Head Unit

[Z71FarmTag 0]

I'm wanting a kenwood or pioneer head unit for my truck (currently all stock), its a 2004 chevy ext. cab.  I want bluetooth, am/fm, hd is a bonus, cd player, and other nice creature comforts.  I really like the double din units, but I don't like the price, and I'm not opposed to singles.  I'm willing to spend up to $350 (not if its a single), but I just don't know what is best option at that price...and yes I know it is personal preference.  I would prefer to buy new so their is a warranty, but not totally against refurbished/used.  Has anyone used refurbished HU's, what brand, where did you get it, how did it function?  Also, can anyone direct me to a good site that doesn't mark their stuff way up.  Other than amazon.  If i can get into a double din with bluetooth, either kenwood or pioneer in my price range, what model?  I've been told, that even though it says it has bluetooth that doesn't mean its setup or may be missing a component...just so you have to spend a little extra.  Also, I've been told that I will need a wiring harness so my steering wheel controls will function properly.  The guy told me the harness is $200 alone, is this correct, and can someone tell me what the part number is?  Thanks in advance, and I may have more questions.

[Tirefryr 1,742]

You will need an adapter to run an aftermarket unit, and another adapter for the steering wheel controls. 

[Z71FarmTag 0]

Do you know what the part numbers are?  So, I guess it really will be around $200 for the harness/s?

[altoncustomtech 773]

I personally love the SonicElectronix website for hu's. They have terrific prices and they include the installation accessories (except for specialty stuff) for free. My vote would be for Kenwood over Pioneer but that's just my opinion. A specific model is hard to mention but as long as you can find one with the options you want that fits in your budget I don't see how you can go wrong.

[Z71FarmTag 0]

Thanks, anyone else?

[Julian 641]

Thanks, anyone else?

If its the 4.3 with standard audio you will need,

 

ASWC-1 for the steering wheel controls (80$)

95-2009 for the dash kit ($15)

40-GM10 for the radio, probably. ($10)

GMOS-014 if you have onstar ($139)

JVC KW-NSX600  Refurbished from sonicelectronix (329)

 

Plus whatever headunit you want, so just for the integration stuff you're gonna end up spending nearly $250 without shipping. If you have little experience with vehicle wiring  I would not suggest doing it yourself. Also if you want to retain onstar/chimes and want to add an aftermarket mids/highs amp you have to rig it in a way that'll send the chime through the amp which you'll end up getting the chime to the rear left channel also.

Although since it is the GMOS-014  setting up the steering wheel controls is extremely easy since the unit its self comes with a plug so you don't have to do any wire tapping.

 

I honestly would suggest letting a credible shop doing it, it's not like installing a normal simple radio, it takes some experience to get it all working.

I've done maybe 10 of these trucks and they're always a PITA, you have to break out plastic in the rear to get it to fit, especially if you have a big wire bundle. In most cases it's always needed.

[Lee Carter 150]

Like other said- depends on what you wanna keep(onstar, steering wheel controls, sat rad, etc).

 

I am partial to Pioneer- have a pioneer deck in all 4 of my vehicles.

 

Check out my Build (http://www.soundsolutionsaudio.com/forum/topic/61887-lees-avalanche-build/) for my install and equipment list for my 07 Av.  I paid 109 I think for my integration harness...but it disables my onstar, and I opted not to do the SWC module...going to remove the steering controls completely.

 

I use Crutchfield and Sonix Electronics to research- then look up pricing for the same stuff on Amazon/Ebay.

Edited June 7, 2014 by Leedogg

[Z71FarmTag 0]

My truck doesn't have onstar and didn't come with the bose package.  I want to keep steering wheel controls, don't need sat radio, and don't need navigation.  I do however, want bluetooth.  Thanks for the suggestions, but trying to keep cost below $350-$400.  Other than the screen, is there a benefit double dins offer over singles, or singles over doubles?  

[Julian 641]

My truck doesn't have onstar and didn't come with the bose package.  I want to keep steering wheel controls, don't need sat radio, and don't need navigation.  I do however, want bluetooth.  Thanks for the suggestions, but trying to keep cost below $350-$400.  Other than the screen, is there a benefit double dins offer over singles, or singles over doubles?  

not really. You're still going to need the GMOS module.