Factory Stereo Upgrade - Kenwood KOS-V500 - Opinions????

[DTundra]

I am thinking of going this route instead of slapping in an aftermarket NAV system. I am upgrading my system and I don't really care about a NAV but that is the only thing I like the look of in place of the factory deck. So I figure if this works like the Crutchfield customer service says "basically its the same as changing out your deck" then why go through the hassle when this has all the features I want in an aftermarket deck. All I really want is the functionality, aka pre-outs, etc.

Also you can always get an 6.5 or 6.1 (can't remember) LCD display for it later on if it does become difficult to use.

Kenwood KOS-V500 Factory system expansion controller at Crutchfield.com
Not sure if I am supposed to post links like that, but I don't know how else to do it...so can a moderator fix it if necessary? Thanks.

Anyways...if anyone has used it before or something what did you think?

[toyotexan]

Another option for you is the JL Audio Cleansweep (just google it). I don't have any personal experience with either system but I know JL Audio has a good reputation and it appears to be about 1/2 the price of the Kenwood. It doesn't offer the built in amp but if your looking to use just the pre-outs this may be something to consider. I'm curious of how either of these work because I'm looking to do something similar so let us know how this turns out.

[Nazar]

Why don't you just get the Kenwood DDX-7019 or the DDX-8019

[DTundra]

Originally Posted by Nazar

Why don't you just get the Kenwood DDX-7019 or the DDX-8019

Because I don't want to spend 1000 bucks for a DVD player I will almost never use....and I don't think they look that great or are really that functional for that price. Hence my original post to keep it stock looking and add the functionality of an aftermarket deck. and I can get that setup with the monitor for less anyways...