iPod Adapter

Taipei-TT · 08-18-2010, 12:07 AM

Hello all,

I pick up my car tomorrow and I'm super stoked. Have a question though.

What is the best iPod adapter out there for my car? I do not have iDrive and it is the base stereo.

In my TT, I went with a set up using an Alpine 415i box and a Kufatec switch that totally integrated my iPod into my RNS E head unit that had a screen. Could watch video, use all playlists, get album art etc. Very sweet set up and totally OEM from the interior point of view.(though two switch boxes and cables going on behind the Head Unit.)

Is there a set-up for the 3 series that will enable me to charge the ipod and control it through the head unit? I know my car has an Aux in line, but for safety and convenience, I'd really like to get it through the head unit.

WWONG · 08-18-2010, 12:25 AM

iDrive and the 6FL iPod option are different...

Taipei-TT · 08-18-2010, 02:31 AM

WWONG

Thank you . ..I'm looking for the options for a car withOUT iDrive. I realize I won't have the information on screen . . .but I'm looking for an option that will integrate the controls with the head unit so i can change songs, select playlists and charge the iPod through the head unit.

Whilst I'm intimately familiar with VAG having come from 5 years and 3 Audis, I have no idea what the iPod integration options are in the BMW universe. Can anyone point me in the right direction please?

Karlb · 08-18-2010, 06:04 AM

yes BMW makes an adaptor that can be install, DICE also makes one. I had a dice unit in My 2004 X3 and it worked well, cost was around 150.00.
I did always seem to get annoying little glitches though.
I would work fine but say every time you restart the veh it would change the Ipod shuffle setting, or change the ipods setting to constantly repeat the same song.
So every time you started the car you would have to reset the setting on the Ipod itself. Once it even made my vehs auto up on the windows not work (auto down still worked)

each time it displayed these glitches I would have to disconect the battery to the car for a few mintues and then reconnect and it would work properly for anywhere from a few hours to a few months and the start messing up again.

it was enough of a hassle that on my 2011 335d I went with the 400.00 BMW ipod adaptor and it works well and doesnt have the glitches. your ipod stays charged and can be controlled from both the head unit in the dash and the steering wheel bottons (the dice was controled the same way also)

Coolieman1220 · 08-18-2010, 10:05 AM

i wish my oil burner came w/ the iPod integration to the iDrive =( it seems very expensive and a lot of work to do on your own...

and what the hell is the point of the USB in the glove box for?

oilfighter · 08-18-2010, 10:59 AM

my integrated ipod connection has the worst sound quality I've ever heard. It's nice to be able to control the ipod through the car itself, but the bad sound quality makes the whole thing worthless. Am I the only person with this issue?

I've now resort to just load the mp3 onto a thumb drive, and listen it through the USB interface.

Ron1n · 08-18-2010, 11:02 AM

There's no sound difference for me between using a USB stick and using 6FL.

snipersix · 08-18-2010, 11:08 AM

i used to use this product before i had the ipod indegration http://www.monstercable.com/productdisplay.asp?pin=5208

sounds quality is pretty good.

david @ eas · 08-18-2010, 12:01 PM

You might want to look at this as well:

mObridge - iPod integration kit for e9x 3-series
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...oducts_id=1651

I hope that helps.

Wires · 08-18-2010, 12:26 PM

I bought the BMW overpriced cable that connects to the audio jack and USB port in the glovebox (thats the 6FL or whatever I believe). Works perfectly, and I can control the ipod via the head unit. Including randomization.

Audio sounds fine. I have read that if you have the gain from that aux jack cranked up in the head unit, then it sounds like junk. There is a setting for the volumn level for that audio jack in the stereo's menus. It should be set to low I believe.

WWONG · 08-18-2010, 12:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Ron1n

There's no sound difference for me between using a USB stick and using 6FL.

That's incorrect. I have the OEM Alpine Hi-Fi upgrade on my car and I can noticeably tell a screeching noise when the volume is up through the 6FL cable. The USB stick seems to have better clarity. There was another thread about this very topic too.

Taipei-TT · 08-18-2010, 09:58 PM

Thanks Jurrian.

