Ipod plug-in

Does anyone know if you can plug in an Ipod directly over the glovebox? Will you be able to use the radio controls to control the Ipod?

If you get the model with the AUX input jack above the glove box you should be able to plug in a iPod. At least that is what I plan to do once I get my truck.

I have no idea if you can use the radio controls or not. I first guess would be that you cannot but I honestly don't know.

My salesman seemed to think that you could. I just didn't have my Ipod with me at the time. I hope someone can confirm.

You only get the AUX input jack with the Nav system . Other wise your best bet ia FM transmitter for the iPOD this will alow you to use the radio controls .

The AUX jack is just a headphone input not a data port. Therefore it does not transfer track information or allow for radio control of the IPOD. It makes sense, since each MP3 player had different control ports. It sounds good, however, better than an FM modulator.

Does anyone know if this can be added to a none NAV model radio later??

thanks

I'm looking at an auxiliary input converter to solve this problem. So far, the manufacturers are not making one specifically for the Ridgeline...I guess it is too new. In the back of the HU for the RTL without Navi, there is a 14 pin connector. It is there for an optional MP3 unit. I'm not sure if this 14 pin connector is generic. If it is then it might work with this converter. (http://www.logjamelectronics.com/piehon98aux.html) If anyone knows better, please confirm or deny this assumption. I purchased an OmniFi unit and I plan on installing it with the existing headunit.

The AUX jack is just a headphone input not a data port. Therefore it does not transfer track information or allow for radio control of the IPOD. It makes sense, since each MP3 player had different control ports. It sounds good, however, better than an FM modulator.

Sounds like you have the RTL with Navi. How do you activate the Aux input? What I mean is do you just push the button that has CD/AUX? If so, when the auxiliary is functioning, what does the LCD display.

I have been waiting to post this but after a week of using this ipod transmitter. It works great. I concider myself a audiophile willing to spend $20k on a home stereo system , and after carefull consideration I can't see why anyone would want to tear open their dashboard and install a 3rd party connector and modulator to hookup their iPod . My previous car had a $1600 Alpine in with RCA plugs that I hooked up the pod and this transmitter hookup sounds as good. You can postion it purfectly for easy access to the controls . You tune it to a non used freq. in your area , plugs into power outlet (cig. lighter) and away you go . Installtion time 2 min. And you can take it with you to other cars .
Griffen Road Trip
www.griffintechnology.com

Maybe that Griffin devices works in your local. In the Northeast (Tri State Area) NY, NJ & CT it will work for about ten minutes and then you start getting static, noise etc. As far as I'm concerned the only way to connect an iPod is thru a direct input (mini plug)

I'm looking at an auxiliary input converter to solve this problem. So far, the manufacturers are not making one specifically for the Ridgeline...I guess it is too new. In the back of the HU for the RTL without Navi, there is a 14 pin connector. It is there for an optional MP3 unit. I'm not sure if this 14 pin connector is generic. If it is then it might work with this converter. (http://www.logjamelectronics.com/piehon98aux.html) If anyone knows better, please confirm or deny this assumption. I purchased an OmniFi unit and I plan on installing it with the existing headunit.
I personally have used an adaptor from Soundgate, on my Ridgeline, which gives you RCA inputs, you can get a patch cable for your ipod with a headphone jack on one end, and RCA on the other. Check here for the adaptor http://www.logjamelectronics.com/sounsnhond3.html

The adaptor plugs right in to a vacant 14 pin connector on the back of the headunit. It will NOT work if you have factory XM installed.

