iPod success in 2007 XR

[bluesport2k]

Well after a lengthy search on the web I found what I needed.

USASPEC PA12-TOY (it is a brand new model)

http://www.discountcarstereo.com/detail.aspx?ID=1022

Had it installed today and it works perfectly with my factory in-dash 6 CD changer Model A51817.

It has 2 modes: direct and playlist. TBH, the playlist mode seems a little hokey so I chose direct which is fine by me as I was used to controlling everything from the iPod anyway. That said, you can use the Track button on the changer to move through the iPod if you like AND I still have access to CD changer where I can use CD 1 thru 4 (when I buy new music and want to listen on the way home before loading it in the iPod). CD 5 is the iPod and CD 6 is an AUX port. The iPod continually gets charged and volume, bass, etc.. are controlled from the changer so I don't have to fiddle with the volume on the iPod click wheel - in fact I think the clickwheel volume is disabled while you are plugged in to the adapter.

The sound is awesome!

Ran the wire under the rug to that little cubby in front of the arm rest so it is very clean looking; no visible wires.

Yes, it is a little pricey I guess but I really didn't want to change out the factory HU in a brand new car - maybe someday.

Cheers all!
MJC
2007 Matrix XR 921 miles

[Lovemy07Matrix]

Hi,

Thanks for the iPod information-- I was thinking about getting one of the radio frequency controlled models, but your posting is giving me pause.

I have a slightly-off topic but related question about the radio. I also have a 2007 XR model with the upgraded radio (i.e. six cd changer). My complaint is with the light on its display dial. It's red background makes it impossible for me to read it when I'm driving in the daytime.

Is there any fix for this short of replacing the radio??? I'm hoping I'm just dense (always a great possibility with me ) and just not aware of a switch to different background.

Thanks.

- Marty

[bluesport2k]

I guess the RF devices work OK in rural areas but I live near a city and there are just too many radio stations. Besides you won't get the sound quality from RF that you will on the device I bought - it really is amazing.

Sorry, never noticed an issue with the red background, can see display just fine. Don't know of a way to change the display color (like on some aftermarket models) as I think its designed to match the rest of the dash lighting. I've also found it extremely difficult to get any kind of info on the 6 CD changer - even from Toyota!

MJC
2007 XR ~11,600 miles

Originally Posted by Lovemy07Matrix

Hi,

Thanks for the iPod information-- I was thinking about getting one of the radio frequency controlled models, but your posting is giving me pause.

I have a slightly-off topic but related question about the radio. I also have a 2007 XR model with the upgraded radio (i.e. six cd changer). My complaint is with the light on its display dial. It's red background makes it impossible for me to read it when I'm driving in the daytime.

Is there any fix for this short of replacing the radio??? I'm hoping I'm just dense (always a great possibility with me ) and just not aware of a switch to different background.

Thanks.

- Marty

[cuto]

anyone try this without the CD changer? i have just the single CD dash and was hoping to get this setup for my iPod

[btpigeon]

I have the exact same ipod adapter and used it with the single CD factory (A51816) radio and it worked perfectly. The text is even shown on the display.

The USA SPEC model is the one used I think by Toyota when you choose the iPod interface option. The boxes looks the same except the factory one has a Toyota sticker on it. The only thing different is that they charge twice more (was 350$ CDN for me when I asked them).

[D Rock]

I did a similar iPod hook up on a 2005 XRS (I don't remember the number of the actual adapter I used). Similar to what was said above, I routed it to the compartment at the base of the shifter. Really like this.

I also have one of the FM transmitters for my pickup and when I travel (which is alot). It works decent, and I do live in a city (Metro Detroit), but I have had problems at times with interference.

[gpdpdoo]

A couple weeks ago I was thinking of buying a new stereo for my Matrix, one that would run my iPod. Thankfully this thread came up when searching the internet.

I bought the USASPEC PA12-TOY from the link that bluesport2k posted and it is awesome!

I just wanted to say thanks for posting that information.