C6 Corvette: iPod Adapter Reviews

This article applies to the C6 Corvette (2005-2013).

The hunt for the perfect ipod product can be daunting, but this review is here to help the decision process along. Included are prices, features, and a quick break down of the pros and cons for each of the top recommended C6 modules for iPod integration.

iPod Adapters

Lockpick

The Lockpick module may be the easiest to install, but is one of the more frustrating modules to use. Since the functionality is so limited, you will find yourself spending a great deal of time scrolling through music, which is not very safe when driving. This product works best if you have specific playlists set up that you can just swap between and listen, or if you just have a giant collection that you don't mind listening to all the way through. Recommended for those who want the OEM solution.

P.I.E GM12-POD/S

Price - $100

Size - 3in x 2in x 1in

Performance - 5/5

Lifespan - >1 year

Warranty - 1 year

Pros - Optional noise reduction wire harness, two operational modes, advanced mode gives navigational functionality, manual mode increases iPod functionality

Cons - Randomly locks up iPod

The P.I.E. module is the best value because it is the cheapest of the bunch, and it rivals the functionality of virtually all the other products on this list. The module is easy to install, but depending on the car's equipment, you will have to buy different wire harness options. The module features a manual mode that allows you to use the iPod as if it were plugged in by an auxiliary cable. It also features an advanced mode that allows you to use the six preset buttons on the navigation to control music selections. The issue with the advanced mode is that all preset buttons simply say PIE, so it will take some time to remember what they do and how to use them. Along with that, the module will sometimes lock up the iPod, or cause it to stop working; this will require you to unplug the iPod and reset it before you can use it again. Recommended for those who want the least expensive solution.

USA Spec PA11-Vette

Price - $169

Size - 2in x 2in x 1in

Performance - 5/5

Lifespan - >1 year

Warranty - 1 year

Pros - Charges iPod, 2 operation, allows playlist songs to play in a random order

Cons - Limit of 3 playlists, playlist name must start with "GM1, GM2, OR GM3" to be recognized

The Pa11-Vette is slightly different from the other modules because it does have dipswitches on the back that must be set to allow the module to do different things. This can be annoying because you would have to take the module out to change the dipswitches. Along with that, you will need an iPod extension cable, or you will need to mount the module in a vicinity closer to the user. Also, this is the only unit to limit the amount of playlists usable and require a naming system. On the other hand, this unit does allow music to be played from a random start position on a playlist, it can charge iPods, and has great sound quality. Recommended for those who want to charge their MP3 players on the go.

Scosche AXIPCL2

Price - $159

Size - 3in x 2in x 1in

Performance - 5/5

Lifespan - >1 year

Warranty - None

Pros - Includes wire harness for both XM and non XM vehicle, 2 operation modes

Cons - Randomly locks up ipod (preset 6 clears the issue, no external cd changer, noise reduction options

The Scosche is VERY similar to P.I.E. module. They both have the same sound issue with external CD changers. They both install and function about the same, but this module has more features. You can select music by album, artist, playlist, or genre; once selected, it will play from start to finish. It also runs into the same issue of locking or freezing iPods, but this module offers a quicker fix: pressing preset 6 to clear the issue. Recommended for those who want a good balance of features and easy access and installation.

Peripheral (iSimple) PXAMG

Price - $170

Size - 2in x 2in x 1in

Performance - 5/5

Lifespan - >1 year

Warranty - None

Pros - Navigation control features work with audiobook, Can browse music by playlist, artist, album, or genre, Has a button to move back one step, 2 operation modes

Cons - Hardest to install, slightly more expensive

The PXAMG module was rated the best quality for its features and slightly better control, versus that of the other modules. The biggest downside to this module is its installation, which requires dis-assembly of the center console and removal of the navigation unit. Once the unit is installed, it can be easily set to iPod mode to use the navigation features. The navigation will display song name, artist, and song timer; using the info button will re-display all of this data. The navigation controls for fast forward and rewind work for music and audio books. This unit also allows you to search for a playlist, genre, artist, or album, and has a back button so that you can easily return if you passed your desired selection. It also features the ability to play random songs, artists, or albums. This unit gives the most control of all units when using the navigation's features and offers functionality for audio books, making this the best choice for an iPod interface. Recommended for those who want the most features at the expense of cost and a more difficult installation.

Related Discussion and Site

• A Complete Review and Comparison of IPod Adapters for the C6 Corvette - CorvetteForum.com
• C6 Corvette iPod Adapter Test - Kawal.net