Here's the beef:

Everyone seems to want an Aux-input jack in their RX-8 (and/or Mazda6).

The head units for both vehicles feature interchangeable modules, and are common across several Mazda platforms, first the Mazda6, now the RX-8, and very soon the Mazda3.

There remains no simple way to get the auxillary audio input into the car, cleanly and effectively without soldering into the head unit and mucking around with it.

Therefore, I'm proposing that I develop a plug-in module for the RX-8 (and compatable modules mentioned above) that has several audio line-in connectors, either concealed in the expansion module bay, and/or routable to the face-plate or other hidden location within the RX-8, which also can route the controls from the steering wheel, and the face-plate via a serial port/USB to send remote commands to a computer running WinAmp, or some other MP3 player variant, through some sort of Keyboard driver or WinAmp specific serial port type interface.

So far a $50 target price has been suggested by myself, but it remains to be seen how close to this figure a final product could get.

Anyone who is interested in this device, should please list their interest below, and their preference for this devices connectivity, Serial port/USB, etc.

Regards,

OverLOAD

check your PM- sent you my email address to put on any mailing list you may develop

great idea
I suggest simple options, like L and R RCA inputs controlled by the TAPE/MD button on the head unit. This wasy we can switch inputs by the mode button on the steering wheel to use an I-Pod or satellite radio.
A more complicated option with computer / winamp controls would probably be out of technical reach or desire for the common drivers
Keep up the good work though and I will definitely like to be your customer if it works

I'd certainly be interested - I'd love to be able to hook up an iPod. Controlling the iPod from the steering wheel might not be easy or even possible, given its controls, but heck, I'd probably be willing to pay $50 for an AUX IN jack routed anywhere.

I'm with Unser. Get something simple going for now, go for the fancy USB stuff as a 2nd model. I just want one RCA input jack controlled by selecting tape/md. I need it to be a clean plug in module that doesn't involve too much messing around with the car.

I second that emotion. A plug in module is the perfect solution for those who are looking for a quick and effective way to connect external music sources. Count me in. A bargain at that price point. A need exists . . . the market awaits.

If you can make a simple plug-in module that provides at least 1 RCA input that is controlled by the Tape/MD button I'd be all over it.

Please make it so that the connections are hidden in the dash and that it is small enough so that it clears the plastic cover for the Tape/MD expansion slot by at least 3/4" as I've already used that area for my V1 remote display. Thanks! :D

I would like the whole shebang you mentioned (USB, preferably as an HID device and aux input).

I'm interested, but I'd really like to know what you've accomplished so far. I'm willing to wait some time for this feature, but not forever. I'm not trying to doubt your abilities, but this is quite the undertaking (especially tricking the unit into thinking a module is there and catching button presses).

Thanks!

I would love a way to conect to the head unit and use the tape md input button to run an wire to the armrest console to install a female mni stereo jack so i could plug my zen jukebox directly to the head and use the tape/md button instead of the radio.

I have the single disc cd player and the cassette. I would like RCA jacks for my commander xm radio though and still have use of the other things. Thanks

Hey OverLOAD,

knowing anything more than we do?! ;-)

That's quite exactly what we wanted to do in this thread:
http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=16279

Hacking into to stock control system. Do you know which are the input lines and the control lines of the module ports?
I would say forget that about controlling special devices like ipod ect with the headunit. Most people do not have that, would be very hard work and we first just want a simple aux-in.
How about 3 or 4 INs that we can switch with the AUX-module? One of them as front aux with headphone jack. In case of your friend brings his own device in the RX-8, for fast connecting. ;-)
Others should be RCA (Cinch) jacks on the back of the AUX-module. Of course you can longer them to come out in the car whereever you want.

Giving the AUX-module his own buttons and display would make things easier. So we wil not have to find out all that digital control signals.
We just activate the AUX-module by pressing the TAPE/MD or AUX ;-) button, aynthing else we be done internal.
The possibility to give each input a name would be cool.
You could also fully use the top RX-8 display to see all of that. Would save money cos we don't need extra display. But not easy to find out how to display and how to use the headunit buttons to create the source names.

Also the AUX-module should be able to set volumes of each input source to make it fit the headunit input signal levels and so each input will play as loud as the CD and tuner section.

http://www.tobias-albert.de/rx8_aux.jpg

Just a first try. We can discuss the final design. :D

rgds
Tobi :)

RX-8-Tobi,

That's some neat photo-choppin' there.

That's a possibility, but I think that would be kind of overkill for what most people want.

Here's what I know:

We (My EE partner & I) have scoped out the signals coming from the aux-module. we believe the following:

1. We can decode the signals sent by the head unit (and steering wheel) controls relatively easily into a serial-cable bus control signal.

2. We can fool the HU to think that it's got a 'normal' tape module in it.

3. We can provide several "overrideable" audio input sources into the HU. This means that if the RCA plugs are connected, they work, if the SPDIF becomes active, it switches to that, if the Optical connector becomes active, it then overrides to that, in a priority type sequence.

My take is this:

We can make a very cheap, entry level module which provides 2 or 3 input sources (1/16" stereo plug - can be connected to RCA's if you like), SPDIF digital, and SPDIF optical connectors. The optical connectors are probably the most expensive, and it might be worthwhile for us to just make a single 'audio type' module pluggable into out unit, which gives you the type of connectivity you're looking for. The Serial-out to the computer isn't all that hard, I'm not familar with writing the app to control winamp, but I don't think it would be that difficult.

So it looks like we'd have a base module, with a serial port, and a 1/16" mini-stereo plug, and possibly have a mini-riser for the other options.

We could possibly even have some kind of ipod remote control. I don't have an Ipod, but I know that it wouldn't work for all ipods, since they have two types of connectors now. This would be a more difficult undertaking, and obviously much lower sales potential, and probably more significant cost.

However, for now, my target it to get a module which is very basic, and plugs into the CD expansion plug, and provides a very basic signal input capability, and does it with nice, high-quality sound. For this, the SPDIF (digital format) is clearly advantageous, due to the likely introduction of signal noise from an analogue connector. I think that this would be the most basic and cheapest device that we could produce.

My partners goals are very much along the same lines, and our timelines are to have a prototype within a couple of weeks. If the interest keeps up, we'll probably offer the unit for sale within a couple of months. We're aiming for a reasonable target price, but I believe that once the price goes much above $50, there's a much smaller market.

I'll keep you all up to date on the details as they unfold.

OverLOAD

Originally posted by RX-8-Tobi
Giving the AUX-module his own buttons and display would make things easier. So we wil not have to find out all that digital control signals.
We just activate the AUX-module by pressing the TAPE/MD or AUX ;-) button, aynthing else we be done internal.
The possibility to give each input a name would be cool.
You could also fully use the top RX-8 display to see all of that. Would save money cos we don't need extra display. But not easy to find out how to display and how to use the headunit buttons to create the source names.

Also the AUX-module should be able to set volumes of each input source to make it fit the headunit input signal levels and so each input will play as loud as the CD and tuner section.

8<---8<---

Yikes, that looks pretty complicated. A nice custom plastic injection molded housing, with pretty buttons, a pretty display and nice labels.. I'd say that it's be expensive to develop that unit and sell it, for the much reduced market size that that device would offer over the basic aux-in unit. It Looks very nice, but I think it might be too much overkill.

Of course, the way I'm hoping the device gets built, it would probably be easy to just plug this unit into the aux-in unit to get the desired result, but that looks like too big of an undertaking.

On the other hand, if enough people want it, it might be worth-while. I think that the plastic housing only becomes feasable with a 1000 unit minimum quantity, or if the stock cover plate could be re-purposed to this function. But $60 for a blank face plate, that's going to add a lot of cost.

I figure that even if there was enough demand for this type of add-on the the aux-in it would probably have to be priced between $200 and $300 to make it not bleed the developers (us) dry.. but I'm not saying that it can be done... I'm just not sold that it's feasable yet.

OverLOAD

editied for readability

All I want is the ability to plug in my iPod.

Originally posted by Speed Racer
If you can make a simple plug-in module that provides at least 1 RCA input that is controlled by the Tape/MD button I'd be all over it.
I second that. For $50, I'll buy the plug-in module in a heartbeat.
How soon do you think you can be done with this?
(Meaning: how soon can I get my greedy hands on my new module? :D)

Originally posted by Tamas
I second that. For $50, I'll buy the plug-in module in a heartbeat.
How soon do you think you can be done with this?
(Meaning: how soon can I get my greedy hands on my new module? :D)

I think I suggested about 2 months? Maybe by early March? maybe sooner but that's my target. sooner may happen.

OverLOAD

thats all I want too. to plung in my zen and use the tape/md input and would pay $50 in a heart beat so get working so we can have it now........just kidding

I want to plug in my satelite tuner and use it like I do on the after market decks in my other cars. Extra controlers and displays clutter things up and require too much attention.

Originally posted by OverLOAD
Here's the beef:

Everyone seems to want an Aux-input jack in their RX-8 (and/or Mazda6). You got that right!

... Anyone who is interested in this device, should please list their interest below, and their preference for this devices connectivity, Serial port/USB, etc.

Regards,

OverLOAD I am very interested, and am working on this problem myself (just not very fast!). I would prefer a fairly simple interface -- just a line-level stereo input jack (either 1/8" stereo jack or a pair of RCA jacks) and the ability to select the aux-in by means of the standard CD/MD button. I think it is a mistake to design a device-specific interface, since we all don't use the same devices (some use i-pod, some use Nomad JB3, etc.)
OK, thinking more on this, I think a female 1/8" stereo mini-jack routed into the centre console would be the way to go, but it would require a bit of installation to route the cable. Why female? So that the chances of shorting the channel(s) to ground are reduced. Most devices would connect with a short male-to-male cable.

If you insert in aux-in module, one or two video-in, for the version whit nav, is very very great... the people, we can connect, dvd-video-player, game console and other....

:)

Bye..!

As I was considering running the tape-player hack, I'd definitely be interested in the development of a genuine aux-in solution in the $50 range.

Remote control of iPod through the paddles would be sweet. But iPod may be a difficult product to develop for. I put a pre-order on Griffin's iFM product early in 2003. They missed so many ship dates I gave up and cancelled. They have STILL not shipped.

Originally posted by bobclevenger
You got that right!

[B] I am very interested, and am working on this problem myself (just not very fast!). I would prefer a fairly simple interface -- just a line-level stereo input jack (either 1/8" stereo jack or a pair of RCA jacks) and the ability to select the aux-in by means of the standard CD/MD button. I think it is a mistake to design a device-specific interface, since we all don't use the same devices (some use i-pod, some use Nomad JB3, etc.)
OK, thinking more on this, I think a female 1/8" stereo mini-jack routed into the centre console would be the way to go, but it would require a bit of installation to route the cable. Why female? So that the chances of shorting the channel(s) to ground are reduced. Most devices would connect with a short male-to-male cable.

That's the plan. The Tape-Deck Aux-IN hack that I put together basically does the same thing. The point of this one is that it's cheaper than the tape deck, and should sound better.

OverLOAD

Overload, I just got my sat radio and I too would be more than happy to buy the hardware as you describe. 50 bucks for say 2 line inputs (miniplugs for space are OK I guess, but would prefer independant RCA jacks myself) would be very doable by a lot of people I think.

Maybe ya should start taking emails from interested parties. I know I'll sign up for it.

I just wanted to add my vote for a simple AUX in connector (preferably a stereo mini jack) that is enabled by selecting the tape/MD mode.

Like many of us, I want to get my hands on this as soon as possible. When you get to the point where you have a working prototype and are ready to start production, please don't spend too much time trying to create a refined design or add cosmetic touches. I'll take a quick and dirty solution as long as it works as advertised and won't fall apart under the dash.

I can't wait to throw out that stupid FM transmitter!

I'll send my 50 now if I can get an early unit. (I would prefer at least 2 imputs if possible, if not I'll make something work). I was about to buy a tape player and hack away. I like this solution much better.

We of the Miata Forum (http://forum.miata.net) would also be really interested in this! Maybe tell the folks over at the MPV club (http://www.mpvclub.com/) too!

Even though our radios are different (see my FAQ (http://www.fosketts.net/miata/m2oem.html) for more info) I bet the tape connector is the same. I've already talked to OverLOAD via email, I just wanted to post to let folks know we're all together on this.

Personally, I'm most interested in a simple AUX-in. A dual (with an 1/8" jack on the front and RCA in the back) would be awesome. I'm much less interested in any type of computer control.

Also, our cars don't have steering wheel audio controls, so I hope that doesn't cause problems!

Stephen

Hey OverLOAD,

don't worry about the face face plate, was just some nice paint work. Would be much too expensive, forget it!
And as you seem to be able to read out all the digital control signals between the components, we can use the RX-8 display to show source number/name and the headunit buttons to control the AUX-module.

We should make a simple solution to keeps things easy and cheap. But it should be upgradeable to fullfill everyones needs.
So the key could be a modular AUX-module! :)


Pls see here a system design:
http://www.tobias-albert.de/aux_in01.gif

You can add several add-on modules if you need:
http://www.tobias-albert.de/aux_in02.gif

Using the headunit to control the AUX-module:
http://www.tobias-albert.de/aux_in03.jpg

I am not in the mood at the moment to write more. :p
If you want me to explain anything of the pictures, just let me know.

Looking forward to hear your comments, friends! :)

rgds
Tobi

Maybe we can also use
the TUNE button to select the INPUT GAIN FUNTION
and
the TEXT button to select SOURCE NAMING / DISPLAY TYPE FUNCTION.

So we have more usable buttons for optional ipod or whatever control (eg. via USB).

rgds
Tobi

OverLOAD,

Deffinately interested then, sounds like you've got this one kicked. I'll PM you with my personal information right away to get in line.

Question, at one point you said:

That's the plan. The Tape-Deck Aux-IN hack that I put together basically does the same thing.

And another time you said:

... plugs into the CD expansion plug, and provides a very basic signal input capability...

So, I just want to make sure that this module goes in the cassette / MD bay and doesn't replace the stock CD / MP3 player.


