurovan Mv Weekender. I'm planning on installing the Alpine ILX-007 in a custom frame that will allow it to sit on top of the reinforcement bar and angle up and a little more toward the driver.  I'm looking for the piece that will replace the stock pocket and climate control knob cover and just cover the climate control knobs.   These VW parts diagrams and descriptions are really tough to understand.   I believe the part I need is item number 2 in the attached diagram.   Is the part referenced above (7D182007501C) that part?

Yes.

If you want get crafty and save money -- you can cut your own down to size, or you can probably use the climate control cover from a MK4 Jetta/Golf (PN 1J0819157A). Most Mk4s do not have climatronic and have almost the same climate control interface as your weekender. The only difference, that I see between them is the EV has 3 centre buttons, and the MK4's have 2 -- but the overall width appears to be the same (if not you can enlarge). Mounting tabs on the back side may be different.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: sanfranman on November 02, 2015, 08:23:38 am
Thanks for the info.   I'm trying to preserve the stock pieces so that I can "roll back" if necessary.   I've got a salvage yard run scheduled for this weekend to look at what's left on a 2000 Eurovan GLS so I'll check out the MK4 option while there.    I'll post photos when I finish up.   
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Suthernvanman on November 24, 2015, 03:23:24 pm
On the rear speakers, the grille snaps into the factory speaker frame.

I have not done it, but the only way I can see to put a replacement speaker in there is to cut the factory speaker out of the frame and mount a new speaker in that frame if you want to keep the factory grille. Not impossible at all but a little "tricky" is probably a good description. :-)

This goes back a way but I did installation of new rear speakers a little while ago and took pics in case others were considering the same.  Very straight forward procedure -> pop the grills, ditch the blown ones, zip the fresh ones, mod wiring and reinstall.

I don't have pics of the wiring mods but factory connectors don't work with my new Pioneers so clip, strip and go.  Sounds way better - not that this is an audiophile's delight but a blown speaker is a terrible thing.

I've got some trim pop tools but you could easily do this with fingers - just pry them off.

(https://sgadv.smugmug.com/VanMan/Interior/i-Br3RFMV/0/L/DSCN2028-L.jpg)

What you are up against:

(https://sgadv.smugmug.com/VanMan/Interior/i-tvH2D7w/0/L/DSCN2029-L.jpg)

Zippy mounting - no rattle here, ratcheted down tight.

(https://sgadv.smugmug.com/VanMan/Interior/i-KMPGjHJ/0/L/DSCN2032-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: robinson1509 on November 26, 2015, 01:33:46 pm
Maybe I will get a double din android and write an app or a skin for the media player to look like the factory radio. Probably won't but it would be pretty cool.
No I just couldn't chop up my van for a double din radio.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: erik.wahlstrom on February 22, 2016, 09:08:13 am
Hmm, I wonder if this would fit? Kind of expensive but cool and likely no need to cut.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71oYIS1NrCL._SL1500_.jpg)

http://www.amazon.com/Pumpkin-Navigation-Android-Support-Mirror-link/dp/B00PIAW5FK/ref=pd_sim_sbs_422_3?ie=UTF8&dpID=51LP47lDTJL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=112G1S27X1QCW0YW6C6Y (http://www.amazon.com/Pumpkin-Navigation-Android-Support-Mirror-link/dp/B00PIAW5FK/ref=pd_sim_sbs_422_3?ie=UTF8&dpID=51LP47lDTJL&dpSrc=sims&preST=_AC_UL160_SR160%2C160_&refRID=112G1S27X1QCW0YW6C6Y)
Title: Single DIN CarPlay
Post by: sanfranman on April 15, 2016, 08:59:54 am
I just came across the attached Dual flyer.  It looks like we're getting closer to a couple of single DIN CarPlay options!
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Phaeton on April 16, 2016, 09:13:12 am
EDIT: Decided to buy the double din JBL CP100 and modify the rebar to fit a double din unit. Hopefully the welder can work his magic!
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on August 16, 2016, 07:06:54 am
Little project I've been doing on Blu.0

(https://c7.staticflickr.com/9/8604/28917455462_27f236192d_c.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: sanfranman on August 16, 2016, 07:29:50 am
Looks good Cole!   Any modification to the rebar required behind that?
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on August 16, 2016, 05:37:43 pm
Looks good Cole!   Any modification to the rebar required behind that?

The ALPINE ILX-007 is very thin. But not thin enough.

(https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8312/28405994743_97f3189aa0_c.jpg)

I figured I had to try it and see what it really took to install one of these without the European, unicorn, double din dash bar. So this was purely an experiment.


I still had to trim about 25mm off the dash support. This is better than cutting it all the way through, but still not the most awesome solution.


This is what it looks like behind the dash stock.
(https://c5.staticflickr.com/9/8296/28990692756_97deaac317_c.jpg)

You need to trim this little trim plate out.

(https://c8.staticflickr.com/9/8557/28405994863_b669e8bde7_c.jpg)

Then I cut a 25mm deep section out of the center dash bar. Trying to leave as much of that bar intact as I could.
 
