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- 10 November 2002
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I want to emphasize to non-NSX owners viewing this thread that this comparison is directed at iPod/iPhone/mp3player adapters which are known or believed to be compatible with the Acura NSX and stock NSX Bose sound system. Other automobiles with different systems require individual evaluation. Although much of the following information relates to comparing the adapters themselves, compatibility questions are NSX-specific and are not intended to adress other makes/models of automobiles.
I will stick to evaluating commercially available adapters that are known to be compatible with the oem NSX stereo system. Prices quoted are the average discount price that you can expect to pay, but not necessarily the best deal that can be found by diligently searching for a lower price.
These adapters generally fall into two categories - those that are iPod specific, and those that aren't - so pay close attention to which adapter is compatible with which music player. A few of these adapters will work with ANY mp3 player, but with less features. If you have or intend to purchase an Apple iPod/Ipod Touch/iPhone, select an adapter that is specifically designed to be paired with these, but if you have an mp3 player that is NOT an Apple iPod, you should select an adapter that is NOT specific to the iPod.
When selecting the right adapter for you, the best strategy is to focus on iPod compatibility vs other mp3 player compatibility depending on which mp3 player you have, followed by features and functionality, and only then look at the price. The quality and ownership experience on most of the above adapters should be similar, so make your own judgment based on the available features you prefer and choose the iPod/mp3 player adapter that is right for you.
All of the adapters below are known to be compatible with the NSX stereo system. All of the following adapters should offer similar sound quality - they are really just interfaces between your oem stereo and an mp3 player. Ultimate sound quality rests on the condition of your oem stereo. Therefore, I will be rating them according to the following six criteria:
1. Ease of installation.
2. Will the oem head unit control the device?
3. Does the adapter charge the device?
4. Which music player does this one go with?
5. Additional Input?
6. Cost
7. Unique Features
Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1:
The Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1 is not designed specifically to be paired with an Apple iPod. It is a more basic adapter, similar in functionality to the USA-Spec DF-HON, except it provides one output instead of two. It offers neither head unit control nor iPod charging. Quality control is reported to be poor, with ill-fitting connectors and some difficulty identifying the correct cables to be used. Note that the blue square connector typically pictured with these is the wrong cable for the NSX! The correct cable is the 8-Pin round connector which is also available if you specify it.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively easy to install. Some problems reported with fitment of connectors.
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - No
4. Compatibility - Will work with any mp3 player using the headphone output jack.
5. Additional Input - No
6. Cost - US$43
Summary: This adapter is lacking in most categories and really doesn't offer much to recommend it other than being inexpensive. Frankly I wouldn't bother with this one as there are better choices for a little more money. Avoid.
Blitzsafe HON/ALP V.1D:
The Blitzsafe HON/ALP V1.D is an improved version of the Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1 reviewed above. It can be better integrated with an Apple iPod that has a dock connector or Microsoft Zune by purchasing an add-on module, at additional cost. This adapter will allow the user to retain their factory Alpine CD-changer.
1. Ease of installation - Reported to be problematic:frown:
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes, with add-on module
4. Compatibility with iPhone 1Gen, 2Gen/iTouch 1Gen- should be compatible with Ipod thru about Gen4, no Iphone compatibility advertised, possibly will work with iPhone 1Gen or 2Gen. Earlier versions not compatible with iPhone 3G or latest generation iPods.
5. Additional Input - Yes - CD-changer passthrough :smile:
6. Cost - US$160 when adding the iPod module, $170 with the Zune module
7. Allows retention of factory Alpine CD-changer.:smile:
Summary: Offers direct control and charging, but no head-unit control. This is the only adapter that allows retention of the oem CD changer, but there is no head-unit control for either the iPod or the Zune. Best for: Someone who just can't give up their CD-changer, or Zune users.
USA-Spec DF-HON:
While not specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod, the USA-Spec DF-HON remains a viable contender in this arena. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. Unfortunately, although it does have a second output, the DF-HON lacks controllability from the oem head unit and it doesn't charge the iPod.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - No
4. Compatibility - Will work with any mp3 player using the headphone output jack.
5. Additional Output - Yes
6. Cost - US$60
Summary - This adapter is very reliable and offers great sound quality. But while relatively easy to install as well as inexpensive, the USA-Spec DF-HON is lacking in features. Best for someone who wants to connect two devices other than an iPod. Not recommended for iPod users, as there are better choices.
