Another Ipod/mp3 adapter

Hello everybody,

I want to start out by saying I have learned a tremendous amount of knowledge about my new ridgeline by the wealth of information and sharing of information on this forum. You guys (and gals) ROC (k)!! Hehe
Anyway I have been searching for an Ipod/mp3 adapter that wasn't quite as expensive as the PIE or USASpec interface. what I finally found was an adapter at Circuit city called the AXXESS model number AIP-HD03-ID. It is a basic adapter that adds audio input from either an ipod or using a 1/8 stereo jack any other audio input you want to use. I have some pictures of the adapter and the plugs connected to the factory stereo. As soon as I learn how to upload the pictures I will try and add them. I have uploaded them to photobucket already. A note of concern, I searched high and low and actually purchased another AXXESS adapter that had a blue plug that was not for our radios. Check the plug to the radio and make sure it is white not blue. This adapter doesn't show anything on the radio except CDC and D1 tr 2 and it actually counts up on track 2. I don't know why it is doing this, I barely finished the install and haven't played with it that much, except to test both the ipod plug in and the 1/8 cable. The adapter only cost 49 + tax, so it isn't quite as expensive as the usaspec or Pie.

Very nice how much did it cost you?

Very nice how much did it cost you?

The adapter was 49.99 + tax. Not a bad price; I just couldn't see paying 140+ for the usaspec. I would rather put in an after market radio. I am just not ready to do that yet. I have the polk db651's ready to be installed; I just need a good day to do the speaker installs.

Ruphen

Hi, nice catch, can i ask u would my phone mp3 work using that adapter? i have the palm centro and i have alot of music stored on the mini sd card ,, and i basically use it as u would a i pod , and i have the factory 6 disc changer, can u show us how u moutned your adapter please , does it look factory ?

thanks
madi05

Hi, nice catch, can i ask u would my phone mp3 work using that adapter? i have the palm centro and i have alot of music stored on the mini sd card ,, and i basically use it as u would a i pod , and i have the factory 6 disc changer, can u show us how u moutned your adapter please , does it look factory ?

thanks
madi05

Hi madi05,
If your phone mp3 output is a regular 1/8 stereo jack it should work. I used a double back sticky tape on the back of the adapter and stuck it inside by the radio, there is plenty of room. I ran the Ipod cable and the 1/8 jack throught the driver's side and down the side of the carpet under the floor mats for now. I want to eventually use one of the switch plated between the two power outlets in the middle lower console to mount both cables. As you can see the adapter is small enough to mount anywhere. No problem mounting it behind the dash
Ruphen

Very nice find at that price!

I didn't buy the USASpec for the Ridge, it was leftover from my Acura I traded in...so I just kept it.

Ruphen;

Thanks for posting this. Couple of questions.

1. Does the Ipod charge properly... meaning you can leave it attached and not worry about it?
2. When you shut off the vehicle... does the ipod pause, then resume from that point when you turn the vehicle back on?
3. When you turn the vehicle back on, does the Ipod resuming playing without having to tell it to play, assuming you turned it off as in (2) above?
4. Apparently you have no ability to control playlists... right? Ok, with me... just asking.
5. My CC has a good installer... did you consider using a CC installer... did they quote an installed price.

And again... thanks for posting this... I like the idea of getting the whole thing done by one vendor... in this case Circuit City.

Oh, and a comment on your considering an aftermarket radio. For what its worth... I considering that as well... and in fact I've done so (at CC) in one of my vehicles. Its a good solution... and not expensive.

However, in the end, I realized I like Honda's attention to large easily controlled buttons/dials. Its a small thing, but I think it is a "safety factor".... reduces "information overload".

Honda adopted this approach starting on the 1988 GoldWing. Even more pertinent on a motorcycle equipped with a CB, phone, quadraphonic sound...etc.

They've carried that (correct) philosophy through all their products. Just my opinion... but I thought I'd pass it on.

Thanks again.

i guess im not really up on what is what, so i posted a pic of the ports on my phone , with it work from what u see? also are u saying all those cords are hanging out in front of your unit like that?

http://img383.imageshack.us/img383/5852/phoneportsms1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

thanks
madi05

Ruphen;

Thanks for posting this. Couple of questions.

1. Does the Ipod charge properly... meaning you can leave it attached and not worry about it?
I do believe the Ipod will be charged without any issues. I know it shows the plug icon on the battery when using this adapter.

2. When you shut off the vehicle... does the ipod pause, then resume from that point when you turn the vehicle back on?
I haven't really used it that much, I will definitely research this. I will get back to you on this.

3. When you turn the vehicle back on, does the Ipod resuming playing without having to tell it to play, assuming you turned it off as in (2) above? Let me research this also.

4. Apparently you have no ability to control playlists... right? Ok, with me... just asking.
No it is direct control from the Ipod.

5. My CC has a good installer... did you consider using a CC installer... did they quote an installed price.
I can sorta do this simple stuff, especially after reading on all the how to's on this site. I was offered installation at CC, but declined. The salesman was the installer and he offered great advise as to where to put the box and even gave me the idea to run the cable ends to the extra switch plug. I did not get to ask for a price on the installation.

