What Ipod interface is best to use with the 2nd gen RL?

 

Take a look at this:

http://enfigcarstereo.com/shopsite_s...oduct2881.html

 

Thank you for the referal to this product. Do you use this? Do you prefer to control the iPod off the headunit or the iPod itself? Can you still play a cd when the iPod is connected?

 

I don't have one yet, ...as a matter of fact, I don't even have an RL... yet.

I am taking ownership of an '05 January 2nd and in the meantime I went ahead and purchased this unit. It's currently in some UPS truck and should be delivered to me some time next week. From what I understand, the adapter plugs into the back of the head unit, in the port that an external CD changer would plug into and supposedly does not knock out any functions of the head unit except for an external CD changer if you have one. The unit that I pointed you to is apparently a recently updated model. The model that I have read about in the Acurazine, is discontinued but the guys seem to think the adapter has great audio quality. Besides the reviews in the Acurazine post, you can also read reviews on the Amazon.com site.

Good luck.

 

Search is your friend; go to google and type in the search term
site://rl.acurazine.com ipod adaptor

You can vary the search terms to find out about ipod adaptors, music link, etc. or various wheels, intakes etc.

 

I forgot about the Google trick.

The AZ search function has been FUBAR for the last few days, so that is one way to handle a search.

 

I think I learned the google trick from you, Bob!

 

I had it installed about a month ago. It sounds good, but is no where near as nice as the Alpine Head Unit I had in my last car hooked up to an Ipod. You could see four lines of text and scroll though and select what you wanted on the Alpine's screen. But, nothing like that is even an option.

 

Kind of off the subject, but has anyone noticed that the input level of the ipod adapters is pretty damn low?

I bought a GROM adapter (mainly because HI/AK 05-07 RL's don't have XM). I have to turn the volume up to ~24 to get a the music to a decent level. I can't turn it up much beyond on that because the system starts getting all funny (i.e. 31 is louder than 34-37).. do you suspect this is just a problem with the cheap-o adapter I bought or is this just common with the deck?

 

I don't have to turn my up like that. It is plenty loud at 14 - 17. Dumb question, but how high do you have the volume set on the ipod?

 

During the setup procedure are you required to choose the output voltage? When I had a DICE unit in my TSX I had to choose that during setup. I beleive the choices were 4V, 0.4V and 4mV.

 

I understand there is a TON of info all over this site about EVERY ipod adapter known to man but b/c there is a ton of info so spread out it makes it tough to find the answers you need.

I'm thinking that the USA is the best option after reading 1000 posts. I do see conflicting reports on if I'll lose XM or CD. Also, will I be able to read the song titles, artist, playlist etc on the screen?

Thanks guys and be kind, I promise I've been studying this for a while!

 

I haven't lost either XM or CD and am completely thrilled with the interface.

 

Thanks man, this seems like the best option


I'm still stunned that more companies dont make a TRUE interface where it looks just like the ipod interface...oh well wishful thinking I suppose

 

Based on USA Spec's website, the PA15 HON2 does show text on the radio.

NEW MODELS AND FEATURES
PA15 HON2

Fully Compatible with new 3G iPhone, Nano and iTouch
Control, Play and Charge though the Factory Radio
Displays Text on all Honda Vehicles with a SAT BUTTON
Back word compatible - works on all non SAT Vehicles
Works on Vehicles with and without SAT Tuner
No Conflict with In Dash 6 Disc Changer or SAT Tuner
Search and Select Artist, Playlist and Song through all Honda Radios with Sat Button.
Comes with new 3G Charging cable !!
PA 15 HON2 comes standard with new iPod cable that fully charges all iPods, including the new 3G iPhone, new NANO and new 2nd Gen iTouch !! Upgrade from PA11HON2Y !!

http://www.usaspec.com/ipod.html

 

One thing I didn't see on the USAspec website was the MSRP for the PA 15 Hon2 adaptor that's advertised as the latest/best for the 2G RL. Did you see it, or do you know it?

 

IMO the USA-Spec is easy to install and works great. But I have an 05 and mine does not show text on the screen, just says EXTENSION, not sure about later model RL's.

 

FYI, this model USA-spec is $170 at Crutchfield. Installation details HERE.

 

It looks like you have the old model installed (PA11 – HON2y) just like myself. The new PA15 HON2 model adds the text display and search functions

 

I just installed the new PA15-HON2 in my 08 RL. It works just like the older PA11-HON2Y unit in the RL (no text). It can only display text on new Honda radios with a SAT button.

http://www.usaspec.com/ipod_product_sheets/PA15HON2.pdf

 

Random question - anyone know if I can use a cheap setup, perhaps plug it in to a regular outlet? I'm not sure if I want to open up the center console for installation.

 

I think for these you just have to pull off the side cover...at least I think...

 

The install is not really that bad, just don't be afraid to pull at the trim pieces hard. I just completed my install last night and the fit and finish of all console trim pieces is right on. You can't tell that I had the console torn apart.

The following URL will take you to a PDF that details how to install the Acura Musiclink but apply to the USA Spec also. The instructions will show you how to remove the trim pieces and the radio/navigation unit.

http://techinfo.honda.com/rjanisis/pubs/AI/BII31183.pdf

 

theres another thread on here with a good DIY I will try to find it

 

Will this show text on a 05RL?

 

Unbelievable!

So the car must have a SAT button, and not an XM button? This is so contrary to the impression given by the advertising:

http://www.usaspec.com/ipod_product_sheets/PA15HON2.pdf

Acura
RL 2005 – 2007 TL 2004 – 2009 RDX – 2007-09
MDX 2005 – 2008 TSX 2004 – 2008
· PA15 HON2 replaces PA11HON2Y and is compatible with all Honda and Most Acura
radios that have satellite radio, In-dash 6 disc changers, MP3 player, Navigation Units,
and Rear seat Entertainment. Same applications as PA11HON2Y plus adds Text and
New 3G Cable
· For older model Acura/Honda Vehicles, please use the PA11-HON