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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 07:39 PM
  #1  
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Default iPod Solution

I have used an FM Transmitter for my iPod in my other car for a while now and thought it was time to set up the Corvette. I chose the ProClip mount because it was easy to install, created a semi-permanent mount for my iPod and worked well with my DLO Trans Micro FM Transmitter.



The ProClip mount is very easy to install and sits at just the right height for easy use. It mounts just next to the NAV screen.

I use the DLO Trans Micro FM Transmitter because it comes through very clear. It is basically a cigarette lighter plug with a long iPod dock connector wire. The FM Transmitter fits perfectly in the accessory console using the accessory plug and is conveniently out of sight. The iPod dock connector wire can be hidden under the center console and then brought up to the Pro Clip mount. The iPod dock connector from the DLO Trans Micro attaches to the Pro Clip mount and creates a docking station. All I need to do is insert my iPod into the Pro Clip mount. It slides into the dock connector and is automatically hooked up to the FM Transmitter.





I just press my preset 88.1 FM and listen to my playlists. The sound clarity is great!

Yes, I know about the fingerprints. And no, the Pro Clip mount doesn't get in the way of the cd/dvd door. The mount is pivotable and can be moved out of the way.

CAUTION: The DLO Trans Micro FM Transmitter needs to be unplugged from the accessory console plug when not in use or it will drain your battery.

I hope this helps some of you who are looking for a decent iPod solution!
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 08:59 PM
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Looks like the solution I have been looking for my ipod. Where did you get the dock and the transmitter and how much is the cost. Enjoy your tunes.
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 09:05 PM
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Nice setup, but these wireless FM transmitters don't work worth a crap in Chicago. The FM airwaves are loaded here in the city. I also have the ProClip and it is a great way to mount an iPod or GPS.
I wish somwone would post installation instructions for a wired FM transmitter. A wired transmitter cuts out the FM antenna and thus more effectively blocks FM stations from your receiver. I can't figure out how to install one on a C6. I have asked this question a number of times here, and I never get a response. Has anyone installed a wired FM transmitter?
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 09:20 PM
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Originally Posted by PT109
Looks like the solution I have been looking for my ipod. Where did you get the dock and the transmitter and how much is the cost. Enjoy your tunes.
Best Buy $80
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 09:24 PM
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Originally Posted by DANNOV
Nice setup, but these wireless FM transmitters don't work worth a crap in Chicago. The FM airwaves are loaded here in the city. I also have the ProClip and it is a great way to mount an iPod or GPS.
I wish somwone would post installation instructions for a wired FM transmitter. A wired transmitter cuts out the FM antenna and thus more effectively blocks FM stations from your receiver. I can't figure out how to install one on a C6. I have asked this question a number of times here, and I never get a response. Has anyone installed a wired FM transmitter?

FYI: I've used this specific FM Transmitter in the suburbs and throughout downtown and always have clear sound. I've tried other brands and the DLO brand of FM Transmitters seem to work very well with little or no interference. As far as a wired FM Transmitter you may want to post that question to the forum directly.
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 09:30 PM
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Thanks Geech for the info.
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 10:33 PM
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Originally Posted by Geech
FYI: I've used this specific FM Transmitter in the suburbs and throughout downtown and always have clear sound. I've tried other brands and the DLO brand of FM Transmitters seem to work very well with little or no interference. As far as a wired FM Transmitter you may want to post that question to the forum directly.
Do you find that it is necessary to constantly change the frequency in the city to avoid interference? It is a constant fiddle trying to adjust the transmitter to the FM and vice versa. Not something to do in traffic.

I own more than a few (3) wireless FM transmitters and none of them work very well. It has been an unhappy experience. I know you recommend this particular brand but I have grave reluctance to buy another one of these things.

With respect to the wired transmitter, I have posted the question here in the past and got nothing.
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 10:47 PM
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i am doing the same mount, but with the Nucleus hardwire for the iPod.

already have the Nucleus hooked up and it works flawlessly
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 11:18 PM
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Originally Posted by DANNOV
Do you find that it is necessary to constantly change the frequency in the city to avoid interference? It is a constant fiddle trying to adjust the transmitter to the FM and vice versa. Not something to do in traffic.

I own more than a few (3) wireless FM transmitters and none of them work very well. It has been an unhappy experience. I know you recommend this particular brand but I have grave reluctance to buy another one of these things.

With respect to the wired transmitter, I have posted the question here in the past and got nothing.
As far as the frequency, I use 88.1 and haven't had a problem whereever I am downtown or in the suburbs. I do have to switch when I take a drive to Indianapolis and Cinci sometimes. As far as the wired transmitter you might follow the newer threads about the Nucleus and the GM iPod Solution coming out. Good luck!
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 11:24 PM
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In anticipation of ordering my Z06, I have been looking into solutions for this. I tried the FM thing once and felt like it was a mickey mouse solution with poor quality. I ended up getting a USA Spec PA-11GM for my wife's Avalanche and we are learning on it. They also make one for the C6 (PA-11VET) . It basically takes over the XM1 buttons, which allows you to use the steering wheel controls, radio controls, etc. to change volume, tracks, play lists, etc. It will also display the song title and artist just like the XM. You still get to use the XM2 for your XM presets and everything keeps working (including the NAV if you have it). It operates in either Playlist mode where you get to use your radio/steering wheel controls or direct mode where you use the iPod wheel. Great quality, etc. and it charges the iPod taboot. The only thing I don't like is that when you are on a playlist, it does not show the playlist name. I have talked to their tech but they sound like they are from Japan and don't seem interested in making the programming change. I wish GM would come up with a good solution. Here are a couple links for those interested.

http://www.usaspec.com/ipod.html

http://www.icarkits.com/product_info.php?products_id=84

Mickey
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Old Nov 2, 2006 | 11:52 PM
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Hey - that Icarkit thing looks like the ideal solution that everyone is really looking for.

