audio connection - BMW Forum

erich17 · 10-14-2003, 02:40 PM

need advice....

I have a 02 bmw 3 series with factory installed DSP option (subwoofers). I recently bought an mp3 ipod and want to connect the audio out to my car sounds systems. The car is pre-wired for a cd changer.. I found the 3pin, and 6pin connectors in the trunk. but don't know what to do next.

Can't I just connect to the audio system simply/cheaply?
what do I need?

Thanks
Eric

MattH6935 · 10-14-2003, 02:49 PM

I had to get a soundgate converter to hook up my Alpine 6 disk cd changer...I believe the stock connections are for BMW stuff only. So you will have to look for a converter

lwebb12 · 10-14-2003, 05:19 PM

go here
http://www.bmwtips.com/tipsntricks/

show had to add ipod to 5-series but may be the same for 3-series

erich17 · 10-14-2003, 08:55 PM

thanks... I don't have a tape deck on my car, but might be worth it to check if there is an input in the back of the stereo...
they mentioned also the Blitzsafe converter, but since I have DSP, I can't use that....

AZ325Ci · 10-15-2003, 12:44 AM

welcome aboard erich17!!

B)

i'm going to move this to the audio section. you may get more responses there. :wink

rlarose · 10-15-2003, 05:22 AM

I am sure you want to be able to access your iPod, so get the iTrip. It is an FM Tuner that plugs into the iPod and works like a charm.

erich17 · 10-15-2003, 11:25 AM

I ordered the new Itrip, I should receive it in about 2-3 weeks.. but I have heard that it doesn't work too well when you are in a city (like SF).
Also, wouldn't the signal be cleaner using a direct line?
I would like to take advantage of the subwoofers..

Eric

thebry · 10-15-2003, 11:52 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by erich17@Oct 15 2003, 12:05 PM
I ordered the new Itrip, I should receive it in about 2-3 weeks.. but I have heard that it doesn't work too well when you are in a city (like SF).
Also, wouldn't the signal be cleaner using a direct line?
I would like to take advantage of the subwoofers..

Eric

I've got an iTrip, and live in San Francisco too. You're right... the reception sucks in a large city where most radio frequencies are already occupied. I've stopped using it all together and have gone back to using my good old reliable cassette adapter to listen to the vast library of music on my iPod.

I currently drive a Volkswagen Passat GLX (2000) but next month I'm ordering a brand new 330ci convertible (which is why I just joined this site) and have noticed that the cassette player isn't an option any longer. There has GOT to be a better way than the iTrip. Anyone have other suggestions? I hate to think that I'm going to shell out this much money for a car only to take a step BACKWARD with regard to compatibility with my iPod.

erich17 · 10-16-2003, 12:27 AM

I called the company blitzsafe today and asked them about their converter. Turns out that they have converters for any BMW (with or without DSP). Also the DSP option is only for the five series, not my car (330ci) I just have the premium sound system. with subwoofer. I ordered the BMW/ALP DMX V.1D from www.blitzsafe.com
it has both a cd changer and auxiliary output...
It should arrive friday-- will let you know how it goes...

Note, the new 3 series comes with a auxiliary jack on the dashboard, so that you can connect the Ipod directly to it.... it was about time they introduce that...

Eric

erich17 · 10-19-2003, 10:19 PM

I Installed the blitzsafe converter on friday and it is awesomel.... a little pricey, but considering the convenience of it, it is worth it.. I recommend it to anyone... Now I just need to build a nice little holder mechanism to hold the ipod in tand out of the dash board compartment above the ash tray. I don't like want to have it in the cup holder place...

kbillan · 11-22-2003, 10:41 AM

There has to be an easier way to adapt my new Ipod to my 2000 323ci. (E46)

I have not pulled the dash apart, but does anyone know if there are RCA Inputs in the back of the OEM Cd player?

I really dont want to go with an after market head unit.

Is it possible to retro fit the new auxillery jack that comes on the 04's??

The belkin FM tuner sucks. It was super impressive at first.. but after 2 min of driving it lost its appeal.

Keith

kbillan · 11-25-2003, 01:17 AM

I may have found the solution. There is an item called an RF Modulator. It plugs directly into your antenna recepticle, then your antenna plugs into it. It has RCA inputs on it and is used to install CD changers into cars without the extra inputs.

This is very similar to the FM Ipod broadcastor but t uses direct wiring, instead of FM signals. I am going to pick it up today from my local car audio shop. I will let ou all know how it works out.

OH... BTW... 49.99 NOT 145.00

Keith

showdown · 12-22-2003, 11:47 AM

there is a simple solution, BMW sells an aux jack. Just buy it from them and have them install it.

ajohnson84 · 01-26-2004, 05:35 PM

Thanks for all the great posts. I have found this forum very helpful. I just ordered a 2004 X-5 with DSP. Any idea whether the 04' comes with an aux. input? The car is being made the first week of February and I really want to do whatever I can up front to make sure it's compatiable with an iPod. Thanks.

2004BMW325Ci · 01-26-2004, 05:56 PM

You can get this at your dealership, I found some information on BMWUSA.com
In the owners circle....

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