I have heard horror stories about the VW OEM iPod cable (bad UI, doesn't support charging newer iPod models without an adapter..) There are other adapters to add an aux in. Or you can look into this VW Volk-L Bluetooth Radio. I don't think it can be controlled thru your steering wheel. Personally I'm much happier after upgrading to an aftermarket head unit with iPod connectivity, HD radio, etc. Check Crutchfield for options.

 

Dice Electronics i-VW-T/5V EnfigCarStereo.com

Do this. You won't regret it.

 

I really want to do something like this but not for an apple product. I want to add my Slacker radio or mp3 player and I would prefer an aux line in with an 1/8th inch jack. Is there a way to do that? I hate the stupid fm transmitter. It works marginally at best and with horrible audio quality. I don't mind spending something on it but $150 seems a bit steep. I guess I would splurge if it was the right product.

Some guru out there has my answer. Thanks in advance!

 

There may be better options but the device i posted a link for is iPod and/or aux in. it has a dedicated ipod cord as well as an aux in jack so imo that is the best option available

 

Ohhh ok. I didn't see the 1/8 inch jack. So that looks like it would be exactly what I need.

I don't fully understand how it works though. I have a b5.5 with Monsoon and no cd changer. It has the single cd and single cassette deck in the head unit. I looked last night and couldn't find any type of aux input selector, cd changer, or sat radio selectors. I only have the ability to choose am/fm/cd/cassette. The website you linked says I need to wire through the trunk which is understandable. I know my car has a factory amp in the trunk. My question really is how does this thing work? How do you select to use an aux input? If the unit is wired in the trunk does that mean I have to keep my Slacker radio in the trunk? Do I have to run an extension line for the aux in to get it into the cabin? I would prefer to put an aux in line in my center console so I can keep the Slacker radio or mp3 player close by when I need to skip or fast forward.

I don't mind doing the work or paying the price as long as the functionality is good and its fairly easy to use.

 

You don't have the CD changer, but the wiring is already run in your car for it. You'll pop the factory deck out, unplug the cable that runs to the CD changer in the back, and plug the adapter in. Run the other end of the cable to your glovebox (most likely), reinstall the headunit. You'd select the changer from your deck, which would actually select the adapter. The alternative install is to simply plug the adapter into your CD changer cable in your trunk...but that means your iPod is in your trunk as well. Works for some people.

 

Why don't u just use the cassette player adapter?

 

Have you ever used one? They sound like ass!

 

Queue easier solution.

New headunit. Get any new headunit with a cd and aux input, there are good ones out there with DAC, and front mounted usb/aux inputs. And there are cheap ones as well that can still be better than the monsoon hu, and will have the inputs you are looking for.

Really, why spend the effort and money on buying an adapter when you can upgrade the head, get arguably better sound, retain your cd function, and get the AUX inputs you want right on the front (or back if thats your thing?)

Same cost an enfig adapter, you can have a nice new shiny alpine or kenwood and far less wires.

 

There are a few ways to go about it depending on your needs.

1) Premade adaptors, basically plug and play though either the CD changer or the H/U itself

2) Custom wiring job into the back of the H/U. I can't remember where it is, but there is a DIY on how to connect an ipod to a factory H/U

3) (This is the option I recommend) Get yourself an aftermarket head unit. IMO, adapters are a complete waste. You end up paying the same/more than the cost of an aftermarket head unit, but end up with the same crappy music quality. Get yourself a Pioneer/Kenwood/etc HU for $60+, get a male to male wire to plug in the ipod/mpwhatever and you will be good to go. Better audio quality and mp3 connectivity.