It's not as clean behind the scenes as I prefer.

(https://c1.staticflickr.com/8/7631/28917455592_691d3247d1_c.jpg)


(https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8111/28923622072_85b94de85c_c.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: my_vw_sucks on August 19, 2016, 11:28:56 am
I've been kicking around cutting into the dash bar.  Good to see that Alpine makes a unit that is so shallow you don't have to go all the way through.  It just pisses me off that they don't make a single din with the monitor dropping down.  The make one that goes up:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61awlN7s3dL._SL1000_.jpg)

and one that is in the middle:

(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/514abK5fGAL._SL1000_.jpg)

I'm curious if they are configurable.  Maybe it's possible to lengthen some wires and move the electronics around.  I'm just not willing to pay $1500 to experiment on it.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on August 19, 2016, 11:33:01 am
Yeah, unfortunately that is exactly the opposite of what is needed. Its also hard to find the data about how they are shaped.

There are all sorts of applications were the reverse would work well.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on January 13, 2017, 08:21:26 pm
The solution is finally here!!! This unit just came out and is perfect for the Eurovan!!

I just installed this in a custom build van. (Not fully installed in the picture, just the test fit)

It's does NOT require cutting the dash bar!!!!

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/729/32294967855_5980cec571_z_d.jpg)

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/358/32145435182_693610ee0d_z_d.jpg)
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: ckunkel on March 06, 2017, 05:05:10 pm
Curious how that Sony Stereo is working and thoughts on it?  Just trying to figure which route and am in the process of trying to figure it out. 
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Drive75 on March 22, 2017, 07:47:27 pm
I just noticed that new Sony unit (XAV-AX100) over at Crutchfield and thought I could finally have Double DIN Car Play in my '03 Eurovan. Shortly after, I noticed your enthusiastic post of the unit. Does it come with the nice trim plate around it or did you have to supply your own? If you had to supply your own what are some of the options? VW Part number?

Thanks
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Cole on March 22, 2017, 07:58:54 pm
The trim plate around the radio itself is a generic VW fit kit.

The lower trim is just the stock trim cut down.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: my_vw_sucks on April 24, 2017, 11:01:26 am
The solution is finally here!!! This unit just came out and is perfect for the Eurovan!!

I just installed this in a custom build van. (Not fully installed in the picture, just the test fit)

It's does NOT require cutting the dash bar!!!!

(https://farm1.staticflickr.com/729/32294967855_5980cec571_z_d.jpg)

Woot!!! Finally.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: wajacobs on May 01, 2017, 09:25:23 am
Those Sony XAV-AX100 installs look tight.  I've been looking to install on double DIN in my 2002 EV-W but I'm no willing to cut anything that's structural behind the dash.  How difficult is the install?  Are there any special bezel pieces I should consider beforehand?  Thanks in advance for any input.  -wes
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Phaeton on May 08, 2017, 07:33:17 am
The trim plate around the radio itself is a generic VW fit kit.

The lower trim is just the stock trim cut down.

In the event you wanted to get the factory lower trim part w/o cutting it - 7D1 820 075 01C
Pulled from: http://forums.vwvortex.com/showthread.php?7019310-Volk-L-Stereo&p=86069402
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Nelmer on May 09, 2017, 09:36:34 am
I installed this in my EV last December and i'm still satisfied with it: https://www.amazon.com/Android-1024x600-Navigation-Bluetooth-Hotspot/dp/B01MCVP5HD/ I know it was a bit of a gamble going for a Chinese head unit in terms of quality and performance, but I would ultimately recommend it.

Pros

-it's a Single DIN head unit, with 8 inch touch screen (7 inch and 10.1 available too) no need to modify the trim, and the screen is mounted with adjustable brackets so it could be raised and lowered as needed to preference. Also, it was essentially plug and play with the stock harness (will still need an adapter for the radio antenna)

-with a built-in android operating system (5.1.1 standard, but 6.0.1 is on it's way), so you can download your preferred navi system (I use android auto/ Waze (32gb of internal storage, with microSD expandability to load music/videos). You can also pair a bluetooth OBD-II reader to read MIL codes (Torque app comes free)

-startup time is about 2 seconds after initial boot up (2 wires had to be switched on the wiring harness to make sure it didn't always shut all the way down, but rather stay a lower power mode)

-adjustable LED colors for touch panel on side

-has 2 USB ports in the rear, one can even be used with a dashcam which can be purchased separately, though both can be used to charge phone/ plug in a flash drive for more storage. Also has available connection for a backup camera if you're so interested.

Cons

- a constant internet connection makes the head unit infinitely better, best used with a mobile WiFi hotspot since you now have a giant android tablet that just so happens needs to be filled up with gasoline from time to time. It can connect to the wifi at my home, but i just need to make sure i'm parked close.

