What does the aux input in the arm console actually do? Do I plug the line out from an mp3 player into that? How do I get ipod controls from that input??
What does the aux input in the arm console actually do? Do I plug the line out from an mp3 player into that? How do I get ipod controls from that input??
Yes, you plug the line out from your player. No controls, you push the buttons on your player. If you want an integrated ipod, you need to buy the ipod integration kit and a switch box.
Like he said the input in the armrest is just an audio input. Plug anything signal from any device into it and it will play, you do however have to control the device from the device controls.
If you have an ipod and want integrated controls (i.e. stereo buttons control the ipod) then you should go with one of the many ipod integration methods available. I wouldn't suggest the OEM one as it's far less functional than most of the other ones. Also you don't have to get the $113 switchbox to use the ipod adapter. Here's what the switchbox does. Since both the ipod adapter and the ACI use the same plug on the HU it allows both to plug in at the same time, and then you access the functions by pushing the buttons on the stereo face. If you don't plan on plugging anything into the port then there's no point in getting the switchbox. Also most all of the aftermarket ipod adapters have integrated 3.5mm inputs, so if you went with one of them you would still have another input. And you could still get the switchbox and have two inputs if you really needed them.
Send Mazda an email through the owners section complaining about how dissapointed you are with Mazda that you were lied to on the window sticker about your AUX input and they will send you a gift certificate for 150.00 to pick up a switchbox at your local dealer. Mine is in the mail. Dont be an ass or anything just sound dissapointed that Mazda would do that to its customers.
