need a new audio system

[bassnailer]

So, I still have the original audio system from Japan in my van. I think it's about time to update. Has anyone had good luck with Visions? They left a bad taste in my mouth a few years back. Has anyone got any suggestions about where to try and what not to do? I don't want to break the bank, but I want some good sound.

Bass.

[Big-Bird]

There are several options.

Look in the yellow pages for Stereo Install services. Many of these guys are far better trained and will take care to do no damage. I can't trust visions myself but have dealt with several independant outfits in Calgary over the years.

Truth be told installing a double-din deck in an L400 is dead easy. If memory serves the L300 uses a standard single din stereo.....also dead easy.

[nxski]

I only went to Visions because I couldn't fit into the Best Buy underground (due to a lift and boxes). The kids there gave me attitude, they didn't test the system to make sure it worked, cost twice as much as Best Buy and lost my warranty sheet. Luckily, it's been working fine for the past 2 years. I used Best Buy when I had a sound system put in my Civic and was very happy with the service.

EDIT: the L300 uses double din or single but there will be a gap either way so make sure to ask for backing to be put in as well.

[FalcoColumbarius]

Performance Car Stereo in North Van.They have worked on a number of Delicas, including the Miss Lil' Bitchi. Excellent service and they stand behind their work. Call me if you wish to hear further accolades.

Falco.

[bassnailer]

single din/double din...you lost me. I don't know much about things that are found on the other end of wires. Hammer n nails, wood n saw...I'm good. But I do not know of what you speak. Please enlighten me.

[nxski]

It's the size of the unit. Double din is twice the size of single. This means you can put in a single and have room for a compartment or cup holders underneath or you can put in a larger one which in my opinion, looks cooler.

[bassnailer]

Ahh, yes. I get it. Thanks.

[mapleridge818]

double din also come as dvd players if you want to be able to watch movies etc.
I think future shop and best buy are usually pretty decent on their prices. I think there techs aren't usually the highest paid, but it's not rocket science to install a deck and some speakers.

[bassnailer]

How many speakers did most of you guys get? I'm assuming four. But has anyone done anything a bit different with their setup? Road noise seems to be a bit of an issue, too. Has anyone insulated the door panels or anything like that?

[nxski]

The super exceed has 6. I have 6 with two 15" subwoofers and I don't hear the road noise anymore. Some have insulated their vehicle further as another option though.

[FalcoColumbarius]

Six and a sub: Two four inchers in the main console (either side); two 5X7s in the hip bulkheads I drilled out a six inch hole in both the lower front doors, lined the inside with noise suppressant material then dropped a pair of 6" speakers in there; then installed a floating bazooka on the end of a cable, so I can move it around depending on how I have the cabin set up.

Falco.

[bassnailer]

I need to see your setup again, falco.

[Morganizer]

I have a factory Mazda double din stereo I'm planning to put in to replace the crappy Sony single din that's in there now (and chirps and whoops every time I turn the ignition off.) Actually, the real reason I want the double din is for larger buttons. With the ergonomics all screwed up because of the RHD, tiny buttons are ridiculous. Plus, this stupid Sony: After the ignition's been shut off and turned on, there isn't a single button I can push that will make music play. I have to eject the CD and stick it back in, or find the off button, push it twice, and start from scratch switching to Front Input for the iPod. Plus the radio won't receive any signal.

Anyway, enough bitching about Sony, I wanted to bitch about Visions!

I special ordered a wiring harness for the Mazda double din. They told me the guy who does the special orders wasn't there, but took my $20 and said he'll be in Thursday. Couple weeks later I check back and the order hasn't been received. Phoned their customer service line and got pretty good service (I think they placed the order). Couple of MONTHS later still no progress on my order. I got a refund and will not be going back to Visions.

I'm going to try to get a wiring harness from the wreckers. CDN tire doesn't carry a match for it.

[alti2d]

If memory serves, a dodge colt stereo harness will plug and play with the delica harness (L300 anyways).

I credit this site with that little gem, it was dead easy.

[yojimbo]

Actually, the real reason I want the double din is for larger buttons. With the ergonomics all screwed up because of the RHD

If you mean that in LHD format the stereo would be easier to access, it isn't, everything is reversed including the shifters:
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c136/ ... ics002.jpg