You will need a GIL (Ground loop isolator) because you get some alternator whine. Get them from Radio Shack for about $20. Soundgate also makes an inline amp for the aux input, check here
http://www.logjamelectronics.com/soundavm2.html

<p>The volume without the inline amp is a little low for my taste, even when cranked to 40.

i dont know if you guys have this thread still going but i have an MP3 PLAYER is not an IPOD all though the same just diferent operating sistem. i went to good guys to buy the cable with to 2 male outlets so i can plug it strait into the AUX in the console of the the RTL and the other end strait into my mp3 headphone outlet. once in place just click aux on the nav or stereo and play whatever i have going .. however i dont think u can control the mp3 from ur stereo i have tried and didnt work but is all good cuz i have it next to me so i change anything from there. THE CABLE ONLY cost me 6 dollars and u can get it at any electronics store just dont tell them is for the new ridgeline cuz then they go oh no new truck no stuff for it yet just ask for a headphone cable with 2male outlets... jejjeje

I have been waiting to post this but after a week of using this ipod transmitter. It works great. I concider myself a audiophile willing to spend $20k on a home stereo system , and after carefull consideration I can't see why anyone would want to tear open their dashboard and install a 3rd party connector and modulator to hookup their iPod . My previous car had a $1600 Alpine in with RCA plugs that I hooked up the pod and this transmitter hookup sounds as good. You can postion it purfectly for easy access to the controls . You tune it to a non used freq. in your area , plugs into power outlet (cig. lighter) and away you go . Installtion time 2 min. And you can take it with you to other cars .
Griffen Road Trip
www.griffintechnology.com
Looks like it blocks all your other controls?

Maybe that Griffin devices works in your local. In the Northeast (Tri State Area) NY, NJ & CT it will work for about ten minutes and then you start getting static, noise etc. As far as I'm concerned the only way to connect an iPod is thru a direct input (mini plug)

I've used the Mcally FM transmitter and my success has been average at best. I live in Northern California and have to constantly change the station to keep the static away.

Even down here in LA (Lower Alabama) I had problems with interference and muddy sound when I tried a FM transmitter with my XM. After I hard wired using a AUX adapter it made all the difference in the world.

As far as removing the dash goes, it was no problem at all. I used the instructions supplied by H&A's website. Off and back on was literally a snap.

Sounds like you have the RTL with Navi. How do you activate the Aux input? What I mean is do you just push the button that has CD/AUX? If so, when the auxiliary is functioning, what does the LCD display.

Yes I do have an RTL with NAVI. The AUX input is activated with the CD/AUX button. Press it once ant it plays the CD press it again to select the AUX input. When AuX is functioning it reads AUX. When it is CD is says...you guessed it...CD. It is pretty intuitive.

Unless there is a special chord that plugs into the the docking port of the ipod that sends data to the unit (which I do not have and am not sure if it exists), Song titles are not displayed.

Welcome Reddwarf to the ROC and thank you for the following up my post. Your information is helpful. The adapter I am looking at does not display AUX but CDC which I believe stands for CD Changer.

I personally have used an adaptor from Soundgate, on my Ridgeline, which gives you RCA inputs, you can get a patch cable for your ipod with a headphone jack on one end, and RCA on the other. Check here for the adaptor http://www.logjamelectronics.com/sounsnhond3.html

The adaptor plugs right in to a vacant 14 pin connector on the back of the headunit. It will NOT work if you have factory XM installed.

You will need a GIL (Ground loop isolator) because you get some alternator whine. Get them from Radio Shack for about $20. Soundgate also makes an inline amp for the aux input, check here
http://www.logjamelectronics.com/soundavm2.html

<p>The volume without the inline amp is a little low for my taste, even when cranked to 40.


Why will it not work with factory XM?

Thanks
Scout

Does the IPOD FM Transmitter work, is it worth the money to get one without hardwiring? how does the modular IPOD FM transmitter that connects on top of the ipod transmit over the waves? Does it sound clean w/o static? Seems like without a cassette there's not another way to connect an IPOD to the radio unless, someone connects a modular i.e.: Monster ICRUZE http://www.engadget.com/entry/0647766019932855/.
Just wondering, if anyone figured it out or anyone tried putting an AUX connection to a RL RTS or RL RT?

OK...I'll try this question here..you guys seem to get it...but I don't. On the navi screen should there be an AUX tab at the top?? The last in my tab row is CD CHG....does that change when you plug in to the AUX jack? The manual shows a seperate AUX tab at the top of the screen-I don't see that?? thanks

There are posts on the last question..

