fx4phil

so after switching between a few different head units i realized none of them could do everything i wanted effectively enough. i was looking to install something clean looking and offered great user interface and functionality. the pioneer app radio 2 was my last gamble for an actual head unit. overall i was disappointed by the limited apps and poor performance switching between apps. after briefly measuring the new ipad mini i was excited that it was virtually the same size as my factory hole. now was the question of how to integrate it into the trucks audio system. i have looked at other ipad installs using expensive and complicated components and decided that was not something i wanted. but since almost every aftermarket head unit now a days has ipod/iphone support i decided to mount a single din deck at the bottom of my console.
i chose a jvc kd-x50bt. price point was $130ish
the deck can connect to two blutooth sources simultaneously, includes mic for hands free calling and a remote. also has front and rear usb(one needs to be used for bluetooth dongle though).

total cost of this project was just over $500 bux.



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the ipad is connected to the deck via bluetooth. i tether my data from my iphone 4s for full internet access. facetime also works.

i cut the sides of the bezel and installed hinges so the top half flips forward and i can slide the ipad out from the top. the top locks in place with magnets. i have a griffin survivor case on the ipad. i will be painting the case trim black so it doesnt stand out so much.
i will get more pics of the final finished setup.

fx4phil

also i have to make a false backing panel so when the ipad is out it doesnt look so ghetto. i havent installed the clips under the hinges yet but that gap will be gone


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fx4phil

and dont judge me about my text messages lmao

Chootem

iTrader: (1)

I never thought about putting a mini in the deck, sweet idea!

If I do decide to change out my head unit I will sure be doing this

jcavers

That is so sick!!!!!!!!!!!

Crazy_canuck

Looks awesome.. Nice work!

Is the mini just sitting there or is it being held in place with something?

Did you relocate the buttons that you removed for the JVC?

fx4phil

the only thing down there was the cigarette lighter. the ipad slide in beween the stock radios mounting holes and the front cover. the griffin case i have is like 3/4" thick and fits in there perfectly. i just fold out the top and slide the ipad. very easy and fast. blutooth doesnt always automatically sync with the deck so i usually have to turn it off and on in the ipad settings. takes 10 seconds at most. very happy with the way it turned out and cost less than an actual double din with nav. plus i can have any video playing and adjust navigation without being stopped with ebrake on.

zapufast

Umm K

Benhicks24

That looks pretty good, nice job.

phan10m

Wow .... amazing.