If optical input adds to the cost or delays time to market in any way, my vote would be to ditch it. I am, however, one of the few people here that would have use for the serial / USB connectivity for the button presses. In fact, after a bit of research, this Winamp plugin (http://henrik.husted.net/winamp.htm#SerialControl) looks very useful for this exact purpose.

Please tell us if there is any way to update the display text over the suggested serial interface?

You said in your earlier post:

We can fool the HU to think that it's got a 'normal' tape module in it

When you do this, are you sending some kind of pre-defined device code over the bus that the head unit accepts and displays "TAPE" or does the tape module actually send text to the display?

Thanks for all your hard work,

eXe

Originally posted by RX-8-Tobi
Maybe we can also use
the TUNE button to select the INPUT GAIN FUNTION
and
the TEXT button to select SOURCE NAMING / DISPLAY TYPE FUNCTION.

So we have more usable buttons for optional ipod or whatever control (eg. via USB).

rgds
Tobi

Tobi, I looked over your suggestions, and it looks pretty interesting. It may be possible to accomplish some of what you are suggesting, but I need to get a base module out first.

Some initial problems that need to be overcome:

1. Video. Not everyone has the NAV package. I don't and neither do most other RX-8'ers, and so goes the same with Miatas, MPVs, and Mazda6 & 3's. I don't know for sure how it hooks up, and if I can bypass it, it'll definately be a little more tricky.

2. Overriding the function of some of the button controls (like the tuner slider) may not be possible. We have to see what messages we can get from the face controls. It may be that only the messages the tape module would normally be able to recieve, are the limitations of what we can do. The potential of this will unravel soon.

I'm expecting that I will be able to get our data recording hardware connected up to the head unit tonight or tomorrow and determine which buttons we can actually view, and weather or not we can actually control the LCD display. It may be that we can only display the embedded code in the unit with the command functions. but maybe not...

It's also possible that we could change the "mazda RX-8" welcome message, like some other people have suggested, but I can't say that we can, until we have, and I won't say we can't until we've tried and found no way to do it.

Your schematic is somewhat close to the same 'neighbourhood' as the current design idea, but we're likyl going to have the base module come with some modular functions. It may even come with a serial port as a base module to control winamp on a PC. Since winamp already has a serial control plug-in module, this would be really easy to do, and the computer software already exists to make it work.

Thanks for the contribution of the ideas. This may be possible with the unit at some point, but for now I think we'll have to forego the option of the video switcher. It may very well be possible that in the future, we could make a plug-in video module that would accomplish what you're looking for.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by eXentric
OverLOAD,

Deffinately interested then, sounds like you've got this one kicked. I'll PM you with my personal information right away to get in line.

Question, at one point you said:



And another time you said:



So, I just want to make sure that this module goes in the cassette / MD bay and doesn't replace the stock CD / MP3 player.


Correct. The discussion came from two different threads, I believe... The Module will be designed to fit in the location that the stock Tape or MD units would. It will plug into the stock CD-changer, MP3 CD player, or Single CD player module.



If optical input adds to the cost or delays time to market in any way, my vote would be to ditch it. I am, however, one of the few people here that would have use for the serial / USB connectivity for the button presses. In fact, after a bit of research, this Winamp plugin (http://henrik.husted.net/winamp.htm#SerialControl) looks very useful for this exact purpose.


Optical is pretty easy. I'll probably go for an electrical spdif rather than a fiber-optical cable, but we'll see. It might not be that expensive. Most likely the optical connector will be avalable as a future add-in module.

I've already seen and used that plug in. It's my intent to make the output from this module behave like it were a serial keypad, like this plugin uses. That means the solution to a lot of potential work that would have otherwise been more time consuming. Fortunately it falls in the real of freeware. I wouldn't be able to sell the software, or include it with the hardware, but I could point everyone to it, who might potentially want to use it.



Please tell us if there is any way to update the display text over the suggested serial interface?

You said in your earlier post:



When you do this, are you sending some kind of pre-defined device code over the bus that the head unit accepts and displays "TAPE" or does the tape module actually send text to the display?

Thanks for all your hard work,

eXe

Not 100% sure yet. We'll probably know within a couple of days. My suspicion is that it's a pre-defined message. There may however, be un-explored pre-defined messages that may be more appropiate to use. May-be even one that matches the name AUX.... time will tell. Like I said just above, in the next couple or few days, new years and all coming up...

Thanks for the interest,

OverLOAD

I am interested for sure. please keep me posted as well

I'm interested, too. My primary goal is aux-in for the iPod (30G dock model, if that matters) so the 1/8" jack would be great.

I can imagine the USB connector would be useful, too. Add me to your email list, if you have one :)

Edit: 1/16" jack?! what was I thinking? I meant std mini 1/8". duh.

I am also interested. I have a second generation ipod that i would like to plug in, so 1/16" plug is all i need. Keep us updated on this thread.

First of all: Happy New Year to all of you!

OverLOAD,

it seems we already went too deep into detail as noone else besides you left any comments. :D

Well, my idea was to keep all the stuffs - that not all guys will need - away from the base unit.
But we still should keep it upgradeable to make it ready for even very high wishes.

And by that way, you first can concentrate on the base unit, the add-ons can be done later.
Some extra lines and connectors on the base unit for future add-on modules will not cost much more.
We just have to think very good not to forget any line to use to future modules.

And I really would make the serial port as an add-on. If one just wants a simple RCA input for eg. aftermarket DVD player, he cannot use it at all.

In my diagram, there should be a simple logic that "sees" whether an additional input module is connected and whether it has audio/video.
E.g. we have two INPUTS, IN3 is free. So when switching thru the INs, you will switch 1-2-1-2.. and not 1-2-(3)-1-2-(3)...

Regarding the video switch possibility for max. two INs, I think it doesn't hurt to have some spare lines on the circuit board to make it possible for everyone.
We just have to make the switch IC possible also to distribute these signals if connected.

As far as I know, the TFT needs following signal lines:
VIDEO RED
VIDEO GREEN
VIDEO BLUE
VIDEO COMPOSITE (SYNC)
VIDEO GND
SHIELD GND

I am not a big TFT expert, so I do not know which signals the TFT can handle, e.g. NTSC or our European PAL. Maybe the European RXs even do have different TFT input sections?
Maybe it all is just digital, I dunno. You are the electronics guy, right?! :D

And maybe one or more serial lines to control the display. E.g. to make it work even if navigation is off.
Most of the control/switch stuffs could be put in the VIDEO I/O module that splits into the NAV wires.

The Video switch possibility also would be very interesting for all future aftermarket DVD navigation / player users that want to feed the audio signals into the stock headunit.

Also my car amplifier from Audison has that kinda modular layout. I like it much. You can add what you need (crossover, subsonic, equalizer, phase control ect.) but not have to buy what you will never use.
This picture shows the 2-way -24dB/oct. crossover.

http://www.tobias-albert.de/x8_module.jpg

About headunit display and buttons we will discuss when you checked what we can do and what not. Makes no big sense b4.

Having video switch to display AUX on TFT would be cool. Imagine an USB controlled laptop with WINAMP on the car TFT screen! :cool:

rgds
Tobi

WHY OH WHY did I find this thread 20 minutes after ordering a damn FM modulator to get my in-car PC up and running??? Overload, I looked at this, but quickly dismissed it since I don't have the experience and knowledge necessary to make it happen. You've got a PM....

i ARE VERY INTERESTED....

Hi again Tobi.

We will be making a modular unit. You will be able to add on additional functionality.

What I am expecting is to add a data bus to a module slot, so that we can have intelligent modules that can do whatever we want them to do.

IE. Control video, have an arbitrary number of inputs, and multiplex signals togeter.

A very powerful solution, and still very cheap. The only hardware costs should be a single 10-pin header connector. Very minimal.

I will detail further information about this in the future, I want to concentrate on the base unit first, and then work on feature modules.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by RX-8-Tobi
First of all: Happy New Year to all of you!

OverLOAD,

it seems we already went too deep into detail as noone else besides you left any comments. :D

Well, my idea was to keep all the stuffs - that not all guys will need - away from the base unit.
But we still should keep it upgradeable to make it ready for even very high wishes.

And by that way, you first can concentrate on the base unit, the add-ons can be done later.
Some extra lines and connectors on the base unit for future add-on modules will not cost much more.
We just have to think very good not to forget any line to use to future modules.

And I really would make the serial port as an add-on. If one just wants a simple RCA input for eg. aftermarket DVD player, he cannot use it at all.

In my diagram, there should be a simple logic that "sees" whether an additional input module is connected and whether it has audio/video.
E.g. we have two INPUTS, IN3 is free. So when switching thru the INs, you will switch 1-2-1-2.. and not 1-2-(3)-1-2-(3)...

Regarding the video switch possibility for max. two INs, I think it doesn't hurt to have some spare lines on the circuit board to make it possible for everyone.
We just have to make the switch IC possible also to distribute these signals if connected.

As far as I know, the TFT needs following signal lines:
VIDEO RED
VIDEO GREEN
VIDEO BLUE
VIDEO COMPOSITE (SYNC)
VIDEO GND
SHIELD GND

I am not a big TFT expert, so I do not know which signals the TFT can handle, e.g. NTSC or our European PAL. Maybe the European RXs even do have different TFT input sections?
Maybe it all is just digital, I dunno. You are the electronics guy, right?! :D

And maybe one or more serial lines to control the display. E.g. to make it work even if navigation is off.
Most of the control/switch stuffs could be put in the VIDEO I/O module that splits into the NAV wires.

The Video switch possibility also would be very interesting for all future aftermarket DVD navigation / player users that want to feed the audio signals into the stock headunit.

Also my car amplifier from Audison has that kinda modular layout. I like it much. You can add what you need (crossover, subsonic, equalizer, phase control ect.) but not have to buy what you will never use.
This picture shows the 2-way -24dB/oct. crossover.

http://www.tobias-albert.de/x8_module.jpg

About headunit display and buttons we will discuss when you checked what we can do and what not. Makes no big sense b4.

Having video switch to display AUX on TFT would be cool. Imagine an USB controlled laptop with WINAMP on the car TFT screen! :cool:

rgds
Tobi

I'd definitely be all over this too ---

I'm adding XM and Bluetooth handsfree to my car also, so what would also be cool is sort of a 'heiracrchical' design... where if I have my iPod, XM, and Bluetooth plugged in, but if the phone rings and the bluetooth handsfree module kicks in, it overrides and mutes everthing else... so maybe a signal present on audio 1 overrides a signal on audio 2, which overrides a signal on 3?

Thanks a lot overload for the work...

Matt

It seems as though most people want a 1/8" mini stereo plug. As I had suspected..

Here's the current hardware features planned to be provided by the base unit:

2 - 1/8" mini stereo plugs. Selectable my the dash buttons. We may be able to provide an indicator on the LCD screen as to which indicator it is, but maybe not... we still have to verify the LCD code

1 - RS-232 DB-9, Serial port, to connect to a Computer. Sends data to the PC in Serial Keypad format like the WinAmp pluging expects to see. (Don't worry, it doesn't cost us much, so it won't add to the cost.)

1 - Expansion Module Connector. This will be a bus based module connector which talks to the main chip. This will allow several additional audio sources. Possible expansion modules include SPFID Digital, or Optical, or possibly even a video switcher(Tobi).

Each input will have it's own gain level control. This will work through the head unit control buttons. The will be used to fine-tune the audio levels from a source device to maximize the volume, and reduce signal loss (and noise). This is pretty minor, but critically important for the best sound quality.

I know that a few people have stated that their preference is for RCA cables, and that's fine. We will provide Stereo RCA to 1/8" mini plug adapter cables for people who want them, at a small cost, or you will be able to buy your own, and use them to plug into the 1/8" mini plug. The audio format is the same, so there should be no problem with the audio source.

As the new year has hit, we're getting more excited about this module, and want to get a solid working base unit ready. That will be our focus until the device ships. Then additional modules may enter development.

At this early phase of the development, we have a lot of research and checking things out to do, I wish I had more answers, but I know I will soon.

Happy New Year!

OverLOAD

Originally posted by Attack
I'd definitely be all over this too ---

I'm adding XM and Bluetooth handsfree to my car also, so what would also be cool is sort of a 'heiracrchical' design... where if I have my iPod, XM, and Bluetooth plugged in, but if the phone rings and the bluetooth handsfree module kicks in, it overrides and mutes everthing else... so maybe a signal present on audio 1 overrides a signal on audio 2, which overrides a signal on 3?

Thanks a lot overload for the work...

Matt

The heirarchical audio change over, on signal detection is something we've thought about. I'm kind of hesitant before I can promise it, since it involves making sure that the signal levels are all good when their on, and below a certain threshold when they're off. The problem is the off state. Some devices still are very noisy even when they're off. I wouldn't want the cell phone to hog the channel even when it was off.

It's a possibility, and is something that we were planning on looking into along the way. I'll be sure to state what methodology we will be using as we progress.

Regards,

OverLOAD

edit fixed spelling, :confused:

Dear GOD Tobi... no wonder we don't have one of these already. You are trying to make a frickin commercial plugin module ^ infinity. Why dont we just start with a module that someone fools the headunit into thinking there is something in the aux or there is a tape player hooked up. We don't need all that foofoo that you want. I think 95% of the board would love something that has a left and right input jack on it and plugs/splices into the harness or HU. Wow, you are jumping into the deep end without a lifejacket on and a 100 pound weight tied to your ankles. We need to wade into this from the shallow end.

On the subject of audio muting, a mute (or attenuate by x dB) function for all audio signals when a point is taken to ground (500 ohms or less to logic ground) would be helpful, as a number of cell phone car kits provide this signal.

@ jodynich:

We don't need all that foofoo that you want. I think 95% of the board would love something that has a left and right input jack on it and plugs/splices into the harness or HU.

I think you got me wrong. I know that most guys will be happy with just one RCA input. It was me who even wanted to leave the serial control on a separate module.
I want a simple but highliy upgradeable module not for me, for all of you guys. If you do not need the extended functions, it doesn't cost much more but if you later will find out that it wouldn't be that bad to control other things, you will be able to upgrade the base module.
If we NOW just make a simple base unit, we will not save much producing costs, but later, we would have to develop/buy a newer base unit when wanting to go one step further.
I think the modular is the best solution for everyone.


