iPod connection on CX-7 [Archive]

Thom_y

06-13-2006, 10:00 PM

Has anyone installed a iPod input into the factory installed AM/FM/CD Bose system that comes with the Luxury Package. I realize Mazda does not have any factor or dealer installed iPod integration. But, I was wondering if the radio can have a hard wired iPod input installed by a car radio dealer, without changing the head unit. My dealer thought this could be arranged easily. As well, I want to avoid FM modulator set up and want to get an iPod cable with dock connector, which will directly input into radio and also allow you to charge the iPod.

Thank you.

080669

06-14-2006, 07:37 AM

want... an iPod cable with dock connector, which will directly input into radio and also allow you to charge the iPod.

Got this from another board.

There are two AXU input devices on the market for the Mazda radios that I am aware of. One just adds AUX input with no ability to change chanels on steering wheel (only volume) Other device is designed for ipod with built in charger and full function including display on dash LED screen. Hope these can work for the CX-7
AuxMod (http://www.sylfex.com/products/AuxMod/)
Audio Link (http://www.therpmstore.com/product_info.php?cPath=57_58&products_id=142)

I have the Nav system, and sent emails to both of these groups. AuxMod said they thought it would work, but it doesn't charge the iPod. The AudioLink guys sounded more knowledgable, and they said they weren't sure whether it would work or not. They asked for the model # or pics of the connections on the back, but I'm not the kind of guy to take apart my dash, so I'm waiting for someone else to do it. :)

If you find an ipod solution, let me know about it. I think the only difference between our systems is that I have the nav system and you don't.

Thom_y

06-24-2006, 09:14 AM

azms6

06-24-2006, 12:07 PM

I checked with the Audio Link guys and they highly doubt the kit is compatible with the CX-7 stereo system. In fact, I checked with a number of the aftermarket producers and none thought their system was compatible with the Mazda CX-7. Thus, I am desperate for an iPod solution for my new CX-7 with the AM/FM/CD Bose system with the NAV package, which should arrive any week now.

Any other advice. I don't want to consider FM modulators !

I have an AudioLink in my Mazdaspeed6 and it works great. There are only a few downsides: No artist and song display on the stereo readout and the AudioLink connection for most of the Mazdas (Mazda6, Mazda5, tribute, MPV, Miata) uses the same pin connector for the satellite radio... bummer. Our CX-7 already has the Sat Radio so the AudioLink option is out...

The ideal solution would be a direct 1/8" jack on the stereo face that would utilize the Media button on the stereo.

varek

07-08-2006, 06:47 AM

This might be the answer to your problem. I will be purchasing the same vehicle this month. I might have to do the same thing as told in this video with my cx7 radio.
oops!! the audiolink does charge the ipod. Sorry for the mistake.
(dance) http://www.autobytel.com/content/research/channels/index.cfm/channel/cartv_video/action/showvideo/vid/ct_0006/vscat/NULL/vcat/Car_Tip

azms6

07-08-2006, 08:41 PM

note: the audio link mentioned in the forum above does not charge your ipod. The ion does.
(dance) http://www.autobytel.com/content/research/channels/index.cfm/channel/cartv_video/action/showvideo/vid/ct_0006/vscat/NULL/vcat/Car_Tip

Actually, as an Audio Link owner, I can say with 100% certainty that the Audio Link charges my Ipod very nicely in my MS6...
:rolleyes:

cmourikis

07-21-2006, 10:05 AM

Anyone get this to work in a CX7 yet? Im wasting away without my IPOD. I am forced to listen to... CDs??

sproket

08-03-2006, 10:53 AM

Looks like it's finally coming. And from Apple no less. Can't get any better news than that.

Ford, GM, Mazda to see more iPod Integration (http://gizmodo.com/gadgets/portable-media/ford-gm-mazda-to-see-more-ipod-integration-191828.php)

Apple has inked a deal with three major car manufacturers today to make it a bit easier to connect the iPod into car stereos. Apple has come to agreement with Ford, GM and Mazda to see that 70-percent of their 2007 model vehicles will offer some way of connecting iPods directly. The iPod integration seems to be as simple as a dock connection in the glove compartment. iPod control and navigation will be done through the already existing stereo controls. GM has already announced pricing regarding this issue. As early as October they will offer the iPod audio connection for $160 plus labor. I'll stick with my cheapy FM transmitter and 12V DC charger thank you very much. – Travis Hudson

THOUGHT OUT

08-03-2006, 12:02 PM

I have been waiting a response from a local service dealer before I purchase a CX-7. My wife has a beautiful sounding audio system in her 2004.5 S40 but it CANNOT adapt to iPods. I will not buy another vehicle with only FM modulation or no aftermarket radio availability so that clear auxiliary audio input (iPod) is achievable. With no response yet it does not look good! It is ashamed to lose the sale of a new designed vehicle in 2007 with this type of oversite.