I sent an inquiry through your company site about the unit. I think the limiting factor on the BMW unit is the fact you can only access 250 songs if I'm correct? My iPod has 5000 and I love variety . . .it's like satellite radio in my car!

(which I can't get in Taiwan)

jchastn · 08-19-2010, 12:16 AM

I got the BMW ipod interface for logic 7, non Idrive e90s. It works like a charm, has 6 different setups for getting at you ipod songs and podcasts. It cost a lot to buy and install, but it integrates very nicely with the stereo and because it is all digital, it really "sings".

Wires · 08-20-2010, 08:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Taipei-TT

Thanks Jurrian.

I sent an inquiry through your company site about the unit. I think the limiting factor on the BMW unit is the fact you can only access 250 songs if I'm correct? My iPod has 5000 and I love variety . . .it's like satellite radio in my car!

(which I can't get in Taiwan)

I just generate a couple of playlists. That way I can have all the variety I want, and don't have to dig through a bunch of songs I don't want to hear.

The difference in the 6FL cable is that the audio comes through the headphone jack, and the control comes via USB.

david @ eas · 08-20-2010, 11:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Taipei-TT

Thanks Jurrian.

I sent an inquiry through your company site about the unit. I think the limiting factor on the BMW unit is the fact you can only access 250 songs if I'm correct? My iPod has 5000 and I love variety . . .it's like satellite radio in my car!

(which I can't get in Taiwan)

Exactly right... And like the post mentioned above this one, sure you can make playlists of your favorite artists, but if you take that into consideration, you must also figure the other parts of mObridge that are much better.

- Supports iPod Mini, 4th Gen, 4th Gen photo, nano, 2nd Gen Nano, iPod Video, 3rd Gen Nano, iPod Classic, iPod Touch, iPhone etc... Which BMW cannot say.

- Firmware upgradable via memory card for future features... BMW cannot contest either.

- 500uA Sleep Current. A Lower sleep current draw than OEM Specs.

- Auxiliary input for an external audio source, which BMW doesn't have.

- iPod USB Charging

And the list continues...

kongquistador · 08-22-2010, 08:41 PM

I recently bought the BMW iPod interface 65110439429. After I install it and get my car coded for it to work, will it show up as an iPod on my drive or will it show up as a cd changer? Also does anybody know if there is anyway to use a USB drive with it?

Ron1n · 08-22-2010, 08:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WWONG

That's incorrect. I have the OEM Alpine Hi-Fi upgrade on my car and I can noticeably tell a screeching noise when the volume is up through the 6FL cable. The USB stick seems to have better clarity. There was another thread about this very topic too.

Turn down the AUX and make sure to disable the EQ settings and you won't have that problem. It's not incorrect, you just need to know how to actually use the cable in conjunction with your iPhone/iPod.

I have the option, I've done both, and I know what my ears can and can't hear.

mitsui · 08-23-2010, 09:10 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kongquistador

I recently bought the BMW iPod interface 65110439429. After I install it and get my car coded for it to work, will it show up as an iPod on my drive or will it show up as a cd changer? Also does anybody know if there is anyway to use a USB drive with it?

Hey kong~
U installed "65110439429"? How is it? What does it include in the package? How to install?? Pls advise

kongquistador · 08-23-2010, 02:16 PM

I didn't install it yet. I ordered it for $296 plus $10 shipping.

. I hope the instructions in the DIY section will work for this model also but it is a different part number. Does anybody know or have the instructions to install this iPod interface?

mitsui · 08-23-2010, 11:38 PM

I want to know too! My BMW is E90 2006 320i without navigation/USB interface, only have AUX in. How about your car config? Pls. have your report of installation.

fmhanc · 08-24-2010, 08:28 AM

I bought this and the sound quality issues disappeared.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...=STRK:MEWAX:IT

Using the earhhone jack makes the sound almost unbearable even after setting EQ settings to flat and all of that.

This adapator takes line level sound from the base of the Ipod connector and feeds it to your system.
Agreed there is no display and all but the sound is great.
Very cheap - under $10 versus same thing from BMW at $90

mitsui · 08-24-2010, 12:22 PM

Just a combined AUX + USB cable....no control provided?