@ OverLOAD:

Sounds very good so far. :)
I am happy that you will even make the level adjustment. :)

I think RCA on the module is the better choice. It is easier and cheaper to get 1/8" to RCA adapters than RCA to 1/8" (3,5mm) adapters.
RCA (Cinch) is a more common audio standard. And with Ipod ect. they will need an additinal cable anyway that comes out whereever they want to plug their device in.

One thing: Where do you get the (Mazda) connector to plug the aux-module into the hu/cd player?! ;)

Pls keep us posted regarding the button/display date readout.

(@ attack: )
Good idea with the handsfree muting everything, it also went into my mind. ;)
But what if we listen to CD. Will we be able to change to handsfree input even when the aux-module is not selcted?!? So we would have to force the hu to switch to the aux module. If we cannot do that (by the hu data bus), that muting function makes not much sense in my opinion. For that feature, the aux would have to be selected anytime. :(

Best wishes,
Tobi

Originally posted by RX-8-Tobi
[B
Good idea with the handsfree muting everything, it also went into my mind. ;)
But what if we listen to CD. Will we be able to change to handsfree input even when the aux-module is not selcted?!? So we would have to force the hu to switch to the aux module. If we cannot do that (by the hu data bus), that muting function makes not much sense in my opinion. For that feature, the aux would have to be selected anytime. :(
[/B]
That occurred to me too. Muting at the HU would be the best if it can be figured out. Muting at the Aux-In module would be of less utility, but still useful if not too hard to do.

Good point about handling muting for the handsfree on the HU level rather than the AUX level. The way most of them wire up is by overloading the output from the HU to the speakers themselves so that any mode is overriden by handsfree output.

So I guess the idea turns more into an AUX "auto-select" based on which auxiliary device is playing at the time... this is definitely a "gravy" idea though -- not too much better than just picking which aux input you want with some kind of knob or button.

Matt

not too much better than just picking which aux input you want with some kind of knob or button.

I second that. Best bet, RCA ins, and if you really want to go modular at the aux in level, a usb port. That makes it scaleable and bi-directional capable. It is also compatible with a large number of aftermarket aux devices. The trickiest bit would be defining the input sources and setting selection/control protocols. In the end, if your building anything more than a simple aux in module for resale, you'll need to send album/track info to the head-unit, just like the mini-disk module does. I expect the input module sends the input type to the head unit, and not just a message to use pre-canned text, else there would have been a Tape input jack and a mini-disk input jack to reduce the complexity of the logic. The aux-input connector indicates a mind toward future technology which mandates either a re-flash of some eprom in the H/U, or input device defined source labels. Which sounds simpler?

I'm all for the idea but just so you cover your ass, be very careful how you word things especially in regards to pricing here. If you aren't paying the forum for advertising space you may be violating forum rules. If you are then disregard this. I've been warned about it when I didn't even technically violate any rules. Any questions regarding pricing should be done in PM's. You'd get rich if you did it though!

OverLOAD,

I have both the CD player and the cassette player in my car. Any possibility of being able to use the add-on without removing either of them? The only functionality I really want is a single 1/8" input for my mp3 player.

-Jerry

Originally posted by JerryR
OverLOAD,

I have both the CD player and the cassette player in my car. Any possibility of being able to use the add-on without removing either of them? The only functionality I really want is a single 1/8" input for my mp3 player.

-Jerry

Sorry, I highly doubt it. The Aux Module and the Tape module will plug into the same spot. It's time to move on and get CD's.

Optionally, you could get a small walkman, and plug it into the Aux-In. It's going to have two channels, and I think you can get a walkman for about $30?

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by rotarygod
I'm all for the idea but just so you cover your ass, be very careful how you word things especially in regards to pricing here. If you aren't paying the forum for advertising space you may be violating forum rules. If you are then disregard this. I've been warned about it when I didn't even technically violate any rules. Any questions regarding pricing should be done in PM's. You'd get rich if you did it though!

Well, I don't know about rich... The potential market is huge, but the actual sales will probably not be that tremendous, unless somehow this starts being a dealer offered part, or if we get tons of wholesale business. I'm not counting chickens yet..

In terms of board rules.. I hope I'm not violating any rules. At this point I don't actually have any products to sell, so I'm not technically selling anything, but I am doing research to provide a better product to the people who share my enthusuasm for the RX-8.

When I am ready to sell this thing, I will have to figure out all the details, and probably set up an advertising section in the vendors forum. I will inquire about it when we get closer to a saleable product.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by kristopher_d
not too much better than just picking which aux input you want with some kind of knob or button.

I second that. Best bet, RCA ins, and if you really want to go modular at the aux in level, a usb port. That makes it scaleable and bi-directional capable. It is also compatible with a large number of aftermarket aux devices. The trickiest bit would be defining the input sources and setting selection/control protocols. In the end, if your building anything more than a simple aux in module for resale, you'll need to send album/track info to the head-unit, just like the mini-disk module does. I expect the input module sends the input type to the head unit, and not just a message to use pre-canned text, else there would have been a Tape input jack and a mini-disk input jack to reduce the complexity of the logic. The aux-input connector indicates a mind toward future technology which mandates either a re-flash of some eprom in the H/U, or input device defined source labels. Which sounds simpler?

My biggest problem with using RCA jacks is this:

1. They come out. (when they vibrate, they eventually fall out) No one is going to want to open up the HU just to plug their connector back in.. esp. me.

2. They cost more, and will make the unit more expensive, as well as require everyone to buy RCA to Stereo cables to plug in any type of unit.

3. They are bigger, and take up more board space.

4. They are not that common. What are you planning on plugging into the AUX module that requires RCA jacks? And why not use mini-plugs instead? I can understand if you have a Dolby logic reciever and want to plug in all the goodies, but realisticaly, this is a car. The most common devices will use a 1/16" mini plug on both ends (MP3 players, Satellite Radio, Computers).

It'll probably be offered on an optional module if there is sufficient demand though.

Regards,

OverLOAD

edit: oh and the module connector? I'm still trying to get it all striaghtened out. I've got a few good leads, but I havn't got the module connector yet, and If I can't I will probably use one that is not exactly the same, but will physically work in the connector anyway ;)

Originally posted by OverLOAD
Well, I don't know about rich... The potential market is huge, but the actual sales will probably not be that tremendous, unless somehow this starts being a dealer offered part, or if we get tons of wholesale business. I'm not counting chickens yet..

In terms of board rules.. I hope I'm not violating any rules. At this point I don't actually have any products to sell, so I'm not technically selling anything, but I am doing research to provide a better product to the people who share my enthusuasm for the RX-8.

When I am ready to sell this thing, I will have to figure out all the details, and probably set up an advertising section in the vendors forum. I will inquire about it when we get closer to a saleable product.

Regards,

OverLOAD

I only brought it up because I was in the same position as you and it was walking a thin line between ok and rules violation. Just be caerful about how things are worded. That's all that I'm saying. I don't think you have violated any rules but just to be safe...

great idea, I would definately be interested if you could ship to the UK. UK models have the Bose 6CD unit as standard and it would be great to be able to connect my ipod. Add me to the list!

I would definately be interested if you could ship to Italy. Italian model is same the uk model. I are interested for connect my pc or console, audio and video.....

Happy NeW YeAr!!!!

Originally posted by OverLOAD
Sorry, I highly doubt it. The Aux Module and the Tape module will plug into the same spot. It's time to move on and get CD's.

Optionally, you could get a small walkman, and plug it into the Aux-In. It's going to have two channels, and I think you can get a walkman for about $30?

Regards,

OverLOAD

Believe me, the majority of my music is on CDs. In fact, the main reason I ordered the cassette option was in order to be able to connect my portable MP3 player via a cassette adapter. I didn't imagine at the time the possibility that someone would create something as cool and useful as you seem to be. I'm just bummed at this point that it's looking like I spent the money on the cassette player for nothing.

-Jerry

JerryR

You can always re-sell it to someone who actually wants a tape module for tapes.. I bought one too, and I'll be ditching it (or re-selling it, I hope) once this module gets rolling.

OverLOAD

I would love an AUX input so I can play my iPod in the car. Please sign me up.

Hi,

I am also looking for a way to plug-in my iPod. I don't need to control the device from the steering wheel, even though that would be nice. I'm more concerned with easy installation and good sound. I don't want the interior design to get messed up in any way.

Please keep me posted and add me to any mailing list you might have.

Thanks
Keep up the great work!

Juha

Count me in! I have a 6 with the tape aux mod, but defenetly want to get something else to cut the tape motor sound!

Count me in! I have a 6 with the tape aux mod, but defenetly want to get something else to cut the tape motor sound!

My partner has a Mazda6, and over the weekend, we put in a very early test system. We connected the audio into the source, and wow, it sounded as good as, or even better than a CD.

One thing I noticed for sure, do my MP3's suck. Even at 160 Kbit/s I could hear every little nuance of the sound. The Aux Module is going to be a very good sounding piece of equipment.

On the down side, on a side-by-side comparison of the Mazda6 vs. the RX-8, both with the Bose sound system, the RX-8 definately has a much higher 'noise floor'. Generally speaking, the Mazda6 is much quieter with the volume all the way up with a live audio channel, while there is silence, than the RX-8.

The module is coming along, and without a doubt, you'll want some superb high-quality music to pipe into it.

OverLOAD

Yes, do that, keep us salivating... bastard (just kidding ;))
Great news! Hope you'll be done with it quickly... I only look for the simplest AUX-IN functionality, so anything that provides this is good for me :D
After reading your post, now I feel even better for having the base stereo in my car. With good speakers and an amp with them, the result should be way better than the Bose... yay!

This may be asking a bit much, but any chance you could post some pictures of your prototypes? Even if they're on breadboards, I'd still like to see how it's progressing and what all is going into it. I'm not asking you to post IC numbers or pinouts or anything. I truly believe you deserve all the credit and any profit from the device. (besides, I don't have the skill ;))

I would like it to have the aux-in and cell phone handsfree. It would be great to have the two functions. I would probably use the handsfree more than the AUX.

I am running a Dell Digitall Jukebox through the tape aux, would love to be able to play with the gain and to get something that realy works as an aux module...

Figuring a way to control it via steering wheel is not an esay mod to do. Therefore, being able to have 2 switchable inputs and an AUX 1-2 display is plenty enough and represent a big step for humanity!

Keep up the good work!

About the noise level and everything comparing a 8 to a 6, we have to keep in mind that these are two cars that have some oppsite vocation. Soft sport family sedan vs brutal sport coupe...

Originally posted by OverLOAD
The module is coming along, and without a doubt, you'll want some superb high-quality music to pipe into it.

OverLOAD That is really good news, Overload! Keep us posted. OK?

The Module remote control functionality will probably be limited to two or three devices, and be a plug-in module that connects into the Aux-Module for remote control. Very likely anyway.

I'll keep everyone up on the development of the board.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by onepunchx
I am running a Dell Digitall Jukebox through the tape aux, would love to be able to play with the gain and to get something that realy works as an aux module...

Figuring a way to control it via steering wheel is not an esay mod to do. Therefore, being able to have 2 switchable inputs and an AUX 1-2 display is plenty enough and represent a big step for humanity!

Keep up the good work!

About the noise level and everything comparing a 8 to a 6, we have to keep in mind that these are two cars that have some oppsite vocation. Soft sport family sedan vs brutal sport coupe...

I recognize that I am getting my .02 in late, but better than never.

I had been following the board here (I am a Mazda6 owner) looking for a way to interface a computer to the stereo and HU. I was just about to get a tape module when I saw this thread!

In addition to the basic audio input I would like to be able to "recieve" any stereo/steering wheel button presses through the serial port you intend on adding to your interface board. I don't know much about the Winamp plugin you discussed, but I hope that it will not only be a subset of the actual bus messages. I intend on using a custom Linux-based application to interface to my PC, so I could perhaps bind all the buttons to functions.

Also, as a stretch, if you figure out how to send text to the stereo LCD screen that would be awesome! I have some hope since the CD player can display track number and time info, but I understand that there is a small chance that it can accept fully custom text.

I sure am jealous that you have the hardware and time to hack the CAN bus in these Mazda cars. I would imagine that anything you create for the RX-8 could be ported over to all of the new generation Mazdas (6, 3 and beyond).

Thanks for your work!
Peter

This is amazing news!!!

I'm im!!!! Put me on a list for a mailer bsgjunkie@yahoo.com

I've completed most of the install of a carpc, but can stand the audio quality I've had to deal with. FM transmitter is terrible, and I havent had the balls to do the tape deck mod yet.

Hey!

This is awesome, just found this thread from someones post at a mazda6 forum :) This is perfect! When you finish this, you got another customer :)

I know that I would definitely be willing to pay at least $50 for this. I paid almost that much for the POS FM modulator I've got now!
Not that I'm going to be picky, but I personally would like a Toslink Optical input if possible in addition to the 1/8" mini. There's a skyfi mod that adds toslnk directly out of the skyfi so it would definitely be a nice thing to have.

And, by the way, if you get this thing out there, I don't know if you'll get rich or anything, but I would be more than happy to erect some sort of shrine to you so that all here, and on the mazda6club forums could praise you for all eternity.
-Just an offer. :D

This thread is amazing.

The second time out in our new RX-8, my wife desired to bring along our I-pod. I quickly realized our need for an Aux-in.

I'm not greedy with needing lots of extras on this device. I would like something my local car stereo place can install that I can plug my ipod into. I marvel at your expertise in finding a solution and will be watching this thread very closely.

This is awesome!!!!! I'm about to return the FM modulator I just bought (sounds like crap). I was going to order the tape deck for my Mazda6 (either to use a tape adapter or to do the mod), but this has me wondering....

So, I could either get the tape deck as I planned, or wait for the module...module is cheaper, but tape deck is available now, and I'm anxious to get my MP3 player working in the car. Just how much better is the auto quality on the module over both A, a tape adaptor, and B, the tape mod?

Also, is March still looking like the target, or might we get it sooner? Anyway, awesome work!!!!

