[Review] Best Nexus 4 accessory ever! Pioneer Car Stereo (WITH DETAILED PICS) - Nexus 4 Accessories

UPDATE1 All Android/Nexus 4 integration points I've listed in BLUE below to make it easier to avoid my rambling and see the actual integration touch points.
UPDATE2 2/1/2013 - Pioneer just released (as of 1/29/2013) a new Bluetooth AVRCP firmware update. My stereo was firmware version HW04-SW01.07.23 and the new update from Pioneer is HW05-SW01.27.20. I went ahead & flashed my radio today. Unfortunately this doesn't appear to have added any new functionality for android.
What it looks like during update...and update complete
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Ok, while not strictly a 'Nexus 4' accessory, I'm tired of all the car stereo reviews for iPhone only. I've installed this unit in my 1998 4Runner and wanted to provide a review strictly for Android integration and in particular, our beautiful Nexus 4.
First, I purchased this off Amazon for around $130. The price bounces up and down quite a bit, its $169 today, but it generally stays in the realm of $125-$150. A great deal as this unit retails for $279.
http://www.amazon.com/Pioneer-DEH-P...F8&qid=1359043082&sr=8-1&keywords=deh-p9400bh
This is a fairly new unit, released in 2012 and is near the top model of the Pioneer head units.
Side note--I wouldn't waste time with the $100 "feature rich" no-name car stereos on Amazon..they're mostly crap. You want a good PIONEER or ALPINE, and feature for feature..this Pioneer DELIVERS.
Features (these blew me away..haven't had a new car stereo in ages..however i'm going to focus primarily on the android/nexus 4 integration.
AM/FM Tuner/HD Radio - Wow..who knew there were like 10 more stations on the FM dial that have CD quality and are all digital that I can now pick up on my radio?
XM/SIRIUS Satellite Radio Support - Don't know, don't care. It requires buying an add-on doodad for this radio and paying a monthly fee so I'm not interested.
Remote control - Kinda useless but could be handy if you're sitting on the tailgate of your car or something and need to quickly mute the radio.
CD/MP3 Player - It will play regular CDs as well as MP3 data CDs.
Bluetooth - OH MY, we'll get to this below.
AUX - Has 2 auxillary audio imput ports..I can't imagine needing to use these so I turned them off.
LED Multicolor display - you'll notice this in my pics below..i set it to 'random' so the color of the buttons and display are constantly changing.
USB - super cool! 2 USB ports (rear) that can handle USB sticks, charge your phone or allow the kids to plug in stuff. I ran one cord to the rear seats so the kids can get access to it, and the other one I drilled a 3/4" hole in my glovebox and bought a $10 USB adapter so I have a clean hidden install and at the moment have a 32GB USB stick plugged in with the majority of my music collection. BONUS, you can get firmware updates for your car stereo and flash it via this USB connection..cool!!
http://www.amazon.com/PAC-Cable-Mounting-Bracket-USBCBL/dp/B002MW6HRO/ref=pd_sim_e_4
***
Ok on to the meat of the review! The Android/Nexus 4 Bluetooth integration.
Bluetooth - supports up to 3 devices so I've actually paired this with my Nexus, my fiance's iPhone and my kid's LG MyTouch android phone. Very slick. You can see it showing "NEXUS 4", my Nexus battery %, BT signal strength and length of time connected all on the screen (below).
GPS - The voice-guided navigation comes through the speakers while music is playing..it fades the music down and the voice is loud and crisp. My phone can be off and sitting on the seat and I'm still getting my navigation instructions. So cool.
Music/Pandora - The radio supports Pandora or any music player app on your Nexus and its amazing! Pandora plays as soon as you start the car and the radio comes on (if its running in the background) and stops when you turn the car off. I don't have to touch my phone or anything. Very nice the way this works.
In addition, you can hit the down lever (or the control on my cheap $20 Pioneer IR steering wheel control) to move to the next Pandora song. UPDATE Just discovered I can also do the following from the head unit or my steering wheel control.
Next Track - Push lever down on head unit or click RIGHT ARROW on steering wheel control
Pause - Push silver button twice, or hit FUNCTION on steering remote and hit forward arrow
Resume Playback - Push BAND button on head unit or hit BAND button on steering wheel control
Of course muting the audio, etc. still work.
Also if you're using a different music player, you can do the following from your radio (or steering control) that work on the Nexus 4
Tap lever down (jump to next track)
Hold lever down (fast forward the song playing)
Tap lever up (jump to previous track)
Hold lever up (fast rewind the song playing)
Push down on the big silver knob (pause/play)
Android Phone - One of the slickest things! There's a little microphone that you mount on the back of your steering column. Super clear, everyone I've called says they can't tell I'm not talking on my phone! Not a single person can tell they're on speakerphone. You can also adjust the sensitivity of this microphone for the person on the other end on the fly by clicking the little lever up or down on the radio itself (or steering wheel control). I've never had to do this; the default sensitivity works great for me.
The person's voice you're talking to comes out of your car speakers and you can adjust the volume.
When you first pair your Nexus, it will download your phonebook...
...the last 50 dialed calls
...the last 50 missed calls
..and the last 50 recieved calls
---
You can then scroll to any of these screens to select a person to call (will show you the phonebook)
Making calls
Simply use the radio (or steering wheel) control to find the person you want to call and click the big silver dial.
This is what the screen looks like when you're on a call.
In addition to muting any Pandora/music playing when making or recieving a phone call, the phone works whether you've selected the radio, CD, USB stick, auxillary or bluetooth! So no matter what you're listening to, when you need to make or recieve a phone call, the radio will pause (or mute) whatever music is playing and allow you to answer the phone.
From the head unit itself, it will control these things on your phone
Caller ID appears on the screen
tap big silver button Answer a call
hit little phone icon button Ignore a call
tap big silver button call waiting (switch to incoming call)
hit little phone icon button Cancel call waiting
hit the 'band' button on radio quickly switch the call off bluetooth and back to your phone (for private calls)
In addition you can set the head unit to automatically answer calls coming in and/or disable the ring tone coming from the car speakers.
In short, this cheap little Pioneer head unit is a very capable android-enabled radio! Its not perfect (no song tracks sent from android to the radio display for instance) but I think the android integration for a $100-ish radio is very good.
Oh, and this is a PIONEER..meaning on top of all the android stuff it is an AMAZINGLY GOOD SOUNDING RADIO.
----
PS One final thought; I will point out ALL differences between "full" iPhone/Pandora support vs. Android/Nexus 4 Pandora support as it pertains to the radio head unit itself.
iPhone/Pandora - displays song title, 'thumb up/down', length of song on display Nexus 4 (see above) just displays "bluetooth"
iPhone/Pandora radio controls (play, pause, next track, 'select thumb up or thumb down', change pandora station) Nexus 4 (play, pause, next track)
That's about it. Not a huge deal for me, the main thing I would want to do with Pandora is skip tracks anyway. The 'switch stations' would have been a nice feature but I can live with doing that on my phone as I normally pick a station and stay on it while driving.
So don't be fooled into thinking the iPhone has alot more Pandora integration than Android. Those bonus features for iPhone are more gimmicky than useful (except displaying track name)

