[sadlersmead]

I have a Cooper S 2003 (Sat Nav) fitted with the uprated Harmon Kardon stereo CD bootchanger and speakers.

My goal is to be able to play MP3 files through the system either via CD, DVD or iPod

My local car electric shop tried an Alpine MP3 boot changer, but this was not compatible with the Head Unit because apparantly it is more "Rover" than "BMW".

I didn't want to change the look of the interior but reluctantly had to try the Alpine Ipod ida-X001 head unit (which works on all other cars) but again this would not link to the Harmon Kardon set-up. Apparantly even if this did work, the voice commands from the Sat Nav would be lost.

Does anyone know of a solution without going down the FM modulator route (which does not give good enough sound quality)

Any help would be appreciated

Cheers

Paul

[ScottyBoy]

When changing the HU on a HK system you have to have an HK Enabler, the HU should of turned on when you tried it but no sound??

NewMINIStuff.com

This is the part in the above link..... As you have sat nav im not sure what else you will need so its probably best to speak to Mikeythemini on hear from NewMINIstuff and he'l sort you out

Scott

[DaFlake]

Since you have sat nav and are wanting MP3, you could look at the Intravee as a solution.

Intravention - Home

The downside is that you would lose the changer in the boot but since you would have an ipod connected the changer would be pointless. I have this unit and love it.

[R99]

My HK headunit plays Mp3 CD's as standard, so I presume the auto changer in the boot does not have this function then?

James.

[DaFlake]

Quote: Originally Posted by R99 (original)

My HK headunit plays Mp3 CD's as standard, so I presume the auto changer in the boot does not have this function then?

James.

First, there is no difference between HK head units and the non HK. It is the same head unit. The earlier model HU's did not play MP3 files and neither does the OEM cd changer for the boot.

To my knowledge there is no other solution for a CD changer in the boot. BMW has a pretty specific way of doing things.

[sadlersmead]

This looks good - any idea where I can get one fitted in the UK??

Also is it a standard fit. It looks bigger than the current head unit in the car.

Regards, Paul

[sadlersmead]

Hi James

My HK head unit is a Cassette tape player and the Boot changer does not play MP3's

Maybe I should look for a second hand HK CD Head unit. Surely this would be compatible.

Cheers

Paul

I

[MartinSSZ]

Dension IceLink or Gateway seems the best option to get iPod integration - Dension Audio Systems for information and NewMINIStuff.com to buy from

The other option is to change the head unit for a later/facelift spec BOOST CD player (post 07/2004) with the large knobbly volume control which will play MP3 files from CDs in the head unit but not from the rear CD changer.

[MartinSSZ]

Sorry, meant to add this...:

Another is an MP3 playing Sony CD changer, using a Connects2 integration kit to interface to the original wiring and your existing head unit. Something like this: http://caraudiosecurity.com/shop/pro...s_id/6719.html or Sony BMW E46 3-Series, E39 5-Series & Mini MP3 CD Changer (Pre-wired) £219.99 including VAT. MBMS005T70MX. Buy discounted car audio online at In-Car Express

[MartinSSZ]

Just found this: Bimmernav.com Online Store

[Richard_P]

An OEM CD Changer build from September 2005 on will play MP3's and WMA files.

[DaFlake]

Quote: Originally Posted by Richard_P (original)

An OEM CD Changer build from September 2005 on will play MP3's and WMA files.

The problem is that I have yet to find one in a MINI. Two guys that I kno whave 2006 models and they don't play MP3 files.

[Richard_P]

Quote: Originally Posted by DaFlake (original)

The problem is that I have yet to find one in a MINI. Two guys that I know have 2006 models and they don't play MP3 files.

Is that CD Changers with a build date of 2006 or cars that have build dates in 2006?

[DaFlake]

Quote: Originally Posted by Richard_P (original)

Is that CD Changers with a build date of 2006 or cars that have build dates in 2006?

These were both build dates of 2006 but they were not factory fitted. I am betting that the dealer had them sitting on the shelves and used older ones.

[Richard_P]

Quote: Originally Posted by DaFlake (original)

These were both build dates of 2006 but they were not factory fitted. I am betting that the dealer had them sitting on the shelves and used older ones.

I think you would win your bet!

Even if you get a new CD Changer now from a dealer there is a fair chance you will get an old one, unless you specifically ask for the new one.

[I love MINI, Laura]

Quote: Originally Posted by sadlersmead (original)

Hi James

My HK head unit is a Cassette tape player and the Boot changer does not play MP3's

Maybe I should look for a second hand HK CD Head unit. Surely this would be compatible.

Cheers

Paul

I

HK is the amp not the head unit I believe. The CD player wouldn't have to be a HK spec.

I could be wrong?

[sadlersmead]

Thanks for all the advice

I have ordered the Intravee II from Bimmernav.com

I will let you know how I get on when its all fitted.

Cheers

Paul

[sadlersmead]

Finally got the Intravee from BimmerNav over Christmas and now have it fitted in my Mini.

I am happy to say I'm very impressed. The interface and functionality is everything that I wanted.
It really is easy to fit, sounds good and looks great on the Sat Nav Screen.

however....

my listening experience is currently spoiled and I hope someone may be able to help.

I used an in car electrics fitter to install the intravee along with some new speakers. I decided to replace the speakers because sound from the left front speaker would "drop out" at random times when listening to the CD's via the CD changer (the radio is ALWAYS fine and I no longer use cassettes!!).

I figured that either the speakers or the CD changer was to blame so having new speakers and
the Intravee replacing the CD changer would solve the problem.

Unfortunately after fitting both, the sound still drops from the left speaker. It seems to happens about ten minutes into a journey and then cuts in and out at random times.

Another issue has cropped up since the intravee has been fitted and this is what sounds like interference. Again it is only random but when it occurs it remains and sounds like a screeching noise over the music. Again the radio is not affected.

Has anyone else experienced either problem. My fitter says all connections are good and thinks the problem lies within the head unit and suggests replacing it (possibly for one with a single CD).

I have already spent loads on this project so would appreciate any help before spending out any more.

Cheers

Paul

[DaFlake]

Sounds like the HK amp is dying. This is not a cheap fix either....

[ned78]

Quote: Originally Posted by sadlersmead (original)

I used an in car electrics fitter to install the intravee along with some new speakers. I decided to replace the speakers because sound from the left front speaker would "drop out" at random times when listening to the CD's via the CD changer (the radio is ALWAYS fine and I no longer use cassettes!!).

I'd blame the CD Changer wiring loom, it sounds like the cable that carries the left hand audio signal has been snagged/crimped/damaged somehow when they guys did your installation. The loom normally carries left and right audio, along with signals from the head unit to change disc, play, etc.