RMusiq

iTrader: (2)

Hey everyone!

So I was thinking of doing an audio overhaul since my Bose speakers have started to show their wear and tear and my audio quality has become crap. Initially, and after researching these forums, I was thinking of replacing the Bose amp and speaker system with an aftermarket option.

However, I stumbled across this gem - Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. - and was wondering if anyone has this head unit installed in his or her G. How does it play with the stock Bose system (or an aftermarket one)? Does it work with the common buttons already in place? Can we still control temperature, bluetooth, and look up mpg info? So many questions! Pioneer has released a similar Carplay aftermarket module for ~$400 more - AVIC-7000NEX - <b>NEW!</b> - In-Dash Navigation AV Receiver with 7? WVGA Touchscreen Display | Pioneer Electronics USA

Any and all comments appreciated!

blazeplacid

iTrader: (1)

The problem with an aftermarket radio is....

1. You will lose the ability to know where your temp for your ac/heater is currently set.
2. There are no aftermarket "kits" for an easy install. It's going to be a custom install.
If this isnt an issue for you...

Then I would go with a tablet in the dash.
I used a Nexus 7. The entire set up cost me ~$400 and about 4-6 hours of labor

Absinthe

The biggest issue I have with Carplay is its an IOS based product. I have never liked how Apple handles multimedia files and given it finally open sourced its own blend of lossless encoding (ALAC) back in 2011 its unlikely that they will ever allow FLAC files to play natively on any IOS device. Couple that with the iTunes handicap and I can honestly say that the car was the only reason I even considered an iPod. With all that said, if your set on the level of custom work required to install an aftermarket head unit, Id vote for the Android tablet in the dash.

colin.ssc

Interested too with CarPlay solution on the Gs.......

ratwell

There may be another option...

Metra Online

OhGwhiz

Thats interesting. I used to work in the 12volt biz and metra does come up with some good solutions. I never would have thought of this though. Basically moving the ventilation controls up and a double din unit below them. Curious to know how much depth is left behind that area.

Absinthe

Interesting but oh my God that's ugly

ratwell

It is ugly as sin, but so is being stuck with an out of date interface.
When the new Android Auto / Carplay capable head units debut this spring, I will be taking a hard look at this thing.

charliekwin

I'll bet a few hours of splicing would let you retain the stock button panels and then you could fab up some nicer trim pieces.

blazeplacid

iTrader: (1)

WOW FINALLY!@!

yeah its pretty ugly but sound quality > looks for me

colin.ssc

So who is going to be the first to try it out? :P

CRiME

iTrader: (2)

I already went the sound processor route, so I'm out

Nice to see that there is finally an option, even though it looks hideous. What does it cost anyway? I couldn't find a price on it. I know the kit for the older g35's used to be around $200.

My only real gripe about this would be that you lose the stock / stealth look. I wouldn't be able to get away with it around here, sometimes I park in undesirable areas

If anyone tries it, be sure to post up!

colin.ssc

Yeah I did the sound processor route as well but it would be nice to have carplay running in my car...but yeah, if only they could have made it look better....

blazeplacid

iTrader: (1)

yeah on second thought...it looks pretty bad

I installed a Nexus 7 and an Audison bit ten d

Absinthe

Let us know what you come up with. Id be interested to see the specific specs of the aftermarket head unit in the system versus the stock head unit.