Ok, just reread your post, it sounds like you are using the Cig plug for the HK, I am planing on hardwiring it...

Still Curious about the X3, as I couldn't find a manual on the thing anywhere.

 

I am using the cig plug. Though I might hard wire it in the future. I would try to plug the H&K into the X3 instead of the FM modulator. From what I can gather from other posts is the sound is a lot better. As for PIE stating that the X# has to be connected to the head unit, maybe you have a different radio unit then I have. I connected through the changer and everything works great. What about the X3 are you still curious about?

 

Does the X3 require a separate power connection or does it get all its power from the cd changer connector?

Also, I was thinking of connecting it both ways, that way if I want to switch to XM I can switch from the HK modulated to the XM by using the Headunit. (I.E. listening to a podcast or audiobook, and want to switch to xm, I could without having to dig for the X3 controller.)

 

The X3 does not require a power source. One thing that may help you chose is the sound difference between the modualtor and the X3. I've heard the X3 is a lot better but I have not heard the wired modulator so I do not have a comparison. Either way you should like the H&K controls.

 

Well I am liking the price. $75 Shipped!!! uBid is closing them out!

 

Ok, finally received the the replacement FRDW/PC-POD2 from Cardomain.com yesterday and installed it under the front passenger seat to the harness going to the CD Changer. Connected the IPOD and everything is working fine for now. No error messages on the Nav display. The replacement POD2 came with a much longer cable, ~20ft, and the IPOD connector didn't have an "UP" side image, no big deal.

 

Got just the HK, it installed fairly easily, but I found that I have a bad cable to the ipod. GRRR... Once I replace it, it should be fine. The control on the console is great! The newer display probably looks very nice, but at $75 shipped, the HK Drive and Play seems well worth it.

 

Finally have all the parts installed. The HK going into the X3 sounds AWESOME! There is a major difference between the FM and the direct. For under $140, it was WELL worth it vs the plain ipod cable.

 

A wired or wireless modulator will never sound as good as a direct connection. I have a hard-wired FM modulator for my Sirius radio and the quality is....well, about the same as FM radio. Its not static-y just not that clear.

 

I've read through the entire thread, but I can't find any mention of hooking up a 5.5th generation Video iPod to a 2005 model with a nav system. I'm assuming that the FRDW/PC-POD2 will work for me, but I don't want to go blowing over $100 on something that may or may not work. Any input on this will be very much appreciated.