Aux only comes up on the navi screen when one has an auxillary unit plugged into aux port over the glove compartment.

No, you can't control your IPOD through that port. Believe me, I can't control mine.....

But that aux port sounds great!!!! Just buy that $6 cable and rock out.. :D

I don't have Nav and therefore no aux input for my Ipod.:(

I would like to craft a wire that plugs into the 14 pin connector then into a mini-jack for the ipod. I presume the problem is that this a Honda propriatary connector and not something one can buy anywhere?

Has anyone seen the connector or have pictures? Is it really so special?

Could something be jury-rigged by a person handy with a soldering gun?

After all, only 4 connections are needed (actually 3: L, R, + Ground).

What does that PIE adapter do that Bongus mentioned at the top that's so special and why is it $50?

Thanks in advance (and arrears).

I can't get my IPOD to work in the AUX. Plug it in and nothing happens. Push the CD\AUX button on the radio and nothing happens... Mine just don't work... Had it to the dealer on Saturday and they told me they couldn't do anything because any problems have to be reported to Honda for fixes. What a pain. :confused:

Conchflats? Does that arm come with the Griffin Road Trip or is that something you made yourself?

I don't have Nav and therefore no aux input for my Ipod.:(

I would like to craft a wire that plugs into the 14 pin connector then into a mini-jack for the ipod. I presume the problem is that this a Honda propriatary connector and not something one can buy anywhere?

Has anyone seen the connector or have pictures? Is it really so special?

Could something be jury-rigged by a person handy with a soldering gun?

After all, only 4 connections are needed (actually 3: L, R, + Ground).

What does that PIE adapter do that Bongus mentioned at the top that's so special and why is it $50?

Thanks in advance (and arrears).

Although the audio connections are obviously available on the 14 pin connector, the Head unit looks at some data signals from other pins to tell if the device is present and or take commands from the external unit. Without the correct protocol signals, the Head unit will ignore the audio pins.

The aftermarket adapters fake out the Head unit into thinking a real device is plugged in and allows the audio to be passed in.

While I have an iPod, I also have an XM MyFi (long story - had a Dodge Cummins RAM - sold it - got the Ridgeline) and have ordered:

HON03/PC-SON 2003-Up Honda Changer Interface/Auxiliary Adapter

from www.discountcarstereo.com (I have no other relationship woth them other than they were the only one's who responded to my inquiries about the Ridgeline stereo). It should arrive tomorrow - I will install and take photos - will post during the week - I will be on the road the rest of the week, so don't know when exactly I'll get a chance.

This controller will add a CD Changer OR AUX audio input. This will work w/ both my MyFi & my iPod (won't control either, just give significantly better audio input into the esisting stereo).

-ridgeln

Let us know if you lose your built-in XM.

I'd like to chime in on the FM modulator discussion. I've found that they suck. Lots of interference. I guess it may depend on your area and how jammed the airwaves are-in the NE(northeast) it's really bad. If you drive in a small area, you may be a able to find a frequency (Kenneth) that works. Once we travel out of our area it barely works.

Therefore, any effort to do a direct plug would be best in the NE.

To answer all questions:

RTL w/ Navi: The Aux input on the dash is audio ONLY. No data connection there. Therefore it won't allow control of the iPod from the stereo.

All: Connecting an aftermarket aux input box will cause you to lose your factory XM because they use the same connector on the back of the stereo. Until someone makes an aux input adapter that has a pass-through for reconnecting the factory XM, this is going to be a limitation you'll have to live with. Some aux input boxes claim they don't work with a factory changer, and though I haven't tested this, I would tend to believe them.

FM modulators don't work all that well. They limit the frequency range, cutting off lows and highs, and the sound will be very quiet compared to the built-in CD/radio/XM or even a direct-wired Aux input. I am using an FM modulator and I HATE IT! And, if you live in an area anywhere like mine, finding an open frequency may be a challenge.