The Bluetooth features are pretty standard, I got them in my 4 year old Kenwood set.
But the price is cheap indeed.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium

hansoho said:
The Bluetooth features are pretty standard, I got them in my 4 year old Kenwood set.
But the price is cheap indeed.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks its all new to me..i feel like my 1998 car just jetted into the future. i went from having a crappy old radio to turning my car into an extension of my nexus 4 apps! love it! no cords! install was super easy..just match the colored wires.

i do the same thing with my sony head unit (http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Sony+-+...Deck/4611353.p?id=1218497914606&skuId=4611353) in my 03 honda accord. i bought it just for the bluetooth. but it sucks when talking to people. lol people say it sounds like im in a wind tunnel.. but for music it works great. :highfive:

i think the microphone pioneer includes and finding the proper location is key. from all the reviews i've read its a very good mic and so far it seems to be doing a great job.
when i get out to my car, i'll take a pic of how i have it mounted

I am dieing to see this. My VW has bluetooth but its not stereo and has no options for the other stuff. I do have sirius built in which is nice but I can add that another way, if I even need to do that.

nyvram1 said:
i think the microphone pioneer includes and finding the proper location is key. from all the reviews i've read its a very good mic and so far it seems to be doing a great job.
when i get out to my car, i'll take a pic of how i have it mounted
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well my problem is, my mic is build into the stereo. so i cant move it anywhere. so i kinda wish i got one that didnt have it built in. they have head units with bluetooth but they arent build in so you had to buy the mic. but they wanted like 60 bucks for the mic. lol so i said screw that and got the one with build in bluetooth. now i regret it lol

Thanks for the tip of the HU. My car stereo is a very bad LG unit, and I'll probably take one of these pioneer's.
I really like the integration of the phone book, showing the incoming calls on the display (that way I won't need to take the phone out of my pocket).
Best regards!
Rodrigo
Enviado de meu Nexus S usando o Tapatalk 2

While I won't be putting this in my truck as it has stock BT and controls etc etc...this deck looks like a worthy contender for our old beater...thanks for the pics and review!
Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2

Sv: [Review] Best Nexus 4 accessory ever! Pioneer Car Stereo (WITH DETAILED PICS)
Nice review. Reviews are always good for the community.
... . -. - ...- .. .- - .- .--. .- - .- .-.. -.-

Pretty standard features to be honest, and you can pick up the lower end pioneer BT capable HU for ~$100 if you keep an eye out.
What's really cool is something like the pioneer appradio but only if it works with your specific device and of course every time there is an OS update it takes pioneer 6+ mos to get everything working again It's also significantly more expensive.

I was thinking of getting this one.
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Pioneer...Deck/6261628.p?id=1218725182932&skuId=6261628
Not the same one, hope it has all the bluetooth features though.

threeclaws said:
Pretty standard features to be honest, and you can pick up the lower end pioneer BT capable HU for ~$100 if you keep an eye out.
What's really cool is something like the pioneer appradio but only if it works with your specific device and of course every time there is an OS update it takes pioneer 6+ mos to get everything working again It's also significantly more expensive.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
doesnt the appradio just work with iphones? didnt seem like it was something useful for our nexus 4s.
and i looked at the other cheaper units like the 6400..but for $20-$30 more, the 9400 had loads more features and aside from the AUX and sat radio support, i'm using them all.

nyvram1 said:
doesnt the appradio just work with iphones? didnt seem like it was something useful for our nexus 4s.
and i looked at the other cheaper units like the 6400..but for $20-$30 more, the 9400 had loads more features and aside from the AUX and sat radio support, i'm using them all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They made an App Radio 2 that works with Android devices that support MHL and micro? hdmi. It's really not all that great of a head unit. If your gonna spend a lot of money on a pioneer go for their AVIC series.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium

About a year ago I bought a Kenwood KDC-X796 and put it in my 13 year old Hyundai Elantra. I felt the same level of excitement as the original poster. It was like I had a brand new car.
The Kenwood had an external microphone that the installers placed along the roof line above the rear view mirror. If it has cords they hid them well. It works perfectly. I use it all the time. No one has problems hearing me.
At the time, I had the original Nexus One with custom ROM (I forget which one).
I could press the giant volume knob and it would start up Voice Dialing on the Nexus One. I could say, "Call <Name>'s Mobile" and it would call their mobile phone. It worked beautifully.
Later I reinstalled the stock ROM and this feature no longer worked. Apparently, the stock ROM doesn't support the part of the Bluetooth spec that is needed for Voice Dialing over Bluetooth even though the hardware does support it.
When I got my Nexus 4 I thought I would get this feature back. But alas, it still doesn't support Voice Dialing over Bluetooth. This bugs me.

I don't have a thirdparty headunit, but my Civic has all this built in, plus it displays texts. I have never used bluetooth until I got my car, and I regret not playing with it earlier.

