How do I make my 2006 SR5 Bluetooth while looking as stock as possible?

Hi everyone, I'm a new user here, and new 4Runner owner. I'm looking for some audio device recommendations for my non-navigation stock stereo. I am trying to avoid the hassle of trying to replace the whole stereo for clean BT connectivity. I've tried the FM transmitter route and don't like the static and having to change stations when driving to other places. I have the 3.5mm AUX jack in the center console, so I'd like to make use of that somehow with an ACC-only powered BT module.

Here's one of the solutions I'm looking at, please send me better recommendations if you know of some.

TUNAI Firefly LDAC Bluetooth Receiver

$36 TUNAI Firefly LDAC Bluetooth Receiver: High Resolution Wireless Audio Bluetooth 5.0 Adapter with Audiophile USB DAC 3.5mm AUX for Car/Home Stereo Hi Res Music Streaming; Auto On, No Charging Needed

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HDO66NK

I'm trying to refrain from taking the dash apart to take the stereo out, since if I'm doing all that I may as well install a new stereo lol.

Thanks in advance!
utilitarian_llama

 

I purchased a Sirius Satellite Radio for my 06 Tacoma and also have the Sirius app on my iPhone. I use the iPhone app when we RV in our 2016 Minnie Winnie 22R for music.

Just bought a 2024 4Runner that already has the Sirius option (first 3 months free) I might just skip fooling around with setting up my Sirius account on the 4Runner and hook up my iPhone for music..
(I'm 71 and easily get bored with new technology) Anyway, that's the plan for now. Still a lot to learn about the 4Runner it appears.
(My wife has a Tesla Model 3 and most everything is already in place with a fairly easy learning curve, no buttons to push or dials to spin)

 

I used this one for a year in my 2010 with good results:

SONRU Aux Bluetooth Adapter

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09ZQPJSN2/

However, it's no longer available. Similar ones like this should be fine:

$17 COMSOON Bluetooth Receiver for Car, Noise Cancelling 3.5mm AUX Bluetooth Car Adapter, Wireless Audio Receiver for Home Stereo/Wired Headphones, Hands-Free Call, 16H Battery Life - Black+Silver

https://www.amazon.com/Upgraded-Bluetooth-Cancelling-Headphones-Hands-Free/dp/B08KY684PB/

Mount it up high so you can use its microphone for hands-free calls. I used 3M Dual Lock patches. You can buy 90-deg 3.5mm aux cables for cleaner appearance:



But really, on a 2006 with a roughly double-DIN head unit? It is non-invasive to install any aftermarket head unit with bluetooth and Carplay/Android Auto.

 

Accessing and removing/replacing the head unit is actually fairly easy to do. If you don't have the JBL sound system, with the correct harnesses should be plug n play. Its worth just browsing Crutchfield to get some ideas on pricing.

 

I have the premium stereo system in my 2004 but I believe this product will work for both. I got the USA Spec BT45-TOY from Crutchfield back in 2/2020 and it still works fine. I had to remove a lot of stuff to get to the radio to make the connection on the back but it's not as bad as it sounds. I have Bluetooth and phone capability along with AUX and a USB connection on the unit in the glove box for charging. I have the Sirius head unit and was using FM to play but the sound wasn't very good and I got a lot of bleed from other FM stations. Now that it's connected directly to the radio it's much better. I have been very pleased with its performance and thrilled that I can play my music through my radio with Bluetooth.
https://www.crutchfield.com/p_581BT45TOY/USA-Spec-BT45-TOY.html
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfECle3VqOI (How to access the stereo unit)