Hi guys -

I searched and didn't find any related threads.

Our 2000 RX300 has about 70K miles and has been as reliable as all get out. Unfortunately, the stereo just started acting weird and my Lexus Extended Warranty doesn't cover the stereo or amp.

Basically, the stereo isn't as loud as it used to be and I have little to no bass response. Of course, I checked the settings and Bass is the usual 4, mid's 4, treble 4. I suspected the amp. had gone out because I can still get volume but I now turn the volume **** twice as much for the same volume.

Lexus looked at the vehicle before deciding that the extended warranty wouldn't cover the repair and told me it was either a new amp. or a new head unit (we compared a 1999 RX with the standard radio and I'm not going crazy because the difference is night and day).

I don't want to put in a new head unit because I really want to keep the OEM look and utiltiy (the HVAC, computer, etc. are all hooked in).

Can I simply add an amplifier to get back the power I've mysteriously lost???

Your help/thoughts/ideas are greatly appreciated.

 

nobody has had this problem or added an amp?

come on guys... someone has got to be able to help out.

 

Swap out the amp should do. Take it to an audio shop.

 

Thank you.

PS - I love your sig and I'll be sure and stay away from your kid

 

i swapped out my stock amp and sub and put in a rockford amp and some jl audio 10s cause i wanted more bass initially. at the time, i kept my stock mids and tweets running off deck power. the increased bass gave it an overall warmer feel but the stocks are definitely lacking compared to after market speakers. i've since swapped in an alpine amp with infinity mids and highs and am much happier...stuck with the stock headunit, tho

 

Why not post this over to VVT-i in the Maintainence forum?? He is a Master Service Tech, as I recall................I suspect he can at least clarify the issue for you.

 

Thanks for the tip, I just pm'd VVT-i