Hi guys.

I have looked and searched all over the forums to find this out, but came up with nothing. Anyways...

I was wondering if my Creative:Zen .mp3 player would work in my 06 Cooper S, with the factory iPod adapter (not the aux cable) installed? Due to a dealer mistake, I'm getting the adapter free, but I really don't want to have to get a new Apple iPod just because of this.

If the Zen does not work with the factory adapter, does anybody know if it will work with the newest DICE BMW/MINI system? Again, I don't want to get a new iPod.

I pick up my car this weekend, and wanted to know if i need to make a trip to Circuit City at some point. Thanks for any help.


Matt

 

I'm sorry to say you can't use the iPod adaptor with your Zen. That adaptor is meant to interface with an iPod on the software and hardware level. Basically, it doesn't "speak zen".

Because the iPod outsells every other MP3 player by far, other companies don't see a need to create inface adaptors for non-iPods. If the Zen was the number one seller, I'm sure things would be different.

So you'll either need to buy an iPod or use the Aux port with the Zen.

 

FWIW-- w/o a MFSW, the cool factor of the iPod Adaptor goes down quickly, but still kinda cool... you could always consider removing and selling your iPod adapter kit on the NAM Marketplace. I'm pretty sure it would go fast... (PS: Why no iPod? I mean other than the price, and the fact that you already have a Zen?)

 

Thanks for the input guys. That kinda stinks that it won't work.

Am I correct in assuming then that the DICE system does not work, for the same reasons as the factory adapters incompatibilities?

As far as not wanting to get a new iPod, it's really just the 2 reasons that iriemanhq mentioned. Those, and I just don't like the Apple for some unknown reason. Too much of a monopoly on the mp3 player market, I guess. Everything is built for iPod, so everyone gets one, then more stuff is built only for the iPod. It just keeps growing and getting more exclusive.

I do have the MFSW, so anything that allows the steering wheel controls is what I want. Guess I just might leave the factory part installed and make huge playlists.


Matt

 

Matt, I have a 40gb Zen that I use with the Aux adapter. I don't know if the Aux adapter and the iPod adapter can co-exist. If they do, install the Aux adapter and you have a choice of MP3 player inputs. If they don't, you could leave the external interface of the iPod and replace the end that plugs into the head unit with the Aux unit. That way you don't have unfilled holes, you still have the hardware for the iPod dapter (if you ever sell the car) and you can use your Zen.

 

I think they can co-exist (my guess)

I have a cd Changer hooked up in the boot to the 2 existing harnesses...these lead back to the connection that is used for the IPOD adaptor. (so you cannot use the cd changer and Ipod accessory system together)

I also have a 1/8 in mini jack hooked to the Aux connection on the Head unit (stock HK...but I believe the Head units are the same!) All work fine ...only small issue is that the AUX connection permits Ipod control from the Ipod itself and there is no charging of the Ipod from this connection (or any other 1/3" out device like my Nuvi GPS) While the actual Ipod Interface permits control from the head unit or Steering wheel if you have that option

Summary= Stock head unit+ Mini CD Changer + Aux connection all working together ....NO NAV!!!

 

Hmm. I still would like to get something that uses the MFSW, so I might just get a new iPod. Talk about dedication for a MINI. Oh well.

I have a friend that has a iPod. Maybe I can try his at some point to see if I like them.

Thanks again guys.


Matt

 

I totally spaced this option: Newer OEM heads units ('05+ I believe) play MP3 CDs! That is, burn 150 or so of your favorite tracks onto a CD, and enjoy. Also navigable by your MFSW! Downside- the OEM head units do not show ID3 data. *sob*

 

Really? The new ones play mp3 CD's? Great! My '04 that I wrecked didn't, so I never thought about it on the new one.

Guess that is a lot cheaper than a new iPod, isn't it? I just picked my new MINI up yersterday, so it looks like it's time to pick up a pack of CD's to burn through. Now that I think about it, this should work the same as using an iPod, since you still need to set up playlists on the iPod anyway. Cool.

Thanks again.


Matt