-Brian

A-yup, I'd like one too, when you come out with them. :D

I am trying to get the Mazda6Club people to get on this board, and some have, but I started a thread over there for the truly lazy to show support.

http://www.mazda6club.com/forums/read.php?TID=13767

Originally posted by bkrodgers
---8<---8<---
So, I could either get the tape deck as I planned, or wait for the module...module is cheaper, but tape deck is available now, and I'm anxious to get my MP3 player working in the car. Just how much better is the auto quality on the module over both A, a tape adaptor, and B, the tape mod?
-8<---8<----


It's up to you. I'm sure that at some point, Mazda will dislike this module, since it can potentially reduce sales of their tape deck, but they should have been smarter and added an Aux-In plug.

The difference in sound quality is Night vs. Day. The tape has hiss, and isn't clean. The test version sounds as clean as a CD.


Regards,

OverLOAD

Count me in as a Miata owner (2002 LS, bose, CD, no tape). I'd buy an aux-in adapter in a heartbeat! I'm mostly interested in a simple aux-in, selected with the tape/md switch. Hopefully no changes to the dash to keep it looking stock. The cubby hole in the console between the seats is a perfect place for an Ipod!

FYI, we're talking about it over in Miata Forum Aux-in thread. (http://forum.miata.net/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=18&t=005906#000001)

Steve
2002 Miata LS
(used to have a 1987 RX-7 GXL)

Is the actual audio signal on the mazda connector carried as a digital (i2s or spdif?) or analog signal? If its an analog signal, why bother with the spdif->analog conversion on a board for $50? I don't think you'd be able to put a much better D-A section on a $50 board than whats in most consumer devices that have an spdif output in addition to analog. Just my 2c...

Also, has this been confirmed to work on a Mazda3? I found a link to this forum from a 3 site, but nobody had confirmed if the modules were in fact identical to the rx8/mazda6.

Please put me on the email list, I'll buy one as soon as I get my 3 if it works.

I am interested in this as well.

Definately interested, would like something cleaner sounding than my XM through an FM Modulator :(

The ability for it to be on Tape/MD button would be a HUGE plus also, no more wasted preset for 87.9FM

i'm IN!
RCA all the way for this 6 owner!

Originally posted by patricklang
Is the actual audio signal on the mazda connector carried as a digital (i2s or spdif?) or analog signal? If its an analog signal, why bother with the spdif->analog conversion on a board for $50? I don't think you'd be able to put a much better D-A section on a $50 board than whats in most consumer devices that have an spdif output in addition to analog. Just my 2c...

Also, has this been confirmed to work on a Mazda3? I found a link to this forum from a 3 site, but nobody had confirmed if the modules were in fact identical to the rx8/mazda6.

Please put me on the email list, I'll buy one as soon as I get my 3 if it works.

It's an analog connector, but requires a lot of other bus data and connections to be detected to enable it when you press 'tape'. I personally would like an electrical SPDIF for my Archos, just to make it more immune to noise. Any SPDIF would sound cleaner than its analog counterpart, just by that fact alone..

Regards,

OverLOAD

Eh what the heck. I'll post another "I'm interested" reply. Can't hurt :)

Originally posted by OverLOAD
My partner has a Mazda6, and over the weekend, we put in a very early test system. We connected the audio into the source, and wow, it sounded as good as, or even better than a CD.

The module is coming along, and without a doubt, you'll want some superb high-quality music to pipe into it.


So it's really working? Great!

One question we Miata folks have, though, is whether the pinout is exactly the same. Our head unit is slightly different (an older generation) than the 6 and 8 have. I hope the unit will work in our version! The '04 Miata has the same unit as yours, FWIW.

Stephen

Sign me up as well!

Vince

Originally posted by OverLOAD
It's an analog connector, but requires a lot of other bus data and connections to be detected to enable it when you press 'tape'. I personally would like an electrical SPDIF for my Archos, just to make it more immune to noise. Any SPDIF would sound cleaner than its analog counterpart, just by that fact alone..

Regards,

OverLOAD

You should drop by head-fi.org and headwize, there's a few threads on DIY DAC's. You may also want to take a peek at the pimeta schematic (headphone amp) for a relatively simple analog section with active ground, that could make a pretty big difference with the car's noisy ground, whether its an analog in going through a unity gain amp, or digital.

Drop me an email if you guys need any help with anything, I'm an EE as well, but unfortunately won't be getting a 3 for a few more months.

Overload,

I am using the Transpod with my iPod and would love to have a cleaner way in. Keep me posted! I have the CD Bose unit.

Me too! x2 for the 8 and the 6.

me too x 2 for the 8 and the 3 (if it turns out to use the same i/f)

Wow... count me too... Please email me at flyboyindy@aol.com when it is ready!

I am all over this too. The only thing that could make my 8 cooler is 40GB of iPod.

Let me know when it's ready!!!

Thank god for you!

Count me in too!! let me know when it's ready!!

Please let me know when it is available.
sgrigby1@comcast.net

This post has set me to come to the conclusion that my idea (Alpine or Pioneer MP3 Changer with FM Modulation) is an bad one.

I will see the shape of the thing before I count myself in.

But I will be watching, this thread (and the other one) with interest. ;)

Thx Overload

Someone asked for a picture of the development kit..

It's kind of messy, but it does the job of spying on the head unit pretty well.. With a couple of other modifications and wires connected into the tape module (pretty extensive so far), we've gotten the unit to send audio on a 'simulated' tape mode.

OverLOAD

edit: ps.. This in no way represents what the production board will look like.. ;)

And the wires plugged into the Tape module... There's a bunch of wires going all over the place. Not really an informative picture, but I figure you guys want to see what we're doing.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Keep up the good work

Thanks for the pics OverLOAD. I was really wondering what the dev stuff looked like. Just wondering, now that I see how you have it all hooked up, how confident that you will be able to get the required cassette adapter pin header? I'm only asking because I see that you are connecting through an existing cassette adapter at this point. But I conceed that you may only be doing this for protocol hacking purposes.

Anyway, keep up the great work. And thanks again for the pics, they're always welcome ;)

This is very very cool, but I'm quite impatient....just how much better quality can I expect out of this over a tape adapter or the tape hack? Obviously, this will be cheaper than the $180 or so for the tape deck, but putting that aside and just looking out sound quality, is it likely to be worth the wait?

Also--is this sort of thing likely to have any warranty implications? If I had some problem with the stereo and they saw this thing in there, do you think the dealer might try to claim that the module was to blame? I can imagine some companies making just such a claim if you plugged a custom electronic device onto a proprietary bus that was created through reverse engineering....

Thoughts on either question? Thanks!
-Brian

Do you think if they see a tape deck with wires coming out they will be more pleased???

Just remove the stuff before going to your dealer or get friendly with them!

Keep on going overload, you got me all excited again, like the first time I read about tape module hack!

Originally posted by eXentric
Thanks for the pics OverLOAD. I was really wondering what the dev stuff looked like. Just wondering, now that I see how you have it all hooked up, how confident that you will be able to get the required cassette adapter pin header? I'm only asking because I see that you are connecting through an existing cassette adapter at this point. But I conceed that you may only be doing this for protocol hacking purposes.

Anyway, keep up the great work. And thanks again for the pics, they're always welcome ;)

It's the same thing with anything you bring to your dealer in the car. Everyone's familiar with something that can hurt your ability to get warranty work. Even an air filter can leave you hosed..

Net result is if you fear a warranty denial enough, you will take it out before service. If you think they won't find it (And it can be hidden pretty well, unless they are doing service on the Head Unit) they won't find it. They can't really deny warranty on anything other than the HU because of this, I would postulate.

What we think is the actual connector has been sourced. Once we recieve the samples, we'll confirm or deny the part being the correct one.. So using the actual connector to do a professional job should be no problem.

It is possible to do this hack with an actual Tape deck, but like you already said, that's a $180 module, and you still need a Casette tape to make the tape module turn on the audio.. and A hacked, never ending, one-sided tape, if you don't want 2 second muting while it changes sides. The audio quality should be just as good with a 'fully' hacked tape module, as the Custom module. Also, if you want the other features, like being able to plug into a computer, or SPDIF, or RCA connectors, the Custom Module will be a much cleaner implmentation than mucking around with the tape module.

Regards,

OverLOAD

edit: when I say a 'fully' hacked tape module, I mean with the hacks that we've done to make it work on our development setup. The changes have not been documented anywhere yet, and are not the same as the old 'tape aux-in hack'.

Hey OverLOAD,

Thanks again for all of your hard work on this. You're doing us all a great service.

Sorry to ask the nagging question....
Do you think that you're still looking at a March delivery of the unit? Or is it still to early to know if it's even going to work?

Thank You!
Ben

Yup. Things are moving along nicely.. If there's going to be any delays, it'll be in the ordering of the components.

I fully expect to be able to get these modules out in March. It doesn't look like we're going to be using anything too unusual, except for the tape module connector, that's the one part that probably is the least readily avaiable at this point, but should fit our timeline.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Well, I'm ready to put down a deposit right now!
Thanks for doing all the work, Overload. I was going to dig into it myself, but you seem to be way ahead of me, so I'll just let you do it. :)
I suppose you have noticed that the TAPE/MD connector and the CD/MP3 connector are just mating halves of the same connector.

i've just been enjoying the progress of this project (along with RotorMotor's carputer). i'd definitely like to be one of the first to plop down some hard earned cash for this. i'll PM u with my e-mail address.

If you are willing to ship the finished unit to the UK then I'll gladly take one also.

Overlord,

If you need any help finding the tape module connector or a suitable replacement, I think I might be able to help. I have access to some resources at work that I might be able to use to find a connector that will work.

I would need the dimensions of the connector and/or any markings or part #s on it. I heard somewhere that it was made by AMP.

Peter

Overload: Please count me in on your device

drjeff@sbcglobal.net

Thank you for your hard work and effort.

Best regards!

-jcs-

Please include thiis NOOB as well!

chris@objectdesigns.com

Looking forward to tossing my FM modulator out!

I'm in- gatorx8@theswamp.com - I have a 40GB RCA Lyra that's begging for this mod : )


I've been following this thread, but if you can clarify for me- if we currently have a tape module, your plans are to just unplug it from the HU and plug the new module in instead? Do we have to remove the tape unit physically?

Thanks!

OverLOAD, you can sign me up for this too, in case I haven't already mentioned that... a PM is on the way to you with my email address.

But, there's a lot of discussion in this thread about what you've developed and/or are still developing. Can you please summarize what the module will do, where it's connected, how it uses the factory display, and how the steering wheel controls operate it? Many thanks...

As requested, here's the current state of what we plan to do:

We are developing a customized mocule, which can plug into the Head Unit (henceforth known as HU), in the place of the Tape module, or MD module. If you currently have either of these modules in your HU, you will need to remove it to put this module in it.

The module, initially will have the following connection points

1 - RS232 Computer serial port
----A. for firmware upgrade
----B. remote control of winamp on a PC via a 'keypad' plug in

2 - 2 pairs (4 total) RCA line-level Audio input connectors
----A. Selectable audio input between the 2 different channels by pushing the PRG button (Say goodbye to mini-stereo, these are close to the same cost, and have a more sturdy connection)

3 - 1 Expansion/Upgrade connector (These will all be later on..)
----See below for more info.

4 - 1 Main connector to the main Head unit.
----A. This is the main connection point we are using to get into the radio.

Here's what you will be able to do:

Intially, when we make a few of these units, we're going for base level functionality. Thus, the software upgradability.

The steering wheel controls will work as per normal operation. The volume controls the built-in amplifiers level, the Up arrow and Down arrow will send the corresponding Next/Last Track control via the serial port to any connected device, in the format the the existing serial keypad plugin is expecting. There is really very little that we need to do here. The RND button will send the control to winamp in a similar manner to enable random mode playback vs. sequential playback.

As already mentioned, the PRG button will switch between RCA inputs 1 and 2.

The unit will 'appear' on the LCD screen to operate exactly like the Tape module, and will display "Tape" when in playback mode.

We plan on including two circuit boards, which one plugs into the connector on the HU, and the other holds the board in place by screwing down where the tape/MD modules would have.

You will then be able to run your RCA cable to the connection point of your choice, with the type of connection that you desire.

I had previously said that we would have an in line pre-amp, to boost signal levels, but after some testing with various devices, we don't have any trouble driving the radio louder than the CD player with the test devices we have connected (IE, there's plenty of gain on the HU to get an adequate volume level).

We are still planning for March to have all of this accomplished, and ready for anyone who might want to buy it. The initial price that was mentioned is very likely, but until we have costed out all of the materials, and tested the preliminary design, we can't say for sure that's what it will be. There may be some sheet metal fabrication that could cause problems. We're looking for alternatives at the moment.


Then, later on down the road, here's the future plans:

The expansion modules. We don't have the time to reverse engineer the IPOD's controls (or other mp3 player ) until we've got this part completed. He're what we're currently considering.
----A. Remote control functionality for MP3 devices. We are currently only planning on making modules for the Archos Jukebox (what we own) and the IPOD. Others may possibly be developed based on demand, difficulty, and cost.
----B. Additional audio input sources such as Optical or Digital SPDIF connector
----C. Video switcher hardware (to synch video with audio)
----D. Hands-free Cell phone connector


LCD display. We currently don't see anything that looks like text being sent to the HU from the Tape module, so it looks like it runs with pre-configured messages. The plan, is to buy/borrow a MP3 CD player, and reverse engineer the bus traffic to determine how to display our own customized text on the screen. This is a fair sized project in of itself, but we definately want to do this before the mp3 player remotes. This will be a firmware update for the device, and be a no-charge upgrade. It will then display "AUX-IN" or some other appropriate text then, and we will try to figure out how we can get song names from WinAmp to the LCD display. This will likely involve writing our own WinAmp plug-in.


Ok.. That's about it. If there's anything else that I left out, I'll edit this post to update it.

Regards,

OverLOAD

OverLOAD, you da man

Now I have to mount my satellite reciever or portable mp3 player where I can see the display. The only limitation was the sound input to the HU which you will take care of....

Thanks for the update

Very good OverLOAD, glad I got in line early. A March timeline sounds excellent. Well worth the wait for the described functionality.

Regards,

eXe

Thanks for doing all the work for us, Overload.

Just a quick question. Does this unit work with both the Bose AND base stereo?

It should... unless I'm totally wrong, there is no difference between the head units in the base and Bose systems.