This CX-7 is a nice vehicle still....I like to call it a SCUV Sports Car Utility Vehicle

But as posted before there is good news for Mazda today on this issue! http://ilounge.com/index.php/news/comments/ford-gm-mazda-to-offer-ipod-integration-in-2007-models/

Being the owner of the BEST iPod holder manufacture (THOUGHT OUT (http://thoughtout.biz)) I realize the need to integrate the iPod to your vehicles and other places for convenience and ease of use.

FlexPED (http://thoughtout.biz/FlexPed.htm) is our universally installable and universally adaptable (including cased or skinned devices) iPod holder.

Send me an email at mike at thoughtout.biz with any questions.

~Mike
http://thoughtout.biz/images/PostCard180x129.jpg

Thom_y

08-04-2006, 10:51 PM

As many of you may have read, Apple announced Mazda will be coming out with iPod integration.

Mazda USA sent me the following info:

Mazda will be launching an iPod Integration Module
for the CX-7 and other ?07 models this fall. This module will connect
the iPod (placed in the glove box) to the audio head unit.

This module will

(a) Transfer iPod controls to the radio controls or to the steering
wheel controls

(b) Provide limited display of music info on the information center of
the dash

(c) Charge the battery of the iPod

Customers will be able to purchase the module and have it installed at
their Mazda dealership.

More info will be available closer to launch."

We have been informed that the iPod module will be able to be
retrofitted to those consumers that have already purchased a CX-7.

I CAN'T WAIT !!

THOUGHT OUT

08-05-2006, 09:54 AM

Email or did they send you post letter mail? I need something a little more solid to make my $30,000 decision on.

And how MUCH will this cost? About the price of an iPod I suspect....what ever happened to just a simple line in? (K.I.S.S.)

Why would a company want to make change the user experience of a great product (iPod) with their own limited software "with a limited display"? I know, everyone will say for safety reason....please! We all know this is to make $150-$300 from an iPod accessory. Ha, I should talk being the owner of an iPod acessory company (http://thoughtout.biz), right? But I do not believe in ripping the consumer by taking advantage of a situation. Some day it will be a free installation, then the iPod will be obsolete and live on demand files will be streamed to your vehicle via what is now called a cell phone (iPhone).

~Mike

As many of you may have read, Apple announced Mazda will be coming out with iPod integration.

Mazda USA sent me the following info:

Mazda will be launching an iPod Integration Module
for the CX-7 and other ?07 models this fall. This module will connect
the iPod (placed in the glove box) to the audio head unit.

This module will

(a) Transfer iPod controls to the radio controls or to the steering
wheel controls

(b) Provide limited display of music info on the information center of
the dash

(c) Charge the battery of the iPod

Customers will be able to purchase the module and have it installed at
their Mazda dealership.

More info will be available closer to launch."

We have been informed that the iPod module will be able to be
retrofitted to those consumers that have already purchased a CX-7.

I CAN'T WAIT !!

capk69

08-07-2006, 12:07 PM

Bad news for people like me - having the nav system. Go to link, and scroll all the way to note (2) at the bottom. Bummer....

http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/200608/0804b.html

cmourikis

08-07-2006, 02:56 PM

That sucks.... i decided against the NAV system last minute, so i guess I lucked out.. but im curious as to what limited stuff will be displayed on the dash.... Should be interesting.

varek

08-07-2006, 03:31 PM

Bad news for people like me - having the nav system. Go to link, and scroll all the way to note (2) at the bottom. Bummer....

http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/200608/0804b.html

JAP 23,100 = US $200.71 /
THE COST OF THIS ADAPTER IS ABOUT THE SAME AS A BRAND NEW IPOD.(shocked)

s_weber

08-07-2006, 04:03 PM

Would this be a use for the mysterious "media" button? Any idea whether this can co-exist with Sirius?

THOUGHT OUT

08-08-2006, 11:43 AM

Well as I said, and that is just terrible at $200. How do you know what you are playing? This is a quote from the Mazda public notice: "Operation must be done through the audio system, not using the iPod. Track information, such as the artist or album name is not displayed on the audio system."

JUST GIVE US A LINE IN!

Email or letter did they send you post mail? I need something a little more solid to make my $30,000 decision on.

