Looking for knowledge: Pioneer DMH-2660NEX

Last year I upgraded my non-jbl SR5 entune plus.

I installed a plug and play T4€0Tunes amp and subwoofer, and replaced the door speakers with Hertz from James.

I’m really quite pleased with the sound. However, I (like many) would just love to have Apple CarPlay.

For around $500, I can get the Pioneer DMH-2660NEX and the Maestro adapter.

This should give me what I want as far as Apple CarPlay and keep the stock functions of all my controls.

My question is whether this will have a negative impact on my current sound.

the sub and all 4 door speakers (and 4 tweeters) all get power from the newer amp. The very front speakers are fed by the head unit. Can anybody tell me if the Pioneer will be an upgrade over the factory HU, or am I likely to gain Apple CarPlay at the expense of better sound?

thanks!

 

Not knowing how that ********* amp wires up to the factory radio ( connection wise ) but I can tell you that there will be an improvement in sound. You WILL need to retune the amp once the new stereo is installed. Again, not ever looked at nor installed that “plug and play” amp, I’m sure there will be a need for some rewiring.

 

Without a doubt, the Pioneer will make everything sound better. The factory headunit should only be kept if you absolutely need that factory look or integration. If you're willing to add the maestro to retain all the factory integration, then there is no need to keep the OE headunit. Pioneer with give you more amplification for the dash speakers, more equalization and tuning ability, better control over input loudness, better signal to the amp via RCAs if you choose. Plenty more.

Personally, having had both in many vehicles, I would take a hard look at Kenwood. Kenwood has a better more simplified sound tuning software that produces better results. Without getting into more advanced tuning the Kenwoods will give you a better sound.

Im sure this with trigger a multitude of responses, its just my personal experience. I've had 3 or 4 Pioneers now and 2 Kenwoods. Ill stick with Kenwood for now, but honestly both will be better than stock.

 

I like the Kenwood better as well.
Pioneer has a bit of a touch screen lag that gets a little annoying.

I'd also suggest spending a little more and get a HU with wireless Carplay.
Ditching that cord is sweet...

 

In my personal experience, Kenwood is definitely superior to Pioneer.

 

Thanks!!

That was one of my questions/assumptions: that I would have to retune the amp after changing the HU. Thanks for confirming.

The amp, sub, and power supply kit for the TT package included harnesses that are installed between the terminal factory wiring and the new amp. Since I’m not changing anything there, I don’t think I will have to rewire. let me know if I’m wrong....

thanks to all of you for your suggestions. I’ll check out Kenwoods offering!