At least I seriously hope my base head unit will work fine with this plug-in module.

Great work, OverLOAD - can't wait to buy this module!

Originally posted by loco4rx8
Thanks for doing all the work for us, Overload.

Just a quick question. Does this unit work with both the Bose AND base stereo?

As Tamas said, It Should.

The Tape module itself seems to be a very generic part which is common across almost all of Mazdas current product line. That means that the Aux-In Module in development should work in any Mazda that this tape module goes in. That amounts to every RX-8, Miata, Mazda6, Mazda3, Tribute, and possibly the Mazda Truck (Still unconfirmed), in any of the trim packages. The major differences in the Mazda sound systems between the 'base' and 'Bose' sound, is changing out speaker components, and the addition of amplifiers, while retaining the same Head Unit.

It is still possible that this module will not work with some vehicles, particularly older model years that used a different style head unit, instead of the newer fully integrated FMS audio unit (That we RX-8 owners have too). I am told that some of them may have a physically compatable connector and module, but may have used a different Tape module part number. Anyone who has an 'Unverified vehicle' and wants to get this module, and finds out that it doesn't work in their vehicle, will be more than welcome to return the unit for a refund.

Once the unit is released, we'll keep an application note on our home page which lists all vehicles and trims that the unit has been tested (by anyone who reports their results to us) to help people figure out if this module will be useful to them.

Regards,

OverLOAD

OverLOAD,
Just so im understanding you ... This module will plug into the plug where the tape deck would go, and then there would be AUX IN jacks for both a left and right channel? Or will this be in the form of a single mini stereo plug. Also, when you touch the tape button, will the display read tape or AUX? Just curious if that is something that you can do or not?

Thanks,
Frank

Originally posted by flyboyindy
OverLOAD,
Just so im understanding you ... This module will plug into the plug where the tape deck would go, and then there would be AUX IN jacks for both a left and right channel? Or will this be in the form of a single mini stereo plug. Also, when you touch the tape button, will the display read tape or AUX? Just curious if that is something that you can do or not?

Thanks,
Frank

Yes, exaclty. but two pairs of RCA plugs.

Please read my rather large post in the middle of this page. That should explain the process by which we plan on adding features down the road.

2 pairs of RCA plugs = 2 different inputs.
The module will 'appear' on the LCD screen to be a Tape module. As we do further development on the unit, we might be able to have it display whatever we choose.

Regards,

OverLOAD

I'm more than willing to purchase one of these for beta testing (and for use). I'm working on a carputer project over here too.

Hey OverLOAD,

it's me, I am back. :D

good to hear that you are making good progress.

It seem's it is not as easy to put text on the screen as we thought. So you want to buy MP3-CD unit to read the bus out?
Maybe you also can use the MiniDisc unit. It uses the same port like the Tape module and I think MD should send some text on the display.

Glad to hear that you will use RCA connectors and not that childdren's toys mini stereo. :cool:

Who makes the RX-8 headunit and its modules? I think parts are made by FMS audio (who is that?!), Clarion and Panasonic. Who makes what?!

I think there is a small difference between RX-8 base and Bose HU. The base has (maybe better luck) "just" speed dependend volume increase and the BOSE has that active noice compensation system. It seems it is not working very reliable, huh?
Maybe it is the same HU, just a little pin on the circuit board or somewhere else on the HU that switches the speed dependend volume increase off and enables to activate to AUDIO PILOT signal for the Bose amp. What do you think?
It should couse no problems with that AUX module, I think it would just be good to have speed dependend volume increase for all Bose HU owners who install aftermarket speakers/amps. In that case I bed AUDIO PILOT will work even worse and has to be turned off. So why not use at least speed dependend volume increas?! :)

rgds
Tobi

Originally posted by RX-8-Tobi
Hey OverLOAD,

it's me, I am back. :D

good to hear that you are making good progress.

It seem's it is not as easy to put text on the screen as we thought. So you want to buy MP3-CD unit to read the bus out?
Maybe you also can use the MiniDisc unit. It uses the same port like the Tape module and I think MD should send some text on the display.

Glad to hear that you will use RCA connectors and not that childdren's toys mini stereo. :cool:

Who makes the RX-8 headunit and its modules? I think parts are made by FMS audio (who is that?!), Clarion and Panasonic. Who makes what?!

I think there is a small difference between RX-8 base and Bose HU. The base has (maybe better luck) "just" speed dependend volume increase and the BOSE has that active noice compensation system. It seems it is not working very reliable, huh?
Maybe it is the same HU, just a little pin on the circuit board or somewhere else on the HU that switches the speed dependend volume increase off and enables to activate to AUDIO PILOT signal for the Bose amp. What do you think?
It should couse no problems with that AUX module, I think it would just be good to have speed dependend volume increase for all Bose HU owners who install aftermarket speakers/amps. In that case I bed AUDIO PILOT will work even worse and has to be turned off. So why not use at least speed dependend volume increas?! :)

rgds
Tobi

It's quite likely that the only difference between the Base & Bose (other than components and amplifiers) is that the Bose also has the noise cancellation microphone. The Head Unit could easily detect the presence of this, and offer the AudioPilot option, rather than the AGCLevel control. This is all head-unit stuff, and should be completely independent of this module.

It would be an interesting test though, to try removing the Bose Microphone, to see if the AudioPilot reverts to another type of gain control. If it doesn't, then it's probably the Radio Flash memory that stores the various EQ settings, and information, such as the start-up message of "mazda RX-8", which is different on the Mazda6, but has the same radio. It's quite likely that there are minor differences in the code that's programmed into the HU, for the various vehicles and trim pakcages.

In terms of figuring out the Text Display on the LCD screen, I think that the MP3 module may be the best way to go, since we all know, for a fact, that it does indeed put text on the LCD. I think the MD does too, but that's just speculation. Who here even has an MD player?? I've never even used one before, so I don't know what data it's capable of storing. Anyway, this is a project for later, we want to start from the bottom, and then work our way into more complex configurations, so that this module is rock-solid each step of the way.

As for the manufacturer of the Mazda Radios, It's all FMS Audio. You may not recognize the name, but that's ok. It's a joint venture between Sanyo, Ford, and Mazda, created to build products of this proprietary nature for Mazda (and potentially Ford too). They've been in Mazda's Stereos for at least 10 years, if not more. (My '96 MX-3 had an FMS Audio 1-DIN (Industry standard form factor) radio, which was a much easier component to change out. They have definately done a better than average job than other audio manufacturers, IMHO.. There isn't a whole lot of information about them floating around, and I suspect that the majority of it would be in Japanese if it did exist.

Regards,

OverLOAD

OverLOAD-
Thanks for all the info. I have a follow up question- since those of us with a cassette module will have to remove it, do you know if Mazda supplies a solid trim piece to replace the cassette opening piece?


Thanks...

You will probably have to get the trim piece that's standard when you have neither the tape nor the MiniDisc module. A simple plate with no opening.
You should be able to order it through your dealer - they have to find the part number for it.

Oh, something else: does anyone know what's the RMS wattage of the base head unit's amplifier? Is it about 12 or 13 watts? I'm just thinking because they rate the base stereo to be "100 watts". I bet that's 100 watts peak (if at all :D).
It's a pity there is so little information about these FMS audio components. I called Mazda and they claimed that the head unit is made by Panasonic...

Originally posted by G8rboy
OverLOAD-
Thanks for all the info. I have a follow up question- since those of us with a cassette module will have to remove it, do you know if Mazda supplies a solid trim piece to replace the cassette opening piece?


Thanks...

I bought my Tape module separately form my RX-8, so I have my original tape module cover... which may go back into the RX-8.. There's no reason why you couldn't keep the tape face-plate in. Fortunately, for people in your situation who want to get the stock trim piece back, I think it is much cheaper than the ~$60 tape module trim piece. I'm pretty sure just about any Mazda Dealer will be able to get the original trim piece for you, and I think it's only half the price, if that.. I haven't called for a quote, so that might be off a bit..

Regards,

OverLOAD

and if you remove the cassette player, the opening in the trim panel may be used for a custom panel with switches or to plug in an I-Pod
So there is no need to order a replacement panel after all

Hi Overload,

you might be right. The MP3 unit could be the better choice to find out how to display text.

Thank you for your info about FMS Audio. Ford, Mazda, Sanyo, makes sense. ;-) I did not know that.
So it is mainly Sanyo stuffs. My 93 FD has Panasonic HU I guess.
The RX-8 audio hardware IDs allow to say FMS Audio, Panasonic or Clarion. So I think FMS Audio is not the only supplier of the audio stuffs.
Maybe FMS makes the HU, Clarion the CD section and so on. Maybe also everybody makes any module, it just depends who had time or was cheapest at the moment.

Regarding the Audio Pilot switch, I think unoplugging the microphone will not switch the HU. As far as I know, the microphone plugs directly into the amp, not the HU.
I also think that all the equalization stuffs is done inside the amps.
The HU only sends the Audio Pilot turn ON / OFF signal to the amp. Maybe this function is activated by (un)connecting a pin inside the HU or - as you mentioned - the BOSE HU as slightly different software.
Would be cool to find out how to use the "simple" speed dependend volume control with the BOSE HU. Again: Not cos there could be any problems with the aux-unit, justfor BOSE owners who want to get rid of all the BOSE speakers and amps.

Maybe you should ask FMS Audio how to display text... :D

rgds
Tobi


DIN (Industry standard form factor)

That is funny. Hey, I am from Germany. DIN means "Deutsche Industrie Norm", so German Industry (Producing) Standard. :p

Just a quick note to say that all I would need is a RCA input that is controlled by using the MD button. I have an Ipod mounted in my centre console with a line out function installed. As soon as you have the ability to input into the stereo you will have my order.

OverLOAD --

Let me/us know if we can donate anything into helping this project move along as planned. Maybe start a Paypal account for people to donate a few bucks or possibly send you that CD player you want to reverse engineer.

Thanks for all the good work! This is something I so wished I had time to work on, so I envy you having that kind of time. Must be fun :)

Gudlyf

Wow, OverLORD, I have a mazda protege 5 and myself and sooo many other p5 owners would like to buy one of these cables from you when you start selling them! Let me know if you need to test your cable on a 2003.5 protege5 and I'd be more than happy to test it for you on my car. I've been looking for one of these cables for so long! You are a savior!

-DaViper

The microphone on the Bose system goes from underneath the dash on the driver's side all the way back to Bose amp. It doesn't go to the head-unit at all.

I don't think anyone really knows at this point how a replacement head unit when inserted knows whether the Bose is present or not. My suspicion is that line 1H and 1J in the following schematic form a link to tell the head-unit the Bose is there. Audio-pilot is done in the Bose amp so 1H must be the line that turns the audio-pilot on and off while 1J is likely a signal from the Bose amp that tells the head-unit that the Bose amp is in the car.

Sorry for going slightly off-topic.

-Mr. Wigggles

Originally posted by Gudlyf
OverLOAD --

Let me/us know if we can donate anything into helping this project move along as planned. Maybe start a Paypal account for people to donate a few bucks or possibly send you that CD player you want to reverse engineer.

Thanks for all the good work! This is something I so wished I had time to work on, so I envy you having that kind of time. Must be fun :)

Gudlyf

If people really are interested in contributing something to 'the cause' the mp3 player is really one of the few things that we would need to get the module to the stage where it can display on screen text. If people want to donate cash towads the purchase of an MP3 Player, or the whole mp3 player itself, PM me, and I will send you some details about how to do so. Even if you are willing to 'loan' out your mp3 player to us, we would be able to use it the reverse engineer the message structure of the mp3 player lcd screen updates, and would return it once we were done.

I don't really feel comfortable asking for anything to get this going the way we have already planned (listed before), but this might help us to get to the next stage faster, and a mp3 player would be a helpful tool.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Sure would be nice if we could somehow "tweak" the bass and treble settings of the Bose equalization. I like the speed/ambient noise sensitive feature, but don't like the settings Bose chose.

Another question for ya OverLOAD: Where will these pairs of RCA input jacks be? On the end of a cable that hides under the dash till you need it, or mounted in the cassette faceplate blank? Thanks...

Originally posted by Omicron
Sure would be nice if we could somehow "tweak" the bass and treble settings of the Bose equalization. I like the speed/ambient noise sensitive feature, but don't like the settings Bose chose.

Another question for ya OverLOAD: Where will these pairs of RCA input jacks be? On the end of a cable that hides under the dash till you need it, or mounted in the cassette faceplate blank? Thanks...

The board that we're planning on putting the place of the Tape/MD unit is so, being designed so that the RCA plugs will be directly on it, which would put it relatively in the same position as the deepest in part, of a Casette tape that was inserted in the tape module.

This would allow you to do several things, depending on your needs:

1. Run (one or both pairs of) RCA cables to a remote location, with either a mini-stereo, or RCA extention to your remote device, either in the glove box, or center console, Trunk, or wherever.

2. Run (one or both pairs of) RCA cables to the tape face plate. With the head unit out of the car (you're going to need to take it out, to put the module in, just like the tape module). You can mount either mini stereo or RCA plugs on the blank face-plate, and run those to the RCA plugs on the Aux-Board.

3. Be creative. I can't think of all uses, this is just what I'm thinking of doing.

I'm most likely going to do option #1 for both pairs of cables. One to the glove box, and one to the center console, with female mini-stereo plugs on the exposed ends of the cables.

We won't be able to sell faceplates with this unit, due to their high cost (~$20 for a blank, $62 for the Tape or MD face plate from Mazda) in comparison to our target price, and there hasn't been much interest (except from Tamas) for a customized face plate. However, anyone who ordered their car without either a tape or MD unit should have the blank. It would be very easy to drill a hole for the a mini-stereo plug, if that's what you wanted to do. Otherwise, the wires will easily route down through the back of the head unit inside the dash to the remote locations..

Regards,

OverLOAD

edit:

Sorry, I missed the first question. Most devices that you'll be using might have their own EQ capabilities, like the IPod, or the Archos (which I have). Otherwise, you could get an in-line eq. The eq will be handled by the HU as normally done, but if you wanted a more customized EQ, this wouldn't be too difficult to route a small eq into the line. I've seen it done elsewhere, but it usually doen't look stock. Our goal for this, is to look as factory as possible.

