MP3 Player hookup

[DDeming]

Looking at the 530 with or without premium sound but can't find an input jack for an MP3 player. BMW says there is not one installed. Anyone know anything about the Logic7 or standard radios to know if there is a line in port available on the unit? I could always install my own plug if so. My MP3 player has 3000 songs on it with lots of different playlists to match moods. It makes burning CDs obsolete. Can't live without it.

 

[kscarrol]

MP3 player

on the Owners Circle web site, under the accessories section, they list an adapter that accepts a stereo jack. Don't know much detail, but they show it with an IPod plugged into it.

 

[DDeming]

Can't get to web site

Is this the owners only site on BMWUSA? I don't yet own one. Any detail you can give me on the accessory?

 

[flashinthepan]

A cool unit for MP3's, works with Factory BMW stereo's.

www.phatnoise.com

I just got one...very nice sys.

 

[heyloo]

"Auxiliary Audio Input
Now you can connect virtually any audio device- MP3 Player, portable CD or cassette player, and more - to your in-dash cd radio. The audio connection is mounted securely in the glovebox of your vehicle and has a 3.5mm stereo connector. Audio from the auxiliary input is selected using the "mode" button on your radio.

Available on the X5, 3 Series (MY 2003 and after) and 5 Series (MY 2003)"
[From the BMWUSA Owner's Circle, Accessories option]

 

[flashinthepan]

Track & Search buttons do not work with the factory stereo buttons. Phatbox they all are functional buttons..including the steering wheel buttons.

Aux Input is a great way to save money If you do not need the search and other controls.

 

[Xyrium]

Damn, that Phatbox is sweet (though expensive) and even plays FLAC files. BMW just needs to wake up and offer a CD unit that plays MP3s. Why isn't everyone simply buying a new head unit that plays MP3s? Are HU upgrades impossible on the BMWs for some reason?

 

[recognize]

flashinthepan, how do you like the sound quality of the phatnoise, is there a big difference vs. CD? just wondering, because i posted a message about the phatnoise before and found the quality wasn't that good because of the adapter used to hook it up. it's not that bad is it? i ended up not getting one.

 

[carcus]

Damn, that Phatbox is sweet (though expensive) and even plays FLAC files. BMW just needs to wake up and offer a CD unit that plays MP3s. Why isn't everyone simply buying a new head unit that plays MP3s? Are HU upgrades impossible on the BMWs for some reason?

I have a Kenwood Z828 MP3 head unit in my BMW, sure beats the stock BMW head unit. I never knew why some people love to hang onto the stock head units, unless you plan on trading the vehicle in. Nothing like having around 100 songs on a CD.

 

[izzyracer]

Here is my BMW 330i with ipod. I had the Auxilliary Input installed for $149.00 and my ipod works nice with lt. It sounds terrific too specially since the ipod has a built in pre programed EQ. I can also still use all the treble, bass settings within the stock radio. I just keep it in the electronic setting and sounds awesome. It actually looks better now after getting the Belkin Car Adapter since the input cord hooks directly to the adapter. The wires are cleaner. You just can't beat playing all you collecion in this little gadget in a Bemmer. It goes well with my Alpine White Exterior too. One thing I regret was getting the six CD changer in the car. Right now it is not in use because of the iPod. I guess it's fine just for back-up. Plus if I decide to sell, the six CD changer will help the value a bit.

 

[flashinthepan]

flashinthepan, how do you like the sound quality of the phatnoise, is there a big difference vs. CD? just wondering, because i posted a message about the phatnoise before and found the quality wasn't that good because of the adapter used to hook it up. it's not that bad is it? i ended up not getting one.

----------------------------------

I love it !

Honestly speaking....I play MP3 files on my home stereo, then compare them to music cd's..I cant tell, nor can my wife, my friends etc...

The Phatbox will be in my M3 soon, but it worked excellent in my 330Cic.

I am at a loss trying to hear the difference ???? I get great bass/Treble/Mid etc...
No skipping either.

 

[Xyrium]

I have a Kenwood Z828 MP3 head unit in my BMW, sure beats the stock BMW head unit. I never knew why some people love to hang onto the stock head units, unless you plan on trading the vehicle in. Nothing like having around 100 songs on a CD.

Pics? Most of the aftermarket stuff I've seen is not centered for some reason (lack of space behind the dash?)

Thanks!

 

[flashinthepan]

I have a Kenwood Z828 MP3 head unit in my BMW, sure beats the stock BMW head unit. I never knew why some people love to hang onto the stock head units, unless you plan on trading the vehicle in. Nothing like having around 100 songs on a CD.

Another way to go...agree

Some of the 6-cd changers play music & MP3 files.

 

[Xyrium]

Yes, I'm actually considering the CD Changer option right now. The Alpine CHA634s looks pretty good. I will probably just mount it to the rear deck and save the 12 hour hassle of taking the trunk apart. Does the HK system require that $200.00 Soundgate adapter for any of these options though?

 

[Epi330]

Yes, I'm actually considering the CD Changer option right now. The Alpine CHA634s looks pretty good. [...] Does the HK system require that $200.00 Soundgate adapter for any of these options though?

I'm considering this option as well, and from what I read adapter is required HK or not (I do have HK). BTW, it's only $100 at www.logjamelectronics.com (and you can get Blitzsafe adapter even cheaper... not sure about its quality tho). Will be glad if somebody confirms this.