I installed a GROM ipod adapter last weekend in my 05 MCS (with h/k). When I searched this forum for more info about this unit, I found only a scant few posts, so this is more of a short review on the unit itself, since the install process is straightforward.

I chose the GROM unit over the DICE mainly because you can switch to the ipod clickwheel interface from the headunit. I don't think the display on the stock headunit is adequate, especially when searching through a large music collection. I know the DICE has a simple UI mode that does the same thing, but to turn it on, you have to to physically flip a switch on the box itself; this is inconvenient at best.

With the GROM, you can browse your entire ipod using the clickwheel by selecting DISC 1. The steering wheel controls are also functional; you can select the next/prev track and adjust volume control. DISCs 2-6 select the 2nd-6th playlists on your ipod. This opens up all sorts of interesting possibilities. It can be a normal or smart playlist; all it cares about is about the name. So for example, I renamed my "Recently Added" playlist to "2. Recently Added", and now it's directly accessible by selecting DISC 2.

I can't comment on the CD TEXT capabilities because my headunit is too old, but supposedly track info is displayed with DISCs 2-6. I also experience heavy distortion on both highs and lows at first. This was alleviated when selected Sound Check on both the ipod and itunes. I didn't have this issue when the same ipod was hardwired to an aftermarket headunit, so the issue lies with either the levels on the CD changer input or the grom unit itself.

Otherwise, this has been a great purchase. It's less expensive than the DICE to boot. More info at http://gromaudio.com and http://www.indashpc.org/ (I don't work for either).

 

I looked at both sites, but cannot find which one to buy for a MINI. It isn't listed under makes at all. Which one did you get?

 

on the grom site, they're sold under BMW adapters.

 

Thanks!