- bluetooth connectivity is fine, and there is a built in microphone on the screen, but it's probably best to mount the external microphone somewhere in the cabin (I ended up sacrificing the blank panel/dummy switch to make space for the microphone/ usb port, still have mixed feelings about that). The bluetooth software itself is also different than other android devices in such a way that you cannot escape the call screen when you are in the middle of a phone call (i'll make a disclaimer and to say I do not do this when driving).

- because of the larger screen the headunit will...stick out. And the faceplate behind the screen is silver so it can be noticeable from certain angles,

- also, glare can be an issue especially on bright days. I just bought a generic antiglare film that i'll be cutting to fit to see if it helps

- the touch panel on the side is slow to respond to touch, also the power button that is on the top left acts only as a mute button rather than turning off the device completely, would have really preferred a knob/ physical buttons

- I don't have any apple devices so I cannot give accurate comment if there are any issues with them when using the headunit, though I wouldn't imagine there would be



Please let me know if there are any questions I can answer for you. Disclaimer, I do not work for Joying or Amazon in any way and and just wanted to give some honest feedback. After installing this, I feel that this was the biggest simple interior upgrade for the van and made long road trips that much better.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: mkscott2 on May 10, 2017, 07:37:02 am
Nelmer: Thank you for your addition to this growing list of options!  I was looking at those systems online, thinking that the 7" screen could possibly sit flush in the dash as the Sony AX100 does.  As such, this leads me to wondering about the wire connection between the unit and the screen.  Do you think it would be possible to seat the entire unit (if we went with the 7" screen) flush, perhaps with a little modification to the screen bracket?  Would you be willing to supply a picture of that connection set-up?

Update to the above statement: Never-mind my questions there Nelmer!  I popped on Joying's website, found a bunch of pictures of the wire connection/length and the bracket they use for mounting.  Also found the screen dimensions, and it appears that the 7" screen would seat perfectly into the dash.  I'm now seriously considering this option due to the flexibility of the unit.  Love the fact that it has Torque pre-loaded, and it can pretty much run any other app that I am interested in using in the car for now.  However, I am still wondering about the following:

I really like the idea of having a double-din screen available for navigation, but as I'm driving the van (pretty new to us), I am wondering if the stock dash location is ideal.  As I type, I'm realizing that part of my problem is that I am 6'4", so I already sit pretty high in the rig.  For those who have some sort of navigation in the location of the stock stereo, can you comment on how much of an issue is created by being so far out of the line of sight?  Thinking a "safer" location for a screen like this might actually be sitting on the dash?  Totally open to thoughts here!

mike
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Simsie on May 17, 2017, 07:42:31 pm
For the Sony XAV install what parts are needed? Is there a particular cage that is needed? Also, has anyone installed a rear view camera setup with this? I'm super excited that this would work without cutting the crossbar.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: SWSL on June 15, 2017, 10:38:48 pm
Nelmer:   I am wondering if the stock dash location is ideal.  ...how much of an issue is created by being so far out of the line of sight?  Thinking a "safer" location for a screen like this might actually be sitting on the dash?
mike

I just traveled to pick up my "new" EV and took my first road trip home.  First thing after buying it, I mounted my cell for navigation.  I snagged a cheap (but strong) vent mounted magnet at Walmart and it's worked well mounted on the far left center vent.  Keeps the cell cool too.  Reduced air flow is acceptable there.

For me, the position just right of the steering wheel and around dash height seems best for a screen in my various vehicles.  To the degree that it's lower or further to the right, I'm losing functionality, access and/or eyes too far off the road.

So, it seems that the double DIN spot will not be very good for navigation. Too far, like you said.  I will probably do it anyway,  because , where else can the stereo go? - if you want a clean pro looking install, that is.

And if the NAV screen distance proves to be as compromised as I expect, then I can always keep my cell on the vent for that.   The installed screen will still be useful for everything else, it's the modern I/O.

What do you guys who already have screens installed in the stereo zone think?  Safe and comfortable for navigation?
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Phaeton on June 17, 2017, 02:12:26 am
For the Sony XAV install what parts are needed? Is there a particular cage that is needed? Also, has anyone installed a rear view camera setup with this? I'm super excited that this would work without cutting the crossbar.

Just use the double din cage for a MKIV GTi or Jetta. It'll work fine. Some cutting and trimming of the bracket will be required, but its super minor work that I managed with just some scissors and sandpaper. I'm using a backup camera, its pointed a bit too downward, but its okay for my uses.

The reverse camera signal is on a 10 pin white connector, pin 7 on a black and blue wire. The connector is located behind the fusepanel on the driver side. I haven't tackled integrating the signal however.
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: Tim$2 on September 06, 2017, 08:15:14 pm
Pioneer AVH-X7700BT
Title: Re: Show us your stereo!
Post by: bblume on January 01, 2020, 12:57:52 pm
Just use the double din cage for a MKIV GTi or Jetta. It'll work fine. Some cutting and trimming of the bracket will be required, but its super minor work that I managed with just some scissors and sandpaper.


So you need the cage...but what about the trim piece?