DarenTx said:
When I got my Nexus 4 I thought I would get this feature back. But alas, it still doesn't support Voice Dialing over Bluetooth. This bugs me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
exactly!! why is this? it seems a no-brainer android..and JB in particular would support google voice search over bluetooth.
i'm going to do some research on this. having google voice search working in your car is 95% of where i'd use it anyway (asking for weather updates, voice dialing, etc.)
surely there's a thread or app to take care of this..i would hate to have to root my phone and put a custom ROM on just for this one feature.

nyvram1 said:
doesnt the appradio just work with iphones? didnt seem like it was something useful for our nexus 4s.
and i looked at the other cheaper units like the 6400..but for $20-$30 more, the 9400 had loads more features and aside from the AUX and sat radio support, i'm using them all.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Appradio 2 works with android and ARLiberator makes it far more functional.
I don't see "loads more features" but IMO they are both pretty basic units.

threeclaws said:
Appradio 2 works with android and ARLiberator makes it far more functional.
I don't see "loads more features" but IMO they are both pretty basic units.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Just FYI, when i said "load more features" i was talking about the 9400 vs the lower end pioner cd-reciever head units. I've never owned an appradio so I can't speak to the features those offer. i like the slim profile of the 'normal' sized 9400 and although there is a new top-end 9500 available, given the deep discount I got on the 9400 it wasn't worth it to me to get the 9500.
ps just watched the 'arliberator' video and appradio 2...wow. that's definitely going to be my next car radio. too much to put into my 15 year old 4runner..but for well under $500 you can get a great functional command center that would improve the value of ANY vehicle.

nyvram1 said:
Just FYI, when i said "load more features" i was talking about the 9400 vs the lower end pioner cd-reciever head units. I've never owned an appradio so I can't speak to the features those offer. i like the slim profile of the 'normal' sized 9400 and although there is a new top-end 9500 available, given the deep discount I got on the 9400 it wasn't worth it to me to get the 9500.
ps just watched the 'arliberator' video and appradio 2...wow. that's definitely going to be my next car radio. too much to put into my 15 year old 4runner..but for well under $500 you can get a great functional command center that would improve the value of ANY vehicle.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The App radio won't work the our phones though since it requires HDMI or MHL.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium

Related

Best headphones for N1

As we all know by now, the headphone jack on the N1 is a 4 conductor jack capable of play/pause and forward/reverse controls.
Unfortantely this causes problems for many sets of headphones with the N1. Songs often start all on their own, skip, pause, etc just by moving the device which is really annoying. This does not happen to all regular headphones, just most.
This is very annoying because it almost limits you to use the stock headphones which are big and bulky.
Also I found it very annoying to have to turn the screen on, unlock the device, scroll to MixZing lite, then change a song. I put up with the stock headphones because all I had to do was hit a button.
So my question to everyone, where can we all find some good 4 conductor headphones? I went to best buy, frys, and a couple other places and left with nothing, very disappointing. It would be nice if they had a mic, but this isn't a deal breaker for me right now.
I really do not mind paying $50 to $70 (maybe more if they are awesome) if i can get great quailty headphones which have the 4 conductor controls.
Of course if I have to go bluetooth that goes up a little bit, but 've yet to find great bluetooth headphons. I used to have Sony Ericsson HBH-DS205 which I loved but one day they quit charging .
Also with bluetooth its just another thing to run down your N1's battery, and since I'm always on the internet, listening to music, and playing a game this isnt ideal for me, and I'm sure it isn't for most people.
Does anyone know of a great pair? Please post!
I've got a pair of Klipsch Image S4i that ran me ~$100 which sound awesome. It has an inline remote with 3 buttons for volume up, play/pause, and volume down. The volume up and down buttons don't work but I only really cared about the play/pause button. One press play/pauses, two presses skips to the next track. Using the volume up/down on the side of the N1 is easy enough. It also has a built in mic so I can take calls without getting my phone out.
I also tried out the Motorola S9-HD bluetooth headphones for awhile. While everything worked fine I found them very uncomfortable after half an hour so I returned them.
I just went to Best Buy and bought an adapter with the controls built in. (I'm sure you can find a better deal on-line) I can now use any headphones I like. FYI, I later bought a pair of Klipsch Custom 1's that do not have controls and I now have the best of both worlds.
Also...You can find a thread where someone hacked up their OEM N1 headphones to make an adapter themselves. If that's your thing...
+1 on the Klipsch headphones. Got mine a week after getting my N1. Took me a while to get used to in ear buds, but unlike most headphones they become more comfortable the longer you wear them.
So I can take it from this thread that any headphones with a mic that are compatible with an iphone will work OK for pause/play/skip but not volume?
hmm.. there are three things that I don't like about N1 headsets :
1 - got tangled up so easily
2 - lack of bass, tin-can sound
3 - microphone position is so low that you need to clip it on your shirt.
I tried Sennheiser MM50ip, but sound quality was just plain horrible for the price. I'm not a big fan of in-ear headsets anyway.
So I switched back to my iPhone headsets. Only play/pause button works, but I got some bass back and it sounds much better (not the best though). No need to clip your mic anywhere since it's positioned properly.
Thanks guys for all the advice. I'm still debating if I want to spend $100 on a pair of wired headphones, but it sounds like they might be worth it.
Having a volume up and down on the inline remote doesn't bother me because volume up and down works on the N1 itself even with the screen off and the system locked.
What I have found though is a bluetooth option so I wanted to let everyone know about it. The Sony Ericsson MW600 look perfect if I decide to go bluetooth. It has play/pause, forward/reverse, volume up/down, and most importantly a BUILT-IN FM radio. The best news about this device is it was built for an android phone so all the functions should work (its shipping free with a X10 ). Throw in the fact that it charges with a microUSB charger (same as N1) and its not looking that bad.
This eliminates the need to try to get the FM radio to work.
I love this type of device because whenever one side of the headphones get a short, you can just plug in another. Buying nice headphones for $30-$50 a pair when they get a short is better than spending $100.
Unfortantely though, like the 32 gig microSD card, it was supposed to be out last month, and that didnt happen. So I guess its an its available when its available type situation. If I don't find a wired solution before these come out, im going to get them.
Here is the website in case anyone is interested: http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/products/accessories/overview/mw600
jz9833 said:
Thanks guys for all the advice. I'm still debating if I want to spend $100 on a pair of wired headphones, but it sounds like they might be worth it.
Having a volume up and down on the inline remote doesn't bother me because volume up and down works on the N1 itself even with the screen off and the system locked.
What I have found though is a bluetooth option so I wanted to let everyone know about it. The Sony Ericsson MW600 look perfect if I decide to go bluetooth. It has play/pause, forward/reverse, volume up/down, and most importantly a BUILT-IN FM radio. The best news about this device is it was built for an android phone so all the functions should work (its shipping free with a X10 ). Throw in the fact that it charges with a microUSB charger (same as N1) and its not looking that bad.
This eliminates the need to try to get the FM radio to work.
I love this type of device because whenever one side of the headphones get a short, you can just plug in another. Buying nice headphones for $30-$50 a pair when they get a short is better than spending $100.
Unfortantely though, like the 32 gig microSD card, it was supposed to be out last month, and that didnt happen. So I guess its an its available when its available type situation. If I don't find a wired solution before these come out, im going to get them.
Here is the website in case anyone is interested: http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/products/accessories/overview/mw600
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I spent about 100 bux awhile back for some TripleFI10s(usually $300), and they are INCREDIBLE.
More of just trying to tell you how much better GOOD headphones are. The soundstage is such a huge step up. You really feel there. Do your research with AUDIOPHILE reviews/website.
These are amazing headphones....bought 2.
Motorola Over-The-Head Stereo Bluetooth Headphone Black Bulk (S805) - OEM
Check them out on newegg
I use Etymotic ER6i earphones (around 100$)... They sound great and really block all outside noise, so I can use them in the bus/subway without turning the volume up.
However the cord is very long (6 feet I think) and they are very delicate. You need to make sure your ears are very clean before putting them on, else you need to change the filters very often.
I sometimes wish for good over-the-head bluetooth headphones.
I have these, not the cheapest headphones. But, they work great, sound great, block outside noise (without active noise-cancellation which can be a problem for someone with tinnitus), I have had no issues with grounding or anything like that. I've been using the normal cable that came with my headphones for now, however I have a very short (about 3") cable for them. I got it when I was using my G1 so the miniusb-3.5mm adapter would reach to about shoulder length (so I could use the inline mic to talk on the phone). I just ordered this, so I can go back to using the short cable and have a mic again.
jz9833 said:
Thanks guys for all the advice. I'm still debating if I want to spend $100 on a pair of wired headphones, but it sounds like they might be worth it.
Having a volume up and down on the inline remote doesn't bother me because volume up and down works on the N1 itself even with the screen off and the system locked.
What I have found though is a bluetooth option so I wanted to let everyone know about it. The Sony Ericsson MW600 look perfect if I decide to go bluetooth. It has play/pause, forward/reverse, volume up/down, and most importantly a BUILT-IN FM radio. The best news about this device is it was built for an android phone so all the functions should work (its shipping free with a X10 ). Throw in the fact that it charges with a microUSB charger (same as N1) and its not looking that bad.
This eliminates the need to try to get the FM radio to work.
I love this type of device because whenever one side of the headphones get a short, you can just plug in another. Buying nice headphones for $30-$50 a pair when they get a short is better than spending $100.
Unfortantely though, like the 32 gig microSD card, it was supposed to be out last month, and that didnt happen. So I guess its an its available when its available type situation. If I don't find a wired solution before these come out, im going to get them.
Here is the website in case anyone is interested: http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/products/accessories/overview/mw600
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Are u in the UK or US ??
Play.com say they are going to be release on the 8th for £40
Might hav to grab myself a pair of dem
These are an excellent value and they look really nice too. They are over the ear and just are an excellent deal.
Sennheiser CX-300-II's are pretty damn good...
I second the MEElectronics M6. They are brilliant for a pair of £35 in-ear headphones.
Etymotic ER6i are good, but they were primarily designed more to be used as in-ear monitors for stage performers rather than casual listening.
Etymotic HF5's. I've owned mine for about a year now and they've been great. Etymotic is a nice company to work with too.
I've been using a pair of Nu Force NE-7M's that I'm very happy with.
http://www.nuforce.com/hp/products/ne7m/index.php
However I wanted something with volume control so I ordered a pair of Sennheiser MM200's today. I've never used BT headphones before so we'll see how it works out.
http://www.sennheiserusa.com/private_headsets_mobile_bluetooth-wireless_music_502413
skull candy smokin buds all the way, 25 bucks and they are noise cancelling in a way and they bump! get the in line controls and u r dialed...i wish they had a hack to change the volume updown to track forward and back similar to vmc i think thats what its called for the iphone
jz9833 said:
Here is the website in case anyone is interested: http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/products/accessories/overview/mw600
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That MW600 bluetooth headset interface looks awesome. Would be interested to see how well it will work with third party music apps like Spotify and Google Listen. I read here that the pause / play button only works on the standard media player on 1.5, could be different on 2.1?
Bose mobile in-ear headset
think these might be good? id rather honestly not have another gadget to charge up..
darn, nexus not listed as compatible, anyone know if it will function as intended?

