I ordered a new Ipod interface that I have not seen mentioned here on RX8club.com... It is called the Dice Ipod Integration kit and it recently came on the market AFAIK. It clearly states on the product site that there is no texy display on Mazda radios, but the price and features are nice otherwise (similar to others with steering wheel control) and I am looking forward to getting it. I will post a report as soon as I get it (coming to D.C. from CA) and let the club know how it works/sounds.

 

I bought one too, I am going to install it soon. Any suggesstions on where to mount the main box? It has an AUX input there so I want to keep it accesible so I can connect to it if I need to. Good luck on yours!

 

i'm looking for something similar... cant wait for the review...

 

I can't wait either too cheap to pay for overnight on something that cost $150.00!!!

 

i haven't heard of that interface before. but, for everyone's reference, i've found a nice combo of ipod accessories for under $50 for using the iPod in the car:

1. iStore iPod vent mount... $25 (http://www.theistore.com/ventmount.html)
2. Monster iCar Cassette Adapter... $20 (http://store.apple.com/1-800-MY-APPL....8.25.7.11.3.3)

Note: for the iStore iPod vent mount, just remember to install the clips upside down (ie opposite of how the instructions say to install them- so the flat side is on top). and, then when u clip it onto the vent they grip firmly and clip on & come off easily. it won't scratch the plastic, so long as u don't grind it into the vent.).

 

i have a Q... does the DICE req new HU firmware?

 

According to the DICE website it has similar requirements to the PIE adapter, I.E. 9.55 or higher.

 

well damn. i'll wait for one of the MD input options.

 

Ok, so I got my D.I.C.E interface and so far I have to report I am pleased. The install went easy and and I followed the radio removal instructions that are easily found through the search function, it just plugs right into the 16 pin connector on the back of the radio... install was easy and it works just like described. It does specify radio OS 9.55 or greater, and it does say no text will display on Mazda radios and this is the case for me as well. Regardless the unit is very nice and seems well built. Response from the headunit controls and steering wheel controls is responsive with no lag, and the unit functions consistently. Sound quality is excellent on both the IPOD and the aux in jack (tested with PSP), although having never heard a PIE adapter or other product I cant compare to other wired interfaces. Cables for me are long enough to reach the center console (rear part, not the cup holders) with the DICE box in (behind) the dash. I also put in a 1/8" stereo cable at the same time so it is there.

Any questions? I didn't take pics of the install BTW, there are enough explanations of how to get the radio out and connect an aux in module to the 16 pin connector

 

about how big is the D.I.C.E. box?

 

about 2" by 3" x 3/4"

 

what do the "1 2 3 4 5 6" buttons do? and can you still control your iPod from your iPod (clickwheel) while its hooked up?

 

The disc up and down buttons actually change the operating mode of the unit... For instance when disc 5, track 2 is selected you change the input to the 1/8" aux connector instead of the IPOD dock connector.

To be honest, the way it works is so weird because it actually uses the "disc" that is selected to change what the controls do, but it is easy to get used to, the best thing would be to read the manual on the DICE web site, because there are a lot of features depending on what input you use (dock or 1/8")

http://support.diceelectronics.com/f...al_rev_a02.pdf

 

Just installed mine. It works great. bbtheory is right tho, you have to read the manual to understand how the system works, but once you do, it all makes sense. I had some problems along the way trying to figure out how to set it up and they were very helpful and responded quickly through their website help section. It all works now, is really fast, and plays very nicely.

I mounted my unit right underneath the ashtray, and ran the ipod wire out to where the cupholders are. I will get a mount for it later, but for now this will do. GREAT SETUP!

 

Sorry for reviving ancient thread.

Could anyone who has this solution installed let me know if DICE has a 5-playlist limitation like the AudioLink? Also, what is it which gets displayed on the LCD screen when it's in iPod mode?

Thanks in advance!

 

hi guys,
I've had problems with mine, got it all installed physically but not sure of jumper settings os I tried them all. Only my ipod will only charge from this. I've tried hitting the md/tape button to select the unit and tried hitting the cd button twice but to no avail, I'm running a later version then 9.55 on the firmware of the Raido and have a 6 cd changer. The car is a 2005 RX.
Anybody got any suggestions for me, they'd be greatly appreciated.

Thanks

Dan

 

Dan - did you try the SAT radio button? Since you have a CD changer, I believe the only other available port to plug the Dice unit into is the SAT radio port - is that where you plugged in your Dice unit? If so, try using the SAT button to access the ipod module, and let us know how that works...

I just picked up a Dice unit too, and am hoping to get it installed this coming weekend. I am a bit confused on exactly where to plug in the module to the factory h/u, as Dice's install guides are a bit confusing.... one says to plug into the CD changer port, another says plug into the SAT radio port.

I'll snap some pics of the install and post up here if anyone's interested....

 

hey, thanks for the response, don't have a sat nav option in the 2005 RX8.
But there is an MD port, so i plugged it in there, i've logged a call with dice and they've asked me to do a few things, but none have worked
I was thinking I might disconnect the battery and see if that works.
Really would love to have an ipod in my car, 6 CDs just ain't enough nowadays, hehe

thanks for the response

dan