How to install Ipod/mp3 etc. w/ pics
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This guide is for all of you out there that want a ipod/mp3 etc. installed
in your car with high quality sound through your original ML stereo.
After alot of research ive come the the conclusion that this is the ultimate solution for getting the best soundquality using a external player as for example an Ipod, Mp3 player etc.
What ive used is:
- Vaistech SLU Kit
- Harman Kardon Drive + Play
And after not finding a single tutorial/description for installing these things, nor even "getting to the radio" I decided to make one myself.
Please do comment!
in your car with high quality sound through your original ML stereo.
After alot of research ive come the the conclusion that this is the ultimate solution for getting the best soundquality using a external player as for example an Ipod, Mp3 player etc.
What ive used is:
- Vaistech SLU Kit
- Harman Kardon Drive + Play
And after not finding a single tutorial/description for installing these things, nor even "getting to the radio" I decided to make one myself.
Please do comment!
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James, thanks a lot for an excelent writeup! I was going to go to a Lexus dealer to get the work done, but with your directions this task seems pretty straight forward to do it on my own.
Are there any other alternatives to Vaistech SLU Kit? $270 seems a lot for a regular audio splitter.
Are there any other alternatives to Vaistech SLU Kit? $270 seems a lot for a regular audio splitter.
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http://vaistech.com/sli.html
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Andrew, yes the installation is pretty much straight forward. Just take your time and follow the instructions![Smilie](https://www.clublexus.com/forums/images/smilies/smile.gif)
Jason, I use the the SLU kit coz thats the only one working for my car model (2002). The newer car models can handle SLI etc. just take a look at their homepage for compitability
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Jason, I use the the SLU kit coz thats the only one working for my car model (2002). The newer car models can handle SLI etc. just take a look at their homepage for compitability
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same for me....for 2002 only slu will work. I will be installing it shortly. I'm still lookin for star-like wheel covers (non-chrome). Noone is answering my post....I wonder if the only option we have is $500 from a dealer? James, are you planning to get rid of the dish-like covers?
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I'm not sure if this is the same kit he used, but according to their site this will let you control you ipod with your stereo controls and displays the song information on the stereo screen. If true, I wouldn't think you'd need the HK drive+play kit.
http://vaistech.com/sli.html
http://vaistech.com/sli.html
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Holy old-*** thread Batman!
If you want Satellite Radio (and you have an 05+ SC430), the Vais SLs or SL2s would give you seamless OEM integration.
If you've got an 02-04, you have to go with the SLU (which only gives you "dry" audio inputs) and then add a Sirius external receiver (something like the Starmate 5 or the InV2 - both of which should fit in the ashtray area (with modification) or in the center console). I installed a Starmate 3 (I think it's the "3") in my ashtray when I first got the car. It worked out very nice; it's easy to reach, easy to read the display, and you can close the ashtray cover and leave no trace of the "upgrade". However, the SLU provides no steering wheel controls; there's no way to get those working on the Vais units for the 02-04's.
If you want Satellite Radio (and you have an 05+ SC430), the Vais SLs or SL2s would give you seamless OEM integration.
If you've got an 02-04, you have to go with the SLU (which only gives you "dry" audio inputs) and then add a Sirius external receiver (something like the Starmate 5 or the InV2 - both of which should fit in the ashtray area (with modification) or in the center console). I installed a Starmate 3 (I think it's the "3") in my ashtray when I first got the car. It worked out very nice; it's easy to reach, easy to read the display, and you can close the ashtray cover and leave no trace of the "upgrade". However, the SLU provides no steering wheel controls; there's no way to get those working on the Vais units for the 02-04's.
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This is a nice writeup. I was wondering about Ipod integration.
This is the instance though that I am glad there is a tape deck, as it's easy enough to pop in a cassette adapter and play the Ipod through that and then hide it when the top is left up.
Always hesitant about showing too many integrated electronics on a convertible.
This is the instance though that I am glad there is a tape deck, as it's easy enough to pop in a cassette adapter and play the Ipod through that and then hide it when the top is left up.
Always hesitant about showing too many integrated electronics on a convertible.