Hello all, I'm quite new here and I'm not experienced on how this forum functions exactly yet, but I wanted to make a short post about my recent stereo upgrade.

About 2 weeks ago I installed an aftermarket head unit into my 97 XK8 with the premium Hardon Kardon amplified speakers. I've seen posts about stereo upgrades in non-ICE equipped vehicles, but I was under the impression that it would be much more difficult to wire up a new stereo for the premium, amplified, cars.

It is very much possible! The job also looks seamless, as I acquired an aftermarket fascia plate. It's also all removable if you ever want to go back to stock. You'll need to go to incartek.co.uk to order the wiring harnesses and fascia plates, and some minor soldering work is involved. If anyone wants pictures, advice, etc, let me know and I'm happy to help. Cheers!

 

Would like to see some picture please .

 

Pics coming up tomorrow morning!
I forgot to mention that it is fully compatible with the system. (automatic antenna still goes up, and steering wheel controls still function)

 

My head unit is also color-adjustable, so I made it match the interior lights color

It sits pretty flush with the fascia

This is where I mounted the microphone for phone calls over bluetooth. Still considering other spots.

 

That looks absolutely great ! Please give the name of the supplier and the part numbers for the facia plate and the head unit. Thanks SO much for posting this !!

 

The supplier I used is called incartec. I bought part # FK-394-2 off of their website, its the full kit you need to install the head unit. It includes the wiring harness, amplifier adapter, steering wheel control adapter, and the fascia plate. It's a bit pricey, but it works. You might need to order a different one depending on your model year.

I got a Kenwood stereo off of Crutchfield's website. It shouldn't matter which model you buy, because you'll be modifying the wiring harness which is given to you to fit it. So pick whichever you feel looks best.

If I can figure out how to post real links I will, but I'll put them in this post for now

https://incartec.co.uk/product/Jagua...io-fitting-kit

 

Thanks very much. I will have a chat to these guys. I want a head unit that can do hands free phone and play music from my android phone . Good sound and I don't care if it has a cd player or not. I would also like to be able to match the lighting colour to the Jag bulbs as close as possible Cheers

 

Never heard of Hardon Kardon speakers -- they must be really stiff.

 

They are indeed quite stiff. Rumor has it that their cones are coated with liquid Viagra at the factory....

 

How difficult is the removal of the OEM Radio?