Bay Area Audio Installer

Hi all, I did a search on this in the forums and found some advice, but it was from 2011, so I wasn't sure if it was still good information 5 years later.

Basically, I live in the San Jose and am looking at getting an upgraded audio system in my Tacoma. I love my truck, but the radio is terrible and the speakers just suck. I'd be looking to install an Apple CarPlay-compatible system with upgraded speakers and a Bluetooth microphone integrated somewhere. If it could be done in a manner where the steering wheel controls are at least partially useful, that would be great.

Does anyone know of a good installer in the Bay Area that could do something like this? I'm willing to drive a bit for good service/quality if necessary.

Also, I know mechanics get upset when you try to bring your own parts, but does the same rule apply for audio installers? I've heard conflicting information on this. I realize it may vary shop by shop.

Thank you all in advance for any help, I'm looking forward to getting more involved in the Tacoma World community.

 

If distance isn't a big hurdle...

Audio House in Napa is legit!! Highly recommended.

 

I wouldn't be surprised if there is a local TW guy near you that can help out and do it in their garage. This is a pretty basic install for our trucks.

 

Agree'd. The installs are pretty basic. Hardest part really is pulling apart the dash and doors without breaking or scratching anything. Crutchfield is a great source, not only for decent prices, but their ability to help you choose the right items and very decent installation tips!

What all are you looking to do ?

 

Hey everyone, thanks for the replies so far. I am weary about installing my own equipment. The speakers don't worry me. I worry about getting the head unit installed nice and flush and how to go about installing a microphone for the Bluetooth. Also, how to go about maintaining steering wheel controls for some functions as well. I'm not planning on installing a sub, so do I need an amp? I've seen conflicting information on this.

 

Steering wheel controls tap right into the wire harness. The install is pretty simple and ********* has great resources and kits. I highly recommend their speaker adapters.

 

In many cases the factory head-unit is the root of the audio issue. Mostly because the manufacturer doesn't want to replace blown speakers, etc. So the factory head-units (Toyota and Honda seem to be the worst at this) are "tuned" to roll back certain frequencies, with additional volume. ie: "Bass Fade" when the volume goes up. Most people will state that the factory radio's have a "Loudness Feature" (cut mid, increased Low and High range usually around 50% and lower volume range). This is not always the case. They simply cut bass levels to keep speakers from being damaged prematurely.

If you just want to swap a head-unit (deck) it's a fairly simple procedure. Normally at the most requiring a Deck, Dash Kit, Wire Harness, and in some cases Antenna adapter, or "factory control interface module".

 

Well, thank you all again for your helpful insights. You have inspired me to pursue my own installation. I have started a new thread in audio and video for it with some of my more advanced questions that I'm hoping to get answers to.
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/stereo-install-advice-for-a-2010-taco.462107/

 

Dude you have like the best audio guy really close to you @Mr Marv

 

If ya end up wanting to have it done professionally and don't mind a bit of a drive, I highly recommend Enriched Audio Design in Santa Rosa. I had them install a complete custom stereo setup and they did awesome