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AR15.COM
8/22/2014 10:33:29 AM EDT
I know it ain't firearms related......

I've got a 2000 Lexus LS400 with the factory system. I don't wanna change out anything, it's still a great system and everything works.

It has a tape deck in it that I have never used, and never will. 2 questions:

1.  Can't I leave the tape deck installed, disconnect the output from the back of it, adapt it to a 3.5mm plug and plug it directly into my iPhone?  Then, when I select "TAPE" I can listen to my iPod.

2.  Only place I can think of to do something like that is Sound Sensations on 41 in Marietta. Anyone recommend someplace in Hiram/Dallas, maybe Acworth, to do it?

Semper Fi!
8/22/2014 10:36:32 AM EDT
[#1]
If you're ever in Douglasville, look up Sound Proof. Randy and Larry will hook you up.
8/22/2014 10:40:10 AM EDT
[#2]
Quoted:
1.  Can't I leave the tape deck installed, disconnect the output from the back of it, adapt it to a 3.5mm plug and plug it directly into my iPhone?  Then, when I select "TAPE" I can listen to my iPod.
View Quote


That depends on if there is something inherent to the tape deck that the head unit must see for it to switch to the cassette deck.  Does it require a tape to be in the deck for you to switch to tape?  If not, at the least an audio jack could be added without taking the tape deck loose from the system.
8/22/2014 10:48:30 AM EDT
[#3]
These still work. I think perhaps a bluetooth for FM modulator might be a less invasive option.

I just got a "budget car" with built in bluetooth, hands free, etc and don't know if I could do without it.



8/22/2014 10:51:25 AM EDT
[#4]
robpiat, I tried one of those and it did not work well. I had an FM transmitter but it worked like shit, too. Invasive doesn't bother me......I'll never use the tape deck and I'd rather have the quality sound of a direct connection.

I'd use a Bluetooth adapter if I had a plug for input on my stereo. I don't, which is why I'm trying to go the route I am.

Jason, I'll look up Sound Proof. Thanks.
8/22/2014 10:57:30 AM EDT
[#5]
Here you go. Wireless FM transmitter.


Eta.

Oops. Didn't see that it was already posted.

You really don't have any other options without taking out the factory radio and replacing it.

I'd personally just get a quality fm transmitter and get someone to 'tune it up' to increase the transmit power so it's clearer and has better quality of sound.


Eta2

This is the direction I'd take.

http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Mobile/App/Product/Item/Overview.aspx?i=220U200USB&tp=1701
8/22/2014 11:01:50 AM EDT
[#6]
This looks like the best solution if you planning on keeping the car a few years.

http://www.clublexus.com/forums/gs-second-generation/621789-aux-input-for-under-5-00-you-guys-wont-be-disappointed-pic-intensive.html
8/22/2014 11:03:24 AM EDT
[#7]
Benchmark sound works (alpharetta) as well as that sound sensations would be the way  to go. As much as I drive , I could see spending a little money to have the full bluetooth integration.

Here's one outfit that'll mod you radio.

http://factoryradioservice.com/page.html?id=1
8/22/2014 11:04:17 AM EDT
[#8]
I read it a little closer and now it looks like a kludge.
I read it as you have to be playing a blank CD while you are listening to the mp3 player.
8/22/2014 11:42:35 AM EDT
[#9]
IIRC the Tape input is not active until a tape is in the deck. Shep find a cassette tape and with the radio playing insert the tape. If the Unit automatically switches to the Tape that was inserted, it is probably not going to allow the input to be used without a Tape.

I would go inline FM modulator or Blue Tooth. The FM Mods that connect to the iPhone then broadcast to a set station are to weak for a radio market like Atlanta. By using either a direct antenna connect FM Mod or Blue Tooth they don't have to fight the local radio stations. This is how my XM Radio Add-on is setup and it works great! I won an XM Car Radio Add-on and 5 year subscription at CEDIA in 2010 and Sound Sensations on 41 installed it for me.

I am sure they would have a quick solution that you would be satisfied with.

Here is a Direct Antenna Connection example for iPhone Blue Tooth.
8/22/2014 1:08:19 PM EDT
[#10]
WTH! 2000k Lexus? It has a a tape deck? What am I missing?
8/22/2014 1:17:21 PM EDT
[#11]
Thanks, y'all.
8/23/2014 4:04:05 AM EDT
[#12]
Quote History
Quoted:
If you're ever in Douglasville, look up Sound Proof. Randy and Larry will hook you up.
View Quote



Amen. They have hooked up several vehicles for me. Great guys and a great shop.