Replacing Business Cd Stereo

[comncense]

Newbie question... I just purchased a 99 328i this past week and I was wondering if I replaced the stock stereo, would it interfere with the automatic climate control system. It's hard to deal with a cd deck that doesn't play mp3's... plus i would like something that looks a little nicer.


Thanks

[PMB]

It does not affect the climate control. They are two separate units. Best of luck with your MP3s. Thing is why not just get one of those little FM transmitter things that Ipods etc just plug into? It will cost a whole lot less and you keep the changer controls and steering wheel controls too.

[AIO]

Originally posted by PMB@Dec 1 2004, 09:05 AM
It does not affect the climate control. They are two separate units. Best of luck with your MP3s. Thing is why not just get one of those little FM transmitter things that Ipods etc just plug into? It will cost a whole lot less and you keep the changer controls and steering wheel controls too.

[snapback]241204[/snapback]

They say FM transmission lowers sound quality and is open for lots of interference and noise.

[Mach 5]

There is an Ipod adapter for some of the newer e46's that uses the cd changer port instead of the FM modulator. It eleminates the interferance issue an preserves sound quality. May work on older models but was designed for late model cars.
Ben

[mmzcee]

there are quite a few systems that have Ipod connector hookups, one was called the iceLink, which practically does what the newer E46 BMWs do with Ipods, except that unit plugs into the CD Changer outlet of your stereo...pretty nice but it costs around $500.00 you can get a good Mp3 deck for around $200.00, and you don't even need a Ipod. I like how I can just burn the latest mp3s onto a CD and then chuck the cd out when I get some new music.

if you get an Ipod + Icelink you have to transport your ipod back to your computer in order to get new songs and whatever. Also you lose the ability to play Cds!! unless you have the business CD stereo w/ CD Changer compatiability...which you do. But the cost effective way is to get a new headunit.

There is a Ipod hookup kit for the older E46, OEM from the dealer, costs quite a bit though.