Another Ipod question? The OEM accessory

[sbmrinaldi]

for the Ipod is around $160. I ran across the item on a search for CX-9 accessories. It appears to be just a simple cable with the 30 pin connector that goes into the bottom of the Ipod to also charge it.

My question is "does the $160 cable do anything other than just allow the Ipod to charge?" Does it allow you to view the songs on the info screen or use the steering wheel buttoms to control skipping songs, etc. I bought a simple $6.99 cable (shipping included) for a 3ft gold plated 3/8" stereo cable on Ebay that arrived yesterday. It works like a charm. I would like to know what the OEM cable offers?

[Craig-CX9]

It depends on what else you have. From what I hear, if you have the nav and Sirius you will need a switch to use the AUX input in the center console. Unfortunately, it is just a 3.5mm phono jack, not the iPod 30 pin. In order to fully utilize the iPod functionality of the iPod module you will have to forego the Sirius and then you will be able to connect to 30 pin on your iPod to a iPod jack in the center console and have control of your iPod from the steering wheel. Unfortunately, the data won't be displayed on the nav screen.. I don't know why and it really gets me heated! I have been looking for an aftermarket switch that will allow me to keep my nav and Sirius and still have full iPod integration. I don't know what i can do about the data on the nav screen. Usually Crutchfield is good about that but the car is too new for them to have it listed entirely. for now i will have the dealer install the OEM switch and utilize the AUX input with ground loop isolation (you'll get a whining noise if you power the iPod from the 12 volt and have it plugged into AUX).

Thoughts?

Craig

[l-miwa]

I installed the Harman/Kardon Drive+Play (with Crutchfield ground loop isolator) and really like it.

[kaputnik]

I have a CX-9 AWD GT with Navigation, moonroof/bose. Had the dealer put in the integration module and switching box (i DON'T have sirius) and the iPod charges but doesn't play.

Today at the dealer, they spent a little while trying to figure out why it's not working and came back with the conclusion that it is not possible to use the integrated iPod with the Navigation system whether you have the switching box or not. They said the switching box is ONLY to allow you to use the AUX with Sirius Sat Radio.

Would have been neat to know before i had them install it... anyone else get that setup to work?

[DashingMax]

That really sucks!
"...it is not possible to use the integrated iPod with the Navigation system whether you have the switching box or not"

What a bummer!!

[aciurczak]

They're wrong. Talk to another dealer. From all documentation as well as some posts that I'm sure I've seen on this (or the other major mazda forum), the switchbox can be used to enable both Aux port and Satellite radio; or both the iPod integration kit and Satellite radio.

We have it up and running successfully with both Aux port and Sirius, as well as the factory navigation.

[kaputnik]

We have it up and running successfully with both Aux port and Sirius, as well as the factory navigation.

So you have the CX-9 AWD GT with Bose/Moonroof, touchscreen Navigation, cd changer, Sirius, AND the iPod integration module (and switching box, but that's assumed with sirius)? And they all work correctly? When i told the dealer I had read about others with the navigation + iPod integration module working, they said "no, they're wrong"

On my iPod the Mazda logo shows up and it charges, but i can't switch the cd changer to "EX" as the manual says to do.

[aciurczak]

No, you're right, my post wasn't clear. I do not have the iPod accessory (and may be corrupting this thread).

My point was that the switchbox will work to enable both Sirius and the iPod accessory, *or* Sirius and the Aux port, on all CX-9's, even those with navigation. We have a CX-9 AWD GT with Bose/Moonroof, Sirius, Navi, CD changer and Aux port all working as expected.

[lazyace13]

I have an '07 GT AWD with Bose/Moonroof, GT Assist (NAV), no Sirius and I can't get the "Aux" jack to work. If I hit the Media button the screen changes to "Aux", but no sound. Any ideas? Thanks

[Craig-CX9]

Why can't Mazda be straight with us!!

[wakblak]

aciurczak is right.
With the switch box you can have:
Navigation - Sirius & Aux
Navigation - Ipod & Aux

[aciurczak]

Wait, we're not saying the same thing (but perhaps both of us are correct).

#1 - Sirius + Aux port (confirmed, this is my setup)
#2 - Sirius + iPod adapter (what the dealership led me to believe was possible; you lose either the Aux or the iPod adapter, can't have both)
#3 - iPod + Aux (didn't realize that this was an option, I thought the switchbox was used exclusively to allow Sirius + something else)

(Navi is a non-issue for all 3 configs, it will work no matter what)

[kaputnik]

hmm, does anyone here have the GT with the navigation AND the iPod integration module working? i have read it is supposed to work in various forums, but nothing from anyone that actually has it.