The problem with FM transmitters of course, is that they can only ever be FM quality. On the C6 radio, the FM really sucks. The volume is feeble, as is the sound quality. There's just no comparison when I play something from my mp3 player through FM, compared to playing the same track on a burned mp3 CD.

So I'm really interested in this icarkit thingy. But their site does not have anywhere to download the installation instructions. I need to see that before I buy . If it is really as easy as they imply, I'll buy. But I don't want to have to rip the entire car apart to get this thing installed.

mickeykelley can you help? can you send me a scan or pdf of the instructions, or post them here, or any installation photos? thanks!
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 12:37 AM
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I saw that unit Vett-11 deal when I had my audio electronics replaced... the stereo shop stated that it takes a couple of hours to install this unit? Something about having to run the wires from the nav unit in the trunk to the stereo?

I'm all for it... using it through the FM you loss so much sound quality!
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 10:48 AM
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Since I have not ordered my Vette yet (waiting on a Monterey Red Z06 option), I can only tell you about the install in my wife's 2004 Avalance. The units itself is maybe 3" by 3" by 1.5" thick. It comes with a wire harness that you plug into the back of the radio, then plug the factory wires that were in the radio into the other end of their new harness. This part was not big deal other than getting to the back of the radio. In the Avalanche it was easy but not sure on the Vette. Then a long wire runs to their box, which I mounted behind glove box. Then you have to cut the data wire (they told which one and it worked) on the XM box, which is behind the glove box on the Avalanche and splice into with a wire they provide. By leaving room on the cut, you can return to normal later. This data wire splice is no big deal but that is what gets the info to display songs. Then all you do is run the wire to where you want the iPod. One thing that would make it better is an iPod holder like the FM system mentioned above. I may try to incorporate either a standard Apple base or something else. The system is not really a big deal to install if you are comfortable taking off some panels to get a clean install. The big issue I see with the Vette is where is the XM box (to get to the data wire) and how easy is getting the radio out to get to the harness.

The more we use this the more we like it since we get to use the steering wheel controls, etc. The only big negative I have is it not showing the title of the playlist on the radio. It DOES show the song and artist when you press the recall. You might try searching the web for installation instructions, but it really is not a big deal. If you want, most auto radio/speaker shops will install it for at most $75. I called around here and watched the guy do it. Now I wish I had saved the $75 and will next time.

Mickey
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 12:50 PM
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The website tells us nothing about the install, but if it uses the same technology and connection abilities of some of the other units that have been discussed on these forums, it MIGHT connect between the XM module and the radio head unit. This connection MAY then take place in the back of the car where the XM module is located and is relatively accessible. I have no reason to think this other than it seems to be the way some of the other similiar Ipod connection units work.

If anyone buys one, let us know.

anothercrisis
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 02:42 PM
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Interesting item. I've been burning more and more MP3's as the iPOD's battery died so completely it won't operate even on the charger. Guess I need to send it back to Apple for a new battery.

I will want a good iPOD adaptor for future road trips though.

Tom
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 02:56 PM
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Default iPod ...

Why would you mess with FM Modulation, when you don't have to ? FM Modulation works just like your radio does, go out of range=loss of signal. I would go with the PA11-VETTE , plus you have a Aux input for another gadget, and get a free holder with it. I changed my HU all together, but a buddy of mine bought the PA11-VETTE, after a ton of research, and has no complaints about it at all, which surprises me, because he is one of the pickiest people I know....IMO So, I am not speaking of personal experiance, but second hand, and I would go that same route, if I would have kept my Factory HU. Just my 5 cents
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 03:19 PM
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Looks good!
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 03:29 PM
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Originally Posted by Eros
Why would you mess with FM Modulation, when you don't have to ? FM Modulation works just like your radio does, go out of range=loss of signal.
Sorry, I just have to ask, how do you go out of range of the transmitter when it's located inside your car? Maybe if you had a really bad wreck and the back half of the car was like 100 yards from the front half?
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 04:13 PM
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Originally Posted by glennhl
Sorry, I just have to ask, how do you go out of range of the transmitter when it's located inside your car? Maybe if you had a really bad wreck and the back half of the car was like 100 yards from the front half?
He probably really means interferance, which is a common issue with the FM route.

Mickey
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Old Nov 3, 2006 | 05:13 PM
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Originally Posted by smokinvette.com
I saw that unit Vett-11 deal when I had my audio electronics replaced... the stereo shop stated that it takes a couple of hours to install this unit? Something about having to run the wires from the nav unit in the trunk to the stereo?

I'm all for it... using it through the FM you loss so much sound quality!
it took me all of 15 minutes to wire mine up
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