Need info on Alpine CHA-S634 install.

[foursixis]

I have a 2001 X5 4.6is with DSP and no NAV. I currently have the factory CD changer. Is this a direct swap out (using current mounting hardware?). I am thinking about getting this package from Crutchfield (including the Blitzsafe adapter).

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-x0HMiJz...p?id=14515&t=0

Any tips/advice as to this.

How well does it play MP3s? Does it display ID tags?

[UCrewX5]

Originally Posted by foursixis

I have a 2001 X5 4.6is with DSP and no NAV. I currently have the factory CD changer. Is this a direct swap out (using current mounting hardware?). I am thinking about getting this package from Crutchfield (including the Blitzsafe adapter).

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-x0HMiJz...p?id=14515&t=0

Any tips/advice as to this.

How well does it play MP3s? Does it display ID tags?

No it does not display ID3 song tags. It will display 1-99, 2-65, etc.

My personal advice would be to skip going with a CD changer and install a Dension IceLink Plus and use an iPod.

[BassX]

You may want to go here and check their prices before purchasing a kit from Crutchfield. I have the same basic setup, but went with the Soundgate adapter, as it is much less buggy than the Blitzsafe. I have an '05 X5 w/NAV & DSP, but did not require the "dsp" adapter, as my MY uses only the 6-pin and 3-pin connectors. They have a chart available on this web site that will help you determine exactly which adapter you need based upon your model and year.

Currently, I am testing the Intravee II adapter, which puts all sorts of information on the display, such as the ID3 info, plus track elapsed time, disc and folder info. But, it is not yet commercially available. One new development with the device is that, with its current firmware version, you can use an Alpine adapter and actually hook up either an Ipod or a changer. You can check it out here.

As for the hardware, the brackets from your existing changer should fit the Alpine unit just fine. If not, you can purchase the two small brackets you will need at a dealer for about $12.95.

Good luck.

[Flyboy]

Hello foursixis, I’m a newbie to X5 World and to the X5 in general. I bought a 2001 3.0i about 2 months ago and it doesn’t have a CD changer at all. I’ve been weighing whether to get the OEM changer versus Alpine S634. I assumed that since the S634 was $179 (off-the-shelf @ Best Buy) and the OEM changer weighed in at around $550 that the OEM changer had more to offer in either quality or features. Did I make a bad assumption? Are you making the swap because of defects in your changer or is the S634 a better changer?
TIA

[foursixis]

Originally Posted by Flyboy

Hello foursixis, I’m a newbie to X5 World and to the X5 in general. I bought a 2001 3.0i about 2 months ago and it doesn’t have a CD changer at all. I’ve been weighing whether to get the OEM changer versus Alpine S634. I assumed that since the S634 was $179 (off-the-shelf @ Best Buy) and the OEM changer weighed in at around $550 that the OEM changer had more to offer in either quality or features. Did I make a bad assumption? Are you making the swap because of defects in your changer or is the S634 a better changer?
TIA

I have had no problems with my stock changer. I just want the ability to play MP3s in my system. I am looking at all options. You could probably get an aftermarket compatible unit and be fine.

[dkl]

Originally Posted by Flyboy

Hello foursixis, I’m a newbie to X5 World and to the X5 in general. I bought a 2001 3.0i about 2 months ago and it doesn’t have a CD changer at all. I’ve been weighing whether to get the OEM changer versus Alpine S634. I assumed that since the S634 was $179 (off-the-shelf @ Best Buy) and the OEM changer weighed in at around $550 that the OEM changer had more to offer in either quality or features. Did I make a bad assumption? Are you making the swap because of defects in your changer or is the S634 a better changer?
TIA

FYI...the BMW OEM changer is also manufactured by Alpine. $179 plus $100 adapter = $279 is still a great deal compared to what your dealer charges for an OEM changer, which does not have MP3 capability.

[Flyboy]

I'd like to have the MP3 capability as well so I'll be picking up the S634.

Thanks for the response foursixis & DKL,