My CX-9:
GT AWD
Navigation
Bose/cd changer
switching box
ipod integration module
AUX

anyone have this all working and usable (with or without sirius)?

oh - and if anyone has that same setup as i do (but the iPod works) can you post what dealer you got it installed at so i can call them and have them talk to my dealer?

[gojoe1971]

well after a long adventure, trying to make sirius and ipod intergration work i found that the dealers are right.
sirius + aux
ipod + aux
can't have both sirius and ipod..........
That was till i modified the switch box to work with both. I have a method of modifing the switch box and allowing you to have both sirius and ipod module..
I even went back to the mazda dealer and showed the parts department manager how it wroked they couldn't believe their eyes and ears... well i now offer the mod for a small fee. You can also contact Dwayne At Wayne Mazda in Wayne, NJ he has seen the mod in action and was so impressed he is sending me all his customers that want it done. So yes you can have the best of both worlds..............................

[gojoe1971]

You Can Have Both With Simple Mod To Switch Box

[kaputnik]

well after a long adventure, trying to make sirius and ipod intergration work i found that the dealers are right.
So yes you can have the best of both worlds..............................

but you don't have navigation, correct? (we spoke via PM last week)

[gojoe1971]

DOESN'T MATTER THE AUDIO CHANNELS ARE LOCKED FROM FACTORY AND THE AUX IS THE ONLY THING THAT WORKS IN THE SECONDARY SLOT BECAUSE WHEN MAZDA BUILT THE SWITCH BOX THEY DIDN'T PUT A SWITCH TO MOVE AUDIO FROM A TO B. i HAVE ALTERED THAT AND IT WILL WORK WITH THE HELP OF TWO EXTERNAL SWITCHES

[aarroneous]

I installed the Harman/Kardon Drive+Play (with Crutchfield ground loop isolator) and really like it.

Which version? Is this the version which can display the album art as well?

* Note to gojoe1971, would you be able to mod the iPod integration unit or possibly the Navigation video feed to redirect the Drive+Play output to the Navigation screen? That would really be sweet!

[aciurczak]

Here's a link to the mazda's install instructions for the switchbox. It confirms that you can have the Aux + Sirius or Aux + iPod integration (at least that's how Mazda intended it).

http://www.finishlineperformance.com/instructions/cx9/IPod_Switch_Box_(CX9)_.pdf

[l-miwa]

Which version? Is this the version which can display the album art as well?

I got the original version, not the new one. It is hardwired, which wasn't a problem for me. I just pulled some panels and routed the wires. The new one uses Bluetooth to communicate between the components. Not sure how that will work with the CX-9's integrated Bluetooth.

[mixmasterlove]

Will the AUX port, work just to play the iPod through it?? I will have the nav. ONLY, can I control it through the steering wheel ?? Thanks

[aciurczak]

steering wheel controls for next track = ipod accessory required

steering wheel controls for volume and mode selection work no matter what you are listening to (aux port, am/fm, cd, sat, etc)

[mixmasterlove]

steering wheel controls for next track = ipod accessory required

steering wheel controls for volume and mode selection work no matter what you are listening to (aux port, am/fm, cd, sat, etc)

So, can I just plug it in the AUX jack, and it will play (MEDIA button?)? I will control it through a remote that I bought online.

[totalcarnage]

So, can I just plug it in the AUX jack, and it will play (MEDIA button?)? I will control it through a remote that I bought online.

Yes, this should work after the splitter is installed. I'm pretty sure if you have NAV (like I do) the AUX port is disabled by default. You'll need the splitter to reactivate it allowing it to function again. This will also to allow you to have either the IPOD integration kit or SIRIUS, but not both...that is unless you have the guy, from a few posts back, do that mod.\

I tested it today, and my AUX is not working and I do have NAV. I ordered the splitter when I bought the car, so Its just a matter of time before I can have my IPOD wokring.

[aciurczak]

Yes, this should work after the splitter is installed. I'm pretty sure if you have NAV (like I do) the AUX port is disabled by default. You'll need the splitter to reactivate it allowing it to function again. This will also to allow you to have either the IPOD integration kit or SIRIUS, but not both...that is unless you have the guy, from a few posts back, do that mod.\

I tested it today, and my AUX is not working and I do have NAV. I ordered the splitter when I bought the car, so Its just a matter of time before I can have my IPOD wokring.

