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[icspots]

Here's a breakdown of all the options available for you to add an auxiliary input or ipod integration to the factory Mazda3 stereo. If you know of a method I've forgotten please let me know and I'll add it in, otherwise I'll add updates as I find them.  Be aware that the listed prices are approximate and do change, and the listed sites are examples and may not be the lowest price available.  Be sure to check the sites for prices and/or shop around and don't just take what I'm saying.  If you have installed pictures of these units send me the links and I'll post them in here.  This is a long thread with lots of info., but if you have any questions please post and I'll do my best to answer them.

(Note: All methods that use the "sirius/CD changer" port are fully compatible with HU's containing the in dash CD changer)

(Note: Due to a HU connector change in 2008.5+ models from  32 pin to 30 pin some inputs/ipod modules may not work with '08+ models.  Please contact the seller/manufacturer to confirm compatibility, or join one of the brand specific discussions prior to buying)

(Note: Unless otherwise noted none of the integration modules below will charge an iphone 3G/3GS due to a change in the dock connector for those models.)

As clarification.  There are two inputs available on the stereo that can be used by the listed methods.  The TAPE/MD input is located on the bottom of the HU, and the SIRIUS/CD CHANGER input is located on the back of the HU.  Any method which uses the sirius/CD changer input are incompatible with OEM sirius, or the phatbox system as they use the same port.

Line in only:

simple audio inputs

Aux Mod Basic- Line in only. Provides 3.5mm input via the Tape/MD jack.  This module is incompatible with at least '08.5 models as they do not have the TAPE/MD connector on the HU. Unsure about '08 models.  ~$60 Installed Picture Discussion

Grom Audio Auxiliary Mp3 adapter-  Provides RCA/3.5mm input (RCA cable with included RCA-3.5mm adapter) via the sirius/CD changer input on the back of the HU.  Additional adapters available have an ipod dock connector, or combo RCA/ipod connector.  Contact the seller for details on other adapters. ~$50

Peripherals Auxiliary Input- Line in only.  Provides one RCA input, and one 8-pin CD changer port compatible with Alpine, Audiovox, or Sanyo CD Changers.  Includes an adapter to make the CD changer port a second RCA input.  Plugs in via the Sirius/CD changer port on the back of the HU.  Ideal for connecting multiple peripherals (external CD changer, DVD, MD, Mp3, etc.) at the same time. ~$99 

P.I.E.- Line in only. Connects to the HU via the sirius/CD changer jack on the back, adapter connects MAZ/PC-ALP module to your device.  ~$75 Discussion

      Adapters: Pick the adapter for your input needs

• ALP/M-RCA for RCA, ~$15
  
• ALP/M-3.5M for 3.5mm, ~$18
  
• PXP03 for ipod*, ~$25
  
• PXA03 combines all three (ALP/M-RCA, ALP/M-3.5M, PXP03*) in one cable, ~$35
  

(*Note: ipod dock connector will charge the ipod and access the line out, but WILL NOT allow ipod control from the stereo controls)

OEM ACI (Auxiliary Console Input)- Line in only.  07+ US models come with an auxiliary 3.5mm audio input in the center console connected to the stereo through the sirius/CD changer port.  No tests have been made with the ACI on older HU's to test compatibility with the firmware and retrofitting is most likely prohibitively expensive.  Your best bet is to go with another input.

FM Modulators (transmitters)- Line in only.  Another way to cheaply get audio into your stereo is through a FM modulator.  This method inputs an audio signal via the FM receiver in your car's stereo.  Modulators come in direct wired, and wireless transmitting types.  The wired ones are commonly referred to as modulators, and the wireless ones as transmitters, but they're all technically modulators.  Both versions give you an easy audio input, but at the sacrifice of sound quality as the sound is still going through the FM receiver.  There are so many options of modulators that I won't list any here, but just be aware that they exist.

