Aftermarket Headunit Install

[Dhar_2]

Hi all,

Yes, i know there are various topics on this, but i cant make head nor tale of what to do or what I need. it's very confusing!

I am currently in the process of buying a 2010 Audi A3 8p 2.0 TDI Sportback with a concert headunit.



I'd like to be able to connect my ipod to the car stereo via usb beacuse I do a lot of miles and I like to listen to my music, plus i'd like bluetooth phone connect and hands free.
In my current car i had dropped in a single DIN aftermarket headunit, attached the relevant iso cable put the ipod lead in the glovebox and i was away!
Unfortunately after trawling the internet I have seen a similar situation is not going to be possible with the audi.

I dont know whether upgrading to an rsn-e unit is a good idea or going down the aftermarket unit road.

Rsn-e
Yes the Rsn-e will drop in and work perfectly with the dash display and the rear amplified speakers, but i need do some vagcom recoding or something to make the car recognise the unit. From what i understand Mk1 and Mk2 work through the cd changer connection, but mk3 can work fully with another part to attach my ipod?? an AMI cord?? is that it?? plus all in all we are looking at around €1000

Aftermarket
I can pick the double DIN headunit of my choice, but then i open up a world of problems with the install.
The simple part is the double din fascia adapter.
How do i know if it is FAKRA or ISO connection?? whats Quadlock???

Then the cables required:-

Steering wheel control adapter
http://www.connects2.co.uk/C2/C2Rang...d=0&Modelid=23

CANBUS Adapter to avoid fiddling with the fuses and i'd prefer the radio to turn off when i take the key out. (plus i've heard of issues that it only works in position 2)
Connects 2 Audi CAN-Bus adaptor

Aerial adapter???

Rear Speaker adapter
Audi A2, A3, A4, A6, A8 1996 - 2004 Active System Adapter, Non Bose - Car Hifi Radio Adapter.eu
or http://www.connects2.co.uk/C2/C2Rang...d=4&Modelid=23

ISO adapter
http://www.justkenwood.co.uk/car-aud...2-75-4-adaptor

is that it? Will i be able to see the info on the dash display?

I have been to see a couple of places but i've been given half answers and they dont seem to have a clue about the issues involved or have any solutions.

otherwise i've seen these that seem to do everything but without all the cables and maintain an oem look Autoradio monitor gps dual core A8 Audi A3 a Siracusa - eBay Annunci

I have no idea what to do!

What/how have you guys installed? can you give me some pointers about the best choice and the relevant parts/work needed.


Thanks

Dhar

[NHN]

Ciao Dhar

I actually supply/fit the factory systems, I also happen to spend a fair bit of time in Venezia due to my aughter living there & ex missus in Santa Maria Di Sala, so I'm not far from Treviso, so if you wanted to do the factory kit, ping me a PM & we can maybe discuss it further, as I can always bring kit over with me to fit for you, which is actually very soon

[Dhar_2]

Unfortunately my post count isn't high enough to send pm's

thanks for getting in touch.

thats good news that you are in the Venice area often. Seeing how complicated an aftermarket install is on the a3 I have a feeling I may need your help.

tbh I don't know which is the best option.

1. an original rsn-e cost €800 on eBay and apart from the easy install and the vag coding you need to shell out another €600 for the Audi MMI to attach an iPod. Is that right?

2. An aftermarket original fit - I have found this from the Italian brand Macrom:- M-OF7020 - Macrom car and personal audio products

Just a cable that they supply and it's a drop in job with full steering wheel controls, dashboard display and iPod connectivity. For €900

3. Any double din aftermarket unit. Only problem is I can't get my head round which cables I would need.

an aerial adapter
a quad lock to ISO adapter
a speaker adapter
a steering wheel control adapter

is that everything? Is there anyway to keep the display information in the speedo display?

i have trawled the web but there is so much vague information I haven't been able to concluded what I need and who is the best supplier for the parts. Lots of people talk about connects2. But there aren't all the relevant cables on their site. So I can't figure out how much it will all cost.

if you could point me in the right direction or thread, I would appreciate it.

I think a oem or original fit would be the easiest option, but an aftermarket unit means I can take it with me if I change cars.


Thanks