USA-Spec PA11-HON:
The USA-Spec PA11-HON is specifically designed to be paired with an Apple Ipod. It can be Best in Category for those who value ease of installation. When utilizing a semi-permanent (nothing is screwed down, easily reversible) installation method you can place this unit in the trunk up under the CD-changer, plug it into the CD-changer at one end and connect the iPod to the other end. Secure the iPod behind the CD-changer and close the trunk. Five minutes and you are done - it can be that easy to install. However, with the "easiest installation", you won't be able to control it directly from the iPod since the iPod is parked in the trunk, although you can control it through the oem car stereo by creating five playlists on the iPod. Accordingly, I recommend putting in a little more effort and going for a "not quite as easy" permanent installation. The "not quite as easy" installation is equivalent in difficulty to the other units in this comparison. This adapter charges the Ipod when not in use, and has a second input for a separate device.
With the "easiest installation" the USA-Spec PA11-HON earns...
1. Ease of installation - Supereasy! Best in Category!
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes
4. Compatibility with iTouch/iPhone - The latest version of this adapter is compatible with ALL iPods with dock connector, and all Iphones.
5. Additional Output - Yes
6. Cost - US$119
7. No Direct Device Control with the "easiest installation"
When opting for the "not quite as easy" installation...
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the iPod/Iphone? Yes
4. Compatibility with iTouch/Iphone - The latest version of this adapter is compatible with ALL iPods with dock connector, and all Iphones.
5. Additional Output - Yes
6. Cost - US$119
Summary - With either installation, the USA-Spec PA11-HON is easy to install. It can be easiest to install if you are willing to give up some functionality, but opting for a slightly more difficult installation will ultimately be more satisfying. As the latest version of this adapter is compatible with ALL iPods with dock connector, and ALL iPhones, and has a second input for a second device (cell phone, etc) this adapter is very versatile and useful for many applications. Even using the "easiest installation", reliability and sound quality are excellent.
Grom iPod Adapter:
The Grom iPod Adapter* is specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod/iTouch/iPhone. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent in difficulty to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. It can be controlled directly or from the head unit and charges the iPod/iPhone. It does not have an additional input, but should definitely be considered by iPhone users because of its confirmed iPhone compatibility. Reliability, while good, seems somewhat diminished due to less robust construction.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes
4. Compatibility with iTouch/iPhone - Both advertised (Not compatible with iPhone 3g)
5. Additional Output - No
6. Cost - US$75
7. Works with Smartenna
Summary - Reportedly excellent sound quality, easy to install, and solid in most categories. Best for someone who only wants to connect their iPod and nothing else. Not intended for non-Apple.
*When ordering the Grom iPod Adapter, DON'T order the M-BUS cable for the NSX. Specify the 8-pin CD changer cable.
Grom Auxilary Adapter:
While not specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod, the Grom Auxiliary Adapter is an excellent choice for use with mp3 players other than the Apple iPod. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. Functionally, it is very similar to the USA-Spec DF-HON, only lacking the 2nd input of the DF-HON. It lacks lacks controllability from the oem head unit and it doesn't charge the mp3 player. Nonetheless, it would be a good choice for someone who wanted to use an mp3-capable cell phone in conjunction with their oem NSX Bose car stereo.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - No
4. Compatibility - Will work with any mp3 player using the headphone output jack.
5. Additional Input - No
6. Cost - US$55
Summary - This adapter should prove reliable and offer great sound quality. But while relatively easy to install as well as inexpensive, the Grom Auxiliary Adapter is lacking in features. Best for someone who only wants to connect an mp3 player that is not an Apple iPod. Will work with an Apple iPod, but ithere are better adapters for iPod users.
Neo Pro Link:
The Neo Pro Link is specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod/iTouch/iPhone. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent in difficulty to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. It offers direct, head unit, and steering wheel control (Not Applicable for NSX, but it might be important to you if you are considering it for a car other than the NSX), it charges the iPod, and has an additional input for a second device.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes
4. Compatibility - Compatible with iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone. Before ordering one of these, check to confirm compatibility with latest generation Apple devices.
5. Additional Input - Yes
6. Cost - US$200 - Most Expensive:frown:
Summary - Reported to offer excellent sound quality and relatively easy to install, with a host of features. It's only real shortcoming is the price - at $200 it is the most expensive unit. Except for price, this adapter would match the highest-rated adapter in this comparison. Best for: iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone users for its confirmed iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone compatibility, or for non-NSX Honda/Acura applications where you want to be sure your steering wheel controls will control the adapter.
The Bottom Line - After subjecting the five adapters to a rigorous comparison, the USA-Spec PA11-HON edges out the competition and emerges as Top Dog in the NSX - the "Best iPod Adapter" - by virtue of a rock solid reliability and a host of features at a reasonable price. The Silver medal goes to the Neo Pro Link, and the bronze to the Grom Ipod Adapter.
The USA-Spec DF-HON earns top honors as "Best non-iPod Adapter" by virtue of rock solid reliability and low cost. If you have an mp3 player that is NOT an Apple iPod, choose this adapter.