08-18-2010, 12:07 AM	#1
Taipei-TT Captain 24 Rep 642 Posts Drives: 2014 X3 2.0D Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Canadian in Taipei iTrader: (0)	iPod Adapter Hello all, I pick up my car tomorrow and I'm super stoked. Have a question though. What is the best iPod adapter out there for my car? I do not have iDrive and it is the base stereo. In my TT, I went with a set up using an Alpine 415i box and a Kufatec switch that totally integrated my iPod into my RNS E head unit that had a screen. Could watch video, use all playlists, get album art etc. Very sweet set up and totally OEM from the interior point of view.(though two switch boxes and cables going on behind the Head Unit.) Is there a set-up for the 3 series that will enable me to charge the ipod and control it through the head unit? I know my car has an Aux in line, but for safety and convenience, I'd really like to get it through the head unit.
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08-18-2010, 12:25 AM	#2
WWONG Banned 109 Rep 1,830 Posts Drives: 2012 BMW X5 xDrive35d Join Date: May 2010 Location: Houston, TX iTrader: (14)	iDrive and the 6FL iPod option are different...
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08-18-2010, 02:31 AM	#3
Taipei-TT Captain 24 Rep 642 Posts Drives: 2014 X3 2.0D Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Canadian in Taipei iTrader: (0)	WWONG Thank you . ..I'm looking for the options for a car withOUT iDrive. I realize I won't have the information on screen . . .but I'm looking for an option that will integrate the controls with the head unit so i can change songs, select playlists and charge the iPod through the head unit. Whilst I'm intimately familiar with VAG having come from 5 years and 3 Audis, I have no idea what the iPod integration options are in the BMW universe. Can anyone point me in the right direction please?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-18-2010, 06:04 AM	#4
Karlb Private 0 Rep 96 Posts Drives: 2011 335d Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Crockett,TX iTrader: (0)	yes BMW makes an adaptor that can be install, DICE also makes one. I had a dice unit in My 2004 X3 and it worked well, cost was around 150.00. I did always seem to get annoying little glitches though. I would work fine but say every time you restart the veh it would change the Ipod shuffle setting, or change the ipods setting to constantly repeat the same song. So every time you started the car you would have to reset the setting on the Ipod itself. Once it even made my vehs auto up on the windows not work (auto down still worked) each time it displayed these glitches I would have to disconect the battery to the car for a few mintues and then reconnect and it would work properly for anywhere from a few hours to a few months and the start messing up again. it was enough of a hassle that on my 2011 335d I went with the 400.00 BMW ipod adaptor and it works well and doesnt have the glitches. your ipod stays charged and can be controlled from both the head unit in the dash and the steering wheel bottons (the dice was controled the same way also) __________________ 2011 BMW 335d 2008 BMW K1200GT 2007 Aprilia RSVR Factory 2008 Yamaha WR250R
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08-18-2010, 10:05 AM	#5
Coolieman1220 Banned 73 Rep 1,770 Posts Drives: 2010 335d Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: New York City iTrader: (0)	i wish my oil burner came w/ the iPod integration to the iDrive =( it seems very expensive and a lot of work to do on your own... and what the hell is the point of the USB in the glove box for?
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08-18-2010, 10:59 AM	#6
oilfighter Private First Class 2 Rep 135 Posts Drives: 335D Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: TX iTrader: (0)	my integrated ipod connection has the worst sound quality I've ever heard. It's nice to be able to control the ipod through the car itself, but the bad sound quality makes the whole thing worthless. Am I the only person with this issue? I've now resort to just load the mp3 onto a thumb drive, and listen it through the USB interface.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-18-2010, 11:02 AM	#7
Ron1n Speed Demon 205 Rep 3,690 Posts Drives: 2021 M5C Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Irvine iTrader: (6) Garage List 2021 M5 Competition [0.00] 2016 BMW 550i [0.00] 2011 335is [0.00] 2009 E93 M3 [10.00] 2010 335d [9.50]	There's no sound difference for me between using a USB stick and using 6FL. __________________ Current: '21 M5C, '15 X6 50i Previous: '18 M550i, '16 550i, '11 335is, '09 E93 M3 DCT, '10 E90 335d, '07 E90 328i
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08-18-2010, 11:08 AM	#8
