3G TL Audio & Electronics FAQ
This is currently work in progess... please send me a PM if you feel that a certain Q&A should be included. Thanks!
If you find your question here but it is unanswered, that means you should perform a search. :tongue: To prevent clutter and repetitive posts, I have created the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ). It is a supplement to The 3G TL Garage: FAQ. You may want to check there first. This FAQ is divided into 4 main categories: 1. AUDIO iPod, aux-in, mp3, DVD-Audio, speakers, subwoofers, amps 2. NAVIGATION & VIDEO hacks and mods, DVD video, backup camera 3. HFL/BLUETOOTH pairing and linking cell phones 4. OTHER ELECTRONICS voice commands, radar detectors, LEDs Last updated 01/07/2009 |
AUDIO: Part I
Q: How do I add iPod support? A: There are a few options for iPod integration with the car. The factory option is to go with the MusicLink. The aftermarket options include USA Spec PA11-HON2y, Blitzsafe HON/MLink1 V.2X, Harmon Kardon Drive+Play, and the Valor iLink. The audio interfaces allow you to listen to your iPod through the factory headunit, charge your iPod, and provide limited controls. Currently, it is not possible to integrate the iPod with touchscreen control support from the factory navigation screen. Here is a quick summary of the modules. Simply click on each module for the respective threads. Acura MusicLink The highly anticipated Acura MusicLink turned out to be a major disappointment to the Acurazine community. The MusicLink allows you to integrate iPod controls to the factory system via CD-C (external CD changer) emulation. Due to its price and lack of features, most members choose other aftermarket solutions. Pros: Factory option, Plug-n-play, great sound quality, keep XM radio with Y-harness Cons: $$$, Difficult to use/navigate through songs, no track/album/artist titles, shows track title up to track 99 and reloops. Details here Other Relevant Threads: Music Link "OK to Disconnect" Fixed MusicLink Music Link Experiment Acura Ipod Music Link for 2004 TL Peripheral PXAMG / iSimple A recent product that is gaining some popularity. Other Relevant Threads: Just installed: Peripheral Electronics (iSimple) IPOD adapter: review/install tips... Peripheral Electronics PXAMG vs. USA-Spec PA11 Hon2y DICE vs. USASpec vs. Peripheral DICE iPod Adapter with Text Display This new product has been gaining a lot of popularity within the last few months. iPod integration like the USA Spec PA11-HON2y (below) and artist/track information. Can you see why? Click the title above for details. Other Relevant Threads: USA Spec PA11-HON2y The PA11-HON2y is an upgrade to the popular USA Spec PA11-HON2. The newer model fixes interference and locking issues as well as adds an integrated XM Y-adapter. Both models provide iPod integration as well as an extra auxillary input for another audio device. Two play modes are allowed: direct mode or playlist mode and can be controlled by a toggle switch on the module. The playlist mode works like the MusicLink and allows you to navigate the songs with factory controls. The direct mode allows direct control from the iPod itself. Pros: Direct control via iPod, keep XM with Y-adapter, Plug-n-play, cheaper than MusicLink, great sound quality, extra aux-in for another audio device Cons: CD-C emulation track issue similar to MusicLink, no track/album/artist titles Other Relevant Threads: Blitzsafe HON/MLink1 V.2X Probably one of the more affordable and simple solutions out there, the Blitzsafe MLink provides an iPod connection to the factory headunit and with the built-in Y-adapter, XM is retained. All controls are done via the iPod itself. There have been a few revisions of this module. Some have reported flawless operation ('04 TL) while others encounter bugs (mostly '05-'06 TL). Pros: Direct play mode, keep XM, one of the cheapest modules out there Cons: CD-C emulation track issue similar to MusicLink, no track/album/artist titles, no factory controls Other Relevant Threads: The following modules allow iPod support, but require additional hardware Blitzsafe UII Universal iPod Interface This is usually an option for someone that already has an aux-in interface (see below) and would like to add iPod support. The Blitzsafe UII uses RCA connections and requires another aux-in interface (PIE X3, Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX) to connect to the factory headunit. This module charges the iPod and all controls are based on the iPod itself. Pros: Direct play mode, charges iPod, not expensive Cons: no track/album/artist