And again... thanks for posting this... I like the idea of getting the whole thing done by one vendor... in this case Circuit City.

Oh, and a comment on your considering an aftermarket radio. For what its worth... I considering that as well... and in fact I've done so (at CC) in one of my vehicles. Its a good solution... and not expensive.

However, in the end, I realized I like Honda's attention to large easily controlled buttons/dials. Its a small thing, but I think it is a "safety factor".... reduces "information overload".
I did not want to draw any attention to my vehicle. I gave my mother an accord with an after market radio in it ( 99 dollars) that someone had to break in and steal. I really don't care that they did that, but they stuck a screwdriver into both door locks and busted them to break into the vehicle:mad:

Honda adopted this approach starting on the 1988 GoldWing. Even more pertinent on a motorcycle equipped with a CB, phone, quadraphonic sound...etc.

They've carried that (correct) philosophy through all their products. Just my opinion... but I thought I'd pass it on.

Thanks again.

Again, I hope I have been some help, please continue with the questions, I will be glad to research any thing I can be of help on this adapter. So far both cables have clear sound, no issues.
Ruphen

i guess im not really up on what is what, so i posted a pic of the ports on my phone , with it work from what u see? also are u saying all those cords are hanging out in front of your unit like that?

http://img383.imageshack.us/img383/5852/phoneportsms1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

thanks
madi05

Is that a 1/8 plug in on the left side or is that a charging port? if it is, the audio cable should work with that plug in. I am not sure what kind of phone you have; let me know and I will research it for you. How do you listen to your music right now? do you plug in headphones on that plug on the left?

Ruphen

Is that a 1/8 plug in on the left side or is that a charging port? if it is, the audio cable should work with that plug in. I am not sure what kind of phone you have; let me know and I will research it for you. How do you listen to your music right now? do you plug in headphones on that plug on the left?

Ruphen
you will most likely have to buy an adaptor (3mm. male to1/8 th in. female) for your phone. It will plug into the headphone jack and than you plug a 1/8th in. male to 1/8 th in.male cable to the CC adaptor. Total cost will be about $15.00 for cable and phone adaptor.

Is that a 1/8 plug in on the left side or is that a charging port? if it is, the audio cable should work with that plug in. I am not sure what kind of phone you have; let me know and I will research it for you. How do you listen to your music right now? do you plug in headphones on that plug on the left?

Ruphen

Hi, i dont know what size it is , i can tell u i have a small ipod 512mb that plugs directly in usb to download music to it, no screen or anything and the head set for that is too big for my phone but i have another headset with a smaller plug that works in that hole on the side of my phone u referred to, the problem is neither says what size they are, lol my phone is a palm centro , the new pda unit , i would appreciate yur help on this cause im very interested in using this in my car, my phone goes where i go so would my music, lol

thanks
madi05

HI, i think it is a 2.5 mm plug, what does that mean?

madi05

If I had to guess I'd say that's a Palm. Maybe a Centro? If so it charges through the other connector. Anyway, it's not necessarily a 1/8", it could be a smaller type, a mini-jack. I would try to plug in a set of regular headphones into that red phone, if they fit, then the AUX in would work in the truck.

rdharper

Trying to answer some questions, I found that the Ipod adapter alwasys has power. So it wouldn't be a good idea to have the Ipod always connected to the cable. When you power off the truck or turn off the radio, the Ipod stays on, it does pause, so I think it would eventually power off as normal; but continue to be power trickled til fully charged. Either way it looks like a bad idea to have the Ipod connected all the time.

Ruphen

I think I found a simpler and neater soultion. Many people have not heard for Peripheral Electronics. With this company, you install a module that does a few things at once and all without buying after market head unit. First of all, it connects through the display and allows you to browse your library with programmed buttons on the head unit. Next, the module charges your iPod at the same time as listening to it to keep your battery full while enjoying the music. Also, the module allows you to experience high quality sound as if you just had a CD in. If any questions, feel free to PM or reply

Hey all, I installed the AIP-HD03-ID a few days ago and I love it! I was using a Monster FM Transmitter for years and it sounded ok in my old truck, but in the Ridgeline it was just horrible. After doing some research and checking out what other members were using, I decided that this adapter was the way to go. I don't care for XM and could care less if the OEM radio can control "some" functions of the iPod - the iPod controls are still better. Right there that eliminates PIE, USA Spec, and Peripheral Electronics... and their heafty price tags.

As far as the install goes it doesn't get easier. Dash comes off pretty easily, save for a few stubborn connectors, and the radio is easy too. Unplug the XM and plug in the adapter. After testing out a few different mounting locations, I ended up just zip-tying it to one of the vents in the dash, running the iPod cable into the Not An Ashtray, and running the 1/8 wire (sold seperately) into the glovebox. That way if I'm driving with someone who doesn't have an iPod it will still work. I couldn't believe my ears when I tested it - Eruption by Van Halen hasn't sounded so good in years. All for $50. Good find TC.

