iPod Solution for GT with TECH package

[Shaz]

I think this is the answer to those of us who have the GT with Tech Package who desires to have iPod integration plus more. It is called Alpine Vehicle Hub Pro. In a nutshell, this is what it does without taking off or modifying your Head Unit with Navi:

"The Alpine VehicleHub Pro lets you add aftermarket components such as amps or processors to your factory installed system, regardless of vehicle brand and dashboard configurations. You can continue to use your factory equipment, but use the Orb, advanced command unit, to control your entire system. Possibilities to expand are extraordinary, you can even create a full 5.1 surround system by adding one of Alpine's multi-channel processor PXA-H701. The best part is, you won't lost any of your factory functions like telephone or navigation, and you won't need to permanently remove any of your stock display. Maintain your dash and still upgrade your system, all for an affordable price!"

This was recommended to me by a professional installer specializing in car audio/security systems. He demoed it to me and I was amazed. Basically, it adds functionality to your system meaning you can add a module for iPod integration....its like adding a virtual aux port to your unit....you still maintain your navi, rearview cam, CD, or whatever your system does. You can also add Bluetooth functionality, XM/Sirius or even a DVD player which can all be seen on your LCD screen.

CXRABBIT, you might want to consider this. And yes, all this comes with a price but I am heavily considering it. My sound pro installer is going to work on this and he'll give me a quote. I'll fill you guys in.

 

[CXRabbit]

I've been trying to get more details on it.

From what *I* understand about it (and I could be wrong) it WILL NOT provide an interface through your existing navigation display. This is the part that is really unclear. I know you can control the iPod thourgh the "orb" remote, but with what visual representation... and then there's a separate 7" monitor you can install and I'm not sure if you have to add that to get the visual menus.

The way I understand it is that it's really just for keeping your headunit and adding amps and aftermarket speakers (like CleanSweep).

I do have my audio guy looking into it (along with my other possible solution) so I'll let you know what I find out.

 

[Shaz]

I've been trying to get more details on it.

From what *I* understand about it (and I could be wrong) it WILL NOT provide an interface through your existing navigation display. This is the part that is really unclear. I know you can control the iPod thourgh the "orb" remote, but with what visual representation... and then there's a separate 7" monitor you can install and I'm not sure if you have to add that to get the visual menus.

I do have my audio guy looking into it (along with my other possible solution) so I'll let you know what I find out.

No, you don't need a seperate monitor. Our LCD Head unit right now would act as our display for this. Now, you might be asking, what happens with our Navi, rearview camera, CD, etc.? You just basically switch source from the ORB Remote unit and you're back as if nothing has changed. Well, for iPod controls, you control through your controls on your steering wheel and Track list and Track info will be displayed in our LCD Head Unit. You cannot however use touchscreen to switch tracks....I guess that's where the extra monitor is for. I know this because I saw it in person while my installer was demoing it for me.

 

[Shaz]

IT DOES PROVIDE VISUAL REPRESENTATION. Like i said, i just saw it. The only thing I have no info yet is the cost of having this set-up. The website says it cost $500 but when you add an iPod link, Bluetooth module, etc plus install cost...well, my installer wil get back with me on this one.

This is a great solution because we don't ever have to rip off our unit. And, CXRabbit, I know you're gonna do that drastic solution. Hey, this might be it.

 

[Shaz]

How great would it be to watch DVD right up in your LCD stock unit? I've seen it work that's why I am keen about this.

 

[CXRabbit]

WHERE does it provide visual representation? Because the manuals says this (and I'm still unclear on it)

"If an Alpine Ai-NET compatible products (DVD player, DVD/CD
changer), or iPod using the FULLSPEED Connection Cable is
connected to the VPA-B222, it can be controlled from the commander
and displayed on the external monitor. If an optional Alpine Navigation
System is connected to the VPA-B222, the Navigation screen will be
displayed on the external monitor, and its operation can be performed.
For details on the function of connected devices, refer to the Owners
Manual."

It's not clear that it interfaces with your EXISTING monitor and touch screen... and do they have a list of compatible cars/systems?

Ps. I'm not being argumentative... I've just had a hard time gathering SPECIFIC information on this unit!

 

[CXRabbit]

Okay, I made a quick call to Alpine.

The ability for the Vehicle Hub Pro to interfact with your existing Nav screen hinges on a 3rd party having the interface cable(s) available, since they are specific to the car. I'm going to give them a call and see what I find out.

 

[Shaz]

Your existing LCD screen would be where you would see the interface for this. The ORB will act as a toggle switch and/or remote to switch between this/and any other module you add (Bluetooth, DVD, etc) and your system functions (Navi, rearview cam, etc). And there is no issue as to car compatibility that's why you won't see a list. I don't know how else can I be clear as to how it integrates into your system but I've seen it demoed infront of me on a mazda cx7 GT. I wished I have taken pics.

The essence of this is you won't have to take out your existing unit. Rather, it adds to the functionality that are missing which are iPod link, Bluetooth, DVD Player, etc

 

[Shaz]

WHERE does it provide visual representation? Because the manuals says this (and I'm still unclear on it)

"If an Alpine Ai-NET compatible products (DVD player, DVD/CD
changer), or iPod using the FULLSPEED Connection Cable is
connected to the VPA-B222, it can be controlled from the commander
and displayed on the external monitor. If an optional Alpine Navigation
System is connected to the VPA-B222, the Navigation screen will be
displayed on the external monitor, and its operation can be performed.
For details on the function of connected devices, refer to the Owners
Manual."

It's not clear that it interfaces with your EXISTING monitor and touch screen... and do they have a list of compatible cars/systems?

Ps. I'm not being argumentative... I've just had a hard time gathering SPECIFIC information on this unit!

The best part is, you won't lost any of your factory functions like telephone or navigation, and you won't need to permanently remove any of your stock display. Maintain your dash and still upgrade your system, all for an affordable price!"

The external monitor that was mentioned are for those without the screen. Trust me. I"VE SEEN IT WORK. If you go by the Owner's Manual, of course they will talk about their own external monitor.

 

[CXRabbit]

You said you saw it working on a CX-7? Please then, give more specifics. What interface cable did they use? Was it direct video AND audio connection? How about the name of the audio shop so I can call them and get the info myself? (PM me if you're not comfortable doing it out in public).

I talked to Alpine and you need a 3rd party interface cable, and that cable has to be compatible with the CX-7. They gave me the names and numbers of 3 companies to try (so you don't think I pulled them out of my hat, or google's hat)...

So far, the first company, Nav-TV, provides a cable/module that is an additional $450 and interfaces the video but NOT the audio. Audio is handled through an FM modulator. Yuk.

Second company, Peripheral Electronics/Amp of America, gave me part numbers for 3 different things... all of which I believe are wrong (the guy was really rushing me off the phone)... but I'm not 100% sure. Have to do more research on those.

Third company, PAC Audio, doesn't have anything for the CX-7 available yet.

So it's just not that simple. These is the types of problems I'm running into on a consistent basis. Share DETAILS please. I'm of course open to this solution, but I need the DETAILS.

 

[jestermsp]

subbing for more info.