Trying to get MP3s into a 12/01 X5

[RT3413]

OK - trying to figure out the best way to get MP3s into our X5. We bought it about 2 months ago and have been trying to find the best route. As we all know, putting in FM transmitters is NOT the way to go.

I went to the BMW center and they could not add the AUX port b/c of the production date, so I asked them to add the iPod adapter. Apparently, that won't work because I have Premium sound, but not DSP.

Being new to BMWs, I am having a hard time figuring out the connections. In the rear access area there seems to be a 25-pin connection and several fiber connections.

I am trying to figure out of the ICElink or the PhatBox are options for me, but can't get clear answers out of either since I am not exactly sure myself what I have.

Anyone have any clue what exactly I have and what I can or can't do? I would also like to add Bluetooth, but that looks like it's impossible to get it integrated.

[Bavarian]

You can go for an Alpine CD changer which reads MP3 CDs as well. What do you mean you have Premium sound, but no DSP?

X5s are only sold with standard sound (10 Hi-Fi speakers) or with the "Audiophile" system which is 10 Hi-Fi speakers plus 2 subs and DSP.

Perhaps you are from Europe, and thus your options don't match the offerings in North America?

[XPRES5]

Originally Posted by RT3413

OK - trying to figure out the best way to get MP3s into our X5. We bought it about 2 months ago and have been trying to find the best route. As we all know, putting in FM transmitters is NOT the way to go.

I went to the BMW center and they could not add the AUX port b/c of the production date, so I asked them to add the iPod adapter. Apparently, that won't work because I have Premium sound, but not DSP.

Being new to BMWs, I am having a hard time figuring out the connections. In the rear access area there seems to be a 25-pin connection and several fiber connections.

I am trying to figure out of the ICElink or the PhatBox are options for me, but can't get clear answers out of either since I am not exactly sure myself what I have.

Anyone have any clue what exactly I have and what I can or can't do? I would also like to add Bluetooth, but that looks like it's impossible to get it integrated.

Do you have Navigation?

You should be able to do the Ice Link Plus system with no problem on your vehicle. And the Bluetooth retrofit is no problem either (look in the Bluetooth section on the main page).

[Quicksilver]

Originally Posted by RT3413

OK - trying to figure out the best way to get MP3s into our X5. We bought it about 2 months ago and have been trying to find the best route. As we all know, putting in FM transmitters is NOT the way to go.

I went to the BMW center and they could not add the AUX port b/c of the production date, so I asked them to add the iPod adapter. Apparently, that won't work because I have Premium sound, but not DSP.

Being new to BMWs, I am having a hard time figuring out the connections. In the rear access area there seems to be a 25-pin connection and several fiber connections.

I am trying to figure out of the ICElink or the PhatBox are options for me, but can't get clear answers out of either since I am not exactly sure myself what I have.

Anyone have any clue what exactly I have and what I can or can't do? I would also like to add Bluetooth, but that looks like it's impossible to get it integrated.

I'm confused also. This is a 2005 X5 correct?? Blue tooth comes with premium package I thought.

Premium Package
* Power adjustable rear seatbacks
* Power 2-way panorama moonroof
* Automatic tilt-down of right outside mirror for visibility of curb when backing up; includes "puddle" lights
* Automatic-dimming rear-view mirrors. Includes both inside and outside mirrors. Inside mirror includes compass with digital read-out.
* 8-function on-board computer
* BMW Assist is a Global Positioning System and wireless communication system for Automatic Collision Notification, Emergency Request, enhanced Roadside Assistance, and Concierge Services. Bluetooth® wireless technology is standard with the BMW Assist option. For more information on BMW Assist, click here

[drex]

Quick-- its a 12/01 Build.

Several options:

1) Get a phatbox. Works with any X5. Check out Phatnoise.com. You do however lose the ability to have the CD Changer if you have one. Its either PB or CD changer, but not both.

2) If you do have navigation, which I suspect you don't, but if you do, you can try TV on NAV's video adapter with stereo inputs. Then you can use a n IPOD or whatever you want to port sound in.

3) Also, soundgate and blitzsafe each make an adapter to add external audio through the CD Changer interface. CD player not required. In fact, the Blitzsafe adapter replaces the CD Changer when adding a PhatBox(comes with the PB). I have 2 PhatBoxes and they rock!

So, you do have options. Phatbox is the most expensive, but if you don't have a CD Changer, its a good way to go.......