And how MUCH will this cost? About the price of an iPod I suspect....what ever happened to just a simple line in? (K.I.S.S.)

Why would a company want to make change the user experience of a great product (iPod) with their own limited software "with a limited display"? I know, everyone will say for safety reason....please! We all know this is to make $150-$300 from an iPod accessory. Ha, I should talk being the owner of an iPod acessory company (http://thoughtout.biz), right? But I do not believe in ripping the consumer by taking advantage of a situation. Some day it will be a free installation, then the iPod will be obsolete and live on demand files will be streamed to your vehicle via what is now called a cell phone (iPhone).

~Mike

sproket

08-11-2006, 11:51 PM

Bad news for people like me - having the nav system. Go to link, and scroll all the way to note (2) at the bottom. Bummer....

http://www.mazda.com/publicity/release/200608/0804b.html

Ugh, that's just not cool... I guess mazda didn't figure people who paid 4k for the TECHNOLOGY package would be interested in an iPod player slot? (ughdance)

the black one

08-14-2006, 03:55 PM

Last weekend I looked new 2007 mazda3. It has the AUX outlet in golvebox.
that sux. I don't have AUX OUT on my 2007 cx7

THOUGHT OUT

08-15-2006, 07:18 AM

It is either a POOR oversite on their part, or intentional to make $200 on an optional that is highly desired. I would guess it is to make $200!

Last weekend I looked new 2007 mazda3. It has the AUX outlet in golvebox.
that sux. I don't have AUX OUT on my 2007 cx7

CX7_Scott

09-12-2006, 04:13 AM

As much as I love being a new owner of this vehicle, I am a bit irritated at the lack of iPod support for those of us who purchased the "Technology Package". You would *think* that having the word "technology" in its name would be a no-brainer that the customers of that package just MIGHT own some kind of .MP3 player - quite possibly the most-popular one on the market.

I mean, the nav is cool... but I really don't "need" it. It sucks to know that if I had stuck with the non-nav audio system, I'd be able to play my iPod without trouble.

I really, really, REALLY hope there is eithe a Mazda or after-market solution, otherwise I'm stuck with morning radio or CDs.

Speaking-of... What's the use of having a 6-disc player if it won't shuffle randomly amongst ALL of them...? I don't want to just shuffle ONE CD worth of music... I want to hear from all-6 of them.

Am I missing something...?

Oh - and "Hi!"... I'm new here. :)

. . .

02589

09-12-2006, 11:05 AM

removed

Aozame

09-12-2006, 03:42 PM

There definitely is more to life than an ipod -- or alternate mp3 player -- but there is also more to life than a cx-7. Give me a break. They should have had at the very least a line in, this is not advanced technology. I get frustrated that my mp3 player only works with an FM adapter every single time I get in the car. Do I get over it? Yes. Do I get frustrated again when I get in teh car again? Yes. How simple would it have been to fix my frustration by putting what is now a standard accessory option in cars far less stylish, far less technology forward, far less expensive (yaris anyone?) -- very very simple. They just didn't do it. Fine, they are late to the game and they will be coming out with some sort of after the fact catch-up, but I think in this instance we have the right to complain a little. The SUV I never saw coming should have had a line-in that everyone else saw coming.

CX7_Scott

09-12-2006, 04:52 PM

For me, it's more than that. I agree. My iPod is not my life... but the time I spend in my vehicle equates to an average of 8-10 hours. I've already spent the time over the years organizing and purchasing my music via iTunes and iPod. It *is* a part of how I purchase, organize, store and enjoy my music.

I don't *want* to spend even more-time creating playlists specifically for .MP3 burning and loading 6 discs of files that cannot be randomly accessed and only represent a small fraction of my 3k+ songs that I have.

Yes, life goes-on... I'm not about to slit a wrist or anything, but as I said before... this IS a "technology" package... and like-it-or-not, iPod accounts for just over 70% of the players in circulation right now. There's a REASON auto manufaturers are adopting connectivity for iPod - yes, iPod... NOT .MP3 players... SPECIFICALLY the iPod.

I am not upset with you by any means, I just feel that what may seem trivial to you, is something that seems woefully overlooked by a portion of us owners of the CX-7.

Peace...

02589

09-12-2006, 07:35 PM

removed

CX7_Scott

09-15-2006, 09:26 AM

If any of you find "any" solution in the aftermarket world that integrates iPod connectivity to a Mazda Stereo w/Nav... PLEASE post it here.

