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dtappy3353's avatar
dtappy3353
Explorer
Sep 17, 2017

replacing stock radio system

Recommendations for replacing the stereo/disc player/radio combination unit to a more simplified version of radio that includes a USB connection for laptop.

Old unit was powered with 110 ac. not dc. 4 sets of speaker wires already exist.

Current system is not connected/cabled to trailer antenna.

We prefer listening to talk radio throughout evening.

Any help would truly be appreciated.

DaveT
  • Go to Best Buy and have it installed by the Geek Squad. They have a good selection and will look great.
  • wa8yxm's avatar
    wa8yxm
    Explorer III
    Do you want to keep with the 120vac unit or do you want to go 12DC

    I will ASSUME the latter.

    YOu need to visit Crutchfield and fine the unit you want many options to choose from and I can not recommend any given make or model but that's the catalog.
    NOTE: you may be able to shop locally after you "windows shop" Cruthcfeld

    JR.Music is another catalog with many options

    After that you need a box.. Wood is just fine

    And you will need to add an automotive antenna

    Thats about all there is to it. Connection is straight forward at least if you have done that kind of thing in the past (I HAVE)

    Since you said "Talk radio" you night even shop for a general coverage Radio Receiver (they come in 12 volt desktop types) at places like DX Engineering but they tend to be mono only (not stereo) and don;'t do USB or CD

    Mine does transmit though (Requires a license)
  • Some tv sound bar's have built-in FM radio and Wi-Fi. Home stereo you can have a built-in DVD home theater for not much money. Far exceeds the sound quality of stock radio.
  • colliehauler wrote:
    If it already has 110v there I would just put in a home stereo/radio


    Not a bad idea at all! A radio should not take much juice from the battery system to convert it to 120. I like this!
  • Suggest you visit Crutchfields website where you plug in the vehicle and it lists the various radio alternatives that fit your car. I used it many years ago for my Audi - they supply the instructions, cables, adapters etc. Worth a look.
  • Is there a 12V line close to it? A 12V light you can tap into?

    If so I would just get a car radio from Walmart or wherever and put it in it's place. You might have to have a fascia made but no big deal.
  • I'm leaving my stock radio as installed but buying a Grundig long range portable for the times the TT radio won't work well.

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