Ipod Integration w/ LCD text display:
Full integration of an ipod via the stereo controls, display ID3 tag info. on the HU's LCD, and charges the ipod via the dock connector

AXXESS ipod interface-  Comes in two styles: ipod/auxiliary input, and ipod/XM satellite radio.  The ipod/auxiliary version provides a dock connector for the ipod as well as RCA cables for inputing audio from a non-ipod device.   The ipod/XM version replaces the auxiliary RCA connector with wiring harness to connect to a the Terk XMD1000 satellite tuner.  **However, this tuner is not included and has been discontinued by the manufacturer.**  The module connects to the stereo through the MD/TAPE slot on the bottom of the HU.  The ipod's controls are disabled while connected however the device supports up to 99 playlists on your ipod.  Input selection is toggled by pushing the AM/FM button, and then the MD/TAPE (or MEDIA) button.  The module is compatible with all Mz3´s which do not have a Clarion HU.  Unit is not compatible with the TAPE/MD modules. 
Discussion, Installation Walkthrough

• ipod w/ auxiliary input ~$145
  
• ipod w/ XM wiring harness ~$155
  

(Note: This method is not compatible with Mazda 3's containing a HU made by Clarion.  Clarion HU's are found in most 2007+ Mazda 3's.  Look at the sticker on top of your HU to confirm your manufacturer.).

DICE w/ Text- Connects to the HU using the sirius/CD changer port.  Provides an auxiliary 3.5mm input for other devices. ~$159 Discussion

(Note: This module is only compatible with HU's that have the "SAT" button).

Neo Prolink w/ Text -  Ipod is never locked out.  Connects to the HU using the sirius/CD changer port.  Provides an auxiliary 3.5mm input for other devices.  ~$179 Discussion, tips/instructions

(Note: This module is only compatible with HU's that have the "SAT" button).

Mazda ipod adapter '08.5+- Due to a change in harness connectors on the '08 HU Mazda released an ipod module compatible only with '08+ models.  You must connect the CAN +/- wires to the LCD harness for text display.  This module requires the use of an install kit to connect it to the HU.  There are two install kits to choose from.  One provides a pass-through for OEM sirius, and the other does not.  Both cost the same so I don't see much point in getting the one without just in case you want to add it later.  Note, the OEM ipod module is NOT compatible with the OEM NAV.
Ipod Module       P/N C29179CFZ ~$113.60
Install w/ sirius   P/N C9F4V6029 ~$86.40
Install w/o sirius P/N C9F1V6029 ~$86.40

Ipod Integration:
Full integration of an ipod via the stereo controls, and charges the ipod via the dock connector

(Note: Song info. is NOT displayed on HU LCD screen with the following modules)

Audio Link / x car link- Comes in choice of two different modules.  The ipod module connects through a dock connector, whereas the USB/Mp3 module replaces the ipod connector with a USB port and Secure Digital card slot so you can play songs directly from a USB drive or SD card.  Both options come with a 3.5mm line input for other devices.  Connects through the sirius/CD changer jack on the back of the HU. Option of playlist mode (controlled by stereo), or direct control via the ipod.  As of Summer of 2009 there is a newer module available which works with newer ipods/iphone 3G/S ~$125 Discussion

• AL2005i-MAZ for ipod 
  
• AL2005U for USB/Mp3
  

*Adapters: ipod version have multiple options of adapter cables depending on your input/output needs.Pick the adapter that best meets your needs

     Standard connector:

• dock connector, plus 3.5mm audio input

     Optional connectors: (+$5.00.  For use with video ipods)

• dock connector, plus RCA video output (No 3.5mm input)
• dock connector, plus RCA video output, plus 3.5mm audio input

Aux Mod Advanced- In Beta testing.  Will give full ipod integration with steering wheel controls. Provides a 3.5mm line in with connections to a dock connector. Should display ID3 tag information on the HU LCD.  Should also integrate with WinAmp. connects through the Tape/MD jack on the bottom of the HU. ~$150
(Note: price and features tentative, unit not yet released)

DICE w/o text- Connects to the sirius/CD changer jack on the back of the HU.  Provides a 3.5mm auxiliary input for other devices.  ~$159

Grom Audio ipod-  Connects to the sirius/CD changer jack on the back of the HU.  Option of playlist mode (controlled by stereo), or direct control via the ipod.  As of 12/01/2008 the GROM-IPD2 is available which fixes the compatibility issues with newer ipods/iphones not charging.  ~$75 Discussion

Neo Prolink w/o Text- Ipod is never locked out.  Connects to the sirius/CD changer jack on the back of the HU. Also provides 3.5mm input for other devices.  ~$199