Please... no need for links to Cassette adaptors and FM transmitters. That's "not" what I am (we are?) looking for. I want to be able to use the line-out (NOT the headphone-out) of my iPod to connect directly to my stereo.

For those who don't know, there's a big difference in audio quality between using the headphone jack and the "line-out" integrated in the multi-pin connector on the bottom. The headphone jack uses a built-in pre-amp in the iPod that doesn't sound all-that-great when used for anything other than headphones. It is underpowered and accellerates battery usage if not being charged. The power for the pre-amp is coming from the iPod battery and is NOT line-level.

The bottom connector DOES use a cleaner line-level signal with no attenuation - adjusting the volume on the iPod will not affect the signal level whatsoever.

ANYHOW - enough of my nonsense... Please, let us all know if any of you find anything that'll work!

Thanks!
- Scott

CX7_Scott

09-21-2006, 07:55 AM

*Bumping* this thread and transferring Mixmaster's 'inside scoop" here; that Mazda is supposedly working on a solution for us "Nav/Audio" owners who cannot use their current "solution" for iPod connectivity.

No concrete dates or proof... but it's worth holding-out hope for.

- scott

mixmasterlove

09-21-2006, 07:59 AM

In the intrem I HIGHLY RECOMMEND the Airplay... www.xtrememac.com

CX7_Scott

09-21-2006, 09:29 AM

In the intrem I HIGHLY RECOMMEND the Airplay... www.xtrememac.com

*sigh* - It figures. :)

The one stipulation with the AirPlay... compatible with all iPods except 3rd-Generation. Here's a shocker... I have a 3G iPod.

Oh well... I will be updating once Apple releases their "real" video iPod.
For now... I wait. Thanx MxMstLv...!

-scott

THOUGHT OUT

10-06-2006, 04:08 PM

I just ordered mine from Mazda Gear (http://www.mazdagear.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=492) for with Priority shipping for $122.45! I can't wait to get it and install with our FlexPED (http://thoughtout.biz/FlexPed.htm).

5280_CX-7

10-12-2006, 12:53 PM

Yeah great BUT...

"5. Cannot be installed on a CX-7 with Factory Navigation Option!"

It may be only $116.00 but if you got the "Tech Pkg." your still left out in the cold.

I agree, a $4000.00 Tech Pkg. ought to have a $2.00 connection for an iPod! And yes I can load 600 songs into the 6-disk changer, but that’s not the point.
Get with the times, were on the 5th generation of iPod. Its dominate and here to stay.

THOUGHT OUT

10-12-2006, 11:10 PM

I got the Mazda iPod connector today and have taken a little time to post this to cool off a little bit. After opening the accessivley LARGE package it came in and trying to understand the menu structure for the audio controls, I realize that finding a song in a library of 7,000 will be nearly impossible. This document (http://picasaweb.google.com/thoughtout.biz/IPodConnector/photo#4985176354540945426) explains some of the logic of the menu structure.

92251

I am hoping once this installed it will become more clear and friendly to use, some how I doubt it.

I think in some way the swtiching "Box" that comes with this connector must have the ability to allow just an INPUT source. I will investigate shorting ALL the wires to the "swiching" box other than the line out and charging features to see if this will work. With just an INPUT source I hope to use the iPod interface and not the radio menu.

RODSCALIP5

10-12-2006, 11:13 PM

I got the Mazda iPod connector today and have taken a little time to post this to cool off a little bit. After opening the accessivley LARGE package it came in and trying to understand the menu structure for the audio controls, I realize that finding a song in a library of 7,000 will be nearly impossible. This document (http://picasaweb.google.com/thoughtout.biz/IPodConnector/photo#4985176354540945426) explains some of the logic of the menu structure.

http://lh5.google.com/thoughtout.biz/RS7ne1sXABI/AAAAAAAAAAk/uZALZdU2JPc/iPodPlayBackMazdaConnector.jpg?imgmax=144http://lh5.google.com/thoughtout.biz/RS7ne1sXABI/AAAAAAAAAAk/uZALZdU2JPc/iPodPlayBackMazdaConnector.jpg?imgmax=144 (http://lh5.google.com/thoughtout.biz/RS7ne1sXABI/AAAAAAAAAAk/uZALZdU2JPc/iPodPlayBackMazdaConnector.jpg?imgmax=144)

I am hoping once this installed it will become more clear and friendly to use, some how I doubt it.

I think in some way the swtiching "Box" that comes with this connector must have the ability to allow just an INPUT source. I will investigate shorting ALL the wires to the "swiching" box other than the line out and charging features to see if this will work. With just an INPUT source I hope to use the iPod interface and not the radio menu.

