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fm modulator in an 04

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Old 07-31-2009, 06:21 AM
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I will start off by saying that I know by reading all the posts that what I want to do is not the recommended way. I just bought an 04 530 and would like to install my sirius sportster 5. I have heard alot of people saying that the sound quality isn't that great with the aux input. I also have used an fm modulator in previous cars and always thought the sound quality was good.
To get to the point I was wondering where a good spot to install a fm modulator would be. I know it is used inline with the antenna, but where the heck is the best spot to tie into the antenna?

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Old 07-31-2009, 06:35 AM
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I don't have a good answer to that. And I haven't seen that many members use the fm modulator. Personally, aux input would be a better option, because you won't run into any fm interference, especially driving in big cities.
Old 07-31-2009, 06:40 AM
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I've been using one for over a year. Not the best method but really the only option, if I install a ipod connector I cant control stuff from the phone like my radio apps. The sound quality is OK, I have to change the broadcast frequency often though.
Old 07-31-2009, 06:42 AM
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Originally Posted by klr44' post='960775' date='Jul 31 2009, 10:21 AM
I will start off by saying that I know by reading all the posts that what I want to do is not the recommended way. I just bought an 04 530 and would like to install my sirius sportster 5. I have heard alot of people saying that the sound quality isn't that great with the aux input. I also have used an fm modulator in previous cars and always thought the sound quality was good.
To get to the point I was wondering where a good spot to install a fm modulator would be. I know it is used inline with the antenna, but where the heck is the best spot to tie into the antenna?
Thanks
Rich
Unlike many conventional radios, the actual radio unit for our cars is in the trunk/boot. That may complicate how you use a modulator.
Attached Thumbnails fm modulator in an 04-bmw_ant.jpg  
Old 07-31-2009, 06:43 AM
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I don't know if there is any confusion, but I am talking about the fm modulator that goes inline with the fm antenna. I need to find the antenna connection so I can put the modulator inline. I have no Idea where the antenna connection is.

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Old 07-31-2009, 06:45 AM
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I never thought of doing that, you think it would broadcast must better if it was connected?
Old 07-31-2009, 06:49 AM
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I also have sat prep in my car and was wondering if there is an adapter to connect the oem antenna to my sirius radio dock?
Old 08-09-2009, 06:31 AM
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okay I figured it out. The antenna is in the head unit in the dash. The antenna connection is in the upper left rear of the unit. I bought some adapters from best buy and put the modulator inline.
Old 08-09-2009, 07:04 AM
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Originally Posted by klr44' post='970094' date='Aug 9 2009, 10:31 AM
okay I figured it out. The antenna is in the head unit in the dash. The antenna connection is in the upper left rear of the unit. I bought some adapters from best buy and put the modulator inline.
Please take photos and a DIY, if possible. Congrats!
Old 08-09-2009, 09:07 AM
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Originally Posted by luigi524td' post='960794' date='Jul 31 2009, 10:42 AM
Unlike many conventional radios, the actual radio unit for our cars is in the trunk/boot. That may complicate how you use a modulator.
Isn't that the amplifier in the trunk?


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