Anyone used the Bremmer radio upgrade?

[Nick_R_23]

Hey everyone, just picked up a 2005 X5 3.0i and I’m loving it, but it does have some issues that need to be addressed. One issue I knew about upon purchase is that the stock radio’s screen is almost completely dead. I initially considered repairing it with the ribbon cable kits, but honestly I’d prefer to bring the radio into the modern age with a screen and CarPlay. I’ve searched and found that most people used Avin, Xtron, or Eonon, although they all seem to have their respective quirks. I don’t believe I have DSP (the button is not present on my radio), and I would like to retain steering wheel controls if at all possible, but it’s
not a complete deal breaker. I have also considered a Dynavin unit, but yesterday I ran across a Bremmen 10.25” touchscreen offered by Turner and ECS. I love the look and the extra screen space, the better price, as well as the features looking good on paper. The only problem is that it must be a new release, as I can’t find any reviews or anyone that’s installed one yet. I want a quality unit that isn’t going to give me issues. Anyone with some experience they can share?

https://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-8...caAtSDEALw_wcB

[crystalworks]

Looks identical to the unit I'm running. So... maybe? https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...25-screen.html

Mine is older, and runs Android 8, but appears to be the same hardware. It's been a mostly reliable unit with the typical Android head unit freezes and restarts required every so often. I am thinking of upgrading to a newer unit soon though in order to gain SPDIF optical audio to my DSP. This unit just doesn't output enough voltage on the RCAs for my liking. Currently using speaker level inputs to the DSP and it works... but I'd prefer SPDIF for it's ability to not pickup any noise.

[dkl]

Looks like a decent upgrade. Does this unit require any cutting of the OE bracket? It would be fantastic if no cutting is required if and when I need to go back to the OE CD/HID combo!

[Nick_R_23]

Not sure on the cutting, I wasn’t aware any was required. I’ll probably call them sometime and ask, as I’d like to have the option on going back to OE. Not really into permanent modifications.

[dkl]

Please let us know if you find out anything more about the bracket mod, if any.

If you don't have factory NAV, most of these Android units require cutting of the bracket the hold the stock CD. This is the main reason that I haven't upgraded yet as I don't want to cut my OE bracket.

[X5chemist]

Interesting design. Seems to fit into the CD slot. Pictures don't show top view dimensions. One does show it has empty space behind the ends. It could fit with no cutting!

[plasstik]

Originally Posted by crystalworks

Looks identical to the unit I'm running. So... maybe? https://xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-forums/...25-screen.html

Mine is older, and runs Android 8, but appears to be the same hardware. It's been a mostly reliable unit with the typical Android head unit freezes and restarts required every so often. I am thinking of upgrading to a newer unit soon though in order to gain SPDIF optical audio to my DSP. This unit just doesn't output enough voltage on the RCAs for my liking. Currently using speaker level inputs to the DSP and it works... but I'd prefer SPDIF for it's ability to not pickup any noise.

I didn't realize I needed a new head unit until I saw this picture! Dam you internet! Daaaaam yooooooou!

[X5chemist]

Wow, I'm in the same boat now for one with for no DSP!
Unreal price with steering wheel controls! Plus, this one does show the back side. Seems to fit into the Business CD slot.

[nick325xit 5spd]

I will note that while the big screen is kind of nice, IMO, it's not worth losing the volume knob.

Keep in mind that the X5 screen location is flat out awful, so you won't be looking at it as much as you might think.

[crystalworks]

Originally Posted by nick325xit 5spd

I will note that while the big screen is kind of nice, IMO, it's not worth losing the volume knob.

Keep in mind that the X5 screen location is flat out awful, so you won't be looking at it as much as you might think.

Losing the volume knob does suck. Flat out. Steering wheel controls makes up for that slightly... but it sucks not having a knob.

Having put 400+ miles on the X5 this weekend, I am certainly glad I have it. I use it a lot for iBus info, songs, maps, YouTube, etc. Maybe for daily driving you wouldn't view it as much, but I still find I use it frequently. The angle of it sucks though, and is washed out at certain times of day/direction of driving. If it was higher on the dash it would be much better (and safer) but I don't want one of those tablet style ones that you cut the dash pad to install. Trade offs to everything.