Is getting an AUX input more expensive than just buying a new stereo with AUX?

Question

I am looking to get an AUX input for a Mazda 3 2005 factory stereo so I can listen to my iPod in my car. I live in a city with lots of street car wires overhead so and FM transmitter iPod integration just doesn't work.

The quotes I've gotten so far from car audio places are like $160-199 for parts and $75 for the install. It almost doesn't make sense because I can buy a cheap after-market stereo that comes with full AUX/iPod integration for less than $150. Can someone explain my options here, or let me know what it is actually supposed to cost?

Thanks!

Answer 1

Go to crutchfield.com and buy yourself an Alpine stereo for your car. Get the ones that have the AUX and USB inputs. I charge my iPod and listen to it at the same time that way. Plus Alpine is the best brand when it comes to car stereos. Also the reason why you want to order from Crutchfield is because they give you free installation gear. Like new face plates and brakets and all that good stuff. You can call there number and talk to someone, their very friendly, just tell them what car you have and they'll give you everything you need. Also its fairly easy installing a Cd player. So dont go to your local shop and ask them to do it. They'll charge you out the butt for something that takes 30 minutes. Just have a friend or family member who is somewhat tech savy and they should be able to figure it out no problem. Another thing, an aftermarket cd player will improve the sound quality of your audio system considerably. The one I have listed here is $140, again comes with everything you need and free shipping, enjoy.

Answer 2

Sherwood RX-4105 100 Watt Stereo Receiver (Black) ) might be a decent bargain for twice the money. It's stripped down by present standards -- two channels only, no phonograph input. It's dead quiet and extremely clean sounding. I can't hear any emphases or dead spots in the frequencies. The tuner is exceptionally good; I am surprised at the success I'm having with it in a poor reception area, with only the antennas that are supplied. Appearance and quality are fine: nice black steel case, solid buttons, one big old volume knob. It was all I needed, so I'm very pleased. Going to get another for a computer amp.

Answer 3

There is actually a great solution, which can be installed by yourself or someone you know. A company out of canada that sells ipod integration kits. The one you will need is at the following link: http://www.gtacarkits.com/mazda3_2004_2008_car_kit.php If you scroll down that page there is even an instructional video on how to install the kit into your car by yourself. Usually takes about an hour, and saves you from paying the install fees. It charges your ipod while listening, allows you to control your music from your radio controls as well as your ipod! Its a great kit, at an affordable price. This particular kit is $100. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

The prices are kind of right but it would cost you a lot more to get the aux input and for someone to install in than to buy a stereo that could already have the aux input bild in. and it wont cost you as much.

Answer 5

You can get a stereo with an aux plug for cheaper than 160$ actually this one is 75$ http://www.amazon.com/Kenwood-KDC-252U-In-Dash-USB-Receiver/dp/B006KKS8BC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1343333159&sr=8-1&keywords=kenwood+kdc

and just have a car audio place install if for you.