Mine worked right from the factory without the switchbox. (GT AWD with Navi / Bose, Sirius and switchbox installed later from dealer). Yours should too. Make sure when you hit the media button, you then also turn the volume up quite a bit (for some reason the media setting has its own volume control). The only reason that it wouldn't work from the factory is if you have Sirius already installed from the factory. Then the aux is disabled until you add the switchbox; then both aux and Sirius will work.

If you don't have Sirius from the factory, the aux port should most definitely work right away, whether or not you have the nav system. This is only true for the CX-9, and may be different for the CX-7 (where it seems that one can't have factory navi and the aux port working, looking elsewhere on this forum).

[totalcarnage]

Mine worked right from the factory without the switchbox. (GT AWD with Navi / Bose, Sirius and switchbox installed later from dealer). Yours should too. Make sure when you hit the media button, you then also turn the volume up quite a bit (for some reason the media setting has its own volume control). The only reason that it wouldn't work from the factory is if you have Sirius already installed from the factory. Then the aux is disabled until you add the switchbox; then both aux and Sirius will work.

If you don't have Sirius from the factory, the aux port should most definitely work right away, whether or not you have the nav system. This is only true for the CX-9, and may be different for the CX-7 (where it seems that one can't have factory navi and the aux port working, looking elsewhere on this forum).

You're right, the volume was really low, Good Call. But oh my god is the playback crappy, I hear static galore. I have the Isolator from crutchfield on order, but I am hearing mass static without the engine even on. If this is the way it's supposed to be, I think I'll just have to burn a bunch more of MP3 CDs and pass on the Ipod.

[aciurczak]

There should be no static. There is only a ground loop issue if you are charging the ipod at the same time that you have it plugged into the aux port. If it is not plugged into the power port, the sound should be crystal clear (or as clear as is possible from an ipod). Make sure that you are using the correct sized cable (1/8" stereo), and not a mono or other type. The only thing the isolator will do is let you charge it at the same time as listening to it without that ground loop; it won't make it sound better otherwise.

[l-miwa]

Also, make sure the volume on the iPod is set to something near 80%. Since you are using the headphone output, not the line output, having the correct level set makes a difference. With the iPod set at this level, I only have to set the CX-9 volume to about 20-25 for a reasonable level. If that's not the case for you, then something else is going on.

If the only connection you have is from the headphone out of the iPod to the Aux input in the console, you should be getting great sound quality with no static or hum. It's only when you try to use the line output and/or charge the iPod from the power jack that you may have a ground loop hum problem.

[totalcarnage]

Also, make sure the volume on the iPod is set to something near 80%. Since you are using the headphone output, not the line output, having the correct level set makes a difference. With the iPod set at this level, I only have to set the CX-9 volume to about 20-25 for a reasonable level. If that's not the case for you, then something else is going on.

If the only connection you have is from the headphone out of the iPod to the Aux input in the console, you should be getting great sound quality with no static or hum. It's only when you try to use the line output and/or charge the iPod from the power jack that you may have a ground loop hum problem.

Thanks for the tips both of you, I also am going to try my buddy's Ipod... just in case mine is jacked.

The cable is definately a 1/8" stereo, I bought this super duper gold plated one from best buy.

I'll readjust the volume to 80. I think I had it all the way up, though I could hear the static at around 40-50%.

[l-miwa]

I've found that turning it all the way up causes the iPod to distort a bit on some of the louder passages. For me, the best setting seems to be about 80-85%.

[totalcarnage]

I've found that turning it all the way up causes the iPod to distort a bit on some of the louder passages. For me, the best setting seems to be about 80-85%.

Ok I changed the Volume to 80% and realized that I only get the hissing & static noise when I plug the Ipod into the charger. This is just sitting with the car on in park. If I disconnect the charger, the sound is perfect. So this is where I need the crutchfield ground loop isolater thinggy I assume.

[l-miwa]

That's the one! Should solve your problem completely :-)

[kkm11]

Can someone post name of dealership where they installed switch box with Nav and Siruis...so that Aux is now functioning. My dealership told me there was no way...would not work...

Thanks in advance...

[kkm11]

i-miwa...I note that you are in Chicago (me, too)...if I read the posts right, you have Nav + Sirius + Aux? What dealership did you go to?

[l-miwa]

i-miwa...I note that you are in Chicago (me, too)...if I read the posts right, you have Nav + Sirius + Aux? What dealership did you go to?