I will stick to evaluating commercially available adapters that are known to be compatible with the oem NSX stereo system. Prices quoted are the average discount price that you can expect to pay, but not necessarily the best deal that can be found by diligently searching for a lower price.
These adapters generally fall into two categories - those that are iPod specific, and those that aren't - so pay close attention to which adapter is compatible with which music player. A few of these adapters will work with ANY mp3 player, but with less features. If you have or intend to purchase an Apple iPod/Ipod Touch/iPhone, select an adapter that is specifically designed to be paired with these, but if you have an mp3 player that is NOT an Apple iPod, you should select an adapter that is NOT specific to the iPod.
When selecting the right adapter for you, the best strategy is to focus on iPod compatibility vs other mp3 player compatibility depending on which mp3 player you have, followed by features and functionality, and only then look at the price. The quality and ownership experience on most of the above adapters should be similar, so make your own judgment based on the available features you prefer and choose the iPod/mp3 player adapter that is right for you.
All of the adapters below are known to be compatible with the NSX stereo system. All of the following adapters should offer similar sound quality - they are really just interfaces between your oem stereo and an mp3 player. Ultimate sound quality rests on the condition of your oem stereo. Therefore, I will be rating them according to the following six criteria:
1. Ease of installation.
2. Will the oem head unit control the device?
3. Does the adapter charge the device?
4. Which music player does this one go with?
5. Additional Input?
6. Cost
7. Unique Features
Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1:
The Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1 is not designed specifically to be paired with an Apple iPod. It is a more basic adapter, similar in functionality to the USA-Spec DF-HON, except it provides one output instead of two. It offers neither head unit control nor iPod charging. Quality control is reported to be poor, with ill-fitting connectors and some difficulty identifying the correct cables to be used. Note that the blue square connector typically pictured with these is the wrong cable for the NSX! The correct cable is the 8-Pin round connector which is also available if you specify it.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively easy to install. Some problems reported with fitment of connectors.
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - No
4. Compatibility - Will work with any mp3 player using the headphone output jack.
5. Additional Input - No
6. Cost - US$43
Summary: This adapter is lacking in most categories and really doesn't offer much to recommend it other than being inexpensive. Frankly I wouldn't bother with this one as there are better choices for a little more money. Avoid.
Blitzsafe HON/ALP V.1D:
The Blitzsafe HON/ALP V1.D is an improved version of the Blitzsafe HON/AUX DMX V.1 reviewed above. It can be better integrated with an Apple iPod that has a dock connector or Microsoft Zune by purchasing an add-on module, at additional cost. This adapter will allow the user to retain their factory Alpine CD-changer.
1. Ease of installation - Reported to be problematic:frown:
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes, with add-on module
4. Compatibility with iPhone 1Gen, 2Gen/iTouch 1Gen- should be compatible with Ipod thru about Gen4, no Iphone compatibility advertised, possibly will work with iPhone 1Gen or 2Gen. Earlier versions not compatible with iPhone 3G or latest generation iPods.
5. Additional Input - Yes - CD-changer passthrough :smile:
6. Cost - US$160 when adding the iPod module, $170 with the Zune module
7. Allows retention of factory Alpine CD-changer.:smile:
Summary: Offers direct control and charging, but no head-unit control. This is the only adapter that allows retention of the oem CD changer, but there is no head-unit control for either the iPod or the Zune. Best for: Someone who just can't give up their CD-changer, or Zune users.
USA-Spec DF-HON:
While not specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod, the USA-Spec DF-HON remains a viable contender in this arena. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. Unfortunately, although it does have a second output, the DF-HON lacks controllability from the oem head unit and it doesn't charge the iPod.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - No
4. Compatibility - Will work with any mp3 player using the headphone output jack.
5. Additional Output - Yes
6. Cost - US$60
Summary - This adapter is very reliable and offers great sound quality. But while relatively easy to install as well as inexpensive, the USA-Spec DF-HON is lacking in features. Best for someone who wants to connect two devices other than an iPod. Not recommended for iPod users, as there are better choices.
USA-Spec PA11-HON:
The USA-Spec PA11-HON is specifically designed to be paired with an Apple Ipod. It can be Best in Category for those who value ease of installation. When utilizing a semi-permanent (nothing is screwed down, easily reversible) installation method you can place this unit in the trunk up under the CD-changer, plug it into the CD-changer at one end and connect the iPod to the other end. Secure the iPod behind the CD-changer and close the trunk. Five minutes and you are done - it can be that easy to install. However, with the "easiest installation", you won't be able to control it directly from the iPod since the iPod is parked in the trunk, although you can control it through the oem car stereo by creating five playlists on the iPod. Accordingly, I recommend putting in a little more effort and going for a "not quite as easy" permanent installation. The "not quite as easy" installation is equivalent in difficulty to the other units in this comparison. This adapter charges the Ipod when not in use, and has a second input for a separate device.
