Proper audio upgrade/replacement

I have been going through the threads in this forum and am a bit unsure about the proper audio upgrade/replacement path. I have a '14 SR double cab with factory Entune system. I have seen references in the threads about JBL and non JBL systems. Looking online about the equipment installed in my particular vehicle, it does not identify if it is JBL or not. So, here are my questions.

Are all Entune systems JBL?
My understanding is that if the system is a JBL, simply upgrading the amp is not really an option. If so, the best path would be looking at a full HU/amp/speaker replacement. Is this correct?

If not, how do I identify the system as being JBL or non JBL?

Finally, if it is a non JBL, is an upgrade without an HU replacement a reasonable option?

Thanks,

 

i bought JBL Badges on ebay and adhered them to my speaker grilles. it looks like it sounds much better now

 

Not all entune are JBL. You could do a VIN search but as far as I know all JBL systems say JBL on the headunit or even speaker grills, definitely on the back if the speakers themselves. I highly doubt the SR has JBL. But the JBL sucks anyway and is more difficult to upgrade individual items.
A proper upgrade should include a new head unit. You wont regret it I promise, but you will regret not doing it to save a few bucks. You'll get CarPlay and/or android auto at the very least and much much more, including superior sound overall. I suggest kenwood but jvc, alpine, pioneer are all very much an upgrade, personally I would stay away from the android / Tesla head units but some guys love them and they do look pretty sweet. An Idatalink maestro RR would make integration a snap between factory wiring and new head unit.
A 5 channel amp would be ideal, with component speakers in the doors, and a subwoofer or 2 behind the seats. Possibly upgrade dash speakers as well but you could save money by just disconnecting them if you get some good door components.
James @tech12volts is the only person I would talk to about this or buy from. But there are plenty of online options, steer clear of ********* if you can. Also talk to local installers in your area, your be surprised by the deal you may get.

 

Technically it should sound worse

 

Thanks for the replies. But I think I'll skip the badges. We don't need no stinkin' badges...

 

Replacing my head unit made my non JBL speakers sound better. So much better that I dont feel like I need to replace them immediately.

 

Will a new HU affect MPG and tire Pressure Readings in the Instrument cluster readout?

 

MPG no and I didnt have tire pressure monitoring readouts so I can't speak to that.

 

It definitely worked for me. No plans on any other changes for now. The stock non JBL HU is like 12 watts of power, Many of the aftermarkets mentioned are 50 watts of power. Audiophile quality? Probably not, but definitely more volume and built in EQ's to play with. You can always upgrade speakers and / or add an amp later.

 

You are better off without the jbl. Easier to upgrade.

The main question you should be asking yourself is if you want to keep the factory headunit. After you figure that out. Reach out to tech12volts and give them your budget and what kind of sound you are looking for and James will set you up. I got almost all of my gear from him. Top notch.

 

The maestro should integrate everything. Except the turn by turn in the litle center cluster screen

 

hey guys if you need to get a hold of me and i do not answer a PM email me as I always get emails. Sometimes I do not get a PM notice for days . tech12volt@gmail.com

 

Here's a followup. I decided to go with a head unit replacement and chose the Pioneer 7200NEX. It looked like the best balance of price vs performance and options. I also added the Maestro RR and Idatalink harness. I did the install myself and am pretty happy with the results. First, the sound is soo much better than the original HU. Having an eq I can set custom settings is great. Android Auto will come in handy for music (Spotify) on trips or even on the daily. All splices on the harness were soldered and shrink tubing. The GPS was mounted under the center speaker cover as the SR has no center speaker. Mic was mounted at the back of the roof console. I like that the display can be tilted to closely match the angle of the trim and original display. I now have individual tire pressure readouts and code readout if there's something wrong with the truck.
Biggest issue I have now is the USB/AUX port. I pulled out the factory port and replaced it with one I found online that was supposed to fit Toyota, but must be for other models. I had to modify it to fit where the factory usb/aux port is and it does not clip in well and is easily pulled out. Then it becomes disconnected on the back side requiring me to pull the panel out again.

Next project I want to do is to be able to integrate the additional cameras I added to the truck. I have 1 in front of each wheel, one in the grill and one mounted to the back axle looking forward. It would be nice to be able to display them on the HU instead of a different display. I see the new 2020 Tacoma TRD PRO will have this as an option. Toyota's implementation looks pretty cool as the cameras will have dynamic guidelines projected. Great for picking a line when off-roading.

 

Glad to hear some positive results.

Now be careful not to destroy the stock speakers! LOL There are some modest upgrades for those as well that would bring more improvements.

 

Always interested to hear about upgrades.

 

I have not replaced my speakers yet; surprisingly the stock ones are still useable, or haven't crapped out yet.

I inquired with @james@tech12volts recently about speaker upgrades with HU like ours. He recommended the jl c1 650 at or about $150 a pair with brackets.

I have found some Pioneers and other known brands online with good reviews from $100ish and up.

I have also been intrigued in a smaller powered subwoofer. Many brands and options, not truck shaking but adds a little Bass. Also looks somewhat easy to install.

Something like this:

 

Think built for Gen 3's. Not sure if would work for Gen 2.