Nope, I have neither Nav nor Sirius. Sorry. Just the Bose audio, but I'm using the H/K Drive+Play to control the iPod with the audio from the iPod going through the Crutchfield ground loop isolator.

[totalcarnage]

That's the one! Should solve your problem completely :-)

Problem Solved! Thanks for the help.

[Craig-CX9]

That's great news.. So, we can have Nav, Sirius, and iPod integrataion with the modded switch box?

Craig

[aciurczak]

That's great news.. So, we can have Nav, Sirius, and iPod integrataion with the modded switch box?

Craig

Not as I understand it. The modded switch box uses the Nav input to allow both the Sirius and the iPod adapter; the person who created the mod doesn't have Nav. The standard switchbox allows aux+Sirius or aux+iPod adapter, and Navigation will work in either configuration.

[Craig-CX9]

Ok.. my dealer just told me that my aux input cannot work because I have the touchscreen nav... along with Sirius. He said there is something with the touchscreen that causes the prob?? I have the touch nav and sirius and would be happy with just the aux inout.. Is this possible?

Thanks,
Craig

[aciurczak]

Your dealer is wrong. Read this entire thread:

http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123679287

You can have Sirius, Nav, and Aux port all working fine, but it does take the mazda switchbox to be installed.

[Freri-swami]

I went back & forth with my dealer about this NAV/SIRIUS/Aux issue and they maintained it wasn't possible. I even asked them to contact Dwayne at Wayne Mazda in NJ to figure it out! (based on an earlier post)

I settled for just SIRIUS & NAV since I really don't use an iPod anyway so it didn't matter ... I just wanted the option in case I ever get iPod savvy.

Unfortunately when they installed my SIRIUS unit at my request (was not factory installed) they did something that messed up my AM/FM antenna ... so before I drove away I noticed that I had no radio stations at all. The salesman tried to figure it out for a few minutes but it was getting late and we were getting nowhere so I told him to call me after he talks to his technician this morning. Resolution TBD ... I still have no AM/FM.

[aciurczak]

You realize they are full of sh*t though, right? I don't know why you'd take a $40k suv off the lot when things weren't working (aux port disabled, am/fm broken). I would have refused delivery and demanded my money back based on them not delivering what was promised. Your issues would have been resolved promptly.

[Freri-swami]

Dealer picked up the car at my office the next day and took it back to his shop ... a wire had been disconnected while installing the SIRIUS and it rendered my AM/FM antenna useless. Easy fix as I suspected. The dealer topped off the gas tank, dropped it back off and now I'm just making sure that he credits my lease for the extra 40 miles he put on the car.

When asked what they could do to make me 100% satisfied (recognizing that they screwed up by not testing the AM/FM before I got there), I suggested they could throw in some accessories for free! I guess we'll see how bad they want those survey scores!

Nice little road trip planned for this weekend ... let the zoom zoom begin ...

[Rockadile]

Can anyone confirm (or not) whether the song info displays on the information area? I have a 2007 non-Nav, non-satellite GT CX-9. If the information doesn't display, I am not sure I would spend the coin just to have the steering wheel controls work.

Anyone?

Thanks.

[aciurczak]

I was led to believe that the song information does not display on any screen (info or nav), but I could be wrong; hopefully someone with the accessory can comment.

[Rockadile]

If so, it would seem like an awfully expensive charger since the steering wheel controls are useless to me without knowing what I am navigating to.

[l-miwa]

Can anyone confirm (or not) whether the song info displays on the information area?

The display show the playlist number, the track number within the playlist, and the playing time for the current song. Song titles are NOT displayed.

Attached is the user manual.

[Rockadile]

The display show the playlist number, the track number within the playlist, and the playing time for the current song. Song titles are NOT displayed.

Attached is the user manual.

Thanks l-miwa! You just saved me some money. I guess I'll look into the Harmon-Kardon Drive+Play.

[l-miwa]

Thanks l-miwa! You just saved me some money. I guess I'll look into the Harmon-Kardon Drive+Play.

I really like my Drive+Play. Took a little work to route all the wires (original version, not new wireless version). Attached is a pic.

[Rockadile]

I really like my Drive+Play. Took a little work to route all the wires (original version, not new wireless version). Attached is a pic.

Thanks. I actually picked up the original version for $20.

[FiveG]

Anybody know a cradle (no electrical or FM stuff) that works well with the iPod in the CX-9? I'll just plug it into the Aux port, but I'd like to have it sitting up where I can read the screen.