hey, i read some of the other posts about ipod connections that didn't work, but never did gather a definitive answer on what does work. all i want is a way to plug in my mp3 player. i really don't care about operating it through the stereo, since i can operate it on the player just fine. also, i don't want a connection that is made strictly for the ipod either, as i may switch to another player in the future. so in short, what i'm looking for is an affordable, simple connection that will provide good sound quality and have a relatively universal connection, such as a headphone input jack or a usb port, and it has to work on an '05 tl w/o navigation. suggestions, anyone? thanks!
NATE

 

Tape adapter works fine...might as well use what they gave us. I got one from my XM car kit in my last vehicle, so it lives in my TL when I decide to bring along a MP3 player.

 

Or you can ditch the XM and modify the wiring harness that goes to the XM receiver to make an aux input...

 

i've got a tape adapter already, but i haven't been very impressed with the sound quality. i guess what i'm wondering is more how to replace the wiring harness and with what. are there any options besides scrapping my xm? i don't use it, but i don't want to make any irreversible changes to my car, especially deletions. thanks!

 

I installed the USA Spec and really like it. Has both an aux (3.5MM input) and an IPOD connector so that I can use the steering wheel controls. No artist/title text though because it utilizes the CD Changer versus disabling XM radio.

I think it is awesome - great $120 mod.

 

Dice R4 is the way to go!!

 

forgive my lack of knowledge, but will using the cd changer with the usa spec mess at all with the function of the changer itself? and will the kit work in an '05 w/o nav? if so, i think that sounds like a guaranteed hit.

 

The USASPEC will not mess with the cd changer at all, its a good solid unit you will love. Just make sure to mount it firmly as its metal and anything touching it can cause rattles later on.

 

How is the quality on the tape adapters? Better than FM radio I hope?

I'm waiting for the new Peripheral unit to come out but I need something to hold me over until then. I can't believe there isn't an Aux-in port.

 

yeah, i couldn't believe it either. i looked seriously at an '05 tsx when i was buying my '05 tl, and the tsx has aux input. why the higher quality, better appointed tl doesn't have one, i have no idea. but i've used the tape adapter for a while in my old '02 tl, and overall it works pretty well. of course, you get a little bit of the classic tape deck noise, but it's pretty good. no interference like fm transmitters. my one tip would be to buy a decent one. when you buy them for five bucks, you get what you pay for. but by the same token, there's no need to spend fifty frosties on one either, especially if it's just a temporary fix. hope this helps!

 

The USA Spec utilities the CD-Changer input, not the IN-DASH CD-Changer controls. I still listen to dvd-audio, XM, and my ipod with no problems. The USA Spec supports the use of up to 5 playlists as well.

I it under the drivers seat and routed the 3.5MM wire/jack up to the storage "bay" under the stereo (drilled a small hole in the side). As for the IPOD connector I just ran the (fatter) wire under the console so it runs up between the passenger seat and the console (I have an iphone so I hook it up/place it on the retractable area under the armrest). Perfect for me.

 

If you still want to slice and dice the XM harness...

I was testing this with my RL and did get sound out of it. I never fully implemented it though since I sold it and got the TL-S. I was not sure if it applied to TLs until I saw a post of somebody using this method on their CarPC. I will have to get the wiring diagram out (which I don't have right at this moment) to figure out which wires you need to modify.

Just remembering off the top of my head, I just disconnected the connector going to the XM receiver. Then I found the left and right audio channel wires along with a common ground wire. Then I bought a regular 3.5mm jack cable and connected left/right/ground channel wires to the XM receiver wiring.

If I find the diagram, I'll send you a PM with the info.

 

Hello, did anyone find the input connections for 3.5mm aux going thru xm harness. please pm me.
If anyone can please tell me which wires in 07 xm harness are for the aux in i would really appreciate.
thanks to everyone in advance

Great community

 

i got the iSIM for my 04 TL. Works fine with my iphone and ipod with steering wheel controls. It has aux input too. I got mine for $29 I think on ebay. Refurb.

 

Tape adapter is perfect for me.

XM radio is for my everyday listening and I use my tape adapter once in a while when I am on a long trip.

Try one of those Sony ones for around $12 and keep your MP3 player volume at about medium. Mine sounds pretty good that way.