Mazda ipod adapter '04-'07 (P/N C23679CFZ)-  Connects to the sirius/CD changer jack on the back of the HU.  Ipod is disabled while connected to the adapter, and can only be controlled from the stereo controls.  ~$119.20

Ipod Integration with External Screens:
Control of an ipod via a remote control unit

(Note: Song info. is NOT displayed on HU LCD screen, all info. is displayed on the external LCD)

Alpine eX-10- Similar to the Drive and Play II (see above) the ex-10 provides you with an external screen and controller for your ipod.  It connects to any ipod with a dock connector and charges the ipod.  All your song information is displayed on the 2.4" full color screen as well as CD cover art (if applicable), and the screen has an option for a blue or red background.  The eX-10 connects to the HU via the built in high power FM transmitter, or by direct connection to an existing auxiliary input through it's 3.5mm output.  In addition to iPod integration, the eX-10 communicates with your compatible bluetooth cell phone automatically to provide hnds-free calling. You hear callers over your car speakers, or through the eX-10's built-in speaker if you're listening to a CD, and they hear you via the included microphone. All of the important caller info shows up on the eX-10's display. If you have music stored on your phone, you can stream that through the eX-10, too.  The eX-10 mounts to the dash through an included suction cup, though I imagine other mounting methods will be tried. At the low price it offers all the benefits of the DnP II without the hefty pricetag. ~$199

Harmon Kardon Drive 'n Play-  Provides an external backlit LCD which shows the familiar screen from your ipod.  Control of the ipod is through a round knob which functions the same way as your ipod's click wheel.  Connects to the ipod through the dock connector, and charges the ipod during use.  Has a built in wireless FM transmitter, optional wired FM modulator (see below), and a 3.5mm audio output for hardwire connection to an existing auxiliary input.  ~$25  Installed Picture #1, Installed Picture #2

Harmon Kardon Drive 'n Play II-   Offers the same features as the Drive 'n Play I with some changes.  The new version gives you a 3.5" high definition color screen, and both the screen and controller are wireless.  The module's "brain" is bluetooth capable for integration with phones or other BT devices, and the new music DJ features allow you to organize your music similarly to that of sirius or regular radio stations.  All these improvements come at a premium though.  The Gen. II will run you about $291.

Accesories:

Various and asundry adapters, connectors, etc.

Kuda leather console mount-  Cleanly mounts to the side of your center console and allows you to mount any device on the end.  Conceals all wires and leaves no drillied holes in the car when removed.  Installed Pictures

ipod cradle w/ video out-  Provides a mounting solution for your ipod.  Connects to the ipod via the dock connector, and you simply plug the dock connector wire from your integration method into the dock to connect it.  There is a 3.5mm video output on the back of the dock.  Includes 4 interchangeable iPod holders to perfectly match the fit and style of most iPods including 3G/4G, Video, mini and nano. ~$59.99. Note: This cradle is also sold by Kuda (see Kuda leather console mount)

OEM input switch box (P/N TD1379CFZ)- For 2007 models with the ACI.  Allows you to plug the ACI, as well as one of the following: sirius, phatbox, OEM ipod adapter, etc. into the HU via the sirius/CD changer jack.  ~$113.60
(Note: One input on the switch box works only with the ACI)

Harmon Kardon Drive 'n Play wired FM modulator- Connects to the Drive 'n Play through the 3.5mm audio output, and then connects to the antenna input on the HU.  When in use the exterior antenna is disconnected for improved sound over a wireless FM transmitter.  ~$20 (w/ free shipping from www.amazon.com)
(Note: This device is not specific to the Drive 'n Play and will work with any device with a 3.5mm output)

[RB]

Thanks icspots.      

[icspots]

Thanks icspots.      

Happy to help

[DrWebster]

OEM ACI (Auxillary Console Input)- Line in only.  The 2007 US model comes with an auxillary 3.5mm audio input mounted in the center console standard.  Connects to the stereo through the sirius/CD changer port on the back of the HU.  No word yet on cost, or if retrofitting to older models will even be possible.

I've done some research on this, and it *appears* to be possible to retrofit the center console aux-in into older 3's. However, it is not very feasible, as it requires replacing the entire center console. The part in the arm rest where the audio and power jacks are mounted to is an integral part of the console, not an added-in piece. My dealer parts guy estimates at least $500 for a new center console with the wiring you'd need. So technically possible, yes, but not feasible in the least.

