Ipod Solutions / Recommendations

I am a new owner RTL Black - 1st post. (yes I have searched - I am asking for specifics)

I have read the issues people have had concerning Itunes updated software with Music Link from Honda. Also some negative posts on how well Music Link actually performs.

Is this still an issue or has it been resolved?
Is there anyone that think Music Link is worth the $$?
Anyone with no complaints about the system?
Should I have the dealer instal the Music Link for $305?

I have looked at the after market solutions (Harmon Kardon seems the best) but I am not sure that is what I am looking for. Not sure I want the extras in terms of screen and controls. The product from Monster would be great if you could install the display screen where the MP3 player would be placed in the dash.

Thanks for the opinions and help.

1. i am not sure, but do not think so
2. NO. I think there are better 3rd party products
3. do not have it see #2
4. NO. see #2.

I did alot of research and almost got the USA Spec adapter. I instead elected to replace headunit speakers etc with alpine. had i not decided to go that route i would have definately chosen the usa spec adapter over thr honda.

Do you have Navi? Are you planning on changing anything else, like speakers or amps?

If not, after much research was about to go with usa-spec, but got a killer deal on a h/u from crutchfield.com.

If you don't have navi and are going to add speakers and amps I would recommend aftermarket h/u

I got a h/u with 3 rca 5volt outs, ipod adapter as well as extra set of rca in, install kits and a $25 itunes gift card all for $150.

I don't have the link but I am considering getting it. I run iTunes as a player on my computer and there was a very bad version released, and the then about a week later another version was released and the conflicts vanished.

I'd like to see what folks have to say on this since I was also considering the link, and a new Nano (have a shuffle now).

Is this still an issue or has it been resolved? It has not been resolved.
Is there anyone that think Music Link is worth the $$? No, it's not worth $1.00
Anyone with no complaints about the system? It sucks.
Should I have the dealer instal the Music Link for $305? No way, I did it myself in about an hour. Just don't do it!

There is still an issue with the Honda Music Link. There are threads on this here: http://www.ridgelineownersclub.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9866 and here:http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=642883
and here: http://forums.ilounge.com/showthread.php?t=174655

Bottom line is that I believe the conflict is not caused by iTunes 7, but by the iPod firmware version 1.2. The three conversations I have had with American Honda indicate that they are very determinedly chasing their tails to find a solution to the perceived TTS/iTunes problem, and are not addressing the firmware issue at all. I was told by the Honda rep that they have temporarily suspended sales of the Music Link accessory until they can find a fix. I don't personally think that will happen until they address the firmware issue.

While I like the sound quality of the Music Link, this recent hassle is making it very much not worth it. I am very seriously considering returning to my dealer and asking that they remove it and refund my money.

If I knew then what I know now, No I would not have purchased it. While I still believe to this day that it is a firmware problem I have been told not to expect any update or fix. I do not use the program with itunes (uninstalled) the only convience is that the ipod is charged while driving and the sound is great.

Do not buy the music link ... I Purchased it and originally thought it was nice, but after my first upgrade it stopped working the way it had originally and now with upgrade 7 it works not at all.

What a POS. 300.00 for 5 months, now its either back my Ipod down and be unable to use it for video or buy another IPOD and keep it downgraded.

Another blunder I made in relation to the Honda

Hey guys

I was talking to a buddy of mine... and he recommended this one instead of the honda option. I don't know how well it works... but if anyone wants to try it out and report back. He orders stuff from this place when he does installs for customers.

http://enfigcarstereo.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/BLITZSAFE_HON_MLINK1_V2X.html

half the price of the honda one...

I bought the Drive and Play from Harmon Karden.

I do not regret it one bit and will move it to my next Ridgeline!!!:D :D

The click wheel is extremely easy to use and works well. Look up my post on the install. When you buy it DO NOT use either the wired or wireless FM:mad: . buy a way to plug it directly into the 14 pin connector that way it 1) sounds great and 2) you get to keep your CD player. I used Soundgates HOND3 unit.
The difference will bow you away. The screen while not needed is handy to know where you are in the song and verify if you are paused or not.

PM me if you have any further questions on the Drive & Play.

I have four ipods and after much research (mostly on this site), I went with the US SPEC 2 from crutchfield. Installed it myself and love it. It gives you the choice (upon install) to choose 6 playlists on radio using cd buttons or control ipod to choose playlists. Both options let you skip to next song and control volume from wheel.

Usa Spec pa11-hon2 from cruthfield.....not a single p[roblem at all!

I also have the USASpec and have had no issues except the iPod cable was bad and I had to call USASpec and have them send out a new cable. Pretty simple to install too.

Here is what I ended up buying.
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-VkjTFrmNjFM/cgi-bin/ProdView.asp?g=300&I=133C7203

I ended up paying $127 for a scratch and dent (Don't see any scratches or dents). that includes the H/U, AI install kit, wiring harness, antenna adapter

was kind of hard to pass up at that price even though I liked the look of stock, just didn't make sense since I am adding amps. I will install Friday and post pics.

BTW- I will be selling a couple wiring harnesses. The bazooka wiring adapter, perfect for using stock stereo and adding amps without cutting into factroy harness. Also an aftermarket stereo harness and a line output converter, all of which I was going to use until I got the new H/U

Do any of the adapters display the song title / artist on the Honda display? I looked at the Crutchfield info and couldn't tell. Thanks!

I think harmon/kardon unit does, better ask one of them. I have USA Spec and it works wonderfully.

Question for those using the USA Spec iPod connector: have you updated your iPod to firmware version 1.2? It seems this is the issue with the Music Link, but before I take it back to the dealer and buy the USA Spec unit, I'd like to be sure that it works with firmware 1.2.

Do not buy it!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Definitely not worth the money for what you get.

I have the iPod nano. When I plugged it in to computer last night it said it updated. I dunno if it was firmware or not, but after it was done it said it was up to date. I used it all day today with the USA Spec. Love it!