Installed - iPod Interface and Uprated Speakers

[pj_sibley]

I have a CDR23 single DIN head unit, connected via the MOST fibre optic link to a Nokia amp under the bonnet and onto a 6 speaker non-Bose setup. I don't have a CD changer.

Two options I've considered, based on research via the forum, but discounted mainly due to cost are:

1) Replace head unit, MOST link and amp with aftermarket items
2) Install a Dension or MoBridge iPod link to the existing MOST setup

Having done a recent suspension upgrade, I went on the search for something a little more 'cost effective' than the above options but also a step up from a basic FM 'transmitter' type device.

So, today I installed the Connects2 iConnect device, which sits in line with the FM aerial connection on the back of the CDR23 head unit. Your iPod is hard-wired into the device and the signal transmitted on one of three selectable frequencies, effectively overwriting any other signal picked up on those frequencies. The device tucks away nicely behind the A/C unit and the iPod lead is plenty long enough too. I used the switched live from Pin D9 on the A/C to provide power to the device.

To my surprise, it actually works extremely well, with crystal clear audio and no sign of any distortion/disruption from other radio signals. This is particularly surprising given that the selectable transmitter frequencies are right in the middle of Radio 2!!

I also needed a Fakra FM aerial adaptor, as the CDR23 has a non-ISO aerial fitment.

So, for less than £40, a half decent iPod connection for a MOST stereo setup! I also popped in front and rear Alpine SPG 10C2 speakers using the technique described in this YouTube guide. They sound much better than OE and were very easy to install.

All in all, a very satisfying little project and a definite improvement to the stereo system :thumbs:

 

[maor]

Hi,

I have the CD changer, would this effect me as I am a tiny bit confused on the installation side of things.

I too am in the same boat and stuck with my lame 6 cds that has now gotten too repetitive !

Any chance of some piccies?

Thanks for taking the time to make a thread :worship:

 

[pj_sibley]

The point about the CD changer was that not having one means I'd have to get the OPC (or an Indy) to re-programme the head unit/ECU to let it know something like a Dension was connected in place of a CD changer.

The Connects2 device I've fitted is independent of the CD changer/function. It simply sits in line on your FM aerial input and you set your radio to pick up the frequency that it's transmitting your iPod audio signal on.

I'll take a pic of the installation instructions tomorrow and post it here. It's a very simple install :thumb:

 

[pj_sibley]

Here's the installation guide for the iConnect, hope it makes things clearer?!

 

[Well bad]

Great option

I've just fitted the tuner and it works perfectly. The iPod cable was long enough to feed it under the gear lever and hand brake tunnel and into the centre glove box, and still with enough slack to fit the iPod in the ash tray when in use.

I also fitted four Alpine speakers, two in the front and two by the rear seats and the sound quality is improved.

I'm off for a 500+ mile drive this weekend so hopefully I'll have a good chance to to how it hears with motorway speeds to compare with.

 

[maor]

Just bought one and fitting it.

Can you translate in stupid person terms what D9 pin is and A/C?

At a guess I am assuming there is a pin called D9 and you splice into the wire coming out of it but don't want to risk anything yet !

 

[pj_sibley]

YHPM :thumb:

Pin D9 is the blue/black wire coming out of the 'D' connector on the back of the A/C (air conditioning or climate control) unit, which probably sits right above your radio. Very quick and easy to remove.

 

[Well bad]

Mines stopped charging. I phone car audio direct and they are replacing the module. It plays music fine just doesn't charge as I drive along.

Does anyone out there know is I can buy a connector which I can use to plug into the plug I have which plugs into my amp in the boot. Basically if I fit a new head unit I want to connect this to the cars speaker harness directly.

I am pretty resounded to the fact that I'll just have to rewire the whole thing from scratch but just thought I'd put it out there.

Cheers

 

[maor]

I blame sibley for this

Taking apart is so easy. Ironically plugging it up is complicated

Where on earth does it plug in? This is what I have below!

 

[maor]

Fail.

Just read the FAKRA FM KIT bit.

 

[ScoobyDoo555]

That;s the downside with it - it's FAKRA-based: ie FM transmission.

You'd be better off with a cassette-based connection - certainly better quality.

There IS a connects2 option:
http://www.connects2.co.uk/UniversalProductInformation.aspx?id=iConnect.2

But tbh, I don't know if it works well with the PCM/Becker system.

Failing that, it's Dension:-
http://www.dension.com/sites/default/files/car-compatibility/porsche-17-12-12.pdf

There is also a motorola thing that works quite well. TK30.
http://www.6speedonline.com/forums/...tion-streaming-bluetooth-hands-free-tk30.html

Dan

 

[maor]

What about a TK30?

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Motorola-...9?pt=UK_In_Car_Technology&hash=item416bbb6199

Not sure if it will work my system though.

 

[Niall996]

Has nobody invented a car stereo yet with a built in hard drive (the size of a nano pod or whatever it's called) where you just connect your phone/ipod/USB and transfer your music so it's there always instead of having to connect things to it?

 

[wasz]

Has nobody invented a car stereo yet with a built in hard drive (the size of a nano pod or whatever it's called) where you just connect your phone/ipod/USB and transfer your music so it's there always instead of having to connect things to it?

Loads of stereos have USB - so you can connect an iPhone or android and play the music off it. You could use a USB->Sd card adapter load with music and leave it in the car.

These are looking like the future:

http://www.parrot.com/usa/products/asteroid-range/parrot-asteroid-smart

 

[timpani]

Niall996 wrote:
Has nobody invented a car stereo yet with a built in hard drive (the size of a nano pod or whatever it's called) where you just connect your phone/ipod/USB and transfer your music so it's there always instead of having to connect things to it?

theres this
http://www.halfords.com/webapp/wcs/..._productId_808753_langId_-1_categoryId_165474

very cheap and neat solution but a bit flash facia