DIY Double DIN?

I have been debating doing a double DIN GPS unit... I found the one I want; the Pioneer 8100NEX. My local installers price was considerable more than what I found online at jet.com He said that he would install the one I bought and replace the Amp in the front boot for $1,000. I found a couple of amps in the $200 range and the euro motorsports kit is 150 on Ebay.... is this install difficult? Worthy of $500? Now for the big question(s) ---- what else is needed to do this job and is it fairly doable for someone that is semi-competant? Anyone that has done this please chime in.... I searched for a DIY Double DIN step by step post but could not find any... Any help is appreciated. The 996 upgrade itch is a slippery slope....

Was just looking to do the same thing. My nav unit is ancient as it's from 2000. Why does a plastic trim piece and a cage cost 159? Seems kinda high for what it is.

Maybe shop around. I got a double din and http://www.6speedonline.com/forums/9...-speakers.html

Quotes source post: 13415438

Got a double din and the speakers mentioned in this write up installed for under $500 (install cost only, I brought all the parts to the stereo shop).

Quotes source post: 13415441

Honestly- I am all about doing what I do well and letting pros do what they do well in their profession.... But $1000 for an amp + install kit + install seems kinda steep. (porsche tax I am sure). I probably can handle the job without problems as long as I had guidance via instructions or video... LOL. I'll search around some more and see what I can find. The stereo is going to be awesome and having GPS with traffic is a key to happiness in southern California.

I spent about $2k to have a double DIN infotainment system professionally installed (including all components), so your costs are in line.

I have a car with the painful Bose system and did research a lot on every possible option of upgrading the radio. In the end I went with the iSimple TranzIt BLU ISFM2351. Cheaper, easier to install and good sound quality. No regret what so ever. Using my phone to steam music via Bluetooth with Waze as GPS plus voice commands with the supplied button works for me. Less than 100$ spent, 30mins to install myself

Another vote for the Tranzit. Very easy, around $75 IIRC. Yes, I still have the old CDR, but it meets my needs.

I put in my double din myself with components purchased from Rod at Car Audio Innovations in Roseville, CA (I'm in Baltimore). I found his prices to be comparable to Crutchfield but he has detailed instructions for wiring the system. If you have the Bose optic system, it's a bit of work but certainly doable for an average diy. Some people talk about replacing these units but don't always clarify if they are replacing the bose most system or standard which can make a big difference in install as you have to change the amp in the most system which not only involves a new amp but running rca cables to the frunk and wiring. Anyway, Rod is awesome in my opinion in understanding options for these cars.

I have less than $300 in this system and I wired it up myself. Happy to help.. let me know. Also, I could have easily put the Andriod Navigation model in there, but I didn't want it and happy that I saved the money.

B3, did you have to purchase the trim ring and cage to install that unit? Do you have other photos?

Quotes source post: 13416047

Fortunately, the Blaupunkt New Jersey uses the full DIN width and so the included Blaupunkt bezel works (see picture #1). However, the height did not fit perfect to cover the absence of the AC control unit. Therefore, I personally made a piece from the old AC unit bezel (which you can use because when you relocate it the lowest slot, a new bezel has to be purchased). See arrows in pic#1 & 2 Also, Blaupunkt includes a mounting cage that worked great. This saves you $100 - $200 for those aftermarket installation kits. For more details, go to my most recent thread called "Becker to Blaupunkt, the hills are alive": https://rennlist.com/forums/996-foru...are-alive.html I'm more than happy to discuss wiring details which is the most painful process with upgrading a stereo system in these cars. Let me know!

I'm in the same pickle. My shop wanted $1200 for install of radio and amp. I'm going to tackle myself. Id did the speakers a few weeks back with no issues.

Thanks b3. Your install looks clean. My hvac controls are already located low above the bat wing. I wanted to get rid of the nav/cd player and replace the double din unit that was original to car. Non bose that I can tell. Maybe crutchfield sells a wiring harness? Prob not or there wouldn't be these threads. Shops don't like it when you don't buy from them so they typically upcharge the install cost. I have an aquiantance that has a shop and whenever I bring in my own stuff, they try to get me to buy something from them or won't install it. So I try just to do it myself. $1200 for radio install seems mighty high.

Quotes source post: 13416047

[Image-only post; no author-written text. Original image references:] https://cimg4.ibsrv.net/gimg/rennlist.com-vbulletin/1049x749/blaupunktinstall_9409d8fc632d587cd465f1125b8d053c7fc23235.jpg

Quotes source post: 13416255

What OEM setup do you have? Tell me the HU and frunk Amp model #, and do you have the 6 channel Porsche HiFi, or BOSE??? To answer your question... No, Crutchfield doesn't offer wiring harnesses or adapters for the Porsche 996.

