Adding iPod capability-2007 Safari

[Ronman]

I just purchased a 2007 Safari 27FB SE LE. I want to add iPod capabilty but am stumped. a) Can it be done with my existing system? b) If not, how big is the headache to change out the current system? c) Any other ideas out there is AS Land?

Thank you,

Ronman

[Steve Bryant]

Ronman,
I realize that you want your iPod to interface (plug into) with the audio system on your trailer.

1. When you say that you want your trailer to be iPod cable, what do you want to happen?
2. What kind of radio do you have currently (can you post a picture or include the make and model number)?
3. What kind of IPod do you have?
4. Maybe you want a docking station that you can set the iPod into. If so, where would you like the docking station to be?

Anything is possible. Some things are practical, others not so much. But first you need to better define what you want to do.

Steve

[Jack46]

I assume then that your As audio/video system does not have audio input jacks located in the overhead cabinet adjacent to the faceplate. My 2006 International 28 did and I connected my iPod there. It worked great. I'm not familiar with the FB layout, so it is possible that there is no external audio input capability.

[mstephens]

There's a lot of easy ways to connect A to B. But, you have to know what is A and what is B before you can advise how! Whatcha got in the trailer for starters?

Usually, it is a simple cable needed. Like a 1/8" mini stereo to RCA might be used on an older "radio" or "stereo head" that might be found in a trailer. More info!

[Aage]

The simplest way (albeit not the HIghest of FIs) is to buy one of those cheap (under $10) devices that accepts the stereo 1/8" jacks,an SD card, or even a thumb drive. They plug into a 12V socket and broadcast to your radio in FM stereo.

They even come with a tiny remote. That's what we use when we travel. You can even rip talking books onto a thumb drive or SD card and leave the CDs at home.

They're great!

[Aage]

Here's one imported by an American retailer, so $15. You can find them direct from China including shipping under ten bucks (with no name on them).

PYLE PLMP3C1 PLUG IN CAR MP3/USB/SD/IPOD WIRELESS FM TRANSMITTER/MODULATOR | eBay

[Ronman]

Steve and Gang,
Thanks so much for the quick response. I guess having ALL the information makes giving advice a little easier! DUH! So...here is what I have.
- My system is Sony.
- The CD / DVD/ Audio deck is: CDX- ca710X
- The cabinet next to the deck has audio input jacks.
- There is an Auxiliary Box model #XA-300. This box has a USB port also. The owner's manual for this device says I can plug my computer, DVD multi-disk changer, (Which I have) my laptop or my "WALKMAN" into it.
I have attached photos also. Once again...any input you have is greatly appreciated!
Ron

[Westfalia]

If you just want iPod playback, you have most of what you need here. Pickup RCA to headphone jack adapter at Radio Shack or you local electronics place, and plug in the the Audio In jack, referenced in the above picture.

You have to switch to the CD Changer mode, (CDC2 I think) to get into the the 'virtual
CD changer' inputs that the XA-300 passes to the radio.

I would not bother having iPod track control. It's too expensive when the iPod is really just sitting next to the stereo.

[Ronman]

Chris, Sounds pretty simple. Yes...All I want to do is play music from the iPod. I also should have mentioned that i want to use the iPod function from my iPhone. I guess it's the same thing.

Thanks!! I'll give it a try!

BTW: I must say that I enjoy airforums so much. Both giving and receiving information. Everyone is so helpful.

[Westfalia]

I almost added iPhone to my description, but yeah, it's the same. I always use my iPhone or iPad to power the tunes in the trailer. I also use them to play movies on the TV (in HD) with the HDMI out adapter from Apple. The TV then passes audio to the head unit (sadly, not in surround).

[aftermath]

Yes, it is that easy. I have an '06 with a similar set up. Like Chris said, get an RCA to headphone adapter, plug it in and away you go. You do need to change the output mode on your CD changer but once done, it works fine.

Make sure you get a long enough cord if you want to have your iPod sitting on the table while it is playing.

[Ronman]

Chris & Aftermath,

I am headed to Best Buy right now! Thanks again for an easy fix to my mentally complecated problem! We LOVE Forums!!

Happy Holidays!

Ron

[Steve Bryant]

Ron,
It looks like you're on your way! Sorry that I've been out of the loop for a couple of days, but you're headed in the right direction. Keep us posted on how things turn out. I believe that you'll be satisified!

Steve

[Ronman]

Everyone, I am in BUSINESS! Bought a 7' cord yesterday at Best Buy for $18.00 and tested it this morning. Works like a CHAMP! In fact, my wife called me in the middle of the test and I had her piped in over the speakers.
Thanks again to the Airstream Forum brethren! You guys make it all worth while!
Ron