I have been searching for a while and can't put it all together. How can you tell if you have an Alpine or HK head unit. I have an 2002 R50 built on 05/02. Any info would be great thanks.

 

The head units are the same for all US models. If you have the HK system, the first tell is the silver surrounds on the front speakers that say "Harmon Kardon", the other is the amp in the right rear boot compartment.

 

I'm 99% that HK could not be ordered before end of 2002. My GBMINI#2 came with H/K Feb 2003 and I had not been able to check it out at the dealership before ordering.

 

Note that if you've got an 05/02, your head unit won't recognize the auxillary input connection.

 

Ok so I have the Alpine without the HK upgrade. Ok so I have seen some DIY on making your own ipod aux cable. Is this possible with the 05/02 stock headunit? I know this is not the first time this has been discused just trying to see what's possible in 2011. I bought my R50 used with no manuals or info just trying to put it all together. So I can upgrade my system without all the HK problems. Thanks.

 

As I said above, the early HUs (<Aug02, IIRC) do not recognize the aux input. You'll need to get a later head unit if you want to utilize that feature.

 

Do I have to replace the head unit or can I use the cd changer port in the back of the head unit or in the hatch. I'm trying to put my system together and I'm not ready to replace yet.

 

Unfortunately the issue is with the internal electronics. The physical plug is in the back of the unit, but the older HUs just don't 'see' it, and can't process the signal. Used units come up on ebay often.

 

What about 3.5mm to coax input.

 

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There is no input in early MINI head units. Doesn't matter what connector you use, it still doesn't exist within the functionality of the HU itself.