A3 usb audio connection etc

**GeoffT** · 03-07-2007,05:32 PM

I'm just starting to look at getting an A3 sportback 2.0 tdi 140 and I'm having a test drive at the weekend. I'm looking through the range of options on it and was hoping for some help on a couple of points.

The options list shows an Ipod console for the audio system. I'm sure there used to be a USB port as an alternative when I looked at this a few months back, but it's not shown in the options list. Does anyone know if it is still available and if so how well it works?

Also I want a bluetooth phone connection, but the only options appear to be a GSM phone preparation on either the dash or centre armrest. I don't want to actually plug the phone in, I just want it to connect via bluetooth. Is this possible via an Audi option or do I have to go aftermarket for this?

Thanks

Geoff

Crisis · 09-07-2007,03:55 PM

Have recently ordered (not me but family) a new Audi TT

The bluetooth car kit was avaliable but required the multi function steering wheel so the kit added to £500 or so. Aftermarket is much cheaper.

The USB is still offered as is the iPod connection (all in glove box) for £150 at dealer.

This is for the TT. But I would imagine most/all models would be suitable.

**Froggy** · 09-07-2007,04:35 PM

I can't help with the USB stuff I'm afraid, however the Factory Bluetooth telephone kit is very well integrated.

It uses Sim Access Profile, and means that the car uses your Sim details but actually has a separate GSM phone module. Your phone book is also transferred which means full control of the phone from the steering wheel is available. Caller ID comes up on the Dis. You can select phone book entries all from the steering wheel.

It doesn't use your phone as such, only for access to your Sim information. It has a separate GSM module, proper external aerial, etc. That's why it's not cheap.

**prolfe** · 09-07-2007,04:53 PM

The iPod connection as a new option is £175, to order afterwards is £150 and to fit it yourself will be just the parts themselves.

£100 for the iPod kit
£5 for the stereo keys

£0 for your time

I did mine in about an hour. I can tell you about it from start to finish if you want.

I'm glad I did not order it as a option. The multi function steering wheel is a better £165 to spend.

**GeoffT** · 09-07-2007,04:59 PM

Thanks for the replies.

Froggy - I hadn't realised that the phone prep was actually a seperate GSM module. At least that goes someway to explian the price. Where does the external aerial fit? I test drove an A3 sportback on Saturday and noticed that it doesn't have an external radio aerial (it's in the rear screen) does the phone aerial use a similar system?

Crisis - Is the USB option listed in the brochure or online configurator for the TT? I can't find that option anywhere for the A3 sportback. I've emailed Audi UK for confirmation and details of how the Ipod/USB connection works. I understand that earlier versions couldn't display track names on the stereo display, but am hoping that the latest stereo might have that facility. I'll post their reply when I get it.

Prolfe - mmm interesting. So £25 cheaper to have it fitted later or £100 for DIY! I might see what the dealer says when it comes to price negotiation.

Crisis · 09-07-2007,07:05 PM

Its in the brochure of the TT. And I think its online.

I'd be interested to retro fit the iPod kit in the Audi A3. Probably be fitting an After Market HU so get the Alpine Kit.

**GeoffT** · 09-07-2007,08:17 PM

I've just checked online and the USB is on the options list for the TT but not the A3. Strangely the Ipod or USB option is £150 for the TT whereas the Ipod is £175 for the A3. The TT data states that the standard stereo is the Concert II and the A3 just says Concert. I'm pretty sure that the A3 now comes with Concert II (the multiline display model with 3 buttons down either side) this is certainly what was in the one I drove on saturday as it played the MP3 CD that I took to test. So maybe the website and brochures haven't caught up yet for the A3. Hopefully Audi UK will clear this up for me soon. I'd much prefer the USB option as I don't have an Ipod (am I the only one left?) and think that a USB stick is the best way to go for in-car MP3. I just hope that:
a) The USB option is available for the A3.
b) The Concert II can display track data and read playlists.
c) It can cope with the latest 8Gb USB sticks.

**prolfe** · 09-07-2007,08:25 PM

Originally Posted by GeoffT

I've just checked online and the USB is on the options list for the TT but not the A3. The TT data states that the standard stereo is the Concert II and the A3 just says Concert. I'm pretty sure that the A3 now comes with Concert II (the multiline display model with 3 buttons down either side) this is certainly what was in the one I drove on saturday as it played the MP3 CD that I took to test. So maybe the website and brochures haven't caught up yet for the A3. Hopefully Audi UK will clear this up for me soon. I'd much prefer the USB option as I don't have an Ipod (am I the only one left?) and think that a USB stick is the best way to go for in-car MP3. I just hope that:
a) The USB option is available for the A3.
b) The Concert II can display track data and read playlists.
c) It can cope with the latest 8Gb USB sticks.

I have a 56 plate 2007 A3 and as of 2007 they come with a Concert II with the 3 buttons down each side like you say. (and the sport model now come with new 5 Spoke 17" alloys)

When the iPod is plugged in, the track names are not displayed, the playlists are displayed as CD1, CD2 etc etc.

It can play MP3's with folders etc etc.

Oh and it has 9 speakers plus a Bass speaker and sounds very very loud.

Crisis · 09-07-2007,08:27 PM

The iPod or USB connection requires you to make 6 Playlists called CD1, 2, 3 etc. Then you use the selection on screen to choose the playlist. This is true of the TT setup.

Im not sure if their is a maximum file limit/size for each playlist. Supposedly you could have a playlist which is everything.

**prolfe** · 09-07-2007,08:40 PM

Originally Posted by Crisis

The iPod or USB connection requires you to make 6 Playlists called CD1, 2, 3 etc. Then you use the selection on screen to choose the playlist. This is true of the TT setup.

Im not sure if their is a maximum file limit/size for each playlist. Supposedly you could have a playlist which is everything.

I have over 800 songs on one playlist so they can be huge.

You also have to activate random every time the car is started.