What should I buy ?

[edco]

Here's what I want to accomplish..( long story to follow )

What do I need to buy?

Vehicle is an 06 X5 3.0 with Nav.

#1) Satellite radio - now this may be a nit, BUT I already have an XM contract that goes through 2009. Today I am running my XM via an Audiovox XC9 which I have stowed in the center console, plugged into the 12V lighter in the back for power, via FM Modulation, with a magnetic antenna on the roof. I am NOT a channel surfer, in fact during the week it's on 127 (CNBC) almost all day, and on weekends 46 (TopTracks). With the anticipated, dare I say, pending XM/Sirius merger it seems foolish to buy a new XM radio now. BUT it does look pretty trashy with wires hanging over the seats and out the door and console.

#2) CD Changer - I planned on installing one, primarily because I listen to books on CD during extra long drives, and have a large CD Collection. But got to thinking how I rushed to install one in my wife's E46, and I dont think we've EVER used it.

#3) MP3 Player - Although I don't have one, bought my wife and my 16 y.o. have an Ipod. Maybe I'll move into the new millenium one day and buy one, but in any event, I think I need to be prepared to have this option available, even if it's as simple as an AUX port in the glovebox.

#4) Back-up camera - Vehicle has PDC, but with little ones running around my street, I'm overly paranoid about being able to see behind me. There is a guy out of Germany selling BMW OEM retrofit ones for about $499 on ebay, with lots of goood feedback, that I have considered.

#5) TV on the Nav Screen - This is last on the list as a nice to have, and seems like some places offer NAV/Backup Camera combos.

Let me add one other point. I am PARANOID about breaking stuff, so unless it's real easy (ie, I installed the CD changer in my wife's convertible in about 30 minutes), I need to be sure there are places I can go to that will do the work for me..or friendly X5World buddies close by to help .

So what would you buy..?

Thanks
ED

[Brian-bmw]

All of the above, but you do not have to tackle it right away. Based on your comments, this is the priority that I would recommend.

1. BMW TV module - This is very cool, but you probably won't use it that much. The only reason that I put it first is because it is a prerequisite for the backup camera. (There are other video source modules that will support backup cameras; however, if you are interested in the BMW TV module, you might as well start with the best.)
   
2. Backup camera - I too have a primary safety concern. There is nothing like being able to see exactly what is behind you, especially in an X5. PDC and a backup camera together are the ultimate combination!
   
3. MP3 Player - It is very easy to install an iPod adapter or one of the generic CD changer aux input adapters. Or, you can simply install BMW's Aux input to your radio and use that. I have my iPod running through the radio's Aux input, and I love it. This solves the problem of the CD changer and listening to anything (books on CD to whatever...).
   
4. Satellite radio - It sounds like you have a decent satellite radio solution that works for now, but you probably do not use that much. When the XM subscription runs out, I would install the BMW Sirius kit to replace it. If the cosmetics or audio quality get to you, then bump it up the list.
   
5. CD Changer - I would blow this off. If you have satellite radio and an MP3 player, you will never use a CD changer.

[Tom G.]

Originally Posted by edco

Here's what I want to accomplish..( long story to follow )

What do I need to buy?

Vehicle is an 06 X5 3.0 with Nav.

#1) Satellite radio - now this may be a nit, BUT I already have an XM contract that goes through 2009. Today I am running my XM via an Audiovox XC9 which I have stowed in the center console, plugged into the 12V lighter in the back for power, via FM Modulation, with a magnetic antenna on the roof. I am NOT a channel surfer, in fact during the week it's on 127 (CNBC) almost all day, and on weekends 46 (TopTracks). With the anticipated, dare I say, pending XM/Sirius merger it seems foolish to buy a new XM radio now. BUT it does look pretty trashy with wires hanging over the seats and out the door and console.

The merger is rumored to be happening by the end of the year, it would be best to wait or use AUX and a handheld for XM. XM Direct is not compatible with NAV, but Sirius is:

Sirius Satellite Radio - e53 X5
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=274

For more information on the Sirius/XM merger, see here: http://www.xmradio.com/merger/news.xmc

Originally Posted by edco

#2) CD Changer - I planned on installing one, primarily because I listen to books on CD during extra long drives, and have a large CD Collection. But got to thinking how I rushed to install one in my wife's E46, and I dont think we've EVER used it.

If you have an iPod already, this will offer you much more features than a CD Changer can. This is the kit you need:

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

The DICE iPod Kit will integrate perfectly with your BMW and offer steering wheel control as well as ID3 text and charging of your iPod. Full CD Quality can be expected after installation and there's even an integrated AUX port for other devices.

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.

Originally Posted by edco

#3) MP3 Player - Although I don't have one, bought my wife and my 16 y.o. have an Ipod. Maybe I'll move into the new millenium one day and buy one, but in any event, I think I need to be prepared to have this option available, even if it's as simple as an AUX port in the glovebox.

See above, the DICE kit would be the best answer.

Originally Posted by edco

#4) Back-up camera - Vehicle has PDC, but with little ones running around my street, I'm overly paranoid about being able to see behind me. There is a guy out of Germany selling BMW OEM retrofit ones for about $499 on ebay, with lots of goood feedback, that I have considered.

#5) TV on the Nav Screen - This is last on the list as a nice to have, and seems like some places offer NAV/Backup Camera combos.

These two tasks can be completed with one device, the TV on NAV kits. These will allow television broadcasts on your NAV screen with full channel control from your steering wheel or Navigation controls.

There are a series of add-ons like TVinMOTION, reverse backup cameras and 2nd A/V inputs for other devices like DVD players or video from your iPod.

More information on the TV on NAV kits can be found here:

BMW TV on NAV Complete System for e53 X5
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=643

and the camera:

Reverse "Bumblebee" Camera
http://www.europeanautosource.com/pr...roducts_id=439

Originally Posted by edco

Let me add one other point. I am PARANOID about breaking stuff, so unless it's real easy (ie, I installed the CD changer in my wife's convertible in about 30 minutes), I need to be sure there are places I can go to that will do the work for me..or friendly X5World buddies close by to help .

So what would you buy..?

Thanks
ED

Full instructions come with the kits for an easy DIY or any experienced installer should be able to perform the work for you. We're all here via email, forums or telephone support if needed.

The best part is this is mainly all OEM integration and will look 100% stock when you are completed.

[SRAUDIOWORKS]

Ed I am in NJ we can handle the install for you. PM me or call 908 437-0222 when you are ready and if you need any help.

Shaun

[edco]

Originally Posted by SRAUDIOWORKS

Ed I am in NJ we can handle the install for you. PM me or call 908 437-0222 when you are ready and if you need any help.

Shaun

Thanks Shaun..

I should be ready to go in a few weeks..

ED