Volume setting for IPOD with AUX input

[DaveMS307]

Ok,

Trying to figure out how to make it work the best. It really doesn't sound as good as I thought it would using the AUX input and having my IPOD volume set to about 75%. Anything lower and I can hear amp hiss, but higher seems OK, so I'm just being cautious. I can't hear any distortion that sounds like over powering the jack, but I was expecting near CD quality and it just doesn't sound that great. OK for casual listening, but CDs sound far better (more detail in the lower sounds -backing vocals, etc).

I am using the default AAC compression setting for the IPOD and using error correct. Any advice here?

Normally, I'm on cutting edge (bought Laser Disks, DVD, CDs the month the new technology came out), but I'm real late to the IPOD party because I figured the sound quality couldn't be that good. Was I right? Am I doing something wrong?

Thanks in advance for any help. Yes, I know the stock system is the greatest, but it's not bad if you mess with the settings a bit.

Merry Christmas All!

 

[fourthmeal]

just make sure your EQ's are off on the iPod settings. That can annhilate the sound quality. Also, I think at about 70-80% of full output, you'll find the iPod's internal amp is working as hard as it can. I have my iPod's volume restricted (in the settings menu) to about 80%, and I then turn the volume down another 10% from <the new maximum> the player's screen, while the songs are playing. This seems OK. The most important thing is to leave the EQ off, or FLAT. Don't forget, Mazda sells the iPod hookup that will sound a little better, since it bypasses the iPod's speaker/earphone jack.

 

[Poseur]

the best thing you can do with an IPOD for SQ is NOT USE ITUNES.... Redchair makes some fabulous software called anapod I believe... as do many others.

Use a program such as CDEX and create REAL MP3'S I advise use of VBR and higher bitrates.

AS far as the Ipod is concerned The noise you're hearing is likey coming froma ground-loop in your charger? I'm kind of taking a guess here, but try with your ipod plugged into a charger and with it not. if it sounds better and deosn't "hiss" when unplugged, you might want to look into re-grounding your cig-lighter jack with heavier gague wire in a different location than stock.