RX - 2nd Gen (2004-2009) Discussion topics related to the 2004 -2009 RX330, RX350 and RX400H models

Best way to add iPod connectivity to a RX?

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Old 06-10-10, 12:44 PM
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s4play
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Default Best way to add iPod connectivity to a RX?

We have an 07 and 05 RX and both do not have NAVI or the ML system.

Sound is just fine for our purposes but would love to add an iPod connection to both cars. What is the best way to go about this?

Aftermarket or OEM?

A link or some feedback would be appreciated!


thanks
Old 06-10-10, 06:24 PM
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ecount00
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we use a $10 cassette adapter.

one alternative https://www.clublexus.com/forums/rx-...-04-07-rx.html
Old 06-10-10, 06:38 PM
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SteveInCal
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I used the instructions provided in ecount's link to install a Vais Sl2i-UP in my wife's 330. I also installed one in my Sequoia. Her CD changer was acting up, and I didn't want to lose any CD's, so the iPod adapter was a no-brainer. I love the unit, and it was very easy to install. We don't use the Vais playlist feature much, the kids and I just pass around the iPod and pick songs in simple mode;-) We might have been able to get away with a less expensive unit, but Vais has been great to deal with. Go for it.
Old 06-10-10, 08:46 PM
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s4play
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oh thanks, I think this is the same unit in my IS-F!

Did you guys buy it on ebay?
Old 06-22-10, 02:04 PM
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yo guys, I found a cheap and awesome solution for the RX > iPOD and wanted to share with you guys.

It's made by Alpine and called: Alpine DPR-RDS1 $99.99 MSRP

Description:

Looking for a way to play your iPod through your factory stereo? Alpine's DPR-RDS1 iPod adapter not only lets you play your iPod or iPhone through your vehicle's speakers, you'll even see song info on your display if your stereo supports the RDS (Radio Data System).

The built-in FM modulator beams your tunes to your factory radio through your vehicle's FM antenna. You can chose from 4 frequencies for the best reception in your area. Warranty: 1 year.

Old 06-23-10, 03:35 AM
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veleno
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Originally Posted by s4play
yo guys, I found a cheap and awesome solution for the RX > iPOD and wanted to share with you guys.

It's made by Alpine and called: Alpine DPR-RDS1 $99.99 MSRP

Description:

Looking for a way to play your iPod through your factory stereo? Alpine's DPR-RDS1 iPod adapter not only lets you play your iPod or iPhone through your vehicle's speakers, you'll even see song info on your display if your stereo supports the RDS (Radio Data System).

The built-in FM modulator beams your tunes to your factory radio through your vehicle's FM antenna. You can chose from 4 frequencies for the best reception in your area. Warranty: 1 year.

Aside from RDS support how different is this from a $10-$20 FM transmitter?
Old 06-23-10, 06:45 PM
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onedukeof
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Default iPod Install

Just had iPod installed in my 2007 RX350 at BestBuy. Total cost was $150 & they did a great job. They'll locate the iPod wherever you want (glove box/center console/cup holder/wherever, with as much extra cable as you like. Sounds great & a clean installation.
Old 06-23-10, 08:14 PM
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veleno
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Originally Posted by onedukeof
Just had iPod installed in my 2007 RX350 at BestBuy. Total cost was $150 & they did a great job. They'll locate the iPod wherever you want (glove box/center console/cup holder/wherever, with as much extra cable as you like. Sounds great & a clean installation.
So what did they use to give you Ipod controls?
Old 06-24-10, 11:44 AM
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vertresq
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USA Spec iPod Interface from Crutchfield is $149. and is cheaper than the Vais - does the same thing and also charges iPod too. Part number is 581PA15TOY at Crutchfield.com
Old 06-24-10, 11:26 PM
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Originally Posted by onedukeof
Just had iPod installed in my 2007 RX350 at BestBuy. Total cost was $150 & they did a great job. They'll locate the iPod wherever you want (glove box/center console/cup holder/wherever, with as much extra cable as you like. Sounds great & a clean installation.
Mind you share what you got? Our Lexus RX330 is also at Duke / Durham area so this would help

I'll check out the USA-Spec piece from Crutchfield, thanks!


btw the Alpine RDS is not just a cheap $20 FM modulator. It's a direct access from the oem radio antenna so there is no noise induced.
Old 06-24-10, 11:30 PM
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Originally Posted by vertresq
USA Spec iPod Interface from Crutchfield is $149. and is cheaper than the Vais - does the same thing and also charges iPod too. Part number is 581PA15TOY at Crutchfield.com

wow I just found this item on Ebay too ~ only $119 Looks like I'll go with this plug/play setup!

http://cgi.ebay.com/USA-SPEC-iPOD-TO...item588706d4a2
Old 06-25-10, 03:08 AM
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Originally Posted by s4play
wow I just found this item on Ebay too ~ only $119 Looks like I'll go with this plug/play setup!

http://cgi.ebay.com/USA-SPEC-iPOD-TO...item588706d4a2
For something like this I might feel safer purchasing from Crutchfield in case of any problems and for their online guides. Worth the extra dollars, IMHO.
Old 06-25-10, 03:45 AM
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kitlz
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I'd say the same about VAIS. Excellent customer service and downloadable firmware updates. I tried other iPod kits but VAIS was the best.
Old 07-02-10, 08:28 AM
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Default Parrot MKI-9200

Hey guys, I drive a 2004 Rx 330 and the setup I have for iPod is currently a Parrot mki 9200 (www.parrot.com). This is not the cheapest option out there, but I have to say it works like a dream. My RX does not have the nav/blutooth system, so the parrot setup I have gives me:
-Blutooth option through the speakers
-iPod control with charger (charges your ipod - iphone while playing)
-3.5 line connector
-USB connector
-Blutooth playing (I can actually play songs from my iphone through blutooth)

All these options right through a control box and display. I've had this for more than a year and it works like a charm!

I forgot to add, it does not replace the current in dash 6 disc changer

Last edited by oscarorsin; 07-02-10 at 08:32 AM.
Old 07-03-10, 12:38 PM
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Default iSimple Gateway

I went with the iSimple Gateway in the 2008 RX350. Charges the iPhone/iPod very pleased with results. No ML and Nav on mine.


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