Best BlueTooth Car Unit

Now that the Nexus One Car Dock is out and it is confirmed that it does indeed support BT pairing, how about some recomendations on some good compatable car stereos to go with it?
In my case, I would like a Double-Din unit. If I want BT, and Satelite, most dealers are trying to sell me a base unit with each feature as an add-on. That would make working with these systems awkward as they are not fully integrated into the unit. Is there such a thing as a unit that does all of this:
Double-Din
BlueTooth
Satelite Radio
HD Radio
Ability to control the music playback on the Nexus
thm92630 said:
Now that the Nexus One Car Dock is out and it is confirmed that it does indeed support BT pairing, how about some recomendations on some good compatable car stereos to go with it?
In my case, I would like a Double-Din unit. If I want BT, and Satelite, most dealers are trying to sell me a base unit with each feature as an add-on. That would make working with these systems awkward as they are not fully integrated into the unit. Is there such a thing as a unit that does all of this:
Double-Din
BlueTooth
Satelite Radio
HD Radio
Ability to control the music playback on the Nexus
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Satellite and HD radio are generally going to require add ons, but Bluetooth is often an integrated solution.
My head unit review is here
How on earth are we going to decide what's best? I like mine, but I am quite sure it's not the absolute best.
Alpine FTW!
I always use Alpine headunits. I believe this one will work meet all of your requirements. You may have to purchase an additional bluetooth control unit, but that is pretty much the norm. This one also is compatible with Alpine's imprint technology which is AWESOME! If you don't know you should check it out.
http://ikesound.com/alpine_iva_w505
Here is the imprint module:
http://www.alpine-usa.com/product/view/pxa-h100
Also found the Bluetooth module:
http://www.alpine-usa.com/product/view/kce-400bt
ccunningham83 said:
Also found the Bluetooth module:
http://www.alpine-usa.com/product/view/kce-400bt
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has this been tested with the Nexus One, which is pretty picky about what Bluetooth Devices it will pair and work with? A positive report would be really cool.
Ok, instead of 'best' how about most reasonable? This setup is over a grand! If there isn't a unit with these features integraged, I will prefer to go with a bluetooth device first and add the rest later (on a side note, couldn't these extra units interface thru bluetooth as well?)
A feature that I see advertised a lot is an 'iPod adapter' that allows the head unit to control an iPhone and display track information as well. Would a bluetooth connection to the nexus provide this feature?
thm92630 said:
Ok, instead of 'best' how about most reasonable? This setup is over a grand! If there isn't a unit with these features integraged, I will prefer to go with a bluetooth device first and add the rest later (on a side note, couldn't these extra units interface thru bluetooth as well?)
A feature that I see advertised a lot is an 'iPod adapter' that allows the head unit to control an iPhone and display track information as well. Would a bluetooth connection to the nexus provide this feature?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You are right, this setup is expensive, but it is a very nice setup. I personally don't have it, but I do have experiance using high end alpine products. I did read that when paired with bluetooth, the album information will be displayed. I don't know if that includes streaming Pandora or not though.
I didn't think it would be crazy for someone who spent $530 on a phone to get the best phone out would mind spending the money on a high end radio. If you want to make it cheaper I would suggest getting a single DIN radio, they are substantially cheaper and you can get the same features, plus a storage area above or below in the existing space.
I'm in the same boat as the OP. Tracking....
Sent from my Nexus One using the XDA mobile application powered by Tapatalk
I personally despise that Pioneer unit. I bought it originally from Amazon but ended up hating almost everything about it. It beeps every time you do ANYTHING, it is bright blue like a comet even at night and lights up the whole cab, the menus are a mess to use, and the iPod support seizes control of the iPod while the head unit iPod controls aren't even very good at all.
I sent it back and bought a JVC double DIN http://www.amazon.com/JVC-KW-XG700-Double-Receiver-Expandable/dp/B000R3G86K . It has no iPod support or bluetooth though (even though I still consider it to be superior just on a usability basis). There is no bluetooth in it though, so now I am looking at buying a $100 bluetooth adapter for it. I see that JVC is going to release a new model any day though, the XR810. http://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KWXR810/JVC-KW-XR810.html?tp=5684&avf=N At first I was afraid because it too has blue backlights, but it turns out that all of the lighting is completely customizable. This thing seems to do everything the way I want it to such that I'm thinking of upgrading even though my receiver works fine. Since it has bluetooth built in, its only $200 more than just buying a bluetooth adapter.
That said, if you're looking at buying aftermarket and you dont care about what it sounds like or amplifiers or custom speakers, there are probably cheaper units that still offer bluetooth connectivity.
The more people that check this out and add the better
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=660617
so far we have 4 headunits that work pretty well, if you find another one please place it into the list
-Charlie
bradsh1 said:
I personally despise that Pioneer unit. I bought it originally from Amazon but ended up hating almost everything about it. It beeps every time you do ANYTHING, it is bright blue like a comet even at night and lights up the whole cab, the menus are a mess to use, and the iPod support seizes control of the iPod while the head unit iPod controls aren't even very good at all.
I sent it back and bought a JVC double DIN http://www.amazon.com/JVC-KW-XG700-Double-Receiver-Expandable/dp/B000R3G86K . It has no iPod support or bluetooth though (even though I still consider it to be superior just on a usability basis). There is no bluetooth in it though, so now I am looking at buying a $100 bluetooth adapter for it. I see that JVC is going to release a new model any day though, the XR810. http://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KWXR810/JVC-KW-XR810.html?tp=5684&avf=N At first I was afraid because it too has blue backlights, but it turns out that all of the lighting is completely customizable. This thing seems to do everything the way I want it to such that I'm thinking of upgrading even though my receiver works fine. Since it has bluetooth built in, its only $200 more than just buying a bluetooth adapter.
That said, if you're looking at buying aftermarket and you dont care about what it sounds like or amplifiers or custom speakers, there are probably cheaper units that still offer bluetooth connectivity.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're right about bright blue. There are two way to deal with that - either turn the display off or wire it to the dimmable dash lights with an inline resistor to drop the voltage a bit more. The dash lights go right to most harnesses, so it's not a big deal. But if it gets 12v straight from the vehicle, it's going to be bright when it's on. I haven't had any issues with with mp3 playback with the N1 since the first day. I can use N1 playback, or I can use head unit controls, or I can use my factory steering wheel controls, which are by far easiest. Beeps? I don't care. They're soft and they don't bother me.
That is another reason I bought the uint I did, full customizable color scheme and (standard) dimming features when hooked up correctly.
its a pain because my vehichle VW GTI has the CAN system to power on the unit vs a standard 12v on source.
what are your best guesses for the video playback bypass for ebrake on a GTI?
-Charlie
dahui9 said:
That is another reason I bought the uint I did, full customizable color scheme and (standard) dimming features when hooked up correctly.
its a pain because my vehichle VW GTI has the CAN system to power on the unit vs a standard 12v on source.
what are your best guesses for the video playback bypass for ebrake on a GTI?
-Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If hooked up correctly, they all have dimming. However, the lights on these are generally far more efficient than the dash lights, which means by the time the dash lights are visible, the head unit lights are too bright. I plan to fix that with a resistor in line with power coming from the dimmer. It's a simple fix. The head unit does have a dimming adjustment, It just doesn't go nearly far enough.
Not sure why video bypass is required on the DVD players, but I have read that a lot of people do it. What is the situation that requires a bypass?
Wish I hadn't posted here. It was a double.
attn1 said:
If hooked up correctly, they all have dimming. However, the lights on these are generally far more efficient than the dash lights, which means by the time the dash lights are visible, the head unit lights are too bright. I plan to fix that with a resistor in line with power coming from the dimmer. It's a simple fix. The head unit does have a dimming adjustment, It just doesn't go nearly far enough.
Not sure why video bypass is required on the DVD players, but I have read that a lot of people do it. What is the situation that requires a bypass?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so when your driving your surrounding peeps can watch music videos, dvd's, and or home made movie clips (no erotic pun intended ) if you don't do it no video will play while the car is in motion.
-Charlie
dahui9 said:
so when your driving your surrounding peeps can watch music videos, dvd's, and or home made movie clips (no erotic pun intended ) if you don't do it no video will play while the car is in motion.
-Charlie
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So there is a circuit the emergency brake is supposed to close that indicates it's safe to play video? Seems like that would be easy enough to circumvent right at the head unit. Easier than connecting the head unit to the emergency brake.

