So, have a 2005 C6, with factory Nav/Bose radio, while I've read all there is here on replacements, I've yet to see a simple, plug and play, double din unit. I want to keep the bose amp, and stock speakers for now, I do not have controls on my steering wheel, don't really have a need for a NAV (my Iphone works just fine) unit, but of course would like to keep my internal Sirius and stock external antennas, maybe even have carplay. So, are there any actual plug and play alternatives that fit my wants and needs? I don't mind using adapter harnesses, but don't want to reinvent the wheel either.

Who can guide me further down the audio upgrade rabbit hole, since I could not find a thread that covered my specific wants and needs?


Thanks in advance


Bill S.

 

Well first of all Bill, don’t cheap out on a head unit, buy a quality brand name system i.e. Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine etc. Then you’ll need an interface that when wired to the head units wiring, basically makes it plug and play. I also suggest a head unit that’s capable of at least a rear view camera if not also a front camera, you’ll be glad you did. As far as reusing your stock XM tuner, this can’t be reused however it can be added to your new system using this tuner assuming you buy a compatible head unit. https://www.crutchfield.com/p_220SXV...0V1-Tuner.html You can however reuse your stock XM antennas with the new tuner with the use of some adapters, you can read about what you’d need to get to accomplish this by reading this thread I wrote on the subject. https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-xm-tuner.html

As far as the interface I mentioned, the most popular used one on this forum is the PAC RP5-GM11 https://www.crutchfield.com/p_541RP5...Interface.html It’ll allow you to retain your stock amp and speakers. And Crutchfield has a service where they’ll prewire it to your head units wiring assuming you buy the head unit and interface from them for a small fee ($25 I think) then alls you'd need to do is pull the old head unit out and plug the new interface and head unit in and you’ll be good to go on that part of it.

In addition to everything else, you’ll also need this dash kit, so the new head unit fits the opening. https://www.crutchfield.com/p_120953...k.html?tp=3121 So as if you can’t tell I suggest getting every thing through Cutchfield, as they also have great customer service should you have any issues with anything. Here’s a handy guide from the “How To” section of this forum that’ll show you what alls involved with removing your head unit, and installing your new one. You’ll be happy with a new system, as the old one is way out dated, not only will you have more features, but it’ll sound better also.

You mentioned not having steering wheel controls, if this is something you’d like to add to your car, let me know, and I can also send you guidance on how to do this also, I did it on my 05 and they work great, here’s a picture showing them in my 05. Let me know if you have any other questions.

 

I like Crutchfield, have used them many times before, reviewing my choices, I'll most likely end up with a Kenwood (I've yet to review Pioneer or JVC yet) system, won't bother with Nav or XM, and stick with wireless carplay and a camera input. My Iphone has all the apps I need installed, so to mirror them on the new radio fills all of my wants and needs.

Any suggestions on head units, I'm always willing to take a look before I buy in December or January.

Bill S.

 

Bill, I too have an 05 convertible, M6 with Bose/Nav all factory stock. I am in the same position as you, wanting to upgrade with a new head unit. I have started my research and have found my options almost endless. I will share with you where I am at.

My requirements:
CD player not necessary
Wireless Apple Car Play
XM Radio ready
4 inch double Din, not the large floating screen
Capability for at least two cameras, front and rear
I will not be installing any aftermarket speakers or amp

My Choices so far:

Kenwood DMX 8709S. 1 year warranty, 6.75 inch screen, wireless CarPlay, $748

Kenwood DMX 809S. 2 year warranty, 6.75 inch screen, wireless CarPlay, $798

Kenwood DMX 9708S. 1 year warranty, 6.95 inch screen, wireless CarPlay, $848

Kenwood DMX 908S. 2 year warranty, 6.95 inch screen, wireless CarPlay, $898

These prices are in Canadian dollars, off the Crutchfield website. I intend to purchase off Crutchfield and have them supply the pre-wired harness. I am still trying to determine the actual differences between my above four picks. I ruled out any other brands, mainly because of the choices/recommendations made by members on this forum. I like the idea of the steering wheel controls and will be reaching out to MADSONP for some guidance as to what was involved. I will be doing the work myself.

Cheers

 

Appreciate the input, I've done my research and have narrowed it down to either the Kenwood Excelon DMX809S or Kenwood DMX9708S , Given our physical location, I like the FM sensitivity of the DMX809S and the HD tuning, think I'm leaning in that direction as of this AM, but will continue to do more research to see what other options (head units) might meet my wants and needs as well.

Anyone else want to chime in?

Anyone else have one installed in their car and can post a picture?

Bill S.

 

Well I personally prefer Pioneer stuff myself, but I think you can’t go wrong with any quality brand name system i.e. Pioneer, Kenwood, Alpine etc. But even at that you don’t want to buy the cheapest one, the more you spend, the better the quality of sound and features you’ll have. I just suggest staying away from the really cheap systems such as Boss, Atoto, Dual etc. as they’re not built to the same standards as the name brand systems.

 

No worries, I've been playing around with car stereos since 1980, actually spent some time custom installing units in the 81-83 timeframe. The Kenwood above checks off my wants and needs, don't need the biggest or the best, just a better system than stock, that looks like it belongs there.

thanks again for your assistance.

Bill S.

 

For my 2005 convertible, I bought a Kenwood DMX8709S. It seemed to have the features I wanted and good reviews for the price! Getting installed soon, so hoping for the best!

Is anyone thinking of replacing the factory speakers? Curious what the best option for the doors is and is it a huge upgrade in sound quality?

 

I suggest taking it in steps, do the head unit first, and see how you like how it sounds, you’ll see a noticeable improvement in sound, just by doing this, if you’re still not happy, then consider adding a sub woofer and amp, this can add the needed bass that to me these cars lack, and really liven up the sound (which is what I did) Then if you’re still not happy with it, look at replacing the rest of the speakers, and amp etc.

 

My mindset has always been slow and steady, it not only keeps me grounded, but also keeps me from making changes that were not necessary.


Bill

 

Thank you! I have consulted Crutchfield about the best plan to increase the volume for when the top is down. I have read that replacing the 8” subs in the door on the Bose system can be difficult, so my plan was based on changing the 3.5’s in the upper doors and the 5.25’s behind the seat with a new amp to push them. Crutchfield’s recommendation was Pioneer TS-A879 3.5’s and Kicker CS series 5.25’s behind the seat with a JL JD400 amp. They thought I could gain the necessary volume while improving the overall sound. Has anyone done this? Thanks!

 

Can you forward me the information I need to add the steering wheel controls to my 2005 convertible?

 

'Here you go, let me know if you have any questions.

 

Thank you!

 

Let me know if you need help with anything concerning this. .