As with anything, I still wonder how this adapter holds up over time. Supposedly these adapters are much better than the previous model. Many people have told me that the FM transmitters don't last long - I had mine for years. I also heard that iPod batteries only last a year - mine is going on 3 years and still holds a charge. So I guess to each his own. But if anyone has any experience please share. Later.

Hey all, I installed the AIP-HD03-ID a few days ago and I love it! I was using a Monster FM Transmitter for years and it sounded ok in my old truck, but in the Ridgeline it was just horrible. After doing some research and checking out what other members were using, I decided that this adapter was the way to go. I don't care for XM and could care less if the OEM radio can control "some" functions of the iPod - the iPod controls are still better. Right there that eliminates PIE, USA Spec, and Peripheral Electronics... and their heafty price tags.

As far as the install goes it doesn't get easier. Dash comes off pretty easily, save for a few stubborn connectors, and the radio is easy too. Unplug the XM and plug in the adapter. After testing out a few different mounting locations, I ended up just zip-tying it to one of the vents in the dash, running the iPod cable into the Not An Ashtray, and running the 1/8 wire (sold seperately) into the glovebox. That way if I'm driving with someone who doesn't have an iPod it will still work. I couldn't believe my ears when I tested it - Eruption by Van Halen hasn't sounded so good in years. All for $50. Good find TC.

As with anything, I still wonder how this adapter holds up over time. Supposedly these adapters are much better than the previous model. Many people have told me that the FM transmitters don't last long - I had mine for years. I also heard that iPod batteries only last a year - mine is going on 3 years and still holds a charge. So I guess to each his own. But if anyone has any experience please share. Later.

I am so glad someone else found this adapter useful. I was looking to keep the stock look and this was the most inexpensive device I found. thanks for confirming the easy install and good sound quality.

Ruphen

I am so glad someone else found this adapter useful. I was looking to keep the stock look and this was the most inexpensive device I found. thanks for confirming the easy install and good sound quality.

Ruphen

I also purchased one based on your recommendation. Off of eBay, brand new shipped for $28... Works great. I plan on using it with a VR3 HD radio kit......
* AXXESS IPOD AUXILIARY INPUT - HONDA - eBay (item 140239136408 end time Jun-12-08 17:41:53 PDT) (http://cgi.ebay.com/AXXESS-IPOD-AUXILIARY-INPUT-HONDA_W0QQitemZ140239136408QQihZ004QQcategoryZ1498 QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1713.m153.l1262)

Offer them $21.05...

That way if I'm driving with someone who doesn't have an iPod it will still work.

Do you mean it will work with any mp3 player?

Do you mean it will work with any mp3 player?

Yes. By plugging one end of a 1/8" wire into the headphone jack of the MP3 player and the other into the adapter (see pic at beginning of thread), this adapter will work with any MP3 player. It won't charge it, but you'll get digital quality. Of course you'll have the extra iPod cable, but I don't think they sell these things with just the 1/8" jack....

Great. Thanks.

Just installed one over the weekend - very easy and great product

Plus - inexpensive $49 or as noted on ebay for less, unbelieveable sound from the direct ipod input and good as any from the aux input, available at any Circut City
Minus - no control over the IPOD from the steering weel controls, must use IPOD controls (head unit volume control does work), no text

The disassembly of the Ridge for install was like it was ment to be taken apart and put back together!

This sounds just want I am looking for I have a Sirius and just want to have good sound without the FM bull **** Is it easy to install or should I have CC do it for me?

It was very easy to install - make sure you have the directions to remove the dash. After that its just deciding where you want the ipod or aux in cord to exit. I chose to do an 1/8" panel mt plug between the 12v jacks as others have done. Look at the many posts on installs and you will see it is not that difficult.

so xm is a no go with this one right???? My wifey likey the xm.

I thought i give my input after finding out about the product through here.

First, if you have "bigish" hands then going through the glove compartment will be VERY challenging. I found this the hard way. after about 30 minutes trying to pull the right cord and plug in the adapter was just not going to happen. If you read about this method, you better have small long hands.

Second, it is very easy to just pull the surrounding dash compartments with you hands! yes, with your hands. after unsuccessfully going through the glove compartment, i tried to use some screw drivers to pry the dash compartments. well, that didn't go too well because they made small dents to the surrounds. so i just decided to pull the damn thing with my hands and it actually worked. maybe it was the anger of failed attempts but it did happen. after you get a couple clips to unlock, all the others will come out very easily.

Third, i didn't pull any of the light plugs for the other buttons, such as speedo, HVAC, etc. I figured i had enough room to just hold it and remove the headunit while switching the plugs. it was easy to do and less time consuming.

Last, make sure you know exactly where you want your adapter to be. without planning ahead of time, i just have it hanging next to the glove compartment, with the ipod cable coming out of the left side of the glove compartment. i have not done too much research on any extensions. so if any of you know of extensions cords, please let me know.

Overall, i am very happy with this purchase. it is pretty much the same price as a quality FM transmitter but much better sound quality. it charges the ipod too so it will never run out of battery. it has to be the best $50 i spent on the car. feel free to ask questions.

P.S. keep in mind that this adapter will not allow the headunit to control the ipod. i may have seen it mentioned before but just in case.