Optima stereo install pics, anyone?

[scott153]

Has anyone replaced the factory double DIN radio in the 2006.5-2007 Optima with a dash kit and single DIN radio? Could you post a photo of it for me to see? I just bought my Optima and I'd like to do that on mine, but I'm concerned what the dash kit looks like when installed. I know there are several different manufacturers and I've heard that they sometimes don't match the contours of the factory trim pieces, or the color doesn't match the rest of the dash.

What I'm thinking about doing on mine is installing the single DIN with map pocket dash kit with the pocket on TOP, then mounting the new color screen XpressRC XM radio above the DIN radio, and running the antenna, power and signal cables through the back of the map pocket, keeping things nice and tidy. I'm not sure how the XpressRC docking station mounts (I don't own one yet), I might alternately buy the double DIN dash kit and block off the top half with ABS plastic, which would give me a flat surface to attach the XM. I would then just have to drill a hole in the ABS for cables to pass through directly behind the XM tuner to keep them all hidden.

BTW, anyone in the market for a replacement radio that's an exceptional performer but doesn't want to go all out with amps, subs, and other outboard equipment should look at the top end of Panasonic's lineup, particularly the model numbers that begin with CQ-C8xxx or CQ-C9xxx. I'm going with the 9901, which is the most incredibly sophisticated car stereo I've ever seen. It's also the highest powered indash unit you can buy!

[joewb]

I have replaced the headunit in my Optima and it looks great. I used the single DIN kit from Crutchfield. I have the pocket on the bottom, it offers handy extra storage. I will post a picture when I get a chance.

[scott153]

Originally Posted by joewb

I have replaced the headunit in my Optima and it looks great. I used the single DIN kit from Crutchfield. I have the pocket on the bottom, it offers handy extra storage. I will post a picture when I get a chance.

Handy extra storage? The Optima already has two storage spaces under the radio, not to mention the door pocket - why on earth would you need another one?

When you removed your factory radio and installed your new dash kit, was there enough clearance back there to install it upside down the way I'm wanting to? If not, that may throw a monkey wrench in my plans. Also, the Panasonic radio I mentioned achieves that higher power output by using a DC to DC converter to boost the input voltage, and that converter is hard wired to the back of the unit, which will take up extra room. Clearance wouldn't be an issue with the double DIN kit, but it might be with the pocket kit.

I wonder if it's possible to mount a single DIN radio in the CENTER of a double DIN kit with an ABS surround plate, that might look nice and balanced.

[joewb]

I have attached 2 pictures of the install. I use the small area of the dash with the door for an iPod so the extra storage helps. Trying to mount the radio in the middle and using ABS top and bottom probably won't look great. The ABS won't match the dash and it will be flat and follow the contours. It has been about a year but I believe there was a goos amount of room behind the dash. And only putting a single DIN radio in there will free up some extra space.

[scott153]

That XM radio I mentioned in my original post is only 4.5" wide by 2.5" tall, and just over half an inch thick (not including the docking station). I haven't measured things out, but if I mount the indash radio at the bottom of the opening and the XM radio above it, I think the top edge will only partially block the emergency flasher button, if at all. The clock would be unobstructed. I haven't found any other XM tuner or mounting position that would look better in this car. I just need to figure out what would be more visually appealing on the sides of the XM tuner, the map pocket or an ABS blank - what do you think? Just as I feared, the aftermarket black plastic install kit is not as attractive and seamless as the factory radio. But, that's the cost of upgraded sound.

Why bother to install an external XM radio when the indash unit is "XM ready"? Well, the XpressRC can record content, and it has a squarish hi-rez color screen, and I can transfer it between car and home stereos. Plus, you'd have to buy extra equipment anyway to make the indash unit receive XM programming.

[rawkus]

I had a Pioneer radio installed, but sadly replacing the factory radio cost me the functionality of the buttons in my steering wheel. :\

[J7Optima]

Crutchfield carries a steering wheel remote control harness that should be compatible with your Pioneer radio. Item #127SWIPS $69.99. You'll need to confirm compatibility with your specific Pioneer unit since its a direct connection to the Pioneer radio.

[scott153]

Originally Posted by rawkus

I had a Pioneer radio installed, but sadly replacing the factory radio cost me the functionality of the buttons in my steering wheel. :\

I'm just the opposite, I never use my steering wheel buttons.

I know this is a long shot, but do you remember what brand of install kit that was? The charcoal gray color seems to match the surrounding dash perfectly. I want to avoid getting one that's plain black ABS.

[agarius]

Hello, nice Pictures an Works!
I have a Question. I got an 2007er Magentis from DK (dansk). There here no
headunit installed.
Now, i have a coax-cable, the Kia-Multiconnector (here i habe a adaptor for ISO) an
the was a black cable (left side) with one pin. It should be a very thin coaxcable perhaps.
Question: What is the function of this black cable? 12V Phantom for Antennaamplifier?

[mrgreen187]

I want to hook up a black box and keep my stereo stock. all i want is the RCA and Remote wire the little black box give me but i have no idea on how to remove the center facia panel on my 2007 optima so i can connect it to my speaker wire??? Help