Originally posted by OverLOAD
there hasn't been much interest (except from Tamas) for a customized face plate.
Hm... I don't recall expressing any interest for a customized face plate :)
I'm perfectly fine with simply having the RCA inputs on the board because all I need is to have the AUX-IN cables run to the trunk for my MP3 jukebox :D

count me in el grande. great thread.

overload if you email me your address i will help with some loot.


beers

Ready and waiting..
I have installed my iPod into my car and I am looking forward to not using the iTrip..

See below for pictures
http://www.rx8ownersclub.co.uk/forum/viewtopic.php?t=1232

Greetings,

SIGN ME UP FOR THIS!

Just got my RX-8 2 weeks ago, and was about to order the cass unit ... until I ran across this forum in an unrelated Yahoo search. Full stop on that!

I'm an Amateur Radio Operator, and have been putting off reinstalling my ham gear until I could figure out an elegent way to integrate the audio from my radios into the sound system. Had a cass tape adapter in my former RX-7 - never really liked that.

I REALLY need a couple 1/8 mm stereo aux input jacks. The rest of the functions described sound like gravy - I'll find a use for them:D

Jeff

I'm definitely in whenever you get it up and running. I'd really like to be able to use my iPod without a FM modulator and possibly adding a second switched input for something like XM would be pretty sweet as well.

Feel free to PM me when you've got one ready!

Why doesn't someone just ask these guys?

http://www.installer.com/aux/index.html

Looks like they know what we want.

Well I called up that company listed in the previous post. The man I spoke with said that the FMM100 unit will work with any system since they do not have one especially made for the RX-8. This unit can be found here (http://www.installer.com/aux/index.html)
It is the fourth product from the bottom of the page. I might try it and if so i'll post how it works.

I found this from another forum.

http://www.blitzsafe.com/blitz_forum/display_topic_threads.asp?ForumID=2&TopicID=144&PagePosition=2

Keep in mind that this is just an FM modulator. Despite what they say I see no reason to believe its any different than any of the many others currently on the market. The project that started this thread exists mainly because people are unhappy with the quality of units just like this.

jds

Originally posted by Flawless
Well I called up that company listed in the previous post. The man I spoke with said that the FMM100 unit will work with any system since they do not have one especially made for the RX-8. This unit can be found here (http://www.installer.com/aux/index.html)
It is the fourth product from the bottom of the page. I might try it and if so i'll post how it works.

I wuld like RCA and or mini jacks

John

I just wanted to share some of our progress with you guys, since there are a lot of you tuning in to this thread.

We managed to get our software to communicate with the Head Unit tonight. We can actually switch the Head unit into tape mode now, still with the aid of a laptop computer to control the data messages.

The goals of the project for the initial implementation (basic aux-mode with simulated tape mode appearance) has proven to be feasable, and it looks like we will be able to simulate the tape module in the Aux-in module intially. We were able to simulate button pushes from the head unit, and send messages from the tape module which changed the display of the rpt, and dolby LEDs on the display, so once we get the mp3 module, and some time to reverse engineer it, we can hopefully display text too.

Just wanted to let you know that we are on schedule, and everything is looking good.

Regards,

OverLOAD

*clap* *clap* *clap*

Good to hear you are making progress! Congrats and thanks for the update! :)

P.S. Are you guys willing to share the reverse engineered information your finding out? I know that this is most of what is going to make your prroduct a success, but just wanted to ask cause I have other ideas for things to plug into that. Let me know.

serff

That great news. I'm glad you are tyring to go the extra mile and get text to display. That will be a really cool feature.

Thank you for taking on this development process. I am an M6 owner who would like to purchase your connection device, when available. I have been following the development process on www.mazda6club.com. Please e-mail me when you are ready to ship.

Hello,
This is what i found out,so far, about the connector between the HU and tape module.
It has to be tape conn of course.

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?threadid=16279&perpage=15&pagenumber=5

Originally posted by T.H
Ready and waiting..
I have installed my iPod into my car and I am looking forward to not using the iTrip..


I got tired of waiting, so I opened up the headunit itself and patched in to the CD output channels. (Kudos to OverLOAD, l8r and others for their valuable information.)

It wasn't too risky or hard (just a little soldering), it doesn't require any additional modules, cost about $10 (for the minijack extension.) The technique will work for either the Bose or base head units.

The result: seemless integration and perfect sound from my iPod. Next I plan to figure out how to pass the steering wheel controls to the iPod's wired remote input.

I'll post more info on what I did if anyone is interested.

Was it like adding inputs to the cassette player? and does is effect anything when you are playing a CD ?

Please post details, if it means taking a CD out and turning the iPod on, that's a great beginning and will work fine until Overload has the module we are all waiting for.
Thanks in advance and kudos.

Originally posted by Unser
Was it like adding inputs to the cassette player? and does is effect anything when you are playing a CD ?

Please post details, if it means taking a CD out and turning the iPod on, that's a great beginning and will work fine until Overload has the module we are all waiting for.
Thanks in advance and kudos.

It's pretty similar to the cassette hack. I tapped into the lines that feed the HU from the CD player. They are clearly marked (L, R, GND, etc.) so it wasn't hard to figure out where to solder. I have some pictures (unfortunately the one showing the exact soldering points was blurry). I verified that there was continuity from those points to the outputs from the HU using the schematic posted elsewhere.

Basically, the iPod and whatever CD you have playing share the channel, so I burned an 80 min CD of silence (which I titled: 4'33" extended remix, a Tribute to John Cage. =) Since I have a 40Gb iPod, I can't really see a situation where I'd need to bring my own CD, so there's no loss of convenience.

At this point, I no longer have a need for OverLOAD's module (it's still a valuable service for those who aren't comfortable with opening up the head unit) since I have pristine audio.

Also, has this been confirmed to work on a Mazda3? I found a link to this forum from a 3 site, but nobody had confirmed if the modules were in fact identical to the rx8/mazda6.

Please put me on the email list, I'll buy one as soon as I get my 3 if it works.

Sorry for my late jump on to this thread... I've been the on the car computer ones...

If the system in the 6 and RX-8 is basically the same there is no reason to think it'd be different in the 3. Cheaper for Mazda to use the same system over and over across all models.

The old modular stereo in the Protege is like that... used across all Mazdas of that model year... at least in Japan the Familia, Demio, MPV and Capella all had the same stereo and all have the same navigation system options.

*clap* *clap* *clap*

Good to hear you are making progress! Congrats and thanks for the update! :)

P.S. Are you guys willing to share the reverse engineered information your finding out? I know that this is most of what is going to make your prroduct a success, but just wanted to ask cause I have other ideas for things to plug into that. Let me know.

serff

I was thinking to ask the same question. As much of the reverse engineering is the product you are selling, I completely understand if you are unable to pass along any information, however, what I am looking at is not how to hack the head unit, but rather what kind of signaling is used to put messages on the display... does it still work (A/C and clock) is the HU is replaced or is some kind of "fooler" needed? what about the interface and signaling for the steering wheel controls?

Thanks

JMB

Originally posted by Japan8
I was thinking to ask the same question. As much of the reverse engineering is the product you are selling, I completely understand if you are unable to pass along any information, however, what I am looking at is not how to hack the head unit, but rather what kind of signaling is used to put messages on the display... does it still work (A/C and clock) is the HU is replaced or is some kind of "fooler" needed? what about the interface and signaling for the steering wheel controls?

Thanks

JMB

The signalling on the display is handled by the LCD controller and the connection to the LCD screen on the rear of the Head Unit. All the messages that this Aux-line-in (CD module, Tape, CDC, MD, etc) module uses communicate with the head unit to tell it what function it wants to perform. The HU then relays the message on to the LCD screen.

Still, it should be a relatively easy matter to send text to the display using the same method as the mp3 player once we get the test module to pump out the text, but it will require the use of the main HU bus, or you'll probably end up with display corruption.

OverLOAD

Originally posted by OverLOAD
The signalling on the display is handled by the LCD controller and the connection to the LCD screen on the rear of the Head Unit. All the messages that this Aux-line-in (CD module, Tape, CDC, MD, etc) module uses communicate with the head unit to tell it what function it wants to perform. The HU then relays the message on to the LCD screen.

Still, it should be a relatively easy matter to send text to the display using the same method as the mp3 player once we get the test module to pump out the text, but it will require the use of the main HU bus, or you'll probably end up with display corruption.

OverLOAD

My hope/thought is to be able to display on the LCD without the stock HU and retain the steering wheels controls on a custom unit that is being designed...

Originally posted by Japan8
My hope/thought is to be able to display on the LCD without the stock HU and retain the steering wheels controls on a custom unit that is being designed...

That sounds like a much taller order. A big test would be to leave the LCD connector unplugged when you plug in your radio and power it up. It may just be the one segment area between the bars that says off, but I don't know for sure since I havn't tried that..

You'll need to know a lot of details and message structure, protocol details, checksum calculations, signal timing, etc. You'll probably need a custom electronic interface unit to handle that. If you can make it, it's a fun project, but it would be too expensive to buy, a real TFT LCD screen would be soooo much better

OverLOAD

Originally posted by OverLOAD
That sounds like a much taller order. A big test would be to leave the LCD connector unplugged when you plug in your radio and power it up. It may just be the one segment area between the bars that says off, but I don't know for sure since I havn't tried that..


I have. The LCD gets all of its input from the head unit.

edit: I should have written LED, not LCD.

Originally posted by ectomort
I have. The LCD gets all of its input from the head unit.

Just to be sure... so that includes the A/C display data as well?

Originally posted by ectomort
I have. The LCD gets all of its input from the head unit.
Just to clarify -- are you guys talking about the LCD screen (the one that has the nav display) or the LED display (the one with the audio, a/c, & temp info? I'm sure you mean the latter, but it does get a little confusing.

I'm refering to the latter... the LED display...

Originally posted by Japan8
Just to be sure... so that includes the A/C display data as well?

I meant LED. The LED gets all of it's input from the head unit.

If the head unit is removed from the car, the LED is completely non-functional.

Originally posted by ectomort
I meant LED. The LED gets all of it's input from the head unit.

If the head unit is removed from the car, the LED is completely non-functional.

That means reaplacing the HU, means new environmental controls.. They may still work, you just won't see what they do. That may be better to take full control over the LED Segment display, if you want to completely control it, but will probably mean that there is only 1 or 2 control lines for the display, and they are all managed by the HU software, that would eb a bummer, since the only way you could control the messages completely, is to intercept the HU-LCD bus communications, and only allow the messages you wanted to get to the LED to get through, plus inserting your own messages.. not impossible, but another big job.

If it was just the middle area between the lines, it might be easier. It could still be pin driven between the different regions though. If someone wanted to experiment with their harness it might be possible to figure out, but probably not too worthwhile.

I'm planning on going the other route, and telling the HU what messages to send, rather than intercepting the HU-LED communications.

OverLOAD

Aw F&#$%@! S*&^#@^#$!... it only figures. Ford group really plans to make aftermarket stereo upgrades EXPENSIVE.

In that case it is only a matter of time before a hack comes out in the aftermarket as having just a mounting kit is pretty useless with the environmental controls displaying nada. Just gotta wait for that bit of reverse engineeing to take place...

Thanks for the info guys!

Originally posted by OverLOAD
That means reaplacing the HU, means new environmental controls.. They may still work, you just won't see what they do... I would bet that you wouldn't have to replace those. We do know that audio and HVAC are otherwise separate (separate chassis, separate controls). If there is just one connector to the LED display, and if it goes to the audio unit, then there must be some connection from the HVAC unit to the audio unit. If that's the case, odds are that the audio unit just passes the signals through, instead of processing them. So it's possible that all one would need to do is just connect those wires, bypassing the audio unit altogether.

Another thing to consider is the possibility that the LED display merely receives it's power from the audio unit (like the LCD and Japanese TV tuner units). In which case, even if it had a separate connection to the HVAC unit, it obviously wouldn't work at all when disconnected from the audio unit.

You can never tell, but I doubt that it's a setup where the HVAC sends signals to the audio unit, the audio unit receives and processes them, and then resends them in different codes to the LED display.

---jps

Originally posted by Sputnik
I would bet that you wouldn't have to replace those. We do know that audio and HVAC are otherwise separate (separate chassis, separate controls). If there is just one connector to the LED display, and if it goes to the audio unit, then there must be some connection from the HVAC unit to the audio unit.
Yes, there are two of them at the HVAC unit that join at a connector to the audio HU.
If that's the case, odds are that the audio unit just passes the signals through, instead of processing them. So it's possible that all one would need to do is just connect those wires, bypassing the audio unit altogether.
My thought exactly. A ground lead may have to be run in place of the ground to the audio HU, and maybe a power connection also.
Another thing to consider is the possibility that the LED display merely receives it's power from the audio unit (like the LCD and Japanese TV tuner units). In which case, even if it had a separate connection to the HVAC unit, it obviously wouldn't work at all when disconnected from the audio unit.
I thought about that, but it seems unlikely, since LED displays do not require separate power -- the signal provides all the power needed.
You can never tell, but I doubt that it's a setup where the HVAC sends signals to the audio unit, the audio unit receives and processes them, and then resends them in different codes to the LED display.

---jps

Agreed. That is just too convoluted for even an auto maker to do ... I think:)

Originally posted by Sputnik
I would bet that you wouldn't have to replace those. We do know that audio and HVAC are otherwise separate (separate chassis, separate controls). If there is just one connector to the LED display, and if it goes to the audio unit, then there must be some connection from the HVAC unit to the audio unit. If that's the case, odds are that the audio unit just passes the signals through, instead of processing them. So it's possible that all one would need to do is just connect those wires, bypassing the audio unit altogether.

Another thing to consider is the possibility that the LED display merely receives it's power from the audio unit (like the LCD and Japanese TV tuner units). In which case, even if it had a separate connection to the HVAC unit, it obviously wouldn't work at all when disconnected from the audio unit.

You can never tell, but I doubt that it's a setup where the HVAC sends signals to the audio unit, the audio unit receives and processes them, and then resends them in different codes to the LED display.

---jps

I've got my HU on the floor here next to me, and the HVAC controls definately connect into the main face plate board, but I think that the harnesses that connect to the environmental controls don't go anywhere near the LED screen.