[icspots]

OEM ACI (Auxillary Console Input)- Line in only.  The 2007 US model comes with an auxillary 3.5mm audio input mounted in the center console standard.  Connects to the stereo through the sirius/CD changer port on the back of the HU.  No word yet on cost, or if retrofitting to older models will even be possible.

I've done some research on this, and it *appears* to be possible to retrofit the center console aux-in into older 3's. However, it is not very feasible, as it requires replacing the entire center console. The part in the arm rest where the audio and power jacks are mounted to is an integral part of the console, not an added-in piece. My dealer parts guy estimates at least $500 for a new center console with the wiring you'd need. So technically possible, yes, but not feasible in the least.

The initial info. on this was before any p/n information had come out for the 2007s which is why I didn't have any more information on it. 

[Staszek]

This is a great update thanks.

Looks like the only way I can go is with the Aux Mod Basic if I want an line input and keep my OEM Sirius.

[icspots]

This is a great update thanks.

Looks like the only way I can go is with the Aux Mod Basic if I want an line input and keep my OEM Sirius.

Assuming you don't have the '07 ACI then, yes the AuxMod is the only input option that does not use the port on the back of the HU.

Glad I could help. :D

[AutoXer]

good info, thanks...but alittle hard to read with the massive text...lol

I have been holding out on getting an iPod to hopefully get a kit that will display the info on the HU screen...but i've given up...i just want to hear my damn music now...NOW NOW NOW

[icspots]

good info, thanks...but alittle hard to read with the massive text...lol

I have been holding out on getting an iPod to hopefully get a kit that will display the info on the HU screen...but i've given up...i just want to hear my damn music now...NOW NOW NOW

OMFG!  Yeah, ummmm the big text would be entirely the fault of the the new forum software.  I'm now in the process of fixing it. <sigh>

[AutoXer]

nice save, blame the forums....

ahhh mo bettah

[icspots]

nice save, blame the forums....

ahhh mo bettah

 

[icrf]

Great list, thanks. The AuxMod FAQ says the advanced model was anticipated to be completed in early 2006. Oops. That definitely sounds like the best out of the lot. I just got my m3 and it's got the changer, so I think I can hold off awhile longer and see if they come out with something. Added myself to the list, too. $150 doesn't sound bad at all for that.

edit: If I read a post or two I'd of seen lots more discussion and some of the three thousand or so people in line ahead of me. Jeez, the vaporware story is reminiscent of Duke Nukem Forever.

[icspots]

Thanks, happy to help.  Please note that the CD changer in the 3 is an in dash changer, and as such does not interfere with any of the input options.

The AuxMod Advanced........ yeah they've been trying to get that out for awhile.  They're in beta testing right now, and I hope they finally come out with a production model that meets all of their goals.  About the wait list though.  If you're 3,000th on the list there aren't 3k people in front of you.  I think I was 1014 when I got mine, and they just kept counting.

[icrf]

Having the changer, I'm saying I can hold off buying anything until what I'd really like is available. I had an aftermarket CD-MP3 player in my truck for several years, so that's what I'm used to. I don't mind hacking a little, but if I'm paying money for something, my expectations are higher.

Didn't get a number yet, but seeing people claiming 2600 or so three or four months ago, I kind of assumed my place. Are you saying you got a beta model? If so, glad to hear something's coming out (and if it does, I'm not that far behind). To be honest, I don't even have an iPod yet. I'm certainly willing to spend $500 for an 80GB in-car MP3 player that uses steering wheel controls and displays track information.

[Mattleegee]

I want one that...

Displays on HU
Controls at steering
and Charges

I bought a $5.00 cable and pluged it into AUX port.... maybe i should do it better...

Thank you ICSPOTS

[icspots]

icrf, gotcha.  I just misunderstood your comment about not getting it because you have a CD changer. [/confusion] .  I don't have a beta model of the AuxMod Advanced, just a regular AuxMod Basic.... I was just commenting that they're currently in beta testing right now, though I haven't heard any further details or updates.

Matt, well you can get two out of three of those right now, and hopefully the AxM: A will do the display part. 

Happy to help. 

