I was thinking about getting Fords Mobile Ease Bluetooth