I'm about to order my 535i. I'm not an iPod user (yes there are some of us out here ). But I do have a Samsung 4 gig MP3 / WMA player that is great. Its my portable music library. And I also have pocket USB storage devices which can store my MP3 and WMA music files. I'm not sure if I should spend the extra $$ on the iPod & USB adapter.

Its unclear whether there are any real advantages to getting the iPod / USB option, or if the AUX input is all I need.

BMW site and docs are not real clear about how the standard port works... So I'm looking for info on how an MP3 player or USB device connects to the standard port vs the iPod /USB adapter. Is the Aux input port an audio jack that connects the MP3 player headphone output to the 535i audio, or is it a mini USB input? I'm confused.

If someone who has mastered it can explain the pros/cons of the standard and iPod options I'd be greatful, and what the iPod & USB adapter buy you above and beyond the standard audio port. I understand the integration provided if you DO have an iPod... but are there advantages for someone who has a USB based MP3 player or USB based storage device that holds MP3 or WMA files.

 

Well. simply put, the Aux Input is audio only. What this means is you can plug in an MP3 player and get the sound through your stereo but you need the iPod/USB option to use the iDrive system to control the device through the car. Aux Input also does not allow connection of USB drives, only the iPOd/USB option offers that. Many use a simple USB drive rather than an iPod.

Aux In requires you to use the device itself for selecting playlists or songs. With the iPod/USB, you can do all this through the iDrive, a cleaner option which is somewhat less distracting to use. Sound quality is also better using the iPod/USB connection. The option price is typical for BMW and is too high for what it offers, but compared to having to pick up your MP3 players to advance songs makes it worth it.

 

kscarrol,

Thanks for the quick response. I kind of suspected that was the case. But your confirmation implies I should really bite the bullet and get the iPod/USB option, since there are significant advantages even to a non iPod owner.

Off to finalize my order now.

Cheers.

 

YES! what kscarrol said... its really worth it... I wish they offered it sooner. You NEED to get the USB option... dont skimp on it... it allows you to plug in a memory stick full of MP3 and just play it nicely through the iDrive.

 

I'll echo that the 6FL option is a must have.

 

This might be a dumb question... does an iPhone plug need to plug into the iPod connector to play music?

 

Order the Ipod/USB

 

Yes.

 

Thanks to all !!!

I ordered my 535i today with Logic 7, iPod / USB adapter, Sirius Sat. Radio (plus other options).

Got my order number an hour ago and an expected delivery the 1st week in March.

Gonna start building my music library on a nice big USB "thumb drive" and just keep it plugged into the car. I can't wait.