I just finished wading through the pages of threads on 6-Disc Changer, iPod, and MP3 players here on the board and I'm not really closer to a decision--I have a over a hundred CDs in two cases that I keep in my 8--and a single CD player. Its time to go ahead and upgrade to some type of MP3 player. Which is the best route? The OEM MP3 player, 6 disc changer, iPod and P.I.E. adaptor to operate via steering wheel controls, or adaptor to an MP3 changer located elsewhere in the car? It is my understanding that with these adaptors I can use my steering wheel controls/dash controls to operate the changer or iPod--yes no? Any advice you guys have will be appreciated--after having some of my tightest CDs stolen out of a rental BMW out in Vegas--I really don't want to keep those CD cases in my car.

 

I picked up my OEM in dash MP3 player for around $200 I think....

You can fit somewhere around 120+ songs per cd. You just burn the files as mp3s to the CD-R disk. I guess this means you can fit 8-10 cd's per CD-R disk assuming you're pulling all the songs. For that reason alone the MP3 route is better (and cheaper) than the cd changer option. You also get to see the song names, artist, etc on your car display.

You can see a little of this on this video: http://tyrannical.org/rx8/rx8.wmv

 

I also installed the factory cd mp3 player and am really happy with it. Like Jason said, you can fit easily 8-10 cd's on it, you get the id3 tag display, and the integration of the steering wheel controls and radio buttons.

IMO i don't see why you really need a 20GB mp3 player for - I don't plan on driving my car for 100hours at a time... but i guess thats just me

 

Well, it is nice to have your entire song collection with you at all times. It just depends on what is important to you. I've had several jukebox HDD based players, so I understand both mentalities. I just prefer an integrated perm solution in my car.

 

For me the main reason is security--1 cd versus a cd case with 100 cds in it is less likely to entice smash an grabbers or unsavory mecanics/valet parkers et al.

 

Some other points to consider (not a complete list):

1) When you do squeeze 8-10 CDs into one MP3 cds (or do a similar thing on a MP3 player), you do make significant compromises in sound quality. If that's not a problem for you, then cool. Some people might be able to squeeze 4-5 CDs into one MP3 CD at a quality level that they can live with, which will make a difference.

2) How much of those CDs do you want to take along (in other words, what kind of capacity do you actually need)? Do you only need one or two songs off of the majority of the CDs, or do you listen to most CDs full length? You might be able to simply make a few regular compilation CDs that you can either use in a single or 6 disc changer, or squeeze into a few MP3 CDs at better quality levels.

3) The one big drawback to the current iPod/PIE solution (or similar ones) is that the radio doesn't display any info from the iPod. You will have to operate it blind (which isn't a problem for some people, and might not be for you), or have a place to mount the device in view of the driver (more security issues). Of course, if you had factory Nav and a new iPod, AND you could output the iPod navigation screen to a video source, AND you had a video switching device that allowed the iPod screen to be shown on the NAV screen, then you'd be set.

---jps

 

hmm...I am leaning toward the OEM MP3 player at this point--cause a few CDs is better than my two CD cases--not to mention trying to switch the CDs and replace them in the case without scratching the CDs or crashing.

 

If you want a simple process to get MP3 capability into your car, then get the factory MP3 player. It is an easy install and reasonably priced solution.
I needed my 20 GB MP3 player though, so I went an alternate route :D

 

There all good.. just diffrent. I can help you with all of them .. If you want the OEM MP3 / MD unit.. And/or if your HU needs to be upgreded i can add the MD , to it when i have it in for the firmware upgrade.

But i still prefer the PIE input box.. that will allow you to add any audio source. like an ipod, then you can put the ipod in the center cup holder area close the lid and you are done.

For me my DVD/MP3 player mounted in my pass thur is the best. it allows me to see dvd,s and it also allows me to EQ on screen any audio souce.. so i can make up for the flaws in the Bose system via onscreen EQ and then i get to see all the MP3 data on my LCD to..

But if you just want to stay simple get the OEM unit and install it your self. Your dealer well over charge you and also damage your dash in the process..

 

Or hey you could use a Kenwood Keg and fill it with your music collection!

 

2 questions... is this factory MP3 Head Unit the one with the MD also? Or is that extra? I have about 50MD's (I thought they would take off but never did) and would love to use them. AND where can one get a factory MP3 / MD unit?

Thanks
Ed

 

The MD unit is extra.
Many online vendors can get you the MP3 player or the MD unit - way cheaper than your local dealer.

 

Hey, I was just wondering what the best place to get and install the OEM mp3 stereo would be. Where did you get it for "around $200"? I live in the san diego area and the local mazda dealer quoted me at $350 plus labor. I was just wondering what everyone else paid for theirs. Thanks

 

Sput...

192kps MP3s is good enough quality for me compare with CDs. I am sure you have a very good ear but I doubt even the Boss systems will show these extreme range of acoustics

I only have 1500 of MP3 download from a Chinese (paid and legal) download song. I still love my Cantonese songs so much and it is so hard to get them all in Melbourne so I have to do this. 1500 songs is only from 2002 - 2004 :D

I have both MP3 player and an iPod. MP3 cannot display any Chinese. It will just give "No Title". iPod wise, iTrip in major cities is hopeless. So I need to perminantly link it someway with an RCA. The benefit with an iPod DreRX8 is ability to choose the exact song, the artist or the album easily. But you have to take your eyes off the road.

Good luck... can I tell you to have both? :D

 

$252 to this link at Rosenthal Mazda

http://www.finishlineperformance.com...lectrical.html

 

ok guys dumb question time, the oem mp3 player... is this JUST a player or does it have a hard drive so you dont even have to change out mp3 cds... and also an MD? i guess im too tired, but what is that again?

ok, i also have the 6 disc cd changer, does that hinder on having the mp3 player

lol sorry bout the load of questions at 2 AM

 

The oem mp3 player replaces the 6 cd changer (or the single CD player).
No, it has no HD. No,it won't play MDs.

 

it's a MP3 CD PLAYER, meaning it can play burned CD-ROM discs filled with MP3 files. it is NOT a hard drive-based player.

MD unit is a separate component available for the stock head unit sold separately.

the MP3 CD player will REPLACE your existing 6 CD changer.

as for the original poster's question, what is more important to you, to be able to see and manage songs 'on the fly' (MP3 CD player), or eliminate the need to carry ANY CDs in your car? (iPod w/ PIE input)

I decided to go with the portable HD MP3 player route because I don't really care about doing in-car DJing while driving, I just want to be able to carry pretty much ALL my favorite music in one convenient package that I can take on LONG roadtrips without running out of fresh music :o