Does the CX7 have the AUX input?

THOUGHT OUT

10-12-2006, 11:23 PM

Does the CX7 have the AUX input?
No

swank_x

10-14-2006, 12:13 PM

Yeah great BUT...

"5. Cannot be installed on a CX-7 with Factory Navigation Option!"

How about another "but:"

2. If vehicle is equipped with Sirius® Satellite Kit ... iPod Integration Module CANNOT be installed as well. (Sat Kit or PhatNoise already using Head unit Connector).

Maybe there's some kind of switch I can plug both the iPod and the Sirius into, and then plug a main trunk line into the single AUX In (factory line in, back of head unit?); then just toggle back and forth betwen the iPod and Sirius?? It'd be a pain in the arse but better than having to choose beween one or the other...

anyone smarter than me have any ideas??? Please???

THOUGHT OUT

10-14-2006, 12:38 PM

How about another "but:"

2. If vehicle is equipped with Sirius® Satellite Kit ... iPod Integration Module CANNOT be installed as well. (Sat Kit or PhatNoise already using Head unit Connector).

Maybe there's some kind of switch I can plug both the iPod and the Sirius into, and then plug a main trunk line into the single AUX In (factory line in, back of head unit?); then just toggle back and forth betwen the iPod and Sirius?? It'd be a pain in the arse but better than having to choose beween one or the other...

anyone smarter than me have any ideas??? Please???
Swank,
I started reading your post on my BlackBerry (not seeing your last paragraph) thinking you should/could most likely split the harness with a multipole switch. If you don't have the know how I am sure your local car audio shop could work something up. Good luck.....

I am installing the Mazda connector myself today!

swank_x

10-14-2006, 12:42 PM

Please tell how it goes....maybe even a separate thread with step by step?

Thanks for the suggestion, and good luck!

THOUGHT OUT

10-16-2006, 01:59 PM

Please tell how it goes....maybe even a separate thread with step by step?

Thanks for the suggestion, and good luck!

I just entered a post here about the Mazda iPod connector. (http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123649453) check it out.

Mike

swank_x

10-17-2006, 12:27 PM

Bummer...just read your post....

Thom_y

10-18-2006, 03:45 PM

maybe its lucky that it doesn't work with NAV system. It sounds like a dog.

It seems to me only Mercedes and BMW (on their second generation) have really figured out what iPod integration should mean. If you can't access all songs, artists, albums it probably isn't worth the cost or trouble.

CX7_Scott

10-18-2006, 03:53 PM

Good to know - I guess it's a mixed blessing.

As a techi-nerdy guy myself, I know how EASY it is to develop a product that taps-into the iPod - I'm not say "I" can do it myself, but I know enough in my field that it's a relatively easy thing to do - they just need to commit to it and put some resources on it - get a team together that can get all the OEMs to the table and figure-out how to get everything to work together and meet the customer's needs. It's not rocket-science... it's passing audio, control data and meta-data through an interface that is very-well documented by Apple. They WANT people to adopt accessibility.

*sigh*

And still, we wait.

:)

THOUGHT OUT

10-18-2006, 04:20 PM

Another analogy, it is like using a 60 Gig iPod shuffle! Actually the first feature they describe in the manual is the random function. I wonder why?

Original Post (http://thoughtout.biz/podcast/?p=29)

I must tell everyone that I did a full pin out of the connector from the iPod to this MAGICAL box. I found all the normal wires (L+R audio, +/- firewire for charging, etc) and the 3 wires (Rx, Tx and Acc). These last three are not needed for the iPod to function endlessly or at least for the capabilities WE want. I was hoping by disconnecting 1, 2 or all 3 of these extra wire connections that it would take the iPod out of this non functional mode the Mazda connector puts it in. I was correct! It does allow the iPod to function as normal but my worse case scenario of what I thought might happen did; the radio then doesn’t receive (Rx) the signal that the iPod is connected and therefore does not play. I wouldn’t care if the damn radio blinked “NO EX” all the time as long as it played. Is there someone out there (electronics engineer) that knows how we can create this signal fictitiously and fool the radio that it is playing an endless song, we then could have it our way!

BTW, email me if any one wants this Mazda iPod Connector kit cheap. I spliced the wires, but then re-soldered. I made the splice 9 inches from the box so it is never seen.

Thom_y

10-18-2006, 04:20 PM

I guess I will have to continue to use CD's ... too bad it is a pain to load and unload single CD's on the NAV unit.

makawinan

10-20-2006, 03:38 PM

CX7_Scott

10-20-2006, 03:47 PM

I doubt they'll make you pay for it once they've realized it won't work.