With the "easiest installation" the USA-Spec PA11-HON earns...
1. Ease of installation - Supereasy! Best in Category!
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes
4. Compatibility with iTouch/iPhone - The latest version of this adapter is compatible with ALL iPods with dock connector, and all Iphones.
5. Additional Output - Yes
6. Cost - US$119
7. No Direct Device Control with the "easiest installation"
When opting for the "not quite as easy" installation...
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the iPod/Iphone? Yes
4. Compatibility with iTouch/Iphone - The latest version of this adapter is compatible with ALL iPods with dock connector, and all Iphones.
5. Additional Output - Yes
6. Cost - US$119
Summary - With either installation, the USA-Spec PA11-HON is easy to install. It can be easiest to install if you are willing to give up some functionality, but opting for a slightly more difficult installation will ultimately be more satisfying. As the latest version of this adapter is compatible with ALL iPods with dock connector, and ALL iPhones, and has a second input for a second device (cell phone, etc) this adapter is very versatile and useful for many applications. Even using the "easiest installation", reliability and sound quality are excellent.
Grom iPod Adapter:
The Grom iPod Adapter* is specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod/iTouch/iPhone. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent in difficulty to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. It can be controlled directly or from the head unit and charges the iPod/iPhone. It does not have an additional input, but should definitely be considered by iPhone users because of its confirmed iPhone compatibility. Reliability, while good, seems somewhat diminished due to less robust construction.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes
4. Compatibility with iTouch/iPhone - Both advertised (Not compatible with iPhone 3g)
5. Additional Output - No
6. Cost - US$75
7. Works with Smartenna
Summary - Reportedly excellent sound quality, easy to install, and solid in most categories. Best for someone who only wants to connect their iPod and nothing else. Not intended for non-Apple.
*When ordering the Grom iPod Adapter, DON'T order the M-BUS cable for the NSX. Specify the 8-pin CD changer cable.
Grom Auxilary Adapter:
While not specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod, the Grom Auxiliary Adapter is an excellent choice for use with mp3 players other than the Apple iPod. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. Functionally, it is very similar to the USA-Spec DF-HON, only lacking the 2nd input of the DF-HON. It lacks lacks controllability from the oem head unit and it doesn't charge the mp3 player. Nonetheless, it would be a good choice for someone who wanted to use an mp3-capable cell phone in conjunction with their oem NSX Bose car stereo.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - No
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - No
4. Compatibility - Will work with any mp3 player using the headphone output jack.
5. Additional Input - No
6. Cost - US$55
Summary - This adapter should prove reliable and offer great sound quality. But while relatively easy to install as well as inexpensive, the Grom Auxiliary Adapter is lacking in features. Best for someone who only wants to connect an mp3 player that is not an Apple iPod. Will work with an Apple iPod, but ithere are better adapters for iPod users.
Neo Pro Link:
The Neo Pro Link is specifically designed to be paired with an Apple iPod/iTouch/iPhone. Installation is relatively easy, equivalent in difficulty to the typical permanent installation of any of the other adapters in this comparison. It offers direct, head unit, and steering wheel control (Not Applicable for NSX, but it might be important to you if you are considering it for a car other than the NSX), it charges the iPod, and has an additional input for a second device.
1. Ease of installation - Relatively Easy
2. Will the oem head unit control the device? - Yes
3. Does the adapter charge the device? - Yes
4. Compatibility - Compatible with iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone. Before ordering one of these, check to confirm compatibility with latest generation Apple devices.
5. Additional Input - Yes
6. Cost - US$200 - Most Expensive:frown:
Summary - Reported to offer excellent sound quality and relatively easy to install, with a host of features. It's only real shortcoming is the price - at $200 it is the most expensive unit. Except for price, this adapter would match the highest-rated adapter in this comparison. Best for: iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone users for its confirmed iPod/iPod Touch/iPhone compatibility, or for non-NSX Honda/Acura applications where you want to be sure your steering wheel controls will control the adapter.
The Bottom Line - After subjecting the five adapters to a rigorous comparison, the USA-Spec PA11-HON edges out the competition and emerges as Top Dog in the NSX - the "Best iPod Adapter" - by virtue of a rock solid reliability and a host of features at a reasonable price. The Silver medal goes to the Neo Pro Link, and the bronze to the Grom Ipod Adapter.
The USA-Spec DF-HON earns top honors as "Best non-iPod Adapter" by virtue of rock solid reliability and low cost. If you have an mp3 player that is NOT an Apple iPod, choose this adapter.
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"Strongly hinted"? If you are in communication with developers, why not just tell them straight up that you are changing formats, instead of leaving them scrambling. This is another one of those Apple things that leaves me scratching my head, and allows Microsoft to dominate the landscape.
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