Not sure what the HU is. It's not a bose from what i can tell. It is a 6 speaker unit, 2 on dash, 2 in door, and 2 at rear (from what I can tell). I will post photos in a few.

I think it depends on if the OP has a Bose system in his car. The MOST system is where the pain begins

Quotes source post: 13416378

I completely agree with you. The MOST based audio systems in the 996 were probably as problematic as the IMS fiasco. At least when the MOST dies, you don't have catastrophic engine failure. hahaha! Seriously, this is exactly why I chose to replace both the HU and frunk amp. The sound is amazing! It will blow you out of the car.

@b3freak - Your stereo setup looks great, I can imagine the music in harmony with that switchable exhaust!! Perfect for a cab!

My current system

This makes me laugh. A cd changer in frunk

Hahahaha... yea, like who uses CD changers anymore much less cassette tapes. ha, it accepts cassette tapes. Cooooool! Well, it's obvious you have one of the rare Porsche PCM 1.0 units, but we need to 100% sure it doesn't use the optical MOST signals. Does your 996 have the frunk amp?

At least with a cassette tape, you can have an AUX-in easily. If I have a cassette tape in my Porsche I would actually use it, it makes it more special!

@Shred... yea, the Porsche Sports Exhaust system tends to drown out the music and so I sometimes turn it off, but the Blaupunkt New Jersey has a nice EQ system to tune the mid range to make the vocal jump out more... definitely helps with all the ambient noise. And yea, those dreaded cassette aux adapters were the thing back in the 80s and 90s... Lawd I'm so glad we moved from the horrible technology. hahaha!

I didn't know the cassette deck was a rarity.bill make sure to keep the unit. Haha How do I know if there is an amp? I don't see one.

Quotes source post: 13416674

Take a picture of the frunk. It's usually behind the spare tire.

My spare is on the ground. Not standing.

This looks like a Carrera 4, am I right? What year model? Based on what I'm seeing right now, your system is the base "analog" PCM 1.0 system which means there is no amp; therefore, the speakers output would come directly from the HU.

Yup C4, 2000. So would that make for an easier or harder install? The stock system doesn't sound to hot all treble. I'm used to a lil bass.

It's much easier, you have so much more options without the Bose system in the car. Definitely go find a nice aftermarket head unit unless you have lots and lots of cassette you want to play in the car

Before I give you my full opinion, can you please take a picture of your doors? I want to look at the setup. Thank you!

Actually b3freak is right, the amp maybe hidden under on the C4.

Hidden under?

Thank you, thank you! Ok, before I give you the break down... one last confirmation. I'm willing to bet the amp is in the trunk (see picture and arrow) This is NOT my Porsche, but you can see the owner cut the cables. ((Nasty job too)) But if you pull back the flap then we'll be more knowledgeable about your setup and better able to help you!

There are two places I know of that have harness adapters to fit our factory wiring . This means no cutting of the factory wires. One is Del Rey customs . http://delreycustoms.com/ The other is Metra which is commonly sold on Amazon. I have the Del Rey customs in my 996. Cheap ? Nope . Do they work ? Sure do

Thanks Alan, I was going to recommend a standard harness, but since Porsche did their audio systems many different ways, I want to make sure we lead him into the right direction. Here's the basic harness for upgrading an analog Porsche 996 system. This means you use the OEM speakers and amp ... and just change out the HU. http://www.discountcarstereo.com/HRC-BKR.html or he can purchase a nice full kit with wiring harness as mention by the OP: http://www.ebay.com/itm/EURO-MOTORSP...UAAOxynLhR9e4k

As it stands right now, freakinheat's system looks like the base PCM 1.0 with analog I/O. This would mean it is a 10 speaker/6 channel system with CD changer and Navigation units minus the integrated phone. Basically, here's the breakdown: Porsche Siemens/Becker PCM 1.0 Head Unit feeds an Analog (e.g. Becker) 6 channel amp Becker Amp feeds the follow... 1. Dash - L&R - mid/high frequency speakers 2. Rear - L&R - mid/high frequency speakers 3. Door - L&R - Bass Enclosures OR... Porsche Siemens/Becker PCM 1.0 Head Unit provides speaker level output to... 1. Dash - L&R - mid/high frequency speakers 2. Rear - L&R - mid/high frequency speakers The PCM unit provide pre-amp level output to a 2 Channel Amp The analog (e.g. Becker) 2 channel amp feeds the low frequencies to 3. Door - L&R - Bass Enclosures

I only paid $325 for the install at Al & Ed's Auto Sound in Ontario, California and that included relocating the AC unit. Separately purchased the Kenwood DNX892 navigation unit New on ebay. I think paying $1,000 for an install is a rip off!!!

Quotes source posts: 13415441, 13416390

It is an 05 C4S- so does have the MOST system. So I will be changing the AMP and head unit together- will leave the all Bose speakers for now- see how they sound with the new system.