There isn't an easy way to wire directly into the back of the stereo without an aux input adapter. Without an adapter with active electronics that the stereo can talk to, the head unit would never know that anything was connected, and would never allow you to select the Aux input.

If one was daring, they could cut a few wires on the XM harness to wire directly in that way. But you'd lose your XM unless you were to install a switch to select between XM and your MP3 player. It isn't a clean solution, but it would work. The connector to look at is the 14-pin one (plugged into the audio unit on non-Navi, CD changer on Navi). Looking into the back of the stereo, with the connector oriented so there are 2 pins, 3 open spaces, four pins on top (numbered 1 through 6), and 5 pins, one space, and 3 pins (numbered 7 through 14), pin 5 is R+, 6 is L+, 13 is R-, and 14 is L-.

A switch must be possible in the non-nav with XM/sunroof because the honda mp2 player uses some type of switching that allows the aux button to control its input. I am going nuts waiting for someone to figure a work around. I wish I were smarter when it comes to wires.

I just bought my EX-L (non-Navi, no satellite radio) and take delivery today.
I am very interested to know what will work as an adapter/converter for my ipod.
My stereo guy tried the Monster product and it wouldn't work.
Has anyone had any success with a different product?
My experience with the FM modulator was also very negative.
Any help would be much appreciated!

Another solution to consider...

When I had my Ranger, I bought a system from Dension (http://www.densionusa.com/main.htm). This system connected to the factory stereo in place of the factory CD changer. It provided a nice cradle that held the iPod and charged it when the stereo was off. You could change songs by using the track up/down on the radio but the song title etc. only displayed on the iPod itself. It used the line out thru the 30 pin connector on the bottom so sound quality was great.

Fast forward...Now I have an RTL w/ NAV and I'm looking for a way to integrate my iPod. I kept the Dension system from when I sold my Ranger so I'm looking for a way to re-use it as I really liked the cradle from the Dension. It holds the player securely and looks nice. It connects to their "box" thru a round, 8 pin connector simmilar to a PS/2 connector. I called Dension to see if they would give me the pin out so I could splice this connector into a line out and power. I'll run the line out to the AUX in on the Ridgeline. I'll probably tap in behind the dash so I don't tie up the connector and have cables dangling about (I hate that). I'll also do the same for the power so that when ever the iPods in the cradle, it will charge. I'll loose the ability to change tracks with the factory radio but I'm not worried about that.

I called Dension up to see if I could get the pin outs from their connector. They wouldn't give out any info so it looks like I'll have to spend some time with the meter to sort it out. They said they've got a a new box that integrates with the latest Honda systems so that may be worth checking out.

At any rate, I'll keep you all posted with how it works out.

They said they've got a a new box that integrates with the latest Honda systems so that may be worth checking out.

The ice link! I have one for my '97 4 Runner and it's a great product. I was hoping dearly that they would come out with a solution. They have yet to update their web page with any info, tho

Fingers crossed

I just installed the HON03/PC-SON adapter for my SIRIUS Stream Jockey and no longer have interference when going to work. I was getting this interference (minor as it was) as I pass through the base gate at Offutt AFB and decided to go with this adapter. I purchased it from Discount Ave., Inc. (http://shop.store.yahoo.com/discave/hopiediprco12.html) for $79.99 and wasn't even charged for shipping (probably an error on their part as I paid using PayPal). CarStereoExpo.com shows a lower price of $69.99, but they charge $10 for shipping, so it's the same price compared to Discount Ave., Inc. Once I connected it to my headunit, I velcro'd it to the top of the spare compartment tray (for lack of a better description), then ran the RCA cable behind the glove compartment and down the passenger side of the center console. All works well and I now can connect my Stream Jockey, Sony MD player, or even my Archos Video AV-300 without using the FM transmitter! :D

I did notice the alternator whine when I lose the satellite signal as I park into my garage. I guess I'll have to purchase a Ground Loop Isolator to fix this minor problem. Also, I want to boost the audio level so I'll probably purchase Soundgate's AVM-2 2-channel line level amplifier (0-20db gain). I believe I'll be able to match the audio levels to that of my CD or standard radio volume which is probably 10-20db above the AUX input volume. Anyhow, that'll be something to add down the road.

