Don't worry about the PAC-SWI not stating perfect compatibility, it worked on my XK8 just fine. Its programmable, and very easy. Its worth getting to keep the volume, source, and next track/folder functionality.

 

But is there something that the PAC-SWI does that the adapter I got doesn't? I don't quite understand what the difference is.

 

You are right, I didn't look at your links...that should be equivalent to the PAC unit I mentioned. My 03 needed something else to work correctly.

 

Get the axxis steering wheel control.
I have it works great

 

I know a 10" will not fit because I origionally bought a 10" and it was too big and would have required some major cutting to fit. I believe I still have the reciept and will look for it.

Mark

 

I measured the placeholder plate that was in the subwoofer spot:




The whole plate is exactly 26 cm = 10.24 inches
The distance across the mounting holes (exactly middle of the hole) is 23,5 cm = 9,25 inches
The foam part that goes inside the hole is 21,6 cm = 8,5 inches

 

I hope I'm posting this in the correct area & that someone can aide me with my concern. I live in the Maryland/DC area and own a 2008 XKR. My stereo is NOT Satellite Radio equipped, but the 2009 forward have it built into their system. Is there a way to upgrade or replace my stereo with a modern one OR is there a touch screen system (aftermarket)that I can install that will work with the steering wheel components, heated seats and other functions currently being handled by the current system installed.

Jeff

 

The more 'vehicle functions' that are tied into the head unit & screen makes it extremely difficult to replace with anything aftermarket. You're best bet is to 'add' items to the system like a video switch, or an OEM integration unit, where you can add other audio inputs into the equation, and some 'shape' the quality by adding EQ controls as well. Its not for the DIY, typically, that type of work should be performed by custom audio shops...and good ones at that.

 

I've just finished my install over the weekend. Had to get a shop to wire up the stereo in the end and they've done a good job, keeping power to my expensive dashboard clock.

I've gleamed a lot of info on this site, many thanks guys for posting all the info. Managed to do most of the job myself, getting the fascia adaptors etc but in the end the iso connectors didn't fit. They had to wire in to the white connector and he foudn the relevant wires on the yellow connector to power up the clock.

I went for the Sony DSX-S300 BTX which has a tray for an iPod/MP3 player and has bluetooth for phone.







I'm just seeing how the bluetooth mic works as it's on the unit itself, so might add on an external mic (any suggestions how to route cable behind dash easily) and poss add on the Sony steering remote for convenience.

Finally I'm also considering fitting a simple Kenwood KSC-SW01 on the floor behind drivers seat. I've already got the RCA and remote on cables route under centre console.

Quick question, what's the best way to route power from amp to battery. Lift rear seat base and is that where the cable hole is for CD changer etc?

Thanks,

Jody

 

very tidy install Jody, nice job!

In our convertible, the 'hole' for the pass through of cables is on the RHS, just above the shelf, under the carpet. If you can get it through there, you can get it behind the rear seats, and under the seat cushion by removing that one screw under the front lip (unscrew the other on the LHS if you want the entire cushion out), then route it under the carpet up the tranny tunnel. Where is your amp BTW, not in the boot?

I understand your frustration with the deck's built-in BT mic...same on mine, and had to do an external unit for any use of it while not standing still. mjlaris and myself ran a new mic up and around to the overhead console, it seemed easier than pulling it through the dash panels at some opportune location.

 

I'll second H2Oboy, very nice, clean install. I use the Bluetooth all the time, both for hands free calling and audio streaming (both music and audio books). It's great!

Mark

 

I did the install on my car last week too. Everything was plug and play since I had ordered the older fascia panel, din adapter and steering wheel button adapter (which came with an iso-adapter as well. Surprise surprise... now I have an extra iso-adapter since I ordered one of those as well)
Everything works perfectly, even the steering wheel buttons and the sound is a lot better than with the stock head unit.
I was planning on upgrading all of the speakers but with the new head unit sounding so much better, I think that project will be postponed indefinetly.

Pics to follow.

 

So here it is. Even shows embedded album images on songs and fully readable even in direct sunlight!

 

This was a DAB unit I fitted some time ago



The thread is on here some where if anyone is interested but you would probably find it easier to go to the Paragon facebook page, the whole setup is in the albums

This is an Alpine system, the next one down from the 305s I like to use but with all the same functions just not the fancy colour screen

 

Glad to see these pics as I trying to figure out the best option for me. I know they are few and far between but these really help. Thanks!!!

 

Here are the two ways I did it. First in the '98 XK8 I went with a flip up screen solution to get Nav but found the interference with the gear shift lever annoying (in park the screen hits the shifter when it tries to retract). Second choice was a double din Kenwood relocating the second bank of switches into the glove box. Most annoying part is opening the glove box to hit the seat warmers (California car so don't use the fog lights very often).

Here are the pictures.

 

Hi,
Thanks for the post. I'm interested in doing this mod. Just a few questions if you don't mind.
For your double din option do you know what face kit they used and how the switches were moved? A custom wiring harness fabricated or the old cut and splice?
Thanks
DR

 

I don't know of any faceplates available for double dins that would fit. I made mine. Regarding moving the switches...it took just under two hours to splice wire by wire to extend the factory harness. I cut the connector off leaving plenty of length of wire to work with, and one by one added 24 inches of wire, soldering each end and using heat shrink tube. I do have to open the glove box for some switches, but not a big deal really. For the seats and fog lights, I added the functionality to my car PC using a usb controlled relay board, so from the touch screen I can turn them on/off. But of course that can only be done with a car PC, not a factory double din unit.

 

Wire for wire splice and they custom cut a piece of plastic to fit then wrapped it with matching carbon fiber wrap.