I took my 06 530i into the dealer today and got the aux input enabled for my audio system. They told me that it was only going to take 1-1.5 hours and cost between $149-$219 plus parts. (The parts costed $79) It ended up taking 5 hours and costing $200 in labor. When they tried to update the software it "froze" and had to be completely updated from scratch. Great way to spend a Saturday!
I hope it is worth the time and effort. I will add more detail once I have gotten time to play with it more.

:'(

 

Great, yes, please more details. I'm hoping to get one installed in my 05 545i as well. Having the dealer look into this accessory.

 

I have been testing the aux input with my MP3 and so far it is just ok. The sound is clear but I have to turn the volumn up to hear the sound at an acceptable level. It could be my MP3 because I am using the headset jack at full volumn. does anyone know of a better way to amplify the mp3 volume before it gets "piped" into my car stereo?

 

Sounds exactly like my experience, although the freeze in the update cost me the car over the long 4th of July weekend. However, I just got back from a 1750 mile round trip between Phoenix and Colorado Springs, and I really enjoyed the ability to listen to my tunes out in the middle of nowhere (since the only radio I seem to be able to pick up is always playing both kinds: country and western)

Hope you enjoy it... Jon.

 

After having integrated ipod installed in my E46 there is no way I can go back to an aux input where you can't control your ipod through the steering wheel. It was awesome, but logic7 is even more awesome.

 

So what's your current solution?

Have you looked into the dension product?

 

Ok so i think i might have a solution to make the sound louder. i purchased a product called "Boostaroo Portable Amplifier" for $25. I got it online at:

http://www.thinkgeek.com/gadgets/electronic/3399/

I will let everyone know when I get it and test it out.

 

Or you could get a unit that has Line-out option as well as headphone (Sony HD1/3/5) for example

 

I think a headphone amp is a good workable solution. That or find an MP3 player that has a "Line-Out", which is MUCH better, sonically.

Check out my past posting:

Line Out vs Headphone Jack


It's not just about power, its all about the low frequency filtering.

I am now using my old Creative Jukebox (original) that has a line out, and the sound is incredible. I also believe there is a docking station for iPods that introduce a line out jack as well.

Good luck!

 

So what's your current solution?

Have you looked into the dension product?
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My current solution is to wait for BMW to come out with an ipod adaptor

I would rather wait than get a compromised solution. Between satellite radio and 6 CD changer plus one in the dash, I'm not hurting.