dockrocker

I know we've got some car audio gurus out there (Audiofn, I'm looking at you...) so I'm invoking the power of the board.

Got the Mrs an iPod for Christmas and she loved it. Now I'm looking for the best way to use it in her car, so that she can iPod on the road.

I've seen the little broadcast doohickeys that send a low power signal over an unused FM freq, but I've heard mixed reviews on how they perform. I'm really looking for something more like a docking station that connects to the current sound system in the truck.

Vehicle is a 2004 Dodge Durango with their upgraded Infinity sound system. Any advice?

McGary911

2 friends have tried the 2 different FM sytems, and both thought they sucked. Maybe there's better ones out there, but I think hardwired is the way to go. I know people happy with the cassette on a string type thing, but it isnt the cleanest installation. As far as I know, the only cars that can seamlessly integrate an ipod are newer BMW's....they even let you use the dash display and the steering controls...

Here's a link to the BMW system. Pretty trick.

http://www.apple.com/ipod/bmw/

puder

if you have a preamp (AUX) input on the back or your radio that would be your best bet to hook it up. The FM thigns do kinda of suck. They do work though.

kmiller

I run a shop in michigan, and there are a few options. Most mopor radios have an un-used cd changer input that can be used for an aux input. Check this link.... I will do some reserch also. Kyle @ WWW.ss586.com


http://www.pie.net/appl_aux.pdf

kmiller

Here is one more company. PAC interfaces. This will control functions of the I-POD and charge it also. Look at the bottom of the web page. There is a applaction chart also. Let me know if you have any other ??? http://www.pac-audio.com/

Outdrive1

If you run an Alpine deck you can now add an I pod to the system through their ai-net system. They sell an adapter unit much like an xm or sirrius tuner that will connect the I pod directly to the unit. They are the only ones offering this kind of set up. They also offer xm or sirrius, the first to offer both services. I used to own a stereo shop and Alpine decks are in a league of their own. If you dont want to change you stock stereo then you will have to use some sort of cheesy adapter to make it work.
You alos dont have to spend a fortune on the deck, I'm pretty sure any of the units theat are Ai-net compatible will work. This is the part number Alpine KCA-420i
iPod control interface. Do a search and find it on the internet and save your self a couple of bucks unless you need a shop to install it, it should retail for about 100.00 bucks.
Heres some more info on the adapter,

Digital music devotees rejoice! Forget about fumbling around with your iPod controls to change songs or albums while driving. Now, you can connect your iPod to a compatible 2004 Alpine in-dash receiver with Ai-Net connections (see below), and control all the functions right from the receiver! (Note: the adapter is compatible with all iPod and iPod mini models equipped with a dock connector and iPod software update 2004-04-28, or higher. )

Key Features:

» includes adapter module and two 78" connecting cables
» access iPod with Alpine receiver's controls (compatible with 2004 Alpine Ai-Net receivers)
» charges iPod battery while driving
» artist/song info displays on Alpine receiver display
» module dimensions: 5-9/16"W x 1-7/16"H x 3-15/16"D (6-5/16" with cables)
» warranty: 1 year

Outdrive1

I tried that link that kmiller left, if that system works for you it looks like a pretty good set-up. I didn't know that any one was making something like that. I does look like a nice set up though for the factory system. Give them a call and be specific about your make and model and whether or not the have an authorized dealer that can sell it to you and or install it, warranty it, etc..

Audiofn

I love it what people talk about sound quality when we are talking about MP3's

The above stuff all works well. However add the fact that we are talking about MP3 and then on top of that road noise, and frankly it just don't matter any more......

The PAC unit seems to be trick in that it allows you to do control as well.

Jon

Outdrive1

Do you think he'll here the difference in his Focal Grande Utopia loudspeakers? Maybe his air driven turntable skips too much in traffic..........