Aux input volume query

[Jukie]

I'm aware that volume levels from a device connected via the Aux input are noticeably lower than the Radio or CD, etc and you have to turn the volume right up to be able to hear it.

If using an iPod via the Aux input, would something like this make any difference, as opposed to using the iPod's headphones socket? Dock Connector to 3.5mm Jack Car Stereo Auxiliary Line: Amazon.co.uk: Electronics

TIA.

 

[reflexboy]

Unfortunately not. I have a Griffin adapter that is powered by a cigarette lighter socket which I have hardwired in and then it has a 3.5mm plug coming out of it which I plug into the aux in, on the Command. The only connection to the iPhone is the dock connector plug so in effect this is doing the same thing and the volume level is still low.

 

[npuk]

Yes it does make a difference as the headphone socket volume is limited, few people have posted about this. Better to use a dock to aux cable or you can also get dock to aux + usb cables so you can charge the device as well.

 

[sjmaxwell]

From my own experience even using the dock connector still gives limited volume. The only way I found around it was to use a little rechargable headphone amp with a dock connector to 3.5mm lead to the amp then a 3.5mm to 3.5mm lead to the aux input

 

[whitenemesis]

Don't MB do a line amp for this?

 

[Tebs]

This may be totally irrelevant in your cases but some W204 owners on MBworld as well as myself experienced similiar problems and found a comand system update improved the volume some what. Not quite at the same level as the radio and cd but much louder than before. It maybe be worth checking to see if there is a firmware upgrade for you system that includes this fix. It wont be cheap though at one hours labour cost unless your car is less than four years old.

 

[sjmaxwell]

Don't MB do a line amp for this?

They do but on facelift cars with the ipod kit. I think the poster has a 2000MY E class so it would be a straight AUX socket

 

[philsx]

Belkin Gadget with iPod - Now Full Volume with Aux

I've just swapped my 2006 SLK350 for a 2007 CLK280 Sport (needed the seats!) and hit the same problem with the volume needing cranking up on the head unit to play my iPod Nano when connected through the Aux socket in the CLK's glovebox (the SLK had full iPod integration). I did a bit of searching on the internet and came across this Belkin Auto Charger for iPod:
Belkin Auto Charger for iPod | eBay


This is actually both a charger and an adjustable AMPLIFIER. I bought one for the handsome sum of £4.99 and put it in the 12v connector in the oddment tray, then used a 1.5m cable to connect the socket in the body of the charger to the Aux input. The charger has a dock connector for the iPod Nano, connected it up and hey presto, WORKS PERFECTLY! The volume is now equal to the other sources, could even go higher as it's adjustable through a scroll wheel on the Belkin adaptor. And of course the iPod is kept filly charged all the time too!


I'd highly recommend this solution to anyone with a similar problem. Only downside is having to have a cable running from the centre console into the glove box, but it still closes OK. Here's the spec of the Belkin gadget:

The Belkin F8V7058-APL Auto Kit for iPods with Dock Connector connects your iPod device to your car's power source, and includes an exclusive Belkin cable that charges your iPod from your car's cigarette lighter. Perfect for those long road trips, the Belkin auto kit not only keeps your iPod fully charged, but when used with other accessories such as the Belkin Mobile Cassette Adapter or TuneCast Mobile FM Transmitter (not included), allows you to listen to continuous high-quality audio through your car stereo.

The Belkin Auto Kit features an adjustable amplifier to control your iPod's volume level, and a 3.5-millimeter audio-out jack that lets you play your favorite iPod music through your car stereo or other audio equipment when using an FM transmitter or cassette adapter. For safety purposes this unit includes an illuminated LED indicator that lets you know when it is properly connected, and a built-in, replaceable safety fuse that protects your iPod from potentially damaging spikes in power or short circuits. Your iPod locks securely to the auto kit via the dock connector, while a convenient strap lets you easily manage your excess cord length.

Compatible with iPod Classic 3G, 4G, 5G, Mini, Photo,
iPod Nano 1G, 2G, 3G, Touch 1G, 2G

Not Compatible with iPhone 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G,
iPod Nano 4G, 5G[/I]

 

[sinewave]

If you are using iTunes then you gain up the gain/volume of all tracks on an iPod/iPhone so they sound louder when played via Aux in devices.

Trouble is it's only do-able on a Track by track basis.

Select the track, then right click it, select 'Get Info', then select 'Options' then adjust the volume adjustment tab.

Don't think there is a 'Collection wide' option to do this though?