Blaujunk - Roadster audio/NAV options

When I rode in VP16, I played with the JVC unit while stuck at stop lights. I couldn't get the thing to work right and could barely see the screen in the sun. It really is a horrible interface. If I were a Roadster customer, I would definitely replace it.

What mounting solutions are there for those who want to use an iPhone or a stand alone unit for GPS? Looks like there may be something available to lock into that slot below the radio. I think those window suction-cup mounts are actually illegal in California.

When they installed the aforementioned Alpine in my wife's car, they attached a cradle (which attaches to the dash) and holds the iPhone. I can find the brand and model of it if necessary - but I assume it and others like it are widely available.

ProClip is the solution I went with for my 911 (iPod mount next to the center console) and wife's Subaru (GPS mount in front of - but not completely blocking - the center right dash vent). Either can be quickly removed, if needed, with zero damage to the car. Someone in another thread (?) mentioned that from the UK, there's an Elise adapter that's not currently visible through the US side of the site.

Yes, suction cup mounted devices on windshields are illegal in CA. (As is having things hanging from your rear-view mirror, for that matter). Not that people really pay attention.

My old RangerEV has enough room for a Double-DIN multi-function DVD/CD, Bluetooth, Nav, SD-AudioPlayer unit.



Backup Camera

It seems now there are head units that fit into single DIN slots, but have over-sized face plates or a motorized screen that hangs down (rather than up). Something like this might be a good option for the Roadster since it appears to have plenty of space below.

Here are some examples:

Doug: Who manufactures those in-dash units? I would like to research them more - do you have links?

doug said:

It seems now there are head units that fit into single DIN slots, but have over-sized face plates or a motorized screen that hangs down (rather than up). Something like this might be a good option for the Roadster since it appears to have plenty of space below.

Here are some examples:

Click to expand...

These are cool. Can you name them?

And please, let it be from someone that does better UIs than Blaupunkt or JVC!

SByer said:

And please, let it be from someone that does better UIs than Blaupunkt or JVC!

Click to expand...

Yeah, that I don't know.
Here's one of the manufacturers: http://www.poweracoustik.com/pa2006/product_VIDEO_IDMDA.htm

I just did a google search for "single DIN touch screen," and I can't say the "brand" names inspire confidence. But it shows what should be possible.

Will this fit?

CES 2009: Alpine keeps in touch with iPod users - Autoblog





Looks pretty smart - but 2 DIN?

dpeilow said:

Will this fit?

Click to expand...

Single DIN or bust...

Looks double DIN from the aspect ratio.

TEG said:

Single DIN or bust...

Click to expand...

Have to be something like this:

Alpine iDA X200 (IDAX200) iPod USB MP3 WMA AAC Car Audio Media

I ditched the Blaupunkt that came with my Roadster and installed an Alpine instead.

My main source of music is from the iPhone, and excellent iPhone connectivity (both as a phone and as an iPod) was a requirement for me. I also replaced the Blaupunkt speakers.

I am much happier with the sound than before, but I am still not 100% satisfied. I may add a subwoofer, and I have to do something to make AM radio reception better.

For those interested in the details:

1) The work was done in Santa Cruz by Lotts' Auto Stereo. I have used them in the past and they do fine work:
Lott's Auto Stereo, Santa Cruz

2) The unit is an Alpine iDA-X305. I had experience with the previous version of this, and was very happy with its iPhone integration over other units.
Alpine Electronics of America, Inc. - iDA-X305

3)The iPhone is attached via a bracket machined by another Roadster owner. If there is interest, I can try to have him post here about it.

4) The speakers are from Focal.
Focal America
I replaced the 2 dash-mounted Blaupunkt speaker with 4 Focal speakers (2 on dash, 2 tweeter in door) and the 2 speakers behind the seats with 4. There is a subwoofer than can fit into the passenger footwell, but I have not decided to do that yet.



Front woofer with noise canceling mic:


Rear speakers:


I listen to AM radio for traffic reports. They claim that AM reception is lousy because the car is Carbon Fiber and Aluminum (no ground) and will not improve unless I add an external antenna. I have not decided to do that yet.

Which Focal speakers did you choose? I inderstand the fronts are 4.5", the rears 6.5" but what's the depth like?

What's your plan for the original equipment? I understand from the LotusTalk forum that the Head Unit is excellant for stopping screen doors slamming in the wind.

Thanks,
MPT

The front and rear are both Focal Polyglass 130 VRS -- 5 1/4"

The Focal Site is all Flash so I can't link directly to the model, but you can see them on Crutchfield here: Focal Polyglass 130 VRS Shallow-mount 5-1/4" component speaker system at Crutchfield.com

As for the original equipment? Not sure. They are currently sitting on a shelf in my garage until I can come up with something to do with them.

That's interesting; they're both the same size? The trail that I followed on the Elise forums lead me to believe 4" front and 6½" rear.

So ends an idea of mine to place 6½" subs in the rear locations and use midrange in the front and tweeters in the doors.... back to the drawing board; thanks again.

MPT.

I heard there is a radio that is only $500 and would be perfect for the Roadster.

Do enlighten us...

dpeilow said:

Do enlighten us...

Click to expand...

Yeah, I'm waiting on details from the owner who told me about another owner who found it...