Yet another thread on Ipod Integration

[discoball]

First off, I'm really sorry b/c this is probably like the thousandth thread on this topic. I've read through other threads but I'm still confused as to what my options are w/ being able to hook my Ipod up to my X's stereo. I'm taking the X on her first long trip in June (about 1,100 miles roundtrip) and would like to set up my Ipod and be done with playing around with cd's and searching for radio stations. Here's info. about my '06 X that may be helpful:
Premium sound
No cd changer
No navigation

I've seen a lot of threads on dealer installed and aftermarket hookups but since my X is leased, I guess I have to go the dealer route. This is fine - I've been on BMW's website a few times to read up on their Ipod Integration Installation but I guess I'm still wondering how it works and how good the sound is. My Ipod is probably considered a dinosaur now, it's a 20GB, not the Nano - it's quite heavy and the screen is black & white. Will BMW's installtion list the name of the file I'm playing on my stereo screen? Is the sound the same as when I listen to the radio or play a cd? Does the Ipod play via a cable connection from the Ipod to the X or is it remote? Does the dealer installation include a cradle to rest the Ipod in? Anyone have any pics of their setup? Thanks again - I'm just missing the boat on this topic!

[Verbalkint]

Originally Posted by discoball

I'm still confused as to what my options are w/ being able to hook my Ipod up to my X's stereo

Here's a good X5world article summarizing most of the popular options, with the exception of DICE, and a few others. I believe your options with DICE are the same or similar to those with the now discontinued IceLinkPlus. Not entirely sure, though. Other folks will know, no doubt.

[discoball]

Wow thanks! That article is really helpful...I'm really liking the DICE option but since I may end up turning in the X in '09 I want to avoid a potential problem w/ the dealer. Why isn't BMW's installation at least as thorough as DICE's?

[xnsf]

you shouldn't have any problems with the dealer by installing the dice. you can always take it out when you go in for service since it's fairly easy to unplug. and i don't think you can add the BMW intelligent iPod adapter if you have the premium sound package (i might be wrong; i think i've seen people with the onboard navigation with the iPod integration).

[Tom G.]

Originally Posted by discoball

First off, I'm really sorry b/c this is probably like the thousandth thread on this topic. I've read through other threads but I'm still confused as to what my options are w/ being able to hook my Ipod up to my X's stereo. I'm taking the X on her first long trip in June (about 1,100 miles roundtrip) and would like to set up my Ipod and be done with playing around with cd's and searching for radio stations. Here's info. about my '06 X that may be helpful:
Premium sound
No cd changer
No navigation

I've seen a lot of threads on dealer installed and aftermarket hookups but since my X is leased, I guess I have to go the dealer route. This is fine - I've been on BMW's website a few times to read up on their Ipod Integration Installation but I guess I'm still wondering how it works and how good the sound is. My Ipod is probably considered a dinosaur now, it's a 20GB, not the Nano - it's quite heavy and the screen is black & white. Will BMW's installtion list the name of the file I'm playing on my stereo screen? Is the sound the same as when I listen to the radio or play a cd? Does the Ipod play via a cable connection from the Ipod to the X or is it remote? Does the dealer installation include a cradle to rest the Ipod in? Anyone have any pics of their setup? Thanks again - I'm just missing the boat on this topic!

The DICE iPod Kit integrates perfectly with your X5 and offer steering wheel control as well as ID3 text and charging of your iPod. Full CD Quality can be expected after installation.

This is the kit you need:

DICE iPod Integration Kit for BMW
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=268

The kit will come with everything needed w/ the docking cable. The iPod can be safely stored away in the glove compartment for 100% stealth installation and accessed completely from the steering wheel controls. The DICE comes with a 15-foot cable length to reach anywhere in the vehicle you like, most people prefer the center console or glovebox.

Audio quality is exactly like having headphones on. Let me know if you have any further questions.