Hey guys,
I just bought a 2012 Accord SE, but need NAVI. I didn't opt to go for an Ex-L because I typically like to go with a pioneer head unit. However, by doing this, it will make the small screen on top of the dash useless and take away my ability to change the clock. I was thinking IPAD integration, but there is no place to fit this with a clean look. I have a JL 13W7 and doubt I could ever make it sound the way it should with a stock radio. Is there any way to salvage the screen and ipod interface with an aftermarket radio like say the avic z-130bt? OR if I want to upgrade the radio to the Navigation unit, how much would that run me? (I would obviously also need to purchase the GPS antenna, any idea on a price?)
I`m torn, go with the z130 and make the screen a wasted space for a clock, or upgrade the stock radio to the Navi unit???

 

the answer to keeping the stock radio and the sub sounding as good as it should is an equalizer and a good amp.

 

While you are right with saying the OP can get good sound with his stock HU, the OP wants to add Navi to his car.

OP if you run something like a Clean Sweep you can get great sound from you stock unit, keep your clock and ipod input as well as your stock look (which IMHO looks great) and then buy a thin 6" Navi Unit that you can mount somewhere (I do not like the look of them on the windshield)

I have a Pioneer Avic - Z2 mounting in my Honda and I have a portable Tom Tom that I use in my truck. The Tom Tom works very well.

Seams like that would would well for your needs without chopping up your dash.

Besides the Clean Sweep the MS-8 is the other popular unit. Both sell for around $500 new

 

Thanks for the advice. While it is tempting, I think I might go for the z-130BT. There is a refurb'd one for $700. My local shop says that they will get the z-140 in 2 wks. Should I wait? Do u think the price will go down any more? Now the same audio guy told me that the USB connection would burn out if I were to connect an Ipad 2. Is this true? Because I want to try and use my Ipad in a cup holder stand like this. http://www.amazon.com/Satechi-SCH-12...80730&sr=8-138

Do you think I could split the USB connection on the z130 to connect the USB connector in the center console. and add the Ipod cable for my phone?

Also do you know of any clip to so that I can mount my iphone on the top screen, next to the clock display?

 

IMO - refurb units are never a good deal. They almost always have issues.

 

you may be able to use the center console USB connector to work with the aftermarket HU - if you can solder and know the pin-out.