Earplugs with mic+controls

I've been looking online for earplugs with controls to answer calls and to skip tracks in the music player. Most of the ones I've been have only been for the iPhone or iPod, does anyone know if these will work?
For example these: hxxp://sg.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=437&subcategory=442&product=17989 (link broken because I'm a new member, replace the xx's)
Anyone have any suggestions, recommendations or experiences to share?
I cant click on the link for some strange reason but i use Sony Ericsson Wireless Headset MW600 and i can pick up calls and skip tracks.
I think the link above should be this one:
http://sg.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=437&subcategory=442&product=17989
i still cant see the product, that sends you to the shop home screen not the product page. If you say the name it would save a lot of hassle
Link still works from me on a different pc, name is Creative Labs EP-630i stereo headphones
Ill be interested if these will work. Bought a new pair of phones without the buttons and really miss them!
Also, i have heard that these work well:
hxxp://www.griffintechnology.com/products/headphone-control-adapter
Griffin's Headphone Control Adapter.
My friend has a N1 and says they work.
Just got one of these: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Griffin-Sma...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1278934550&sr=8-1
It's surprisingly quite small and compact, button and mic are good quality. I have headphones which came with a short cord + extension (Denon AH-C751), so using this makes the cord length just right.
The smarttalk got a lot of bad reviews because the edges of the plastic parts would damage the cable over time, but the version I got has rubber sheaths where the cable connects with the plastic - it seems Griffin listened to feedback on that one. Still, I can't vouch for the reliability, but so far so good.
Thanks for the replies everyone, I think I'll see if I can find the griffin things somewhere nearby
I read the fabulous klipsch s4i are working with the desire, but I just read that on one forum, so i'm still a bit careful...
can't post outside links sadly...
original
why dont u like original earphones ? they sound and look good and controls are perfect
legartas said:
why dont u like original earphones ? they sound and look good and controls are perfect
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not op, but I have an issue with them.
The mic is already screwed up and one of the casings is about to fall apart.
I am willing to spend around 80 € on a pair of headphones with controls plus a microphone. Like OP said most of the ones available are for the iPhone but I heard somewhere with some application installed you could use those for an Android powered phone as well?
The Griffon solution is really not that sexy, I would love a complete solution instead.
DashingGentleman said:
Just got one of these: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Griffin-Sma...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1278934550&sr=8-1
It's surprisingly quite small and compact, button and mic are good quality. I have headphones which came with a short cord + extension (Denon AH-C751), so using this makes the cord length just right.
The smarttalk got a lot of bad reviews because the edges of the plastic parts would damage the cable over time, but the version I got has rubber sheaths where the cable connects with the plastic - it seems Griffin listened to feedback on that one. Still, I can't vouch for the reliability, but so far so good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
so just to get this right you use this griffin adapter with your htc desire to:
1 - answer calls
2 - hands free and speak through microfone
3 - cycle through music tracks and pause music
I read somewhere else that iPhone headphones with built in controls work fine on the Desire.
As I already own a pair of Klipsch S4 cans which are fantastic I looked on eBay for an iPhone adaptor that plugs inline with the headphones. Cost less than a fiver delivered.
Exactly the same as http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/3-5mm-Headphone-Microphone-Adaptor-Cable-iPhone-/200484789691?cmd=ViewItem&pt=UK_Mobiles_Accessories_RL&hash=item2eadd31dbb#ht_1995wt_1137
It works just fine for me and means I can take a call without taking my headphones out.
I have the same product I can play/pause tracks and use the mike, but not skip tracks how did you get it to work?
djtosh said:
so just to get this right you use this griffin adapter with your htc desire to:
1 - answer calls
2 - hands free and speak through microfone
3 - cycle through music tracks and pause music
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sent from my HTC Legend using XDA App
pjhoughton1976 said:
I have the same product I can play/pause tracks and use the mike, but not skip tracks how did you get it to work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Double tap the button to skip a track. I thought 3x click skipped backwards, but it doesn't work, at least not with cyanogen mod 6. Long press also takes me to the music app when phone is unlocked, but this might be a CM thing as well. I
Never tried to take a call with the button, but there's no reason it wouldn't work if @MARK's earphones can.
Also, djtosh, sorry about not replying - I haven't been checking this part of the forum. It's been answered anyways:
1 - yes
2 - yes
3 - yes, but I can skip tracks on the ROM I use, not go back
Thanks for the suggestion guys... as i too was looking for a headset wit mic for using it PC and i got tat wit ur help
I don't know how you feel about using wireless bluetooth options, but I searched long and hard some time ago looking for exactly the same thing and found nothing with the right functionality - ie. that worked on par with the factory earphones.
After looking into all the options I opted for the Sony MW600 - http://www.sonyericsson.com/cws/products/accessories/overview/mw600?cc=gb&lc=en
I like them because I can use whatever quality earphones I want, they sync via bluetooth and the remote control part therefore just clips onto you wherever you like (shirt collar for use of mic for instance).
Has play, pause, skip forward and back tracks, fast forward and rewind, and volume control. Also has the hang up / call button and mute mic function. The display should have theoretically have shown song title but it doesn't. Works great with doubletwist and default music player in android.
Tons of battery life and uses same charging connector as Desire.
Hope my 2c helps people.
^
Those are very nice earphones . Might get myself some
i just bought a akg dj518 and cut the microphone and music control of the original htc and brazed it to the akg cost me 5 mins of my life