THOUGHT OUT

10-20-2006, 03:53 PM

Hello I'm the new chick on the block, owner of a new Pearl White Grand Touring CX7 WITH the highly debatable tech package and I also have sirius radio. I was told by my dealer that they can put in an ipod integration kit and its ordered to arrive on Tuesday .. Sounded hopeful but after reading all of your posts Im concerned they dont know what they are talking about! Help! Have I been taken?

I would make them pay the $4K for the Tech Option too, HA! I will admit it is a nice option, but I already have a nice TomTom GPS and the non intergration of iPod, it then gets the boot!

makawinan

10-20-2006, 03:53 PM

So you really dont think such a kit exists?

makawinan

10-20-2006, 03:57 PM

Actually I love the tech package - though overpriced :) and love my sirus radio even more. I have the FM transmittr for my IPOD but it's like why bother - what a waste of money that was. I'll keep you posted what happens ..if not this time around, they will eventually get it I would assume. I'm keeping the faith.

CX7_Scott

10-20-2006, 04:13 PM

makawinan - There "is" an iPod kit for the CX-7... it's just NOT compatable with the integrated stereo/navigation head unit.

And from what I've read here... even if they magically DID make it work somehow... the (extremely) limited functionality (lack of control of iPod and display of data) is a big frustration point.

I fear that without a spare "port" on the head-unit to tap-into... we may be out-of-luck for a hard-wired solution that integrates nicely with the system.

<--- loosing hope.

:)

THOUGHT OUT

10-22-2006, 10:15 AM

I think I found something good! Unless I am missing something I think this is the answer from RPM (http://www.therpmstore.com/product_info.php?cPath=&products_id=142)

It appears that it allows full operation from the iPod and steering wheel/headunit! Or am I missing something?

(also, video and lineout cable option....NICE.)

makawinan

10-23-2006, 10:24 AM

Unfortunately as I read to the bottom there is this:

NOTE for 2007 Mazda CX-7: The AudioLink is only compatible if the factory navigation system is NOT installed.

I have the navi system so not sure what the reality of all this is - I am going to call before I waste my time on the appointment (and hardware plus installation). to see exactly what it is and do they know for sure whatever they have will work with the tech package that is fully loaded.

I will let you all know, hopefully in the next week I can get this resolved one way or the other.

THOUGHT OUT

10-24-2006, 12:39 PM

I got a tip today that if you google "mazda ipod" my review on Mazda's iPod connector shows up a few lines down the list! Excellent, maybe this will get people to think before they release a product of this sort.

Mike

THOUGHT OUT

10-26-2006, 12:49 PM

Every needs to go to this link (http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?p=2767718#post2767718)for the answer to this issue.

Sorry it does not work the navigation system.

yousif

10-31-2006, 06:02 AM

Check this link, an aftermarket product from neo audio systems. Says it works with the nav system too.

http://www.neocaraudio.com/product_info.php?products_id=1061

Check it out, please give me some feedback

Thanks

THOUGHT OUT

10-31-2006, 07:47 AM

Thom_y

11-05-2006, 01:49 PM

So has anyone ordered the Neo kit yet for their NAV system equipped CX-7 ?

mixmasterlove

11-05-2006, 07:02 PM

So has anyone ordered the Neo kit yet for their NAV system equipped CX-7 ?
No, I spoke to someone I know in CORPORATE and he told me they are very close to getting the ipod adapter to work with the NAV and he will let me know.................which means I will LET YOU GUYS know when it will be available. :)

masterbbq

11-05-2006, 11:28 PM

If Mazda made one to work with the NAV system that'd be great. But chances are it'll work just at poorly as the unit they have now for the non-NAV equipped 7s. I like the Neo product because it has an auxillary input that I can plug my rear-seat DVD player into. I found a dealer in my area who will order and install it for me. They said if it doesn't end up working with the NAV (which it claims to be able to do) they will return it with no extra charge to me.