snipersix Brigadier General 228 Rep 3,807 Posts Drives: Retired 2017 F87 M2 Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Burnaby iTrader: (3) Garage List 2017 BMW M2 [0.00]	i used to use this product before i had the ipod indegration http://www.monstercable.com/productdisplay.asp?pin=5208 sounds quality is pretty good. __________________ 2017 M2 Coupe:\|Black Sapphire Metallic\|DCT\|Nav/Idrive\|M Performance CF Spoiler\|M Performance CF DCT Interior\| M Performance Gloss Black Kidney Grills\| M Performance Steel Pedals \| Eventuri CF CAI \| 19" Brixton Rims \| KW V3 Clubsport \| Retired: \|2008 328i Sedan\|Montego Blue\|
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08-18-2010, 12:01 PM	#9
david @ eas 254 Rep 4,048 Posts Drives: BMW Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Anaheim iTrader: (5)	You might want to look at this as well: mObridge - iPod integration kit for e9x 3-series http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...oducts_id=1651 I hope that helps.
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08-18-2010, 12:26 PM	#10
Wires Brigadier General 1644 Rep 4,870 Posts Drives: 2016 340i xDrive Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Calgary iTrader: (0)	I bought the BMW overpriced cable that connects to the audio jack and USB port in the glovebox (thats the 6FL or whatever I believe). Works perfectly, and I can control the ipod via the head unit. Including randomization. Audio sounds fine. I have read that if you have the gain from that aux jack cranked up in the head unit, then it sounds like junk. There is a setting for the volumn level for that audio jack in the stereo's menus. It should be set to low I believe.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-18-2010, 09:58 PM	#12
Taipei-TT Captain 24 Rep 642 Posts Drives: 2014 X3 2.0D Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Canadian in Taipei iTrader: (0)	Thanks Jurrian. I sent an inquiry through your company site about the unit. I think the limiting factor on the BMW unit is the fact you can only access 250 songs if I'm correct? My iPod has 5000 and I love variety . . .it's like satellite radio in my car! (which I can't get in Taiwan)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-19-2010, 12:16 AM	#13
jchastn New Member 0 Rep 23 Posts Drives: 2004 645ci conv. Stratos grey Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Seattle, WA iTrader: (0)	I got the BMW ipod interface for logic 7, non Idrive e90s. It works like a charm, has 6 different setups for getting at you ipod songs and podcasts. It cost a lot to buy and install, but it integrates very nicely with the stereo and because it is all digital, it really "sings".
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-22-2010, 08:41 PM	#16
kongquistador New Member 0 Rep 17 Posts Drives: 2006 325i sedan Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Long Island NY iTrader: (0)	iPod interface I recently bought the BMW iPod interface 65110439429. After I install it and get my car coded for it to work, will it show up as an iPod on my drive or will it show up as a cd changer? Also does anybody know if there is anyway to use a USB drive with it?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-23-2010, 02:16 PM	#19
kongquistador New Member 0 Rep 17 Posts Drives: 2006 325i sedan Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: Long Island NY iTrader: (0)	I didn't install it yet. I ordered it for $296 plus $10 shipping. . I hope the instructions in the DIY section will work for this model also but it is a different part number. Does anybody know or have the instructions to install this iPod interface?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-23-2010, 11:38 PM	#20
mitsui Enlisted Member 5 Rep 33 Posts Drives: E90 320i Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Hong Kong iTrader: (0)	I want to know too! My BMW is E90 2006 320i without navigation/USB interface, only have AUX in. How about your car config? Pls. have your report of installation.
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08-24-2010, 08:28 AM	#21
fmhanc New Member 0 Rep 10 Posts Drives: 2007 BMW 328i Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Mississauga,Ont,Canada iTrader: (0)	I bought this and the sound quality issues disappeared. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll...=STRK:MEWAX:IT Using the earhhone jack makes the sound almost unbearable even after setting EQ settings to flat and all of that. This adapator takes line level sound from the base of the Ipod connector and feeds it to your system. Agreed there is no display and all but the sound is great. Very cheap - under $10 versus same thing from BMW at $90
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-24-2010, 12:22 PM	#22
mitsui Enlisted Member 5 Rep 33 Posts Drives: E90 320i Join Date: Jul 2010 Location: Hong Kong iTrader: (0)	Just a combined AUX + USB cable....no control provided?
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