titles, no factory controls, requires another aux-in interface (more cumbersome), requires a power/ground connection for iPod charging Other Relevant Threads: Valor iLink This iPod module requires a separate video interface AND another aux-input interface, but it displays the contents of the iPod on the factory navigation screen via RCA cables. Pros: Displays track/artist info, navigation is similar to iPod interface, play video from the iPod Cons: Requires a video interface and another aux-in interface, remote control (no touchscreen support), requires a car adapter Other Relevant Threads: Ilink finally Installed!! TVandNav2Go, Valor iLink, DVD Changer, and PIE X3 & Jensen A/V Switches Installed iLink NOT Compatible With New iPod Nano or 80GB Color iPod; All Other Models Ok Valor iLink does not work with new iPOd software 1.2.1 Harmon Kardon Drive + Play and Drive + Play 2 The Drive+Play is a general iPod integration kit not designed for any car in particular. The kit includes everything you need to add iPod support to your car. The Drive+Play 2 is the lastest version and is soon to be released. Pros: Display album/track info on its own display, aux-in/wired FM/wireless FM support. On D+P 2: wireless controller, bigger full color screen, album art display, usb flash memory support, optional bluetooth and sirius support. Cons: "Bulky" - display screen, media hub, and controller, pricey Other Relevant Threads: Bought HK Drive + Play: Someone Please List EXACTLY what I need for 3.5mm Install Drive+Play, audio inputs, and Lots of questions.... Q: How do I add support for my non-iPod portable MP3 player (aux input)? A: There are currently a few aftermarket interfaces that will add auxiliary input(s) to the factory head unit: Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX and the P.I.E. X3. Anyone using Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.2X for AUX? Blitzsafe Hon/aux DMX V.2 does NOT work on 06 TL non navi BlitzSafe Adjusting Firmware for the DMX V.2x; Eliminates the XM Bleed Issue It is also possible to splice into the factory wires to add an aux input. See this thread for details:Q: Where can I buy these aftermarket audio interfaces? What online stores would you recommend? Q: How do I access the back of the head unit to install an audio interface? A: There are a few good posts: Looking 4 Instructions to Access back of Radio/NAV to install USA Adapter for ipod Q: Which Factory Sound Processor for factory Integration?Crook's Picture Howto for the USA Spec at posts 92-93 jmbnova's Comptech Short Shifter Howto A: There are a few good posts: |
AUDIO: Part II
Q: How do create a usuable disk containing many songs? A: Unfortunately, the '04-'06 TLs do not support MP3 CDs. Instead, there is support for another audio disk standard called DVD-Audio or DVD-A. These special disks can be purchased in stores and with the help of some software, they can also be created (with the right software and disk). Please see the questions below for further details. With the introduction of the '07 TLs (Base and Type-S), CDs containing MP3 files are supported. DVDs containing MP3 files are not supported, but DVD-A support remains. Q: What is a DVD-Audio? How is it different from a DVD-Video? DVD+R? DVD-R? DVD-RW? DVD+RW? A: Without getting into the specific details, DVD-Audio (or DVD-A for short), is very similar to DVD-Video (or DVD-V for short). They are both DVD formats; one is optimized for high quality audio whereas the other is for high quality video. Most home DVD players, will play DVD-Video and audio DVD-Video (like its not confusing enough), but very few can play DVD-A. The factory head unit in the third generation TL supports DVD-A (not DVD-V). Just like DVD-V, DVD-A can be created using DVD media types: DVD-R, DVD+R, their rewritable variants (+/-RW), and dual layer DVD+R DL. Most members are having better luck with name brand DVD-R (TDK, Memorex, Fuji, Verbatim, Maxell, etc). Although the '07+ TL supports CD-Text (artist/track info), there is no "DVD-Text" display. It is not possible to view artist/track information with DVD-A in the TL. Synopsis: DVD-Audio is a format like DVD-Video and can similarly be created with the right software and hardware with different blank DVD media types (DVD-R being the most favorable). For more details about DVD-Audio, check out these links: Q: How do I create a DVD-A? A: There are a few retail software that will allow you to create DVD-A disks: Ulead Burn.Now 2.0+ (available as stand-alone or included in Ulead DVD MovieFactory Creator) and Cirlinca DVD-Audio Solo. As