I have a 2004 S-Type with the standard audio system, and no remote CD changer. I'd like to add an input for my Android phone, and am wondering if anyone has purchased an aftermarket interface harness that they've had good luck with. Ideally, I'd like to be able to control the audio functions from the steering wheel and/or stereo, but controlling it from the phone itself is okay.

Is there anything out there that I can purchase and install, or do I have to buy an aftermarket system to gain this functionallity? I really don't want to change the appearance of the factory radio, and its sound and function is adequate for my tastes. Thanks in advance for your input.

JD

 

Jaguar's ACM is about the only option. The system you have is basically fibre optic, not wires.

 

Have a look at the Parrot Mki9200, I have one. You'll get Bluetooth, USB, and line-in audio. Pretty easy install with the the adapter harness.

 

Thanks for the input. I looked up the system you described on eBay (for reference), and it seems to do everything I want. I also looked at the vehicle-specific wiring harness, however the only supplier selling it was in the UK. Where did you purchase yours, and did they also supply the adapter harness? Installation looks pretty much like "plug-n-play"; were there any specific difficulties that I should look for?

Thanks Again!

JD

 

http://www.quickconnectproducts.com/

This is where I got my harness, came with very specific instructions, worked great.

Every now and again I have to re-pair the Bluetooth, minor annoyance in the grand scheme of things. Works great 99% of the time.

Also, the little remote eats batteries pretty quick. Keep them on hand.

 

The Parrot connection through the cables described above uses the amplifier in the the Parrot to drive the speakers. This will work, but IMHO the audio quality of the Parrot power amp is less than stellar.

For the absolute best results you should use the line level outputs of the Parrot driving into the Jaguar ACM or skip the Parrrot and just use the Jaguar ACM.

It really comes down to how much of an audiophile you are.

 

Another food for thought - bluetooth antenna adapter that is hard wired:
Easy install with purchase of antenna adapter from ebay into empty space behind the radio unit.

 

Agreed, a good wired in (not wireless) FM modulator like this can also give quite repectable audio results.

 

Well, I'd have to say that I'm not an audiophile at all. As long as I get sound out that is not distorted or "fuzzy" sounding at normal conversational levels, I'm happy. I'm interested in easy installation that is "plug-n-play", and when it's buttoned up, nothing looks aftermarket. The FM modulator option looks good to me; simple, clean and nothing shows. Also, the price is right. As far as the antenna adapter mentioned, I take it our antenna connection is not the standard type on most other cars? What specifically do I need to look for? Thanks for the guidance!

JD

 

Well that's a neat little thing

 

JD, take a look at this: Jaguar Antenna Adapter FM Modulator Wire Set 2000 2008 | eBay

 

I do believe its a Ford adapter that's needed, should be able to get it at any Best Buy or car audio shop.

 

This look like a great idea for a wireless connection for the R models, since the Parrot doesn't seem to have a plug and play option like on the non-amplified audio system.

 

Well, I ordered the iSimple FM modulator, and the antenna adapter from eBay today. So, I'll see how it works after it all arrives. Thanks to everyone for their input. If this solution works well, I'll probably buy a couple more for other vehicles in the stable.

Cheers!

JD

 

Good luck! And let us know how the installation turns out. I'm in the same situation as you; not sure what to do. So your post installation advice will be helpful.

 

I am also very interested in installing this adapter. Let us know how it works out for you.

 

MKI-9200 can be easily fitted to the non-amplified S-Type. Fitted one to the 2003 and it was plug-n-play except you do have to connect the Parrott wires to the ISO-harness wires. I'm no audiophile, but personally think audio from the Parrott sounds considerably better than the stock head unit driving the same speakers. Functionality is far superior to the factory BT system in the 05.

Also have fitted one to the 03 F-150. Wouldn't mind having one in the VDP, but so far unwilling to give up the auto-volume compensation. Yeah, could retain that by wiring it as an alternate to the CD changer, but for now, I'm content with the cassette adapter...