jgibbons

I want to install my IPOD mini into my RX8 before a trip in February. Sadly, I'm not impressed by the product offering in the market. The Auxmod Advanced is over a year behind schedule, the Neo Ion/Icelink/Audiolink solutions don't support text display and have little problems of their own, and the factory IPOD solution is (sorry for those who like it) lame. I don't care about $$$ to do this install, I just want a good IPOD solution that doesn't compromise decent quality and features. I'm not a huge fan of the HK drive + play option, but it allows me to do two (2) things: get text display from my IPOD, and allow me to plug in an after-market Sirius satellite radio which I am mounting in the ashtray location. I'll hardwire the D+P into the RX8 as FM modulation or adaptors are a waste of time. I'd like to kindly ask the RX8 community a couple of questions though. I've been using the search function within the forum, but haven't found the answer I want (nor did google help). >>>Are there are any glaring issues with installing this solution over others? Do the steering wheel controls still work (as it uses the EXT CD Changer input?) Any issues with Sirius plugging into this unit? Do the IPOD's controls still work after being plugged in? or do you have to use the D+P control exclusively? Is there a new version of the D+P expected shortly to fix any bug related issues? or is it firmware upgradeable?<<<< Thanks everyone. I was really hoping that the Auxmod Advanced would be available, but I'm too impatient to wait any further.

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Phiend

I've installed the H+K in my 2006 Shinka. (see my post elsewhere on this forum). I used the FM Mod in the H+K for awhile (hardwired into the radio antenna input), but still had interference issues when I was near radio towers.

I bought the AUXMod Basic kit, when it finally went back into production, and BOY AM I HAPPY! No interference, and the audio levels are better and cleaner than they were with the FM MOD. I left the FM MOD hooked up, just so I could make comparisons. (I'll remove it later)

Strongly advise getting the AUXMod Basic. I couldn't wait for the advanced anyway. The H+K gives me all the functionality I need. It's better than the steering wheel controls, because with those, all you can do is switch playlists. This way I get full iPod menus.

thebiggdaddy

I'm very confused Phiend. what is the difference between the "HK D+P" and the auxmod basic kit? let me know. thanks.

irfan

if you arent getting the steering wheel controls.... why not just mount your ipod and control it directly? either way you will need to control the ipod either thru the ipod direct, or thru HKs **** system.. and then wire it into an RCA in.. both give u text on a screen (HK display, or the ipod itself).. both full menus, both input thru FM or RCA... why get the HK kit at all if mounting the ipod gives the exact same thing?

i coudl understand if u were getting steering controls or factory LCD display, but ur not.

Phiend

Big Daddy,

The HK Drive + Play has 3 ways to get the output into your system:
1. wireless RF through the radio tuner
2. Wired RF with an antenna adapter, using your radio tuner
3. Direct input

In order to use direct input on the RX-8 you need a way to access an aux input on the RX-8 radio, which doesn't come with an aux input from the factory. I used the SYLFEX AuxMOD. The Auxmod comes as a BASIC or ADVANCED. (I have yet to see the Advanced kit). The basic kit just allows you to use the tape input on the bottom of the radio for a direct input (without the Tape/MD installed). I opted for this since I have the Sirius/Bose option and didn't want to lose that capability.

Phiend

irfan,

The HK D+P is a cleaner looking install than most of the ipod mounting kits, and a whole lot easier to run the menus with the HK controller than the iPod itself. Especially when you're driving at 80+. (That iPod click wheel can be touchy and sensitive)

Plus, the HK display is easy to mount in a location that is safe to look at and still keep your eye(s) on the road, whereas most of the iPod mounts will be lower on the dash or in the general vicinity (even with a stalk), and kind of balky with vehicle vibration, etc.

I agree that the AuxMod Advanced is not needed and is superfluous to the application.

Nergal

I just installed the HK drive & play through the hard wired fm modulator. It sounds SO much better than the wireless connection. It is still not as good as a direct connection, but gives me a great option. I like having the display mounted just to the left of the steering wheel, just above the vent. Easy to glance in that direction and read the display. No problems noted so far, except possibly for some slight hissing between low songs and relatively quiet spaces in the songs, slightly more than the tape connection. I plan to invest on a direct connection next, to suplement the D&P. I did get it at BB for eighty something dollars (they price matched Target on both. I would have liked the H&K2 but for the price difference I thought it was a good deal.
Nergal

dragonsleep

Wrote a note the other day to sylflex auxmod to get on the advanced waiting list and mailer daemon said it could not deliver the message. Is auxmod basic still alive? Anyone recieved one lately? I'm ready to jump on the basic. Anyone bought the Axxess md/tape button hack?

Solidtrance

I had the Drive + Play installed about a month ago (could have done it myself, but didn't want the hassle). A few things to note:
1. The FM modulator (wireless) sucks. It does not work well in any car, but is terrible in our car because of the 8's ant config.
2. Be careful who you take this install to. If the shop is not familiar with 8's they could do some serious damage to your dash.
3. The unit is great. It works much better than any other that I have seen. Even better that my buddies Alpine radio that has built in Ipod control.

sleeperx8

i emailed sylfex about the auxmod basic as well, finally got a reply after two weeks:

while it's nice that i was eventually replied to, it makes me worried that i'll have a really slow turn around in receiving the auxmod.

and solid... u should have just done the install yourself. it's really not a hassle at all. but yea, other than the wireless, the unit is flawless.

CostasX8

dragonsleep : I ordered the Auxmod a while ago...Took one month to deliver but in Europe so it is almost usual...Try to contact erik at erich@sylfex.com .

dragonsleep

Thanks. I don't mind waiting. Been procrastinating about this since I saw it, waiting for the advanced. But my screen doesn't display track titles so what's the point in using steering wheel controls anyway. Saw the hack at www.whatsmyip.org/ipodrx8/ and it looks easy enough. Gonna go for it.

dragonsleep

Now I'm gonnna install. Popped off the plug by the glove box and it's the same size as a cigarette lighter. Thinking of putting a marine female plug there and an ipod mount. Sirius radio is in the ash tray. Probably will split the jack and just turn one off when the others on. Mostly use the sat radio anyway. Any thoughts, experience???

dragonsleep

used the link above (whatsmyrip.com). Did steps one thru 5. Here's a pic of the anti theft bolt stud, nut removed. Can't get head unit to release on upper left of front. even with two people I don't think it's gonna turn loose. I have Nav unit but I can't tell that's what's holding it. Any Ideas?

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w0rm

afaik the anti theft is a screw not a bolt+stud, left hand side of the HU.

I lost mine into the carpet removing it and just never replaced it, it isnt needed really.

dragonsleep

Got a reply under a new thread I started. Thanks tho. and I see how a bolt could go down in there and get lost. These connectors can be a pain. I'm sure once you disconnect these a bunch you get the hang of the release.

RA-Eight

I installed this in my wife's MZ3. She likes it. I recommend using the P.I.E adapter for a direct line-in for best sound.