The smaller sideways connector in the back of the radio is the one that plugs into the LED display (According to the wiring diagrams) and it's the only one. The wires do route to the front of the face plate, so I would bet that the LED display controller is in the front plate. The HU itself is the piece that you take out of the radio to change out any of the modules (CD/Tape/etc) The LED control module is almost definately inside the face plate, and the HU talks to it through the front connectors for the button pushes, and the LED display update.

Or so I would believe.

OverLOAD

I "signed on" back on page one of this thread and was wondering if the March availability date still looked possible.

Originally posted by RAM
I "signed on" back on page one of this thread and was wondering if the March availability date still looked possible.

Yup. We're getting pretty close, and sorting out the last details. Early March is still our target and it looks like we'll probably manage to do it.

Regards,

OverLOAD

http://static.prohardver.hu/pics/smileys/act_clap.gif
Sounds great! Can't wait...

That is great . . . the world awaits.

This sounds awesome.

Count me in.

Look forward to getting the ipod hooked up.

Will you be able to ship to the UK?

James

:)

Originally posted by jguion
This sounds awesome.

Count me in.

Look forward to getting the ipod hooked up.

Will you be able to ship to the UK?

James

:)

I havn't looked into it yet, but I don't think international shipping will be a big deal, you just have to take into account that there may be customs taxes charged on importing goods from other countries, so you'd have to pay whatever fees arose from that. Customs are never fun, and pretty difficult to avoid.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Any chance you can list all the features of your product? and on a scale of one to five, how easy will the install be (5 being the most difficult)

Originally posted by jniamehr
Any chance you can list all the features of your product? and on a scale of one to five, how easy will the install be (5 being the most difficult)

Take a look in te middle of page 8, I made a post with a summary of the main features and info up to that point.

The install is practically identical to the Tape module install. Probably a 2 or 3 out of 5 in terms of difficulty, just because the unit is so unwilling to come out of the console. It's not really tat hard, you just have to be careful. It takes about 30 minutes or so, maybe an hour if you really take your time the first time you do it.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Lots of M6 owners looking forward to the “Integrator.” Let us know when it’s ready and how to pay.

Originally posted by OverLOAD
Take a look in te middle of page 8, I made a post with a summary of the main features and info up to that point.

OVERLOAD:
Could I ask you to repost the specs on what the device does and how it will install, price etc.? I also came to this thread late and, although I did read it all early on, it's been a few weeks. Also, please note that the pages shown on the screen are not standard; I show this thread as having only five pages to date, so going to the middle of "page 8" is not really an option for me ;)

MEGAREDS,
Maybe this'll help: he started posting pics/writeup on 01-12-2004 02:39 PM. Hopefully he won't need to redo it ;)
Cheers,
-jd.

Thanks JD. I found what I was looking for at the post done on 01-17-2004 04:29 PM. I assume the target price is still around $180? Since I don't know much about audio, perhaps someone could answer (or speculate at least) as to some of my questions...

Am I correct in assuming that I can hook up an Archos Juke Box/Ipod on delivery into the new line-in, then control the Juke Box/Ipod volume and track selection through the steering wheel... If so, where will the Juke Box or Ipod draw its power? What will the wiring look like from the Juke Box/Ipod to the unit? Will the unit work with my IPAQ if I tell the software I currently use on the IPAQ to play randomly, and set the volume manually?

Thanks guys.

Originally posted by MEGAREDS
Thanks JD. I found what I was looking for at the post done on 01-17-2004 04:29 PM. I assume the target price is still around $180? Since I don't know much about audio, perhaps someone could answer (or speculate at least) as to some of my questions...

Am I correct in assuming that I can hook up an Archos Juke Box/Ipod on delivery into the new line-in, then control the Juke Box/Ipod volume and track selection through the steering wheel... If so, where will the Juke Box or Ipod draw its power? What will the wiring look like from the Juke Box/Ipod to the unit? Will the unit work with my IPAQ if I tell the software I currently use on the IPAQ to play randomly, and set the volume manually?

Thanks guys.

The original target is still $50. The 'true' cost will add the cost of shipping with the method of your choice.

Initially, the devices will not have any of the plug-in modules available, but as we complete them, we will release them. While you will be able to plug in your Archos/iPod/MP3 player/etc to get the audio source to play on the speakers, You won't be able to get track control with the head unit until you get the plug-in module that remotely controls the mp3 player.

As long as your mp3 player is accessable, you can use it's controls to manipulate it. I know it's not ideal, but we've got to start this kit with the most basic setup, and then we can increase the complexity once we've got all the details figured out, and have time to develop the plug-ins

As of this point, we have enough information to make remotes control interfaces for the Archos & iPOD, and since the protocols for all of the different remote devices are so different, we've decided to modularize it, so people can customize their own Aux-IN unit the way that they prefer.

In terms of power supply, I think that the best choice, is to use the center console power plug (hidden between the two pairs of cupholders) as the source for the power. If we were to add regulators and power management circuitry to the aux-mod board, it would be redundant since there's already ample power ports and increase everyones costs. Most mp3 devices are battery powered and portable, so they usually have well designed car travel kits that make using a standard automotive 12V power accessory plug a breeze. Someone who wants a completely stealth install could tap off the power outputs behind the front colsole power plug.

As for the iPAQ mp3 output, just think of the Aux-In module at this point, as your amplifier. It will get your audio into the car and playing out of the speakers. I don't know if the iPAQ software has the capability for remote control, but if it does, and we get enough requests, we might be convinced to make a plug-in module for the Aux-IN to control it too. I havn't looked in depth at the iPAQ offerings, so a remote might not exist, and then we have no easy entry point into the system. I know it does InfraRed, but you would neeed additional iPAQ software to control the mp3 software with that, I believe.



As for now, we're concentrating on working out the last of the details for the unit, and sourcing all the components we're going to need to make a first batch of units. The Aux-Module itself will have no wires ro cables. Just two pairs of RCA inputs for you to route where ever you like, and to convert into a 1/8" mini-jack to connect to MP3 players, etc. I'll post pitcutes of the prototype module when we get gloser.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Like some others here, I'm looking for a simple way to plug in my iPod. Don't really need remote control abilities, etc., though they'd be nice. I'm definitely up for this.

Thanks for keeping us updated OverLOAD... I'm impressed that you're able to stay on target for time and cost. I just can't wait to throw my stupid f$#&ing tape adapter away... I keep thinking someone is going to bust into my car because they can see I have something interesting hiding in my center console by following the wire.

I'm planning on buying a cassette blank cover and putting one of the mini-jacks there, and the second one into the first cupholder area where I keep my Lyra.

Watching the flood of Mazda cassette player modules on eBay in March should be entertaining : )

Originally posted by slothrop
Like some others here, I'm looking for a simple way to plug in my iPod. Don't really need remote control abilities, etc., though they'd be nice. I'm definitely up for this.


I took the simple way out. I have a cassette deck. I ran a portable mp3 cd player though it using casete adaptor to test it out. It actually sounds very nice, and I'm pleased with it. I will buy ain ipod, and just hook it to that. It's clearer then an rf adaptor, and actually sounds almost as good as the cd changer.

Well, just found this thread and read through all 13 pages, fun fun! Anyway, I'm excited for this and can't wait to own one, was considering a cassette deck for just a short while. Thanks for this thread to put that option out :)

A couple question about ordering:

I know this may not have entered your thought process yet but,
how do you plan to take orders? Will you set up a website to take orders or a paypal dontation thing or ebay or what?

Are you going to make a bunch at a time or make them as paid/ordered?

Just trying to get an idea of when your completed product is raring to go, how long I'll have to sit in a corner with cold shakes waiting for this thing :D

Originally posted by Nufan
Well, just found this thread and read through all 13 pages, fun fun! Anyway, I'm excited for this and can't wait to own one, was considering a cassette deck for just a short while. Thanks for this thread to put that option out :)

A couple question about ordering:

I know this may not have entered your thought process yet but,
how do you plan to take orders? Will you set up a website to take orders or a paypal dontation thing or ebay or what?

Are you going to make a bunch at a time or make them as paid/ordered?

Just trying to get an idea of when your completed product is raring to go, how long I'll have to sit in a corner with cold shakes waiting for this thing :D

At this point, since we don't know if we'll be getting orders for 50, or 5000 units, we're planning on making an initial batch of 25 or so, and then accepting orders. If the orders increase the volume enough, we'll outsource the building of the units. At this point, we plan to physically build them ourselved. There's probably close to an hour of labour per unit on the assembly, plus the packaging, shipping, and paperwork.

I'm planning on accepting cheque (it'll have to clear before we can ship), money order, paypal (depending on the terms).

The whole on-line credit card ordering stuff might happen too. It just depends on the magnitude of the demand for the module. It's not really worth setting up unless there is more of a longer term demand for the module.

If the demand really gets rolling, I'd rather outsource the entire manufacturing, and get some retailers involved. Then we could move a lot more volume. By ourselves we can probably handle close to 200 units per month without any help. If the actual number of orders correspond to the number of messages in this thread, I don't know if we'll get that many orders, but I'm sure that the demand will grow once we get the module 'out into the wild' so to speak.

Oh, and we will be doing the order fullfilment in the priority of peoples direct requests to be put on a waiting list. Once we accept payments, people who were on the wait-list will be given priority.

Regards,

OverLOAD

I'd like to personally thank Plasmar & Omicron for their support. With their help we've purchaed the mp3 player, and are going to get a start on reverse engineering the text message format for displaying the text on the LCD screen.

While we don't expect to be able to get the code for LCD status text control into the early Aux-in modules, the units will be firmware upgradable, and the hardware will support the text display. Once we get the software completed we will provide an upgrade to the unit to display text from the serial port.

See the attached picture,

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by OverLOAD
I'd like to personally thank Plasmar & Omicron for their support. With their help we've purchaed the mp3 player, and are going to get a start on reverse engineering the text message format for displaying the text on the LCD screen.

While we don't expect to be able to get the code for LCD status text control into the early Aux-in modules, the units will be firmware upgradable, and the hardware will support the text display. Once we get the software completed we will provide an upgrade to the unit to display text from the serial port.

See the attached picture,

Regards,

OverLOAD

Very cool... quick question- Any chance we will we be able to flash whatever text message we want into the unit when the [Tape] button is selected? Like "MP3 Jukebox" perhaps? Or maybe you guys could charge like $5-10 for this service- adding a custom message before the unit is shipped?

Just a thought...

-Sean

Originally posted by G8rboy
Very cool... quick question- Any chance we will we be able to flash whatever text message we want into the unit when the [Tape] button is selected? Like "MP3 Jukebox" perhaps? Or maybe you guys could charge like $5-10 for this service- adding a custom message before the unit is shipped?

Just a thought...

-Sean

I can't say for sure, we have to experiement with the module to see if we can do something like that. My curent impression of the MP3 players text is that it only displays the text information when you press the display button.

I'll keep it in mind, and report my findings from the experimentation on the board.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by OverLOAD
I can't say for sure, we have to experiement with the module to see if we can do something like that. My curent impression of the MP3 players text is that it only displays the text information when you press the display button.

I'll keep it in mind, and report my findings from the experimentation on the board.

Regards,

OverLOAD

I re-read my post and I wasn't super clear what I meant... Right now when I press the tape button on the stereo the LCD displays the word "Tape" or something like that. I remember you were going to look at making your module output the text "Aux-In" or something along those lines. What I was proposing was replacing the static text message "Tape" or "Aux-in" with something custom in the flash of the unit (as opposed to dynamically changing text coming in over the serial port, like song title/artist, etc).

Great progress, Overload. Just in case, I want to let you know that I definitely want one of these units. IOW, "put me on the list, please."

Originally posted by G8rboy
I re-read my post and I wasn't super clear what I meant... Right now when I press the tape button on the stereo the LCD displays the word "Tape" or something like that. I remember you were going to look at making your module output the text "Aux-In" or something along those lines. What I was proposing was replacing the static text message "Tape" or "Aux-in" with something custom in the flash of the unit (as opposed to dynamically changing text coming in over the serial port, like song title/artist, etc).

The same still applies.. After we've done the experimenting, I'l be able to say something more conclusive. It might be possible, but it might not.. It looks like the Head unit uses static messages that it uses an internally stored abel to display on the screen, but time will tell if we can override it.


Regards,

OverLOAD

Bob, sure thing..

OverLOAD, please add me to the list. Looking for this mod, is exaclty what led me to discover this Forum! Have to love Google.

If you need anything from me, please send a PM.

So just how many people are on the list now? =) Enquiring minds want to know.... especially who gets in on the first 25 =P

Where is the wait list? ;P

FOR NOW IF YOU HAVE A CASETTE DECK< JUST BUY A TAPE ADAPTOR TO RUN WHATEVER INPUT DEEVICE YOU NEED. You'd be surprised at how good it actually sounds.

Overload- I was just about to have the MP3 Player put in- I am going to order your unit no matter what, but do you think I should not get the mazda MP3 and use your unit with an after market cd MP3 player? Since I have no immediate plans to get an ipod, etc should i just go with the stock mazda unit?

Originally posted by flyboyindy
So just how many people are on the list now? =) Enquiring minds want to know.... especially who gets in on the first 25 =P

27 people have emailed me requesting to be on the wait list. However anyone who has a post with an ealy date will be able to be traced, so I will hold their position relative to the date that they first posted that they wanted a unit, if they are still interested.

Of course nothings ready yet, so please be patient.. ;)

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by emailists
Overload- I was just about to have the MP3 Player put in- I am going to order your unit no matter what, but do you think I should not get the mazda MP3 and use your unit with an after market cd MP3 player? Since I have no immediate plans to get an ipod, etc should i just go with the stock mazda unit?

We'll I spent a few hours in my car today listening to the mp3 player, and it's pretty good.

Of course the big difference between an MP3 CD player, and a hard disk based unit is pretty big, otherwise everyone would still have a portable mp3 cd player instead of hard disk based unit.

It all comes down to having technology that isn't imposing any limitations. Hard disk based units are just better that way, most people can fit their entire mp3 collection on their portable mp3 player.