I have tried all 3 double din install kits (the one from pelican/ebay, the metra kit, and the one from Rod at CAI). Hands down, far and away, the best is from CAI. It fits right and secures properly to the stereo, and looks the best. He also makes various wiring harnesses, amp mounts, etc. And I already had the stereo and cage, so he sold me just the mounting/faceplate for the double din, and it works great. I bought the "Porsche" decal on ebay (was advertised for brake calipers) and added it to fill the space. I have an 02 (so no MOST), but no door speakers. I found a really good 4 channel amp (Alpine PDX) on amazon, and installed Polk 2 way speakers all around, and have been really happy with it. Just my $0.02, YMMV Boot up screen...

Quotes source post: 13418036

Hey- thanks for this! I'm getting the radio on Saturday per tracking number... but will call Al& Ed's tomorrow!!! $325 would be awesome. I have not picked an amp- but will ask them what they would recommend.

Like "RGrove" I also purchased the install kit from cai-store.com

Without a doubt CAI has some of the most complete kits available. The main point to remember is to get the RIGHT kit for the HU you're purchasing. These newer double DIN style radios are sized (and shaped) in many different ways. At first glance, you say, "It's just a square - it should work!", but then you get it and realize the installation kit doesn't fit tight and the bezel has gaps around the edges. Yikes! If I were going to advise anyone, make sure you FIRST know what type of Porsche system you're upgrading... is it a fiber optic (MOST) digital based system or is it an analog I/O... is it a BOSE or the Becker CDR HU with 6 channel amp in the frunk? The easiest method of upgrading is just swapping out the head unit and use the existing speakers and amp. That means you just need to purchase a installation kit like the one CAI sells for $200.00. You can also save that money by hard wiring the HU to the Porsche's wiring. I don't advise it if you haven't dealt with schematics and wiring diagrams. You could really screw something up bad! The safest way is to purchase the CORRECT kit from a company like CAI and wire it properly with their included wiring harnesses. It's not that bad as it seems as long as you follow the directions. All the best!!!

FREAKINHEAT has gone silent on us. I hope I didn't scare him off. We were just one step away from confirming his system. :-(

Quotes source post: 13418803

Sorry for the delay. Holiday kept me busy. Thanks for the info so far. Here is what was behind the carpet in trunk.

Ta Dah!!!! There's the amp! Well, that picture just proves my prediction. That is, you have a 6 Channel/10 speaker system... Porsche/Becker/Siemens - PCM 1.0 Head Unit with analog I/O Becker 6 Channel Amp feeds all speakers outputs Dash - front L&R mid-range and high frequency drivers Door - L&R Bass Enclosures Back Seat - Rear L&R mid-range and high frequency drivers Here is what I recommend: 1. Purchase a nice double DIN head unit (e.g. Alpine, Blaupunkt, Kenwood) 2. Purchase a compatible installation kit (Double DIN cage, bezel, wiring harness, etc.) 3. Don't change out your amp 4. Don't change out your speakers 5. You may want to change out your mid and high freq speakers, but I would recommend steps 1 and 2 before you spend the money. 6. And above, if you're not comfortable with hard wiring the system, then do yourself a big favor and contact a store like CAI-Store.com and they'll get you the right kit. It will cost you a little more, but saves you a lot of trouble. Overall, you have a great system. It was one of the best you could buy on a Mk1 911. The only thing better would have been the Bose system, but your system was considered the top-of-the-line. However, it's still 16 years old and if you want my opinion, I would just upgrade your Head Unit only. Yep, just the head unit. You'll need an installation kit (minus the shelf and lower bezel...) https://cai-store.com/collections/fr...iant=284419288 If you purchase a unit that has it's own double DIN installation mount (i.e. cage) and bezel, then all you'll need is the wiring harness - https://cai-store.com/collections/ra...iant=380005173 I wish you all the best with your upgrade!

Thanks for your guidance b3. I will have to change the dash speakers as one of them is blown (crackles). I'm pretty sure the others are on the way out as well. Thanks again to everyone for their input as well.

b3freak, great of you to share your expertise on here! Curious, is your screen name related to the Hammond origin?

Quotes source post: 13429004

Yes sir! I love the sound of the Hammond B3 organ. I own two B organs and played music in the church, school, and with family since I was old enough crawl up on the bench. And congrats, you're one of the few that guessed it right!

Do we know the specs of the stock amp? Has anyone replaced it with an aftermarket unit in its place?

The stereo comes tomorrow- will post pictures once it is installed. Totally psyched to get it done- like others here will see how the speakers sound and replace if needed. It is the Bose system so hoping it sounds better with the new head unit and amp.

Love the Hammond B3 organ myself!

Quotes source post: 13429645

You have taste my friend!

