Hi folks

To those of you who installed iPod interface so iPod can be controlled from iDrive: how fast is the navigation through song/artist list? I understand that iPod adapter emulates CD changer. In one of my cars I have Alpine head unit with iPod adapter (~2 years old) so I can access artists and song titles from the Alpine screen while iPod stays in the glovebox. However, scrolling is extremely slow, maybe 2 titles per second tops. So forget going from AC/DC to ZZ Top. I gave up and now I am only using ~20 playlists now. Or only pick up artists with names beginning with A-G so I am finding myself listening to Aimee Mann much more often than to U2

 

What I've noticed on mine is it starts scrolling really slow, and when you get down about 20 names it jumps back to the top, then you are able to scroll down faster. It seems it may still be parsing the directory and when it finishes it jumps you back to the top. I haven't tried waiting 20 or 30 seconds before scrolling to see if that is what the cause is, but in anycase it is not very fast.

 

It?s slow. No doubt about it. And the haptic controller provides unnecessary resistance, making it even slower than necessary.

 

I guess I may pass on the integration with iDrive then, especially after dealer quoted $600 or so for the install. There are solutions that add iPod to the MOST bus and keep iPod controls unlocked. I have similar solution installed in Infiniti FX45 and it works great - charges iPod and keeps iPod controls accessible (and fast). Or maybe I'll go with Alpine Hub

 

No, there aren?t. Not for integration with a BMW and the MOST bus.

 

Welcome JSpira! Assuming you're the same guy, I've always enjoyed your technology articles in Roundel - nice to see you posting here.

 

Oh well. Then charging cable with line out and aux input will have to do. I prefer iPod controls anyway.

 

Thanks for the welcome. And your kind words.

 

The argument against iPod controls is that you have to take your eyes off the road and manipulate the clickwheel. Personally, I think that using the iDrive controller is much safer.

 

Im having it done for $395 next week. At that price I don't mind having it.

I started my Ipod with playlists primarily and I believe I can then manage it up to 250.

Keep the playlists under 250 songs each is not hard at all.

If you keep it organized it should not be a problem.