iPod Install

[perfectlyfrank]

I finally got around to hooking up my 20gb iPod in the Z after spending endless hours turning most of CD collection into mp3's. I've now got close to 4,000 songs to take on the road with me.

I looked into different FM Modulators and decided on the JVC KS-IF200 because it has 8 different frequencies to choose from, 3-step level-matching control and auto power on when an audio signal is detected. This was the most important thing, since I didn't want a separate on-off switch for the modualtor. It was really hard to find. Every place I tried, including Crutchfield was back ordered. I ended up ordering it directly from JVC and over paying for it.
http://www.allowmetobefrank.com/mod.jpg

I was a little weary about tearing my dash apart, but it was pretty easy, thanks in part to these awesome instructions from Scafremon. http://www.scafremon.com/dashremoval/dash_removal.htm . The only thing different for me was, with the Nav you have to pop out the control panel to access a couple of the screws. I only needed to pull it out this far to access the antenna plug on the back of the radio.
http://www.allowmetobefrank.com/dash.jpg

I mounted the modulator up on the side bolster, under the dash, so I can access the switches if I ever need to change the modulation frequencies.
http://www.allowmetobefrank.com/mod_mounted.jpg

I ran the audio cable up under the dash and through the opening behind the gadge cluster. I used little zip ties to attach the mounting bracket to the vent.
http://www.allowmetobefrank.com/ipod_mounted.jpg

I decided not to permanently run the power cable, since the iPod is good for about 10 hours. I installed a power adapter in a better location under the dash for those long roadtrips where it needs a charge.
http://www.allowmetobefrank.com/power.jpg

The sound quality is suprisingly good considering I'm using FM modulation and am obviously limited by the sound quality of the Bose as well.

All hooked up and playing my trademark song.
http://www.allowmetobefrank.com/ipod_screen.jpg

[Scafremon]

Frank,

What bit rate do you save your MP3's at?

I'm new to this, and want to start loading some mucis on my computer hard drive.

[perfectlyfrank]

I go with 128. It seems to be the best balance between sound quality and file size.

I also couldn't live with the sound quality from FM modualtion and decided to replace the whole system: http://www.350zfrenzy.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1242

[Scafremon]

Originally posted by perfectlyfrank
I go with 128. It seems to be the best balance between sound quality and file size.

I also couldn't live with the sound quality from FM modualtion and decided to replace the whole system: http://www.350zfrenzy.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1242

I really didn't want to replace my head-unit and/or speakers. But, after loading some music onto my car computer, and playing it back with the FM Modulator, I'm quickly coming to the same conclusion you came to. Maybe I've got something set wrong on my modulator (though the only setting is volume), but the music sounds more like AM then FM. I've loaded (4) CD's onto my hard drive, and the funny thing is, I can't get myself to take the actual CD's out of the car! I know that if I want to listen to these CD's, I will load the original CD in the dash before playing back the same music through the computer/modulator.

Today was the perfect example. After a nice long weekend, the weather was in mid 80's, and I bought a CD (Rush 2112 - an old favorite) at lunchtime. Driving home from work, with the windows down, I'm playing and copying the CD to the computer. It sounded so bad, that I found myself turning down the volume at stop lights so I wouldn't be embarrassed if someone in a car nearby heard it. "Nice Ride - shitty stereo" I could almost hear them muttering.

Yep. A new head unit wasn't in the budget, but is going to be a requirement if I am going to get any music use out of this car PC.

Having said that:

I've got a Clarion FM Modulator for sale if anyone is in need. It's really an awesome unit! Plugs in nicely, no antenna adaptor required. Has a volume adjustment. Make me an offer? Please?

[Grey Matter]

Frank,
How does the iPod sound with the direct input? I tried a wireless FM mod and it was no good. Right now I am using a cassette adaptor and it is ok, just like a good tape. I am holding off on doing a wired FM mod until I decide about going aftermarket. Also waiting to see what comes out for the gen3 iPods in the way of connectors (it has a line out on the stand).

[perfectlyfrank]

It sounded OK with the wired FM modulator, but it still had the limitations of the Bose radio. I ended up replacing the entire Bose system and going with a HU that has AUX inputs. It sounds amazing now. http://www.350zfrenzy.com/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1242

[ZSpot]

Nice! Any thoughts for my iPAQ? Besides buying an iPOD!