[icrf]

From reading the About/History of AuxMod, it definitely sounds interresting. I'm a computer programmer by trade, but never gotten to low-level hardware hacking like that. It sounds like the black box testing Linux authors use to write drivers for hardware without available specifications. They know what it's capable of doing, they just have to figure out how. I wonder if Mazda is interrested in licensing that information, and how much it'd cost. Maybe it's cheaper to take the extra year or two and do it all in-house. Can't hardly blame them for that.

edit: I think this site was linked on the board somewhere, but it's a good start on documentation: http://mazda.davidoshea.homelinux.net/radio/

[iceblue07]

Okay, I read each of the lists you posted, and I'm still confused.  So I have an '07 model which has an aux. input jack in the armrest storage, and I have an iPod mini.  Now what exactly do I need to purchase to connect these two so I can listen to my iPod in my car and where can I purchase this?  Sorry if this sounds stupid, I'm really new to this whole concept. 

[icrf]

You have everything you need to listen already. You won't have steering wheel controls for track changes, but all you need is a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack, male on both ends, to connect the headphone jack on the iPod to the line in jack in the arm rest (I'm 95% sure that's what's in the car). If you don't have such a cable laying around already (I have several), any store that sells electronics and cabling (Walmart, Best Buy, Radio Shack, etc) will have one for just a couple dollars. You want to be just about as short as you can, as you don't want too much cabling bunched up in the center console.

[icspots]

iceblue07, icrf is correct, you just need a male-male 3.5mm-3.5mm cable.  They can be found at pretty much any electronics store, or in the electronics section of big stores.  I have a ....... 4 or 6 foot one that was about $4, but mine is run behind the HU because I don't have the ACI in my car (not a '07).  If you want something short you could also look into a retractable one like this

 

I found that with a quick search for "retractable 3.5mm cable" on www.amazon.com

But remember what else icrf said.  That will give you music to the HU, but you'll have to control the ipod from the ipod.  If you want control integration then look at the above methods.

[Numbers]

icspots -

I read your post on the auxiliary input on the Mazda 3 dated 10/15/06 and then this updated one (01/28/07)... let me say first, thanks for bring this info to us, greatly appreciated.

I had purchased the Factory adapter (C23679CFZ) for my video ipod a few weeks ago, but just got around to installing it this weekend, and after getting it in, I noticed that it plays EX1 to EX6, but that the EX's are reference to ARTISTS not to playlists... so for example, if you've got an artist, say Smashmouth, Talking Heads, Garth Brooks (what ever your fancy) you've got to basically push Disc + MANY MANY TIMES as it goes from A towards Z and is all dependent upon how many Artists names you have in your ipod. So when you cycle from EX6 to EX1 again you've got the next artist (it doesn't go back to the first A)...  Is this what is meant by full integration, because if so this sucks...

Did I install the thing wrong? Any ideas? The other thing that gets my wife upset is that she can't plug her ipod in and listen to her podcasts when shes using the car.... any ideas... ? Should I rip it out and buy the Audio Link so that on EX1 I can still have control of the ipod?

Would appreciate any info that anyone can provide.

Thanks...

[icspots]

Numbers, happy to help out and compile as much info. as I can find. :D

As to specific functionality and how things work with the menus, et al I can't really add too much.  I don't have an ipod, and so don't have any of the integration methods.  From what people who do have them have said though it seems the OEM method is incredibly cumbersome to work with and greatly limits what you can do.  Reportedly the audiolink is the best all around integration method and gives the best control/functionality to the user.

I assume your wife can't plug into the system to play her podcasts because the 3.5mm jack was disconnected when you plugged in the ipod adapter, right (wait a second... that only applies if you have the '07 ).  Anyway if nothing else you could go with the audiolink, and you can plug into it and retain control of the ipod if you wanted to do something specific with the ipod controls and/or not use the playlists.  Also the audiolink provides a 3.5mm input..... as does the new Neo Prolink (though I don't think that has an "ipod control mode").

Anyway I'm just rambling on now.  Check out the threads about the different methods where the people that are actually using them are discussing them.  I imagine you'll get more useful answers than I can provide.

[RedSled]

Numbers

You can get control of the iPod back by switching to FM, then reboot your iPod, then switch back to cd. The ipod will play whatever sound you want through the stereo, but your HU display will flash because it will be stuck on the last thing it tried to play.