Thom_y

11-06-2006, 02:16 PM

please keep me informed. It sounds like this may be a much better solution than the Mazda version.

mixmasterlove

11-07-2006, 10:14 AM

I am gonna hold out for the MAZDA OEM version....NOT gonna take any chances of frying the electrical system with a after market part...but that is just me

mixmasterlove

12-08-2006, 07:43 PM

I was told they are getting close to finishing the iPod hook up for the NAVIGATION kit. As of 12-8-06. At least I have MP3 till then.

simonxda

12-09-2006, 04:17 AM

At present you can only connect a line out from the until thru the dash. But Mazda will be having a ipod connection kit which can even control by the until next year and it cost about $400..

mixmasterlove

12-09-2006, 12:12 PM

At present you can only connect a line out from the until thru the dash. But Mazda will be having a ipod connection kit which can even control by the until next year and it cost about $400..
?????????????? Explain, you have me a lil' confused about Mazda will be having a ipod connection kit which can even control. Thanks

jrpembe

12-09-2006, 03:47 PM

Just had the ipod adapter/connector installed on my CX-7 (with Bose Audio Package). Have to say I can't really recommend anyone getting this thing installed - its just not worth it. Mine included two parts - one to connect the iPod to the radio and charge it, the other to allow limited radio/steering wheel control of the iPod. First of all - beware of the massive installation charge - its a 3 hour job, with the average Mazda dealership charging $100/hour (Canadian), you're looking at $300 just to get it installed. Add to that the device itself costs about $150/part, so add another $300 to the bill. And what do you get for all that? Your iPod is locked up and hidden in the glove box, no text/track info display on the console, frustrating linear artist/track search. The "Next CD" controls on your radio navigate you through the artists on your iPod, while the "skip song" controls navigate you through the individual songs. If you have several CD's by one artist, you have to skip through every song on CD1 to get to CD2 - not good cause it takes your attention off the road.

As much as I enjoy having my iPod and entire CD collection at my fingertips - $600 is a lot to pay for such a basic device with limited functionality.

PuroMexicano

12-09-2006, 05:39 PM

dude, buy an audio link and install it yourself!!!

THOUGHT OUT

12-09-2006, 07:00 PM

dude, buy an audio link and install it yourself!!!
Exactly!

gls1959

12-09-2006, 07:04 PM

You can do much better with the Audio Link iPod Integration Kit setup from The RPM store. Assuming you don't the the Navigation or Satellite radio installed this is the way to go. I installed the MP3 version in under 1/2 hour including remove the Head Unit. Here's are the links for $124.00 each.

http://www.therpmstore.com/product_info.php?cPath=116&products_id=142
OR
http://www.therpmstore.com/product_info.php?cPath=25&products_id=141

At present you can only connect a line out from the until thru the dash. But Mazda will be having a ipod connection kit which can even control by the until next year and it cost about $400..

TheMAN

12-09-2006, 08:01 PM

late build CX-7s have an auxilary input jack just like what the 07 mazda3 has... as for the ipod adapter kit from mazda, they are still working on making it work with the navi system

simonxda

12-10-2006, 10:35 AM

?????????????? Explain, you have me a lil' confused about Mazda will be having a ipod connection kit which can even control. Thanks

I took my car last friday and a check with the sales guy that a new accessories for ipod than install into the compartment and can be control by the bose system and this only available from Mazda next year. :)

CXRabbit

12-21-2006, 11:41 PM

Mixmaster... keep us updated :)

Thom_y

01-09-2007, 10:48 PM

I gave up waiting. Today I got my xtremeMac Airplay Boost for the 2nd generation nano. At first I was very disappointed using station 87.9 in my city ... lots of static and poor signal. My little guy (age 7.5), asked what was all that noise on the radio ???

Then, tried another empty station 91.9 and so far, knock on wood, it is working much better. I can live with that. The real problem will be when I hit the road for our march ski trip. As we go from town to town the empty stations change and my wife will have to find a new FM station to migrate to.
So far, I can say that changing stations is a whole lot better than the first generation iTrip.

Until Mazda comes up with a wired solution for NAV, I will put up with this.

mixmasterlove

01-10-2007, 12:48 AM

CXRabbit

01-11-2007, 02:18 PM

Any info Mixmaster??

mixmasterlove

01-11-2007, 02:34 PM

Any info Mixmaster??
No

CX7_Scott

01-11-2007, 03:17 PM

to echo mixmaster and to reiterate my own issues with FM...

If you have a commute that spans a good distance in an area whos airwaves are densly populated, you will run into frequency issues.

I (reluctantly) got an FM solution which worked GREAT when staionary and given the time to find the right frequency... but my commute to work (which just increased) is almost 50-miles each way and I needed to continuously keep scanning stations numerous times throughout my commute just to find tollerable signal availability.