-SixOpRidge

I seached the forum to see if anyone talks about PIE's HON/PC-POD device, which fully controls an Ipod and looks ideal to me (non-XM, non-Navi).

I've put a question into PIE to ask if it works in a RL. Does any one know or care to speculate ?

PIE's Info (rather sparse): http://www.pie.net/applepie.cfm
Found for $120 here: http://www.discountcarstereo.com/detail.aspx?ID=681

I've now installed the HON03/PC-SON and had a horrible ground loop (not too noticable w/ "modern" music, unbearable w/ talk or classical piano). I bought a ground loop isolator from RadioShack for $12 and plugged it into the mix and I am VERY happy - all my devices now plug in and are amazingly clear. This is definitely the way to go vs. FM transmitters.

-ridgeln

I've now installed the HON03/PC-SON and had a horrible ground loop (not too noticable w/ "modern" music, unbearable w/ talk or classical piano). I bought a ground loop isolator from RadioShack for $12 and plugged it into the mix and I am VERY happy - all my devices now plug in and are amazingly clear. This is definitely the way to go vs. FM transmitters.

-ridgeln

I couldn't take the alternator whine any longer! I too just purchased a ground loop isolator from Radio Shack and all is crystal clear! Now all I need is the 2-channel line level amplifier :D

-SixOpRidge

Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.2x 2003-07 Honda Audio Input Adapter

Available from www.discountcarstereo.com claims it can be used with Navi or Factory XM.

All: Connecting an aftermarket aux input box will cause you to lose your factory XM because they use the same connector on the back of the stereo. Until someone makes an aux input adapter that has a pass-through for reconnecting the factory XM, this is going to be a limitation you'll have to live with. Some aux input boxes claim they don't work with a factory changer, and though I haven't tested this, I would tend to believe them.


The Blitzsafe aux adapter does have that passthrough for the XM harness and works just as described; hit the XM button and you get factory XM, hit the Aux button and you get access to your aux input. Of course that input is RCA in, audio only - no data connection for the IPOD. I believe you can use the USASpec Ipod adapter and the Y-harness to retain XM functionality and still get an ipod data connection, though I don't have personal experience with that setup.

I believe you can use the USASpec Ipod adapter and the Y-harness to retain XM functionality and still get an ipod data connection, though I don't have personal experience with that setup.

If by data connection, you mean that the data normally shown on the ipod's display screen (song name, artist name) will be also shown on the RL's radio display, that is not so.

The USA Spec configures the ipod to mimic the CD player and only displays track number, song number and time elapsed.

If by data connection, you mean that the data normally shown on the ipod's display screen (song name, artist name) will be also shown on the RL's radio display, that is not so.

The USA Spec configures the ipod to mimic the CD player and only displays track number, song number and time elapsed.

Oh you're absolutely right - I'm talking purely about the physical connection difference - that is, the 1/8" mini-stereo jack or RCA connection vs. the proprietary bus connection on the IPod. One, obviously, can only carry audio and the other can carry information such as the track, song, time, and so forth. If you want something that will give you full display info the Harmon Kardon Drive+Play or similar would be more appropriate.

Back on the wireless connections for a moment. I received a Griffin unit in a package of peripherals with my iPod for Christmas. You can select any FM frequency on this unit and it recharges the iPod off your auxillary power port. I then went to www.radio-locator.com to find vacant frequencies in my area by entering my zip code. I know this is not the answer if you are traveling very far, but for around my home area (98% of my driving) it is very satisfactory and I didn't have to disassemble my dash.

i have my ipod hooked up to the AUX cable with a headphone cable.

http://www.tss-radio.com/images/phonetophone.jpg