98 stereo replacement ?s

[ccarreola]

My original AD6801 radio is failing, so I'm looking to replace it. I have the need to connect an external device, like MP3 player or satellite radio via an auxilary input.

I was considering a used factory radio with an adapter to connect to the cd changer plug as an auxilary input. Anyone use this option? If so, what fits my car? Any recommendations would be appreciated.

Or...would an aftermarket solution be best? If I were to go this route, I would want it to look as professional as possilbe. Any recommendations on this option? Again, any suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks for your help.

Carlos

[bobcrane]

Personal opinion is there's not much out there as "clean" looking as the OEM but there are stereo's that go in clean enough that the superior sound makes it worth it.

I put a Pioneer dual-din stereo in my '97. It is silver in color and Pioneer's design has the face stick out a bit compared to OEM. But when it comes to meeting the Avalon trim it comes together nice and tight with clean edges and corners (nothing raised up). That keeps the neat appearance.

IMHO I'd go with a better stereo. I don't remember which stereo has the external amp but bypass that to.

Do a search on the forum and you'll find tons of information.

[TrblPinoy1]

An aftermarket radio will sound better but will stick out of the dash a little and won't be as flush as stock. If using aftermarket you must get a deck with at least two sets of RCA jacks in the back and use the metra harness(I forget the model#) or you can bypass the factory amp... it's behind the glove box

[muchachomalo]

What are the stats on the factory amp in the 97 xls. And if it has such a nice stereo system why does it vibrate like crazy. Also is stereo problems with this car common?

[TrblPinoy1]

I don't understand the vibration part you are asking?
do you mean like it's vibrating loose like when the car is moving??
or you mean vibration like a speaker is blown?
if either one is the case you can fix either one real easy

let me know and I can possibly assit with either problem

[muchachomalo]

sorry to bring this post back from the dead. But by vibrating speakers i mean whenever i turn the volume up to loudly it sounds like there are vibrations in the speakers. and the it sounds bad.

[TrblPinoy1]

it's possible you have a worn speaker or you loose screw... the best thing to do is pull the door panel...

[muchachomalo]

Originally Posted by TrblPinoy1

it's possible you have a worn speaker or you loose screw... the best thing to do is pull the door panel...

Alright I will try pulling the door panel thank you for your advice.