New Prius (2009) sound system - like JBL / upgradeable by audio shop?

I just performed the "build your own Prius" at

The 7-speaker JBL system in my 2000 Avalon XLS sounded better than the

It might help if the Prius 9-speaker had a subwoofer. The factory subwoofer in the Avalon was separately powered, it was turned off when the engine was off, even if the ignition was on. So in that way I was aware of its positive contribution to sound quality.

I have the upgraded JBL system in my 2006, and am quite satisfied with it--that is, after I disconnected the front center speaker. I am also happy with the power level--sometimes I have to reduce bass in order for it to be comfortable. The 3-band EQ with a mid-range control is better than than the usual bass/treble adjustments, giving me the ability to more precisely tailor the sound to my liking.

While I do have a finely tuned, detail-oriented ear and am able to critically judge audio fidelity, I am not one of these fussy audiophiles that are never satisfied with the equipment they have. If you are one of those, chances are you won't like the JBL system since it is not the most outrageously overpriced system you can buy. However, if you recognize the limitations and challenges associated with providing high fidelity in a small chamber that is surrounded by glass and has all sorts of crazy reflecting surfaces and odd acoustic properties, and you are able to make the appropriate trade-offs in your expectations, then I would say that the JBL system is quite satisfactory for the critical listener. When I compare my Prius audio with the audio in our Sienna, the Prius system is worlds better--no competition.

- Doug

Thanks, Doug. Your point about providing high fidelity in a small chamber is very true. I volunteer stage managing bands and square rooms like you mention above are quite a challange. I did find a 2008 Prius last night with the JBL sound and I agree it is quite satisfactory. The additional of a security system (will Priuses be stolen more if gas prices continue to escalate?) and home link (integrates 3 remotes) and bluetooth (yeah I can use my cell like a speakerphone) makes the extra $1,500 worth it to me.

The only ways anyone has successfully stolen a Prius have been either to steal (or otherwise get hold of) a fob for that car or to put it on a flat-bed truck and haul it away.

There's another way to steal one; if the driver leaves the car running and takes the fob with him, someone could drive off with it, but once they shut the car down, they won't be able to start it up again, so I don't consider that to be a successful theft.

I've found the relative lack of soundproofing to be a bigger problem than the audio system. Play something at a moderate level (volume below