Bec's best wireless headset Accesorize!™ thread

So now that you've had a good laugh, please keep this thread about headsets you've tested or heard of and share your experience (especially if they have hiccups! because it's bluetooth we're running on!)
Please add links or pictures!​
I'm going to start the best wireless headset thread by recomending the Plantronics Altec Lansing Backbeat 903/906 headset
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Highlights:
- no hiccups, perfect connection with I9000 at all times!
- 8 hrs battery life
- micro USB, charges off any micro USB source
- lightweight
- not completely in-ear (won't block outside noises)
- adjustable height and rotation of the speaker
- volume/next/back slider
- play/pause/bass boost button (amazing sound with 5.1 activated!!!)
- end call/voice command/call last dialed button
The 906 model is identical but comes with a bt transmitter for your bt-less devices that have a jack (fairly useless).​
Yep I use the 903's and they're fantastic.
I do sometimes struggle with the in your ear style phones
but these are super comfy and to my ears they definitely
sound better than the factory ones.
Gets my vote :-D
Sony DR-BT21G
sport style bluetooth headset. Non in ear, so great for those of you who also have a small ear canal. No visible mike, but reception quality is still decent even when outdoor.
Music quality is acceptable. Some bass. Nowhere near a full headphone though.
11 hours of playback time. Now that's alot.
Sent from my GT-I9000 using XDA App
looks quite decent compared to the simlar design from Motorola
features just like the Jabra BT8010
the last Plantronics stereo BT headset i purchased was a piece of junk it didn't have any remote features at all
gonna see if i can find this model for cheap
Bec07 said:
So now that you've had a good laugh, please keep this thread about headsets you've tested or heard of and share your experience (especially if they have hiccups! because it's bluetooth we're running on!)​
I'm going to start the best wireless headset thread by recomending the Plantronics Altec Lansing Backbeat 903/906 headset
Highlights:
- no hiccups, perfect connection with I9000 at all times!
- 8 hrs battery life
- micro USB, charges off any micro USB source
- lightweight
- not completely in-ear (won't block outside noises)
- adjustable height and rotation of the speaker
- volume/next/back slider
- play/pause/bass boost button (amazing sound with 5.1 activated!!!)
- end call/voice command/call last dialed button
The 906 model is identical but comes with a bt transmitter for your bt-less devices that have a jack (fairly useless).​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In the Amazon reviews, they often say that the distance the Altec Lansing Backbeat 903 can cover is very short and that if you put your phone into your pocket the connection interrupts. Did you experience similar problems so far?
No, it works perfectly, tested on i9000 and sony w660.
If it doesn't work well on other devices blame their crappy BT antenna design.
Hi all
I'm using a Nokia BH-500 headset adapter that produces great sound and additional volume and all its functions work as they should and the sound using it with my Shure EC2g's is nothing short of stunning. It has no stutter lag or drop outs at all just works as it should I've had my BH-500 for ages and got mine on E-Bay for just £35 if you can find one well worth the money IMO.
Marc
I can also vouch for the Nokia BH-503, quite bulky and not practical in the summer, but a good headset none the less.
I'm currently using the Backbeat 906 with the my SGS I9000 and I have to say I'm quite impressed by it. Despite the large size, it's actually quite light and very comfortable. Though I have to say it does take a bit of getting used to that the ear pieces don't actually sit snug in your ears like normal canal phones do. I keep worrying that the person sitting next to me can hear everything that I'm hearing!
That being said, I have no problems listening to music or calls with the phone in my back pocket. The bass, I find, is surprisingly good in the increased bass mode and is a pleasure to watch movies on.
Call quality is excellent on my end however, it's far from the best from the other end. But I guess this is to be expected given the design.
All up, for $47 US on ebay, I have to say I'm pretty darn happy with it
I had a motorola S9 which I used for a long time with my blackberry, and a little with my SGS before it died in a party related accident.
Anyway, it was a fine headset and served me well. Stayed well synched and lasted maybe 7-8 hours, although I only ever had reason to use it for that long between chargers on one or two occasions. It was comfy enough, although anyone with long hair (mines loooong) will get it perpetually caught in the headset because you have to wear it over the top of however you normally hair your hair.
Anyway, decent sound, decent connection. For best results, you need to carry your phone in a back pocket, although it'll hold connection anywhere except in a jeans front pocket or similar. Then it gets a little wobbly.
I got mine cheap so I never complained about its bad points, but its far from perfect, especially with its solid ear cups. To operate the controls you have to jab blindly and REALLY hard to make them work, which in turn jabs the ear cups into your ears painfully.
Personally, Im going to get myself a Jabra BT3030 for the upcoming year. Im all about ear buds, and the only reason I got a BT headset was because I wanted to try out the concept, and I hated having to untangle my headphone everytime i wanted to take my phone out . Anyone who has used one with the SGS, I'd love to hear how it shapes up.
I'm using Sony Ericsson MW600 in conjunction with Sony MDR-EX500SL N.U.D.E. EX Vertical In-Ear Aluminum Headphones (Short Cord). No issues relating to pairing or sound, the only thing is the Music ID and Caller ID doesn't works in MW600 unit, only showing the Call No.
Good sound in a good price.
I'm using a SBH500
Technical Specs:
-Bluetooth v2.0
-Profiles supported: Headset, Hands-Free, A2DP and AVRCP
-Claimed talk time: 12 hours; play time: 11 hours
-Claimed standby time: 205 hours
-Headset weight: 2.6 ounces
http://www.mobiletechreview.com/tips/Samsung-SBH500.htm
I was looking for a good stereo headset that would have a long play time a good sound and not too expensive.
This one is perfect it costed me 50 euros and the it delivers a really good sound with strong basses (I listen a lot to drum and bass) and the earmuff allows a pretty good isolation (I'm using inear headphones since the one that looked like disposable earplug and I can't stand regular headphones since then but this headset isolation is really good)
After telling you how much I like this headset here's the only "issue" that I had with, some people I called with it where saying that they couldn't hear me perfectly BUT I found the solution on android
*#*#197328640#*#* > [5] Audio > [4] Bluetooth > [9] Diamon Solution > [3] Voice booster > [1] VB ON/OFF and input 1, you can change [4] boostgain too
And since then no one complained and I can talk to people with the headset in the metro with no issue
Bought the one that OP recomended, and it is good. Have nothing to say about the sound quality, could just as well have used wired plugs. Havent used them much yet, so can't say anything about battery.
Thanks for bringing the Plantronics Altec Lansing Backbeat to my attention. I am looking for headphones for when i go running and if i dont have to worry about wires getting tangled all the better.
does anyone have experience running with these? do they stay in place or do they fall out?
many thanks
Ive been using the Philips SHB7110 and they work like a charm. I didn't want any extra cables and/or dongles so this was perfect.
Although they only last around 4,5-5h of continous music that is enough for me most days and the touch controls works like a charm! its soo simple to use and they fit perfectly in my ears.
So the only downside with these are the short batterylife. So i've perhaps look around for some pair with better batterylife if i would need it in the future.
But if you can live with a battery time that last that "long" its a really good BT headset, and the standby time is well over 24h so i'm not complaning there.
Please guys add links or pictures
Heres the link to the BT headset, although the page are in swedish you can look at pictures and a video aswell.
http://www.philips.se/c/tillbehör-t...=B4B5B9A86F62DBCFCB4EDD5A46534B0B.app102-drp3
Can't get it to work today
SGS just refuse to send any sound to this headset today. I've had it working before. Now it pairs fine, telephone give bluetooth connected, under devices the 9xxbackbeat is shown complete with headphone icon.
However, starting the stock music player send sound to telephone speakers. Clicking the "menu" - "via bluetooth" doesnt do anything. The 9xxBacbBeat is listed as connected and thats it.
There is nothing as frustrating as expensive hardware not cooperating and not giving any reason or way to debug.
alright so i bought the backbeat 903 and they fit fine, they sound good enough with music, and the skip song, volume, pause, etc all work perfectly fine to my i9000m.
now the problem. i just tried a call with them and while the other person said i myself sounded fine. i had to ask them to repeat everything like 3 times before i could figure out a word they were saying. it was VERY distorted. all swishy underwater sounding. and this was with me right beside the phone.
any ideas? any settings i can tweak? as i said the music playing sounded perfectly fine, even with me walking quite a distance away from the phone. but in a call it was ridiculously bad. sigh.
i got the jabra bt3030. my only problem that the back, skip, and play buttons don't work as they should. back and skip work only when held and pressed down and ff/rew the song, doesn't actually go back to previous or skip the new one. the play/pause doesn't actually work at all.
dunno, maybe i'll drop it for the sony mw600 or samsung sbh650.