Quotes source post: 13429294

AWESOME! Where did you end up buying all the goodies? For all us to learn more about these projects, please PLEASE post pictures of the wiring harness, install cage, wiring diagram, etc. Thanks!!! We're looking forward to seeing (and hearing) the results!

Quotes source post: 13429182

Believe it or not, the Becker amps are not that powerful. I believe they produce about 35 watt per channel, but don't hold me to that figure. This was my choice... not the easiest, but cheaper. I chose to not buy the wiring harness and install kit which saved me $200. I was able to install the whole thing for $350.00. My upgrade included the Blaupunkt BT220 HU and Blaupunkt 2 Channel amp. The HU provides 50W / channel and the Blaupunkt 2 Ch. amp just feeds the bass enclosures only. I could easily go back to the stock setup, but I wanted to save money. A decent 6 channel amp costs $500 and up. And the fact is, the stock speaker really can't handle much more than 50 Watts of power or you'll blow them. But I admit, cheaper is NOT always easier. The best route if you can afford it, is to use the install kit. At least get the wiring harness if you plan to reuse the stock speakers and Becker amp.

Quotes source post: 13428960

Just like tires, replace them in pairs. If you rather just replace the crackling speaker, then I'd recommend purchasing another matching Porsche speaker. You can find them pretty cheap on eBay. Remember, the dash and rear individual speakers are actually two separate speakers wired in parallel. Not to be confused with dual-cone speakers. The Porsche setup is superior in my opinion. Cheers!

Quotes source post: 13429112

Great, did I win something?!! (I'm semi-retired from the Nashville music biz, got to record a lot of Matt Rollings, Pig Robbins, John Hobbs, etc. on the B and keys. Love the sound, too!)

Wow, didn't see the B3 tangent coming. Fascinating! Glad I peeked in on this one for a little backstory.

Quotes source post: 13430760

That's awesome! If I lived in Nashville, I'd be playing night and day! Funny thing is... I bought my B3 from a nice man in Nashville back about 16 years ago. p.s. you win honorable mention for your fine taste in musical instruments! Nothing can scream like a Hammond organ my friend!

Quotes source post: 13430814

Uh Oh... Slakker knows *more* about me now. That word is out!

Quotes source post: 13429294

So, any updates? Pictures???

Quick update- disassembled the dash area (CDR 23, temp controls, cubby and trim) total time took maybe 10 minutes with the radio tool. I used a dremel to trim off the single DIN support so the double DIN would fit. Then took the trunk lining out and found the grummet behind the battery so that I could pass the RCA cables through from the head unit to the new amp. The satellite antenna was fished through the small trim peace that covers the alarm light in the dash center (just pulled up and back and trim came off easily) and the antenna adapter placed appropriately. The temperature control slid down to the bottom slott easy enough and the kit I bought had a new trim piece that worked great. I bought a upper cubby that I cut a small square out the back and pushed a USB port through that will connect to the radio, then made a plastic piece that overlapped the excised plastic- with a grove for USB wire to go through- this was then glued to the back of the cubby- essential ensuring the USB would not wander back through the larger hole I cut. Now I can easily charge my phone and have a clean appearance as well. At this point all that was needed was for the radio to be wired up, a rear camera fished through, a bypass for the radio/ parking brake, new amp +/- wires as old ones were not thick enough. I also need the speaker wires figured out as none of the diagrams I found online exactly fit the 05 4S with Bose premium set up. Overall time to this point was about 6 hours- I took this to a local car audio guy who works on high end systems- so he could do the final install- wiring the amp/ radio and fitting the trim around the radio. He does his own fiberglass/ wood work/ trim/ for some pretty trick set ups so I am confident it will look awesome when it is finished tomorrow. I could have finished myself but tuning the amp, and wiring anything up is not my thing.... I'll post pictures tomorrow night or Tuesday...... can't wait to hear it.

Sounds great! Can't wait to see the final pictures of the install.

/Users/GRitchie/Downloads/IMG_1033.JPG looks great and sounds better- just need to figure out all that it can do Installed complete. A ton of time was put in but well worth it.

Nice work! Looks like you got yourself an amazing system. Curious, would you car to share how much you invested in this upgrade?

Quotes source post: 13479233

Thanks! I changed the color scheme to match the rest of the dash/ temp control. Overall the cost was....too much. About $1500- the 8100nex was the bulk of the cost- things added up quick considering the amp was changed, RCA cables, installation kit, labor, rear camera etc. But it has touch screen, GPS navigation with built in traffic (no monthly charge for traffic) apple car play and all the other bells and whistles considering it is the top of the line model. This was a very doable DYI project.

Will add- if anyone is looking for bose amp, CDR 23 or CD changer from a 05 996 C4S with Bose premium package I will be listing them soon on the bay. All were working when removed a couple of weeks ago.