Car Audio: iPod? Satellite Radio? Bluetooth? Camera? Yes, there’s a solution…

Car Audio: iPod? Satellite Radio? Bluetooth? Camera? Yes, there's a solution...

So, you’ve got a car or truck and want to “live in the now”, huh? Seems like with more folks hanging on to their vehicles these days, there’s been a greater interest in such options as Satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless or even getting that iPod to play your music. I wrote a blog some time ago on some of the options that were available and will revisit some of that stuff alongside what’s new and readily available now.

The fact is, there will be some instances where the vehicle’s radio simply won’t support anything, and you’ve got no choice but to use an RF modulator (plays through FM) or replace the radio itself with an aftermarket model that will have the options you want.

There are interfaces available from many manufacturers including PAC, DICE and NEO which offer interfaces for iPod control, AUX interfacing, Sirius Satellite Radio and even Bluetooth Wireless. These interfaces usually include the modules and wiring needed to interface with particular radios and work fairly well, although there can be a learning curve when it comes to how to control the interface via the controls on your factory radio!

Two companies I want to touch on are NAV-TV and MoBridge. Mobridge is a European entity which offers some very nice interfaces for many of the popular import vehicles including BMW, Mercedes, Porsche, Land Rover and Volkswagon. Interfaces include iPod, AUX, Satellite Radio, Bluetooth and even a high performance Digital Pre Amp which replaces the factory amp and provides a high quality interface between the vehicle’s radio and installed aftermarket components.

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The DA1000 Digital Pre-amp Interface

All interfaces are designed to integrate seamlessly with the vehicle’s CAN/ DATA BUS system and utilize existing Fiber Optic links where needed.

NAV-TV is another great source of quality interfaces and prides itself on being a local company. Located in Boca Raton, these guys have churned out some real nice interfaces that allow the consumer to add iPod integration, AUX, Satellite Radio, Bluetooth Wireless, AV Interfaces and even Back-up Camera interfaces to most vehicles.

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NAV-TV's Mercedes iPod Interface provides complete control.

Installations on these modules can take anywhere from 2-4 hours, depending on the level of integration, vehicle make and system being interfaced. When purchasing these interfaces, I strongly recommend having them installed professionally, because you’re dealing DIRECTLY with the vehicle’s computer system here- and a wrong connection could mean disaster.