[dehoff]

icspots- what about the JL Audio Cleansweep CL441dsp? - http://mobile.jlaudio.com/products_cleansweep.php?menu=1&prod_id=369


Active Line-out converter, DSP processing to combat factory head unit EQ processing, master volume control, and an auxillary input. Granted, it's somewhat limited in the fact that you need an amplified system and you have to change songs from the iPod itself, but for someone that is installing a full system it's worth a look. 

[icspots]

dehoff,

I suppose that is an option for people that are building systems, but the audio input function is almost an afterthought.  For that matter can't you do the same thing with many amplifiers?  Anyway it runs about $350 so it's doesn't really seem like an easy option for someone that just wants a simple input.

[Conundrum]

From reading the About/History of AuxMod, it definitely sounds interresting. I'm a computer programmer by trade, but never gotten to low-level hardware hacking like that. It sounds like the black box testing Linux authors use to write drivers for hardware without available specifications. They know what it's capable of doing, they just have to figure out how. I wonder if Mazda is interrested in licensing that information, and how much it'd cost. Maybe it's cheaper to take the extra year or two and do it all in-house. Can't hardly blame them for that.

edit: I think this site was linked on the board somewhere, but it's a good start on documentation: http://mazda.davidoshea.homelinux.net/radio/

The site provided some good documentation, but since the website has not been updating, has anyone figure out what "SAT" signal is? maybe we can figure out how to make "SAT" button work without Sat. receiver

[icspots]

You might check with Zero Cool as he's doing some reverse engineering on the Mz3 Hu for some input devices.

[acxiboy]

From Icspots
(By the way thank you so much for posting all this information - VERY helpful)...

"Adapters: Pick the adapter that best meets your input needs

    * ALP/M-RCA for RCA, ~$15
    * ALP/M-3.5M for 3.5mm, ~$18"

I have a 2005 Mazda3 with the factory CD changer... You're saying both of these options will work and won't interfere with the CD changer, correct?  I just want to make sure before I buy one.  I have an iPod but already have a DLO FM Transmitter/dock for it.  But I also have an aftermarket Sirius radio mounted on my dash and I'd like to connect it directly to my radio.  No need to control through the steering wheel (volume-only control is fine with me). 

The reason I'm asking/double-checking is because of this statement from http://www.discountcarstereo.com/detail.aspx?ID=124:
--->
6. Factory Alpine radios found in select Honda, Volvo, BMW, Land Rover, Jaguar, Ford, Porsche, Chrysler etc are not V-Link™ compatible.
WARNING!!! WARNING!! Alpine radios with CD Changer controls or CD Changer connector does not guarantee that the Auxiliary cable will work. The Auxiliary input will work ONLY IF THE ALPINE RADIO IS "VERSATILE LINK READY".
<---

THANKS!!!!

[icspots]

axciboy, Yes both of the cable options for the PIE adapter are compatible with the CD changer.  Both of those adapters plug into the same PIE module, you just need to pick the one that has the right inputs for you.  It sounds like you'll probably want the 3.5mm one for your sirius. 

As to the list of manufacturers that have problems with it..... Mazda isn't on it.

[acxiboy]

Yes both of the cable options for the PIE adapter are compatible with the CD changer.  Both of those adapters plug into the same PIE module, you just need to pick the one that has the right inputs for you.

As to the list of manufacturers that have problems with it..... Mazda isn't on it.

Thanks for the fast reply - I really do appreciate it.  Believe it or not, once upon a time I used to be good with car audio stuff but I tell ya this factory radio they put in here is so freak'n integrated I haven't wanted to take my car apart just to see what's back there.  So please bear with me on hopefully one last question... You said "both of these adapters plug into the same PIE module" - Is the PIE module something else I have to purchase or is that just the name of the connection on the back of this thing?  Probably a dumb question but I can just see myself buying this thing AND taking my dash apart just to get back there then realize I'm missing another adapter.  Oh and the reason I wondered about Mazda being on the list is just b/c of the Ford/Mazda connection.

THANKS AGAIN!!!!

Well I think I answered my own question... It's another adapter that's needed.  I was hoping those two cables plugged into that little round connection I've seen in the pics. Dangit! Why can't they make one universal car audio connection!! lol.