I noticed alot of people using theUSA Spec PA11-HON2 to add an another audio input for the ipod... my question is what are people that are just thinking about putting a ps2 or dvd player in conjuction with the dom unit using to get the sound from the dvd/ps2 while retaining XM.

I do not wish to add my ipod to my car, especially since we are not able to control it through the navi screen. I just want to add a ps2 in the glove and be able to switch between the ps2 and XM audio.

Thanks in advance,

-Rob

 

I would assume the PIE X3 would be your best bet then. I'm not sure if you can retain xm, I'm sure datmrman will chime in soon to tell you a definitive answer.

By the way in your signature its a JL w7.....not a JBL w7

 

The PIE X3 is a favorite, it will give you 3 AUX inputs. With a Y-adapter you will be able to retain XM just as with the other interfaces.

Blitzsafe also makes a AUX only interface: Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.2X but a few members have complained that it does not work well with the '06 TL.

 

The solution I'm using allows you to view the menu through the navi screen and control via remote.

https://acurazine.com/forums/ramblings-12/your-college-like-lol-136466/

 

datmrman...

I'm intrigued by this PIE X3 interface...
So I'm clear:

I install the PIE X3 adapter. This gives me the option for three external A/V interfaces. By putting the Nav unit in CD-C (changer mode), I access the PIE X3 interface screen. I can then sort through the individual (of 3) A/V input sources through the included "knob".

1) If I want to run my Ipod, I can just use straight RCA (audio) cables through an RCA adapter (I wouldn't see anythign but CD-C on the screen correct?) but I could control the IPOD through the click wheel (like the USA SPEC). The only thing i lose is the "Direct Mode", where I can control the 5 IPOD playlist like on the USA SPEC (who uses this function anyway?)

If I didn't like having no video, I could use the VALOR unit to give me a video interface into the IPOD as per Vandido's install thread.

2) I could then use the other two AV ports for PS2/DVD/Camera whatever.

3) withthe splitter cable, I still keep my XM, and I've found no reports of bleed yet...

Is this how this works, and if so, why do not more people go for it? It's the most bang for your buck at $90!

I'm removing the Music link and definately going this way provided I get more positive feedback.

 

The X3 will not charge your ipod like the blitzsafe or usaspec will. I don't use xm or have any need for video from my screen, so the regular blitzsafe suits all my needs for $90 also. I guess if you don't mind it not charging you ipod your good to go.

I do like the idea of the valor system, but the mandatory use of the remote looks cumbersome to me. I don't mind selecting from the ipod itself.

Good luck with whatever option you choose.

 

Bummer...
That's a no fly with me, concur with your valor assessment as well.

How does the PIE X3 video switch? there are no video inputs I can see on the box?

 

I'm no expert on the PIE because I, myself, don't have it installed. I've just been reading a lot on aux/ipod interfaces (maybe too much). I'll try my best to answer your questions.

The 3 AUX connections are controlled by the PIE switch box. Basically you can switch between the sources by pressing one of the 3 buttons on the switch box.

Think of the X3 as a pair headphones. The headphone knows nothing about what it is connected into, but it will allow you to listen to the audio. So yes, using an RCA cable/adapter, you can plug and use your iPod with the PIE X3. The X3, like headphones, will not be able to charge your iPod nor control any features of the iPod.

For video, you will need have a video interface like Dom's TVandNav2Go (which will provide 2 video inputs). I believe the iLink uses RCA connections that connects to Dom (for video) and PIE X3 (for audio). The Valor iLink will not connect to our factory navi screen without another video interface. Should double check with vandido.

PIE X3 is only audio. TVandNav2Go is for video. Though a lot of people have not found a use for the 3rd aux yet. 1 for iPod, 1 for DVD, and backup camera doesn't need audio.



So far, from what I've read, it seems to be a very solid solution. It provides a universal audio solution IMO because most audio sources can be converted to use RCA connections.

There are many people that like full iPod integration (charging, steering wheel controls, maybe even title display). This is something the PIE X3 can't do, but USA Spec and Blitzsafe can (sort of). Hope that helps.

 

In order to take the Ilink route you will need to have a some kinda dvd/video conversion in your TL. In my case my tv tuner has two video aux input so i'm able to toggle between my tv, dvd player, and an additional video source (Ilink in my case).

The remote for the ilink is not a big issue at all, because if you have a dvd conversion your already dealing with remotes. I have thousands of songs on my ipod and setting up 5 playlist in order to use the steering wheel controls seems like a waste of money. In that case i'd rather create a dvd-a and go that route. I chose the valor because I like keeping my gadgets out of sight. If I didnt mind having my ipod next to me or using its menu controls I could have gone with that cassett adapter and saved a ton of money. I also went with the I link because I have a video Ipod, if I forked out the extra cash for that might as well maximize its usage.