It's a tough call. If I didn't have a hard drive based mp3 player, I probably would have never gotten the interest up to develop this unit. Without portable mp3 players, there wouldn't be even 1% of the demand for this kind of unit.

mp3 players are a huge discussion unto themselves, but personally I came from portable mp3 cd players, and the next logical step is definately mp3 hard disk based units. The factory mp3 cd player integrates nicely, but it seems just a bit slow on startup. I think I'll be using my hard drive based mp3 player primarily, even with the factory mp3 player.

I don't feel that I can give you an impartial answer, since I'm working on this module, and I'm biased towards HDD based mp3 players, but start a new thread, or a poll and ask what people prefer, and you will see what the majority of the people on this forum think about the subject.

Regards,

OverLOAD

OverLOAD,
I'd like to order a unit as well!

Originally posted by OverLOAD
I'd like to personally thank Plasmar & Omicron for their support. With their help we've purchaed the mp3 player, and are going to get a start on reverse engineering the text message format for displaying the text on the LCD screen.

I'm glad I could help! Good luck hacking the MP3 player!

:D

overload..i would like one too....please pm when ready to take orders...

I'll take one as soon as possible.

Count me in... just found my old MiniDisc player and it seems like it wants to get used once in a while.

Just in case my intent wasnt clear in my previous post (http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=17396&perpage=15&pagenumber=6) (my excitment got the best of me), I want one of these as well.

Thanks
Peter

Overload-

Please sign me up for one of those custom aux modules. Thanks for all your efforts!!

Yeah, I'd also like to make sure I'm on the official wait list, in case my Jan 8th post didn't make that clear (see page 5). I'd love to get in on the first batch if that's possible. : )

-Brian

add me to the list, i'm planning on building a carpc, but I'm waiting to get your module.

Count me in as well, My Nomad is begging for something better than the FM Mutilator (oops, I meant MODULATOR)

List me as another anxious consumer for your module. Let us all know when you have settled on a payment procedure.

Thanks!

-Cyderman

Ad my name to the list as well please.

Put me down for one.

OverLOAD,

Are you really keeping a list of people who say "please add me to the list?" I just think this thread is getting flooded with these kinds of posts and it doesn't really make sense any way. I would have thought that you would just post and say: "Hey everyone! We are ready to take orders! Here is the website for you to place your order." Is this what you are planning to do? I just want to help keep this thread clean and leave it open for discussion of the product and not people asking to be added to a list....

Just my 2 cents...

Must be over sub'ed by now, but put me down for one. Sooner the better..

Originally posted by serff
OverLOAD,

Are you really keeping a list of people who say "please add me to the list?" I just think this thread is getting flooded with these kinds of posts and it doesn't really make sense any way. I would have thought that you would just post and say: "Hey everyone! We are ready to take orders! Here is the website for you to place your order." Is this what you are planning to do? I just want to help keep this thread clean and leave it open for discussion of the product and not people asking to be added to a list....

Just my 2 cents...

Honestly, it's getting a little bit out of hand, but we're not ready yet, and people will still have to wait it out. The first batch is pretty much already spoken for even though we don't even have all the parts for it. Until we get a handle on all the business aspects of things, we want to keep the volume to a reasonable amount for now, until we get a real idea of how fast the ordering is going to run, and how much work this is going to be.

All I can say is I'm glad to hear that people want the unit, and once we're ready, we'll be pumping them out as fast as we can.

While I'm not putting anymore people who reply on the forum on a contact list (although I did for the first 35 people or so who provided me with email contact info), I will in the future go through the forum to amass a list of names of all the people who said they were interested to PM them of the availability.

I'm trying to keep everyone happy, including myself and my partner, which means that things may not always get done the way it might be best, or as fast as could happen if this was a full-time job, but we're comitted to making this module, and offering it to everyone who's interested in it. At the same time, I'm trying to stay within the spirit of the guidelines of the forum, until/if we get vendor status, while still trying to have fun at the same time!

Tough order, but my RX-8 is too fun to wipe ever wipe the smile off my face, ;)

Regards,

OverLOAD

Based on your response, please add me to any upcoming list and email me, bettyboophd@mindspring.com, when you make the unit available.

Thanks,
Ernest

I'd like to be placed on that list as well. Just read thru this entire thread. You are doing some amazing work. Any details on avialablity would be appreciated.

Thanks,
-D

dsiegel@tosg.com / dave2515@aol.com

Not sure if you got my name off the Mazda6 board or not, but just in case, I *definitely* want one of these. Bad! Hope that you can mfr a few extras over the initial 35... Email is rx8@datkin.net.

Hmm, seems like its going to take a while to get the units, but still :) Put me down for sure.

email: ilya@fortehost.com

Thanks.

OverLOAD, do you care to comment as to whether or not a March date still seems feasible for the early-signers?

Originally posted by eXentric
OverLOAD, do you care to comment as to whether or not a March date still seems feasible for the early-signers?

Still March. No change in plans, we're on track.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Still out here and opted in on page one of the thread. Hope that puts me on the early delivery list.

How do you make time to work, eat, build “the device” and still have time to answer e-mail? It is not necessary to answer this note. Keep up the good work. A lot of us are counting on you and your partner's imagination and skill.

Still March. No change in plans, we're on track.

Thats really good news, and quite impressive too. Thanks for replying.

Overlord I would like to at least see what one of these will look like before I purchase one. I already have a 6 disc CD changer and was thinking of either getting this or the mini-disc player. I have a huge MP3 collection and it just fits on the small iPod. I am definitely interterested.

Originally posted by RogueRX8
Overlord I would like to at least see what one of these will look like before I purchase one. I already have a 6 disc CD changer and was thinking of either getting this or the mini-disc player. I have a huge MP3 collection and it just fits on the small iPod. I am definitely interterested.

When we're ready, I'll post more info, complete with pictures, installation instructions, and the capabilities that the unit will have initially.

Regards,

OverLOAD

I just ordered my "Samsung Napster 20.0GB Digital Audio Player"
from www.bestbuy.com.

It one of two mp3 players that I know of that has a fm transmitter built in that you can use to play you're mp3 over a stereo in the car or where ever.

All you have to do is just tune in the car stereo to a specific freq and volia 20.0 gb's of fun with out having to alter the car.

Man I wish ipod had this

The FM transmitter is not the way to go... lots of interference from radio stations and poor sound quality. Stick with the iPod and wait for OverLord's product.

Originally posted by lilbigman
I just ordered my "Samsung Napster 20.0GB Digital Audio Player"
from www.bestbuy.com.

It one of two mp3 players that I know of that has a fm transmitter built in that you can use to play you're mp3 over a stereo in the car or where ever.

All you have to do is just tune in the car stereo to a specific freq and volia 20.0 gb's of fun with out having to alter the car.

Man I wish ipod had this

The iPOD does have an optional FM transmitter, it even draws its power from the iPOD.. I've seen it. Do more digging...

Regards,

OverLOAD

Well its already on its way, no biggie if I do not like it ill just take it back "best buy" is close to my job.

thanks for the input though

Originally posted by lilbigman
Well its already on its way, no biggie if I do not like it ill just take it back "best buy" is close to my job.

thanks for the input though

Yeah- I don't think you'll be happy with the built in FM transmitter... it's really, really weak. I took my Sammy Napster back and got the RCA Lyra 40GB- same price, fewer bells and whistles, and twice the storage.

You can always buy an aftermarket transmitter- I saw one at target for $29 by Belkin- made for the iPod but would work with anything with a headphone jack. Personally, I'm still holding out for this hardwired approach... the audio will be much cleaner.

Originally posted by OverLOAD
The iPOD does have an optional FM transmitter, it even draws its power from the iPOD.. I've seen it. Do more digging...

Regards,

OverLOAD

I've tried the iTrip (http://www.griffintechnology.com/products/itrip/) for the iPod in my RX-8. Truth be told, it was terrible. I spent twenty minutes trying to find "white" speace on the FM dial only to have that space become overcome by a local station once I left my garage. Too much time and effort is required to use the iTrip and when the signal is clear, it is still a step down from FM. I took mine back to the local Mac store a day later. I will gladly wait for your product OverLOAD!

Overload, will it be compatible with Mazda 3?

- if not, when shall we expect an M3 compatible device aprox?
- if so, we would like 3 and who knows...


Cheers!

The iTrip works OK for me. But I do hear some hiss that obviously won't be there with Overload's module!

Originally posted by Scuddy
Overload, will it be compatible with Mazda 3?

- if not, when shall we expect an M3 compatible device aprox?
- if so, we would like 3 and who knows...


Cheers!

It should work with any Mazda vehicle that can use the same Tape module as the RX-8. Currently I can confirm that the Mazda6 does have the same module, and we've done tests with it to verify it. I can state that it should also work with the Mazda3, Miata and others. This was mentioned by me much earlier in this thread.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Will there be room for this module behind the dash if you have the 6disk changer?

Originally posted by FONZIE
Will there be room for this module behind the dash if you have the 6disk changer?

The module goes in the place of the Tape/MD unit.. (already mentioned), so yes...

regards,

OverLOAD

I just received my iPod in the mail today with a mobile power cord and the Belkin TuneCast II FM Transmitter. Needless to say, I ended up here instead of driving around listening to my cool new system. The FM is just no good, and I just can't wait for this mod to come out. I'll stick with single CD's or the low-quality FM iPod for now, but I'll be crossing my fingers for one of these babies... (please add me to the end of your very long list: durahl88@hotmail.com)

Keep up the good work!

Durahl

p.s. While searching for ways to solve my audio quality problem I also came across this little hack for the mp3 player fm transmitters: http://www.brentroad.com/photos/00182313.jpg
...Just boosts the power of the transmitter. However, I believe it's against FCC regs to transmit that amount of power on the FM bands.

Overload,

Just wanted to POSITIVELY CONFIRM that YES, the RX8 tape module is identical on the M3, only the face plate differs. So count me in for 3 units. Waiting anxiuously for your ordering instructions, and thanks for making this thing come true.

Best regards :cool:

Originally posted by Scuddy
Overload,

Just wanted to POSITIVELY CONFIRM that YES, the RX8 tape module is identical on the M3, only the face plate differs. So count me in for 3 units. Waiting anxiuously for your ordering instructions, and thanks for making this thing come true.

Best regards :cool:

Great,

Right now we're sourcing the last few components that we'll need and hopefully we'll be building the first batch within a week or two.

Right now the holdup is on the Tape module connector, we only have 10 connectors at the moment and no reliable supply. We're working on getting a source the rest, but running into a few roadblocks, which we hope to have resolved soon.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Wow, I just tuned back into this thread that started almost 2 months ago...

Boy has it come along way.. Congrats Overload on your successes...

Chalk me up for one, k?

Yup, count me in for one too.

OverLord? Do you have pics of what this look like yet? Both out and installed..? I would love to see pics as I am sure everyone would.

I want one too!!! Whats the estimated price?

Hi OverLOAD (funny that some people read "OverLORD" out of it,


By chance I dropped by at this forum and it seems you have the solution I'm desperately looking for.

Yesterday I picked up my new baby (yello) in exchange of my S2000 (silver-grey) and since I hooked up my iPod via cassette-adapter on my S2000, I'm now looking for a solution for my RX-8, fitted with the 6-CD-system.

Please note my interest on your gadget. I hope you can post some pictures soon and can also deliver to Germany. Otherwise you probably could send to our American office in San Francisco and they'll forward it.


Best regards,

Mighty A-MAN

I've been reading this forum for awhile, and it seems like everyone's jumping on this thing. While I don't have my car yet (a few months down the road), I'd like to reserve my spot!

Thanks for all the hard work, OverLOAD.

PS. I'm not sure how you're going to be working your 'ordering' system, but if you'd like some webspace to do it, I'd be happy to donate some.

Originally posted by Mighty A-MAN
Hi OverLOAD (funny that some people read "OverLORD" out of it,


By chance I dropped by at this forum and it seems you have the solution I'm desperately looking for.

Yesterday I picked up my new baby (yello) in exchange of my S2000 (silver-grey) and since I hooked up my iPod via cassette-adapter on my S2000, I'm now looking for a solution for my RX-8, fitted with the 6-CD-system.

Please note my interest on your gadget. I hope you can post some pictures soon and can also deliver to Germany. Otherwise you probably could send to our American office in San Francisco and they'll forward it.


Best regards,

Mighty A-MAN

I'm hoping on being able to deliver worldwide, if I can figure out all the customs hoopla. However, it may be more practical to wholesale lots to more local resellers than to ship individual units around the world. Time will tell.

As far as pictures of the unit, We're pretty close to getting the early units built; probably within a couple of weeks if the orders for the rest of the components come together, and the day jobs leave enough time free in the evenings. We've really been struggling lately as we havn't had anywhere near as much time as we'd like to work on the project.

Rest assured, as soon as I have something worth showing, I will post it here.

Also, in terms of pricing and availability, I am bound by the forums rules to not disclose further information on pricing or avaialbility until/if we get vendor status.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Please add me to the list for one. I will also be in for a cellphone adapater when you make it!

Originally posted by mdmaclean
Please add me to the list for one. I will also be in for a cellphone adapater when you make it!

A couple of people have already installed a car kit: http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=18198

It's worth looking into, It may not be the cheapest, but it apparently works just fine.

We are planning on making expansion modules for the Aux-Module, but it may be several more months before a car-kit becomes available, since we're aiming at getting digital in/analog in and remote modules made first. But a car-kit module is something that we considered a possibility since day one.

Regards,

OverLOAD

Originally posted by OverLOAD
Right now the holdup is on the Tape module connector, we only have 10 connectors at the moment and no reliable supply. We're working on getting a source the rest, but running into a few roadblocks, which we hope to have resolved soon.

Regards,

OverLOAD

I had my Miata head unit (2003 4H60) out on Saturday to do some work on the car and got a good look at the connector. I bet two PCBs with traces could wedge nicely in there, one on each side. You could use some screws to attach the whole thing to the underside of the head unit to keep it in place...

I attached a photo of the inside of the unit, showing the tape connector quite well. There's lots of room in there, I bet someone could mount a small HD MP3 player in there (like an iPod) for a real stealth install!

Another thing I was considering is making up a cubby to take the place of the tape unit. Perhaps I could make it accommodate the adapter...

Stephen