For some of us - FM is just not a viable option. :(

milhouse19

01-11-2007, 03:49 PM

late build CX-7s have an auxilary input jack just like what the 07 mazda3 has... as for the ipod adapter kit from mazda, they are still working on making it work with the navi system

How does one know if they have an auxiliary input jack? I have the tech package & sirius & I don't have a jack on the front, so either I am out of luck or its somewhere else. Living right outside NYC, open radio frequencies cannot be located, so an FM modulator might be my best option if ther eis no jack. Of course with Sirius and a 6 disc MP3 changer, its not like I need my ipod to work.

I just picked up my CX-7 and I believe it is a recent build, as the dealer took delivery of it within the week I bought it.

CXRabbit

01-11-2007, 04:03 PM

I'd be interested to hear about the supposed auxiliary jack in later models too -- I honesty don't think they exist... maybe it's a plan for the future.

lazyace13

01-11-2007, 04:27 PM

I'd be interested to hear about the supposed auxiliary jack in later models too -- I honesty don't think they exist... maybe it's a plan for the future.

So Rabbit, How are you likin' the remote start? Ace

CXRabbit

01-11-2007, 04:40 PM

Ace,

LOVE it, love it love it! I'll never have a car again without ;)

At this point I only have two gripes... one is minor... I'm not getting great gas mileage. 18.18 is the highest I've gotten and that's with driving more highway mileage than I normally do. I'm going to wait it out, but I expected/hoped to get more like 20 with mixed highway/around-town driving. I won't know until the end of this tank, but it appears I'm only getting about 14 mpg right now on this fill-up with ALL around-town driving. I've got almost 2,000 miles on her.

My other gripe is lack of iPOD!!! ;)

lazyace13

01-11-2007, 04:53 PM

CXRabbit

01-11-2007, 05:07 PM

Ace,

Next oil change I might go synthetic... wanna read more a bit about it. And yeah, I am a bit of a lead-foot, but come on, it's fun! ;) -- seriously though, I have tried to be conscious of how I drive and I'm really surprised at how poorly I seem to be doing this time around (this tank of gas). I was seeing mostly upward progress as the car breaks in, but this is a real set-back... but we'll see when I actually fill up.

And yeah, I'm TRYING to be patient about the iPod thing. Not only will there by an aux input, but I'm waiting on what their adaptor for the nav system will be like... I know the non-nav-system one really sucks but I'm still holding out hope.

THOUGHT OUT

01-13-2007, 09:31 AM

Yeah, the milage sucks compared to the EPA estimate (they are like weathermen). I have just learned to accept it at and average of about 16 MPG.

I did notice the one day the it got cold here in New England the automatic LOW tire presure gauge light did go on. So I checked the tires and they where all set at 25 PSI! I change them all to 32 PSI and think it might have giving me a 1 MPG improvement on average. Got to love that automatic tire low tire gauge!

Many reports have always said synthetic oil will improve MPG. I need to do the math on oil cost vs gas savings and see if it is well worth it. Most likely yes, especially if you take it upon yourself to go longer on the oil change intervals (that brings up the warranty issue, but I am on only 2 year lease, ha!)

The best long trip "cruise control" MPG I have seen is 22 MPG (@ 2,000 odometer)

Reminder: To all those looking for a the iPod holder for their Mazda, you can purchase the FlexPED and then get a $15 Audio Link iPod adaptor discount here (http://thoughtout.biz/podcast/2006/10/26/mazda-cx-7-installed-with-a-flexped-holder-and-the-audio-link-ipod-connector/).

Ace,

Next oil change I might go synthetic... wanna read more a bit about it. And yeah, I am a bit of a lead-foot, but come on, it's fun! ;) -- seriously though, I have tried to be conscious of how I drive and I'm really surprised at how poorly I seem to be doing this time around (this tank of gas). I was seeing mostly upward progress as the car breaks in, but this is a real set-back... but we'll see when I actually fill up.

And yeah, I'm TRYING to be patient about the iPod thing. Not only will there by an aux input, but I'm waiting on what their adaptor for the nav system will be like... I know the non-nav-system one really sucks but I'm still holding out hope.

joevac10

01-13-2007, 04:22 PM

The man..... Where exactly is this aux input? Also, does anyone know what the Media button is? I have the bose packages, no navi.

THOUGHT OUT

01-13-2007, 06:02 PM

Joe,

The Aux in is available with the iPod kit from AUDIO LINK (it comes with an optional audio and or video in too) the link is at the bottom of this post. (http://thoughtout.biz/podcast/2006/10/26/mazda-cx-7-installed-with-a-flexped-holder-and-the-audio-link-ipod-connector/)

As far as I know the MEDIA button is not used for anyhthing on this head unit.

The man..... Where exactly is this aux input? Also, does anyone know what the Media button is? I have the bose packages, no navi.