Auxillary input in a 325i with standard audio

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finiteloop

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#1
I want to connect an iPod to my stereo in a 2002 325i. I have the standard "Business CD" player (i.e., no 6-disk changer). What is the best way to install an auxillary input to this stereo on this model of BMW?

This is one of the only promising things I found on Google for the standard BMW stereo: SoundGate AUXBMWV2.

I thought people on this board may have some experience with this, so they could point me to better devices and/or relay some experiences with the SoundGate device.

I also want to install it myself, so any pointers would be helpful.

Thanks,
Bret
 
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TheBry

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Hmmm... I got the BMW AUX input and had the dealer install it. I negotiated that as part of my deal, so I didn't have to pay for it. I do know that there are two versions -- one that works with the NAV system (which I have) and another that works with the Business CD. I think both parts are $39.95. I'm not very happy with the performance though. The volume just isn't there for me. I crank my iPod up all the way, and still have to max out the stereo volume to hear anything when I'm "at speed" with the top down. The frustrating thing is that when I switch from "AUX" to CD or Radio, I nearly blow my speakers because I forget to turn the volume wayyyy down. I'm not sure what the issue is... maybe the AUX port bypasses the built in amplifier and feeds direct to the speakers.

Anyone else have this problem with the AUX port? Maybe have a solution?
 
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Maxer

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I got the dealer to throw in the Aux Input too. Unfortunately I don't have my car yet, so I can't confirm, but supposedly the aux audio input level can be adjusted via additional 'aux level' setting in the tone control menu of the radio.
 
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RuflessPhilly

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TheBry said:
Hmmm... I got the BMW AUX input and had the dealer install it. I negotiated that as part of my deal, so I didn't have to pay for it. I do know that there are two versions -- one that works with the NAV system (which I have) and another that works with the Business CD. I think both parts are $39.95. I'm not very happy with the performance though. The volume just isn't there for me. I crank my iPod up all the way, and still have to max out the stereo volume to hear anything when I'm "at speed" with the top down. The frustrating thing is that when I switch from "AUX" to CD or Radio, I nearly blow my speakers because I forget to turn the volume wayyyy down. I'm not sure what the issue is... maybe the AUX port bypasses the built in amplifier and feeds direct to the speakers.

Anyone else have this problem with the AUX port? Maybe have a solution?
Click to expand...
You need to connect you iPod to the aux input via the "tru" line out connector at the bottom of the 3rd gen iPods. You will know when you have it setup correctly when the iPod volume controll has no affect when connected to aux input. It sounds like you are using the headphone jack as a line out which is why you are getting terrible sound. I have mine hooked up and it sounds CD quality...
"I'm Rich Biotch" - Dave Chappelle
Click to expand...
 
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RuflessPhilly

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Maxer said:
I got the dealer to throw in the Aux Input too. Unfortunately I don't have my car yet, so I can't confirm, but supposedly the aux audio input level can be adjusted via additional 'aux level' setting in the tone control menu of the radio.
Click to expand...
There is no such thing....
"I'm Rich Biotch" -Dave Chappelle
Click to expand...
 
R

RuflessPhilly

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finiteloop said:
I want to connect an iPod to my stereo in a 2002 325i. I have the standard "Business CD" player (i.e., no 6-disk changer). What is the best way to install an auxillary input to this stereo on this model of BMW?

This is one of the only promising things I found on Google for the standard BMW stereo: SoundGate AUXBMWV2.

I thought people on this board may have some experience with this, so they could point me to better devices and/or relay some experiences with the SoundGate device.

I also want to install it myself, so any pointers would be helpful.

Thanks,
Bret
Click to expand...
You will have to buy on OEM changer with this option. You might as well go the www.phatnoise.com route.
"I'm Rich Biotch" - Dave Chappelle
Click to expand...
 
T

TheBry

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Hmmmm... where do I get a connector for my 3G iPod (one that goes from the bottom of the iPod to the Aux jack)? I don't think I've ever seen such a thing. And, yes, I have been using the headphone jack. Help :-(
 
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pietsch

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I have a 2004 325xi and my stereo has the AUX level control. Keep pressing the tone button while in AUX mode until you see it...after bass and treble I believe. Also, you might consider the Belkin power adapter. It gives you a level control on the part that plugs into the lighter.

I added the AUX kit myself. I wired the jack to the sunglasses holder below the climate control instead of the glove box. The I use a short 1/8 inch male to male cord from the aux input to the Belkin adapter where it plugs into the lighter. Then, the other end of the Belkin plugs into the dock port on the bottom of the iPod.
 
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TheBry

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#12
I think the fundamental differences here are that I have the Navigation system (with the CD player behind), which takes up more room than the standard Business CD player. I don't, therefore, have a sunglasses holder... just an ashtray below the climate controls (you can see this in my sig pic). I also have the Harmon Kardon stereo system. I've tried your suggestion for the AUX tone control and it doesn't work. Perhaps that feature isn't accessible with my configuration.

I think I'm just going to get the Belkin auto kit to which I referred (with a web link) in my previous post. Thanks for the help, I appreciate everyone chiming in. That's what I love about this site -- a sense of community. I love you guys! :)

Bryan
 
K

khengswee

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#13
I have an XM Roady satellite radio in my 323ci, and sometimes I'll bring along my Dell Axim Pocket PC in my car for some mp3 tunes.

I use the Belkin Tunecast FM transmitter with great results. No messy wiring or adapters.

I bought it from Walmart at $19.95. 2 AAA batteries will last quite a while. But I'll be changing to rechargeables later.
 
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pietsch

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Bryan,

Yep, that's the Belkin adaptor i have. I see your point about the Nav, but you could run the AUX wire down to the ash tray (if you aren't a smoker). I have the H/K head unit as well. It's weird that you don't have the AUX level. maybe that's the difference between Nav and no Nav?

Bill
 
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TheBry

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Bill,

Thanks again for the tips. I've gone ahead and ordered the adaptor. I'm going to have quite the assembly of connectors and wires in my glove box ;-)

- Power connector from rechargeable flashlight port (with female 12V end)
- Belkin power adapter w/ AUX level control
- Dual male mini plug (from Belkin adapter to AUX port)
- RF remote control (so I can control the iPod without opening the glove box)

Phew. Hopefully when the Belkin part arrives, my problems will be solved.
 
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