for free software, perform a search for threads created by member Adobeman. He is a DVD-Audio guru and has graciously created free software to create them. You will find updated links to his software by clicking on the link to view his user profile. The links from his user profile are copied here: My DVD-A GUI to make DVDA Disks Or Try the Original Flavor Try the Adobinizer, it's Fun (2.0 to 5.1 Audio Converter ) Q: The above mentioned software is for PC, what software is available for Macs? A: Two good threads to read: Q: I'm looking for stores (locally and online) to purchase retail DVD-As. Do you have any recommendations? A: Here are a few threads to start, but theres more with a search. DVD-Audio Titles: Some new DVD-As from AIX Records DVD-Audio Stores:Dvd Audio Suggestions DVD Audio CD collection????? DVD titles that are worth money over CD new dvda recommendations Best Dvd Audio Music In Your Collection Favorite DVD-A listing thread... Crystal Method - Legion of Boom - DVD-A dvd audio @ amazon.com DVD Audio CD collection????? Best Store (Online or Traditional) With The Largest Selection of DVD-A's Q: Why doesn't the head unit continue onto the next group after all of the tracks of the current group have finished? How do I switch between groups on a DVD-A? A: The head unit's support of groups on a DVD-A is a bit quirky. Upon finishing the tracks of a group, the head unit will move onto the next disk! To switch between groups of a single DVD-A, press and hold SCAN and REPEAT buttons. Q: What are the sizes of the stock speakers? How do I replace them? A: Here are a few good threads to start with: Question...Speakers? ELS stock speaker specs - size/imped/depth DIY: Aftermarket Amp Install, Speaker Install, AudioControl Matrix Install w/ PICS! Has Anyone Upgraded Factory Speakers? Another Tweeter/Center Channel Upgrade Q: Is it possible to upgrade/replace the factory sub? What options are there for aftermarket subs? A: Here are some informational threads to start: Man I hate the sound of our sub........ Need more bass while looking stock... My Subwoofer upgrade in stock location with custom sealed enclosure I want to add just a sub... Infinity Basslink? Yes or No? Anyone regret adding subs?? Big problems... need help (Sub + Noise Cancellation) Q: Is it possible to upgrade/replace the factory amp? What options are there for aftermarket amps? A: Here are some informational threads to start: Details on the stock TL amp Help! Aftermarket Sub and Amp Installation! my custom audio system upgrade w/ 3sixty! Q: Can I convert XM to Sirius Satellite Radio? A: There are a few links in The Garage. It might not be worth the effort: It's Official! XM And Sirius Are Merging - MERGED THREAD Q: How can I add Sirius Satellite Radio support? |
NAVIGATION & VIDEO
Q: Is there a hack to remove the OK button nag screen when my navigation is loading? A: Depending on the version of your navi, there might be. Here is a good place to start: Navigation Hack Guide: Welcome Screen Mod, Trip Computer, OK Button Nag Removal Q: The brightness on my navigation is set to AUTO, yet my screen does not change at night. What am I missing? A: Your console brightness is set to MAX. Simply press the MAX button and you will notice that the navigation screen dims when you turn on your headlights. The button can act as a toggle switch that overrides the AUTO setting when you need to have your lights on during the day. Q: I would like to add the factory navigation to my non-navi, is this possible? A: :yes: A few members have done so. Some of their threads can be found in The 3G Garage and well as performing a search with keyword conversion. Q: How do I add DVD/media player support? A: There are three main parts required to add dvd/media player support: video module, audio module, dvd/media player. In order to add video input to the factory navigation system, you will need to purchase a video interface. The video interface will provide the video RCA connections. The most popular is Dom's TVandNav2Go module - as known for short as Dom's unit, Dom, Nav2Go and variations thereof. Since he is a vendor on here, you will find group buys here for this module here: Sponsored Sales & Group Buys. In order to add audio input(s) to the factory head unit, you will need to purchase an audio interface. The audio interface will provide the audio (usually RCA, but can be aux-in) connections. They are outlined in the Audio section of this FAQ. I would recommend Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX if you don't care for iPod integration, USA Spec PA11-HON2y for iPod + one aux input, or PIE X3 for three aux inputs. Lastly, is your media device. With the two main modules above you can then incorporate DVD/PS2/XBOX/Carputer/Mediagate to the factory system. Here are some threads on Dom's TVandNav2Go with DVD players: Diy: Dom's Pnp W/ Pictures!!! 3G Garage #I-157 DVD Conversion Install Complete in Lower Compartment Below Radio - Pictures Included! TVandNav2Go, Valor iLink, DVD Changer, and PIE X3 & Jensen A/V Switches Installed DIY: DOM (TVnNAV2Go) Unit Installed in the 2007 TL-S Q: How about support for video from other media devices/players? TVandNav2Go, Mediagate MG-25P, and PIE X3 Installed Q: I have navi and a video iPod. How do I display videos from my iPod on the navigation screen?Microsoft Zune installed into Nav screen w/pics 2005 TL w/NAV - Xbox Project (The Quest Begins...) Using PSTwo (new slim one) as DVD in glovebox People who watch DVD's/PS2 in your TL. Mediagate MG-350HD A: With a video module like the TVandNav2Go, adding support for the video iPod is not difficult. Here are some threads that discusses the details: PIEx3 vs PA11-HON2Y Rookie basics - IPOD Video thru Navi System Other iPod Interfaces: DLO Homedock Deluxe and Griffin TuneCenter Q: How do I add a backup camera? A: Here are some good threads to study: Rear camera installed... (lotsa pics) Q: How do I add TV to the navigation?Diy: Dom's Pnp W/ Pictures!!! DIY: Backup Camera with Dom's TVandNav2Go PNP Install A: Here are some good threads to study: INSTALLED: AVELECTRONICS video switcher, with TV Tuner... Awesome! DVD player with TV-Tuner. Your thoughts Satellite TV Q: How do I install a carputer or carPC (for non-nav and navi)? A: Here are a few good threads: months later, finally pics of my 3G TL carPC 2005 non-navi *carputer* install My CarPuter Install on a non-navi =P My carpc mod CarPC installed into 3G TL with Navigation Another Acura PC Q: Do I need to update my navigation DVD? What updates are available? Do I have the most recent DVD released? A: Click here to launch Alpine's navi website Q: Is it possible to add XM Nav Traffic (from the RL, MDX) to the '04-06 TL? A: No. All threads on Nav/XM Traffic on the TL - MERGED Q: Is it possible to add XM Nav Traffic (from the '07 TL) to the '04-06 TL? A: See question: Is it possible to add MP3/XM Nav Traffic/backup camera from the '07 TL and install it into the '04-'06 TL? |
HANDS FREE LINK [HFL] / BLUETOOTH
Some Specs Pulled from the Manual: Bluetooth and HandsFreeLink
The manual does not discuss the situation where there are multiple paired phones. It could give priority to the first phone that was paired to the system or to the most recent phone that was linked. Q: How can I store delays and symbols (#'s and *'s) with the numbers in the phonebook? A: The voice command "pause" will insert a delay between dials. A # can be inserted via the voice command "pound"; "star" for *. Here are two good threads with tips: Can you enter a pin with the HFL after connecting to a number? Recent Popular Bluetooth Phones:Can symbols be entered into Phonebook memory? iPhone works like a charm in '05 TL! Blackberry (crackberry) 8830 Treo 700wx with TL HFL LG enV VX9900 LG Chocolate - MERGED Blackberry Pearl The MOTOROLA Q Is Released MERGED Attention Motorola Q Users...Upgrade your Phone Software!!! Verizon LG VX8300 Verizon KRZR K1m Status Razr V3M Pairing Problem RAZR V3m for Verizon—a few questions on customizing new verizon version of razr? 06 TL Bluetooth Call Display Problems Samsung A930 vs. Motorola Razr Issues with Motorola Razr V3 Telus - Motorola RAZR V3c - pairing issues? Call Waiting, Call Dropped; Razr V3 Problem: Pairing Razr V3c with '05TL |
OTHER ELECTRONICS
Q: Do you have a list of all the possible voice prompts? A: See this thread: Voice Prompts Q: Is it possible to add MP3/XM Nav Traffic/backup camera from the '07 TL and install it into the '04-'06 TL? A: [OUTDATED] It has yet to be proven, but the newer system seems to be integrated such that to obtain full functionality of the '07 system, a majority of the system will need to be upgraded. The headunit needs to be upgraded to incorporate MP3 functionality; the navi DVD drive needs to be upgraded to use the new 4.X system and the backup camera; the XM module needs to be upgraded to add XM Nav Traffic. The costs to do such a revamp will run in the thousands. More details can be found in the following threads: Q: How do I hardwire my radar detector? Q: How do I add blue/white LEDs?Q: How do I make the backup lights brighter? |
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