Custom Aux-In Module
01-02-2004, 02:31 PM
#51
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Originally posted by rotarygod
I'm all for the idea but just so you cover your ***, 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!
I'm all for the idea but just so you cover your ***, 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!
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
01-02-2004, 02:35 PM
#52
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Originally posted by kristopher_d
not too much better than just picking which aux input you want with some kind of **** 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?
not too much better than just picking which aux input you want with some kind of **** 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?
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
Last edited by OverLOAD; 01-02-2004 at 02:46 PM.
01-02-2004, 02:47 PM
#53
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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
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
01-02-2004, 05:22 PM
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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!
01-02-2004, 05:32 PM
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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!!!!
Happy NeW YeAr!!!!
01-02-2004, 09:28 PM
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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
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
-Jerry
01-02-2004, 10:59 PM
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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
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
01-04-2004, 11:41 PM
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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
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
01-05-2004, 11:53 AM
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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!
Last edited by onepunchx; 01-05-2004 at 05:53 PM.
01-05-2004, 12:08 PM
#62
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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
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
01-05-2004, 01:17 PM
#63
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!
)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!
01-05-2004, 03:14 PM
#64
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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 )
)
01-05-2004, 04:52 PM
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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.
01-05-2004, 07:17 PM
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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...
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...
01-05-2004, 10:35 PM
#67
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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
The module is coming along, and without a doubt, you'll want some superb high-quality music to pipe into it.
OverLOAD
01-06-2004, 08:07 AM
#68
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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
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 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...
01-07-2004, 11:49 AM
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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
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
01-07-2004, 01:27 PM
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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 ***** to do the tape deck mod yet.
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 ***** to do the tape deck mod yet.
![[iG]'s Avatar](data:image/svg+xml;utf8,<svg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 50 50'><circle class='avatar-circle-default' fill='%23c9b072' cx='25px' cy='25px' r='20px'></circle><text class='avatar-text-default' x='49%' y='53%' fill='white' text-anchor='middle' alignment-baseline='middle'>[</text></svg>)
This is perfect! When you finish this, you got another customer
01-07-2004, 10:40 PM
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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
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
01-07-2004, 10:51 PM
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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.
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.
01-07-2004, 11:52 PM
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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
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