Bluetooth Receiver for cars?

I'm looking for a better bluetooth kit for my car. The one I have sounds like garbage, produces static whenever I get around cities, etc. Would prefer to just buy a new unit for my car, but have a feeling those may be a bit expensive especially since I have a double din unit and it would just look ugly having a single din instead.
sevron said:
I'm looking for a better bluetooth kit for my car. The one I have sounds like garbage, produces static whenever I get around cities, etc. Would prefer to just buy a new unit for my car, but have a feeling those may be a bit expensive especially since I have a double din unit and it would just look ugly having a single din instead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This:
http://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearch/double_din_bluetooth.html
Not more than a couple hundred for a whole new head unit.
Kinovo BTC450. $40 on Amazon. Bought 2. They work great.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
I just got this double din unit for my wife's car.
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_158WXGT90B/Sony-WX-GT90BT.html?tp=5684
I could not possibly be more happy with the quality of it. The bluetooth connection and sound quality is absolutely stellar.
I am waiting for a headunit that supports Apt-X. It seems that there isn't one on the market yet, despite all modern high-end phones supporting it, and plenty of accessories coming out with Apt-X support.
Get a souble din to single din plate/converter and then it provides a cd slot used to hold your phone. and a nice single about $200 (if that) If your thinking of audio I personally use a cord.(ebay gold plated 3' audio cord $4) on my 09 Ranger with a single din pioneer, way easier n "hassle" free. when a call comes in it goes to the tooth.. Just my thoughts
I have the BlackBerry adapter, works great.
http://www.amazon.com/BlackBerry-Remote-Stereo-Bluetooth-Gateway/dp/B00170KUM0
Unless you want to run AOSP ROM's, then buy an APT-X bluetooth adapter. It can hid behind your dash and plug into your current car stereo head unit's 3.5mm input jack.
Much higher audio quality than you get with normal bluetooth. Much deeper bass also.
AOSP ROM's don't work very well though, with APT-X. See my signature.
sevron said:
I'm looking for a better bluetooth kit for my car. The one I have sounds like garbage, produces static whenever I get around cities, etc. Would prefer to just buy a new unit for my car, but have a feeling those may be a bit expensive especially since I have a double din unit and it would just look ugly having a single din instead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sony WX-GT Series Double DIN Head-Units - this one is nice. Look online.
I'm using a Dension Gateway Pro BT. Lets me retain my stock system, but adds in-car handsfree, A2DP streaming, USB phone/hard drive/flash drive/whatever support, and auxiliary input, while integrating all the functions with the car's built-in controls (works with steering wheel controls and displays track titles, and full menu and browsing support on the driver information display).
Only issue with my car is it disabled satellite radio, but then again I'd never, ever subscribe to that low-quality crap again.
swieder711 said:
Kinovo BTC450. $40 on Amazon. Bought 2. They work great.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
+1 for the BTC450. It's Apt-X, sounds beautiful, and connects to the S4 immediately. The small size helps to disappear it for a nice look and the car socket adapter has a usb port. Charming little device.
I bought the iClever Himbox HB01 Bluetooth 4.0. It is small really low profile and looks nice. It sound fantastic when playing music. Calls on it are good too.. People say I sound very clear but they could tell I was using a hands free device but I guess that is normal with all hands free products.. I would recommend this highly and at only 25 bucks it is a great deal and feels high quality..
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GJFGE0K/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
johnus said:
I'm using a Dension Gateway Pro BT. Lets me retain my stock system, but adds in-car handsfree, A2DP streaming, USB phone/hard drive/flash drive/whatever support, and auxiliary input, while integrating all the functions with the car's built-in controls (works with steering wheel controls and displays track titles, and full menu and browsing support on the driver information display).
Only issue with my car is it disabled satellite radio, but then again I'd never, ever subscribe to that low-quality crap again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I went a similar direction, opting for the iSimple Connect. Looks like it works just like the Denison but you can retain the factory Satellite radio. I do subscribe to XM, but mostly because the GF likes it and I do a lot of long distance (700 miles) trips in the car.

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