Ipod Interface

[1jusbill1]

Has anyone tried one of these Ipod interfaces/adapters?

http://www.discountcarstereo.com/detail.aspx?ID=844

Looks like a quality product, plus it lets you add another audio source through the system. It doesn't have song title and artist scrolling however.

Any thoughts?

Interested,
Bill Edwards
Universal City, TX

[sanjaun2]

I tried it about 4 months ago and it would not play with the Lt stereo. They may have changed something since...... if not no workie. Call the crabbie sob at their tech support to find out for sure.

[avonfloater]

They installed an Ipod cradle and harness at one of the tech sessions at CCR last August - right side case. It was a slick install that removed the CD changer and took over the harness so the Ipod could be controlled from the LT handlbar/radio controls. The install was in the personl bike of the guy who was raw hiding the tech session - also worked the registration operation. Sorry, can't remember his name, but I think he was from NJ. Hope that isn't too confusing.

[meese]

We installed it on Jay Slomka's bike. I organized the tech sessions, and Joe did that install. Since then we've found some instability with using this unit on the LT.

It's a great idea, but just has too many problems for most folks. If I was doing it to my bike, I'd use the radio's rear Aux port and get an RF remote made for the iPod. They even have several now that include a screen so you can tuck the iPod safely away but still see what's playing.

See the iPod/MP3 forum (http://www.bmwlt.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=52) for more info.

[rspyder]

Guys,
The link was not to a Dension Ice->link, but to a product called "USASpec PA11-BMW 1996-05 BMW Aux. Input +"

The product appears to have some interesting specs for $113

Description:
The PA10-BMW just got better. Introducing the PA11-BMW Smart iPod™ interfaces.
The PA11-BMW provides full function of the iPod™ utilizing the CD Changer functions of the factory radio and/or steering wheel controls. This interface can be used in two modes: Direct Mode and Playlist Mode. Direct mode lets you control the iPod directly just as you would in portable mode. PLAYLIST MODE lets you control the iPod from the BMW Radio. The PA11-BMW also has a single auxiliary input connection for a DVD, Walkman, Satellite Radio etc. No need to fumble with the iPod™ for any reason, you can stow your iPod in a non-visible location and enjoy hours of music. Going on a long journey? No problem, the PA11-BMW will also keep your iPod charged. Replace the Cassette Adapters, FM Transmitter, or Cigarette Lighter Charger with one product to provide CD quality sound from you iPod directly to the BMW radio using the external CD Changer Port. See installation manual (http://www.discountcarstereo.com/pdf/pa11-bmw.pdf) for details.
http://www.discountcarstereo.com/images/product_features.gif
» Charging the iPod's™ internal battery.
» Control of iPod™ playback by using the CD Changer buttons on the radio( Playlist mode ) or operate the iPod from the iPod buttons( Direct Mode )
» Direct audio connection for optimal sound quality
» Steering wheel controls functions (if so equipped)
» Direct access and control of up to 5 different playlist
» Playback functions include: Track up/down, Fast Track (increments of 10), Fast Forward/Rewind etc.
» Access unlimited song per each Playlist
» Auto skip 10+ songs in each play list with FF button
» Auto maintain current Playlist when migrating from portable to in car use
» Auto Charge feature charges iPod™ battery and auto stops after 1 hour of non use
» Adds additional single Auxiliary input for DVD, game, Satellite Radio etc. Note: The Aux. option works with or without the iPod.
» Compatible with iPod™ 3G, 4G, 5G, Mini, Nano & Video [not compatible with 1st & 2nd Generation (10GB/15GB)]
» Plug-n-play harnesses are included for easy installation [no additional parts or cables required ]
» Also includes a comprehensive installation and user manual (http://www.discountcarstereo.com/pdf/pa11-bmw.pdf)
Compatibility & Notes: (please read before purchasing this part)
1. Compatible with all 1996-05 BMW vehicles listed in our "order options" pull-down above that are prewired for a changer.
2. Not compatible with factory installed CD Changer, Satellite Radio, GPS or DSP (Digital Sound Processing) Systems.
3. The PA11-BMW emulates a CD Changer-- If your vehicle currently has a CD Changer installed, it must be unplugged.
4. Display of artist and song title information, track search by artist, song title, album or genre are NOT supported, you will see playlist and track (http://www.discountcarstereo.com/images/pie/vwpoddisplay.jpg) #‘s only.

[meese]

I believe the original unit linked to is exactly what Brain ordered, from Crutchfield IIRC. He could not get it to work on the LT, even with several of us helping out.

[rspyder]

Sorry..the thread sounded like an ice ->link

[meese]

No apologies needed, Roger. There was a tangent about an ice>Link there as well. It's too bad the PA11-BMW didn't work, as it looked like a viable alternative.