ipod integration + bluetooth -defeat

[shrexster]

After looking through god-knows how many forums, I have given up on ipod integration.

I am just going to wait for a new iPod with bluetooth and then I'll channel my energy towards finding a good bluetooth integration kit.

I thought the lack of bluetooth and input jack wouldn't bother me when I got the CX-7, but I've come to realize that I am too lazy to burn a CDs and I never remember to plug in my headset when I get in the car. I do not regret the tech package because of the NAVI and the keyless entry, but as the saying goes, it's the little things that matter.

Post if you share my frustrations, maybe with enough post we'll send the link to Mazda USA and hope!

 

[CX7_Scott]

You are far from alone.

 

[CXRabbit]

shrexster,

I totally share your frustration. I fell in love with the CX-7 when I saw it and iPod support made me look at other manufacturer's cars (Rav 4, CR-V, Nissan). I think it was a big goof on their part not to have at least an auxilary jack in the center console like so many cars now have (and like their own Mazda 3 has!).

Ultimately I'm hoping either Mazda/Bose comes out with a solution that will integrate NICELY into their system (without having to lose other features), and in the meantime I'll live with the FM transmitter (which is what I was using in my older Toyota anyway).

(and with really wishful thinking, it would be nice to know that the navigation system could upgrade to include live-traffic reporting)

 

[shrexster]

Interesting article relating to this topic.

"Automotive Goes Plug-and-Play"
http://www.designnews.com/article/CA6390327.html

 

[THOUGHT OUT]

You are far from alone.

Did that other iPod connector (I think NEO?) not work out for the Nav system CX-7?

By the way- all the rest of you NON NAV CX-7 owners have this awesome iPod integration with the FlexPED iPod Car Mount.

 

[CXRabbit]

Neo looks like an option, but only if you don't have Satellite Radio... as of right now, no one seems to be able to install both simultaneously.

The Mazda 3 DOES offer a solution for this because apparently, even though the car has an OEM iPod Auxillary jack, it won't work if Satellite is installed -- UNLESS they also install a splitter. That splitter allows for the stock auxillary jack and Satellite to be connected simultaneously. As I understand right now, it won't work on the CX-7 because it has no OEM Auxillary jack, and the splitter is not designed for two independent external devices... ONLY the OEM Aux jack and mazda-installed Sirius.

BUT, it's still good news because maybe a splitter will become available. I'm going to an Audio guy tomorrow to get my remote start installed and he's the pro that my Mazda dealership uses, so I'm going to pick his brain about iPod solutions, what's out there, and what might be on the horizon.

I also have a lead on another possible solution, so when I find out more about it, I'll let you know.

Luckily, I don't miss blue tooth (I HATE cellphones, LOL) but I do miss my iPod. Burning just a couple of mp3 CDs has made it less painful though.

By the way- all the rest of you NON NAV CX-7 owners have this awesome iPod integration with the FlexPED iPod Car Mount.

I appreciated reading about the FlexPED iPod thing and I'm sure it's a solution for some people, but honestly I want something integrated into my dash/stereo system. If I had decided against the tech package I would have gone with the stock system, ripped it out and gone completely aftermarket. That WAS an option for a while, but I decided against it for a few reasons, mostly because of integration issues. What I figure is not to far in the future when the CX-7 has been out a bit longer, integrated solutions will become available.

I'm just not a big fan of mounting external stuff to my dash/console.

 

[t-rex]

New ipod intergration module - does not work with NAV or satellite
http://www.trademotion.com/partloca...catalogid=3987&siteid=214264&categoryID=96477

How to intall
http://www.finishlineperformance.com/instructions/cx7/ipod.pdf
Doesn't look easy....

 

[mikey1981]

Why dont u guys just get an FM Transmitter and call it a day. It may not be the best-sounding solution, but ?

 

[THOUGHT OUT]

New ipod intergration module - does not work with NAV or satellite
http://www.trademotion.com/partlocator/index.cfm?action=AccessoryCatalog&catalogid=3987&siteid=214264&categoryID=96477

How to intall
http://www.finishlineperformance.com/instructions/cx7/ipod.pdf
Doesn't look easy....

That second link is how to remove ALL or most on the panels in the CX-7. The only item needed to be removed to install ANY iPod connector (or satelite) is from page 4 of that document. I will admit, when you first look at that instruction it seems a bit overwhelming....it is not that bad.

 

[CX7_Scott]

Why dont u guys just get an FM Transmitter and call it a day. It may not be the best-sounding solution, but ?

It's not about "sound" (although it DOES play a small role)... but for me, it's about utter inconvenience. My commute to work is 37 Miles each way in the Boston area. The airwaves are JAMMED with activity.

I purchased a GOOD QUALITY FM soultion and tried it for about a week.

The reality is, for "ME"... an FM solution with my specific commute does not work. I would need to change the FM frequency on BOTH of the units at least 6-7 times each way... AND remember which ones I need to switch to... and there are a few areas where I cannot find a SINGLE open station while driving.

Way-too-much work to try to listen to a sub-par solution to begin with. I know there is a "wired" FM solution - where apparently copper-to-copper connection to your stereo's FM antennae is made... but that requires an installation too - so I'd just rather wait for a "better" solution.

Hey! FM works FINE for a lot of people... more power to 'em...! It just doesn't work for me.

 

[simonxda]

Well, I guess the new arrive would have an auxilary jack somewhere and support ipod. Thats what Mazda sales guy told me. And I'm going to find out this Friday when I get my new car..

 

[PuroMexicano]

Well, I guess the new arrive would have an auxilary jack somewhere and support ipod. Thats what Mazda sales guy told me. And I'm going to find out this Friday when I get my new car..

My CX-7 was produced two weeks ago, if that's correct, I guess mine will arrive with that, who knows...

 

[simonxda]

My CX-7 was produced two weeks ago, if that's correct, I guess mine will arrive with that, who knows...

Yeah.. Will keep you guys updated with some pic on Friday..