Has anyone installed an after market in-dash NAV?

How did it go? How does it integrate with your existing radio, or does it replace it?

There is so much disappointment here with the GM NAV I am thinking about not getting it. But I still like the installed NAV rather than portable so I am thinking about installing an after market NAV. I know it doesn't interface with the HUD, but I am wondering if there are any other shortcomings.

Thanks!

 

I haven't installed one yet I am going to go with the Pioneer AVIC Z3 you might want to take a look at it. I have seen one installed in the Vette before and it looked factory.

 

Why are you taking a few gripes on the forum so seriously? I have the GM NAV and love it. Granted it's a little harder than setting the time on a VCR. But, it really is a good unit. And looks perfect in the dash, almost as if it were made for the car. The C6 on the screen is almost worth the cost.

I think you will find the NAV a very good unit if you spend the time to read the instructions.

 

Here are a couple of Z3 pictures in my '08. Great system! A good installer can get your steering wheel controls to work with it.

 

Here are some past experiences with aftermarket NAV.

Pros:
- Newer features such as high speed IPOD or usb flash drives (mp3) and flexible expansion options (Sirus XM and backup rearview cameras etc)
- usually more efficient built in power (well 22watts rms per channel isn't that great really but sadly often better than stock)
- you get a remote often with the aftermarket
- lots of tuning features for customizing (time alignment, more featured equalization, surround sound, flexibility for external amp and subwoofer addons)

Cons:
- you might lose stock integration and look (need double din bezel to mount aftermarket stereo navs, need to use aftermarket steering wheel converter box to retain volume control and this tends to lag a bit - not being instant when pressed)
- sometimes manufacturers actually tune the stereo to the car pretty well stock and you are undoing this with aftermarket units (so if you do not understand about time alignment or like to spend time tuning the car enviroment to make it sounds better to the types of music you listen to - be warned)
- install takes some work or you will need to look into a trustworthy install shop to do the work if you are not brave
- you might find out that a sports car is not that great platform for "sound quality" (decide what are your goals - ***** to the walls awesome sound ??? will need to work on sound deadening and spend time on custom enclosures for subs and amp racks or really cool stuff. OR just get the basics done and you will find it isn't so cheap to just swap out parts)



For me I have a Kenwood DNX8120 I had in my previous car I took out and will be transplanting it into my Z. I bought an insulation/deadener kit precut for the c6 for $125 and I have half a roll of some Dynamat like stuff (Raammat) that I can just use up on the rattle areas of the car. Got to just figure out what amp to get for my sub and a good enclosure box for my equipment I already have. Then I will just set aside a weekend to bond with my car this spring to install it all.

The stock system is pretty decent for what it is. It retains the stock look and works. This is a sportcar so what is more important to you. REALLY good tunes or a mean hard revving machine. It will cost a little and usually experiences tends to prove it costs always more than you think as you change what you want while trying to get what satisfies you.

 

I was on the fence for about for about two months but finally went with the JVC KWNX7000. I am completely satisfied. The sound is much better tahn the origainal BOse. The nav system itsself is right on and i signed up for the traffic extra that always keeps me informed. The installation was flawless XM radio and Onstar works great and I had the back up camera installed. Take a look at it.

 

I have used my factory nav once and I did not have any problems with it. I like the HUD interface as well. Helps keep your eyes one the road.

 

Good point with the HUD interface

 

I recently added Garman nav to my Kenwood double DIN deck and it was simple. I can't compare it to the factory nav because I have never used the factory version. I can tell you that the Garman about as good as the factory nav in my wife's Prius which is far better than any other nav I've used.

 

There are no shortcomings on an aftermarket NAV other than the HUD integration but the many positives clearly outweigh it, below is a pic of my Kenwood DNX7120 which I installed. Just some highlights (check out the reviews in the audio section) the bluetooth is awesome, the Garmin Nav is excellent and the unit looks OEM even down to the background image that you can download, there are great writeups in the audio section for a diy project, this is a great mod and would highly recommend.

 

factory nav is garbage, go aftermarket all u will lose is the HUD readout.

aftermarket all the way kenwood or pioneer

 

Thanks for the responses guys. It is much appreciated.

 

Where did you find the Corvette Navigation and Audio logo? I just had a Kenwood DNX-8120 installed and would like to use the same start up screen/wallpaper. THANKS

 

 

 

If you are looking for one I have one if you are interested:
http://forums.corvetteforum.com/audi...-f-s-bnib.html