Soundgate's Ipod Interface For 2001 Rx300 Doesn't Fit

Donna Dobrowolsky · January 29, 2008

I purchased a Soundgate ipod interface for 2001 RX30, item # LEXPD2 from Logjam Electronics for $229.95 + tax. 2 websites I checked (including Soundgate's which stated that the LEXPD2 would fit the RX300 from 2001 on). I took it to a sound system installation place and was told that it doesn't fit the back of my radio! After rechecking the packaging, I find out that it only fits 2001-2003 RX300 WITH NAVIGATION SYSTEM! My fault for not triple checking! Logjam Electronics WILL NOT ACCEPT RETURNED MERCHANDISE IF ITS BEEN OPENED (the guys at the sound place cut the plastic packaging). Since the warning about returned merchandise was enclosed with shipped item and the compatibility information was visible on the outside of the packaging, I was told that I should have checked it before opening (why did I trust the research I had already done???). Now I am stuck with a very expensive, unusable piece of electronic equipment! :( :cries:

Does anyone know if I can cut the wires of the cd changer (obviously will no longer have a cd changer, but that's ok if I can have ipod in its place) and "splice" (i.e. solder) with the ipod connection pin? Or does anyone sell the correct pin that fits into the back of a non-navigation radio, which can then be spliced with the ipod connector?

This seems like a lot of effort, but I cannot find ANYTHING or ANY manufacturer that makes an interface for 2001 RX300. I can't imagine Lexus dealers even having the navigation radio system for 2001 model available, nor can I imagine the cost (I doubt junk yards would have such either).

I am open to any suggestions. I am even willing to be unable to read the playlists on the screen, I just need anything that will allow my ipod to play through the stereo system instead of via FM transmission. If I can't figure out a way to use this interface, I will be happy to sell it to any Lexus owner for the price I paid (I'll even throw in the shipping for free). The interface pretty much fits all other models of Lexus from 2001-2008 (I can verify a specific year/model for anyone who might be interested). This interface has gotten very positive reviews from Lexus owners who have been able to install it.

Thanks,

Donna

mccldwll · January 29, 2008

Call Crutchfield (go to the website for #). Customer service can not be beat. Crutchfield carries that interface, and does specify that only works w/ NAV, but I'll bet others have been in same situation you are in, and if anyone knows of a good workaround, they will. Until you fully resolve it, try a $15 tape player insert (assuming you have a tape player). Actually very good quality sound (and if you have an iPhone, call comes in/goes out over car speakers and music goes quiet while on call). Downside is visible wire and no recharge.

I purchased a Soundgate ipod interface for 2001 RX30, item # LEXPD2 from Logjam Electronics for $229.95 + tax. 2 websites I checked (including Soundgate's which stated that the LEXPD2 would fit the RX300 from 2001 on). I took it to a sound system installation place and was told that it doesn't fit the back of my radio! After rechecking the packaging, I find out that it only fits 2001-2003 RX300 WITH NAVIGATION SYSTEM! My fault for not triple checking! Logjam Electronics WILL NOT ACCEPT RETURNED MERCHANDISE IF ITS BEEN OPENED (the guys at the sound place cut the plastic packaging). Since the warning about returned merchandise was enclosed with shipped item and the compatibility information was visible on the outside of the packaging, I was told that I should have checked it before opening (why did I trust the research I had already done???). Now I am stuck with a very expensive, unusable piece of electronic equipment! :( :cries:
Does anyone know if I can cut the wires of the cd changer (obviously will no longer have a cd changer, but that's ok if I can have ipod in its place) and "splice" (i.e. solder) with the ipod connection pin? Or does anyone sell the correct pin that fits into the back of a non-navigation radio, which can then be spliced with the ipod connector?

This seems like a lot of effort, but I cannot find ANYTHING or ANY manufacturer that makes an interface for 2001 RX300. I can't imagine Lexus dealers even having the navigation radio system for 2001 model available, nor can I imagine the cost (I doubt junk yards would have such either).

I am open to any suggestions. I am even willing to be unable to read the playlists on the screen, I just need anything that will allow my ipod to play through the stereo system instead of via FM transmission. If I can't figure out a way to use this interface, I will be happy to sell it to any Lexus owner for the price I paid (I'll even throw in the shipping for free). The interface pretty much fits all other models of Lexus from 2001-2008 (I can verify a specific year/model for anyone who might be interested). This interface has gotten very positive reviews from Lexus owners who have been able to install it.

Thanks,

Donna

RX300inSC · January 31, 2008

Call Crutchfield (go to the website for #). Customer service can not be beat. Crutchfield carries that interface, and does specify that only works w/ NAV, but I'll bet others have been in same situation you are in, and if anyone knows of a good workaround, they will. Until you fully resolve it, try a $15 tape player insert (assuming you have a tape player). Actually very good quality sound (and if you have an iPhone, call comes in/goes out over car speakers and music goes quiet while on call). Downside is visible wire and no recharge.

That is probably you best soluntion and most cost efficent. You can pickup the tape player insert at you local Radio Shack Part No 12-131 for $19.99. I have also see a mount on EBay that can be placed under the wood grain our your dash but the shifter to hold you IPod and it does not look bad. Too bad about the bad luck on your purchase. Try selling it on EBay, Ioffer, or Amazon and see what happens.

markmac · February 18, 2008

Any luck on selling your upgrade kit? I am considering purchasing one, so if you still have it, maybe we could strike a deal. Email me at gogators80@cox.net

markmac · February 18, 2008

Any luck on selling your upgrade kit? I am considering purchasing one, so if you still have it, maybe we could strike a deal. Email me at gogators80@cox.net

markmac · February 18, 2008

Any luck on selling your upgrade kit? I am considering purchasing one, so if you still have it, maybe we could strike a deal. Email me at gogators80@cox.net

Donna Dobrowolsky · May 7, 2008

Any luck on selling your upgrade kit? I am considering purchasing one, so if you still have it, maybe we could strike a deal. Email me at gogators80@cox.net

I just had a friend post it on craig's list, and I believe ebay. Here's the craig's list address:

http://chicago.craigslist.org/nwc/ele/668938347.html

As for the other replies: I appreciate the feedback. Tape deck quality not ideal.

However, Crutchfield does carry an auxiliary input that can be installed. I hope to purchase it as soon as I can sell the Soundgate product.