I am now using an ipod-mini in my MC '04 ( non HK, but with CD changer in boot)...I connect through the headphone jack into the aux input

1) for better audio, a cable like the Retractcable ipod docking audio out will give an unamplified line out, .....but is there a car charger that will plug into the ipod's one 30 pin plug and give unamplified line out? Belkin makes one, except the line out is amplified (which defeats the purpose, I think, as this would give the same audio quality as if through the headphone jack, right)

2) if I were to get an ipod interface that connects in the boot, does this mean the CD changer gets sacrificed or can you leave the CD changer connected somehow as well?

 

I was reading reviews of the belkin auto charger and a bunch of the reviewers said that it fried their ipods as there was a power surge, esp on car start up.....I just bought the 'intelligent' DLO AutoPod (but haven't opened it yet) which has a nice low profile as it'll be plugged in to the socket under the togggles....it is fused but I hope it won't fry my ipod...anyone have any problems like this? I intend to just be leaving the ipod in the car, plugged into the crarger, all the time....does anyone have this charger that has the 3 diff colored light display...was wondering if the lights are bright and annoying at night.......

 

I am skeptical that a fuse alone will protect the iPod from a power surge. You'll need to contact the manufacturer for more information. They may have included voltage regulation or other circuitry. Also I noticed that this product is a charger only (no line out).

 

We have an iPod interface that connects at the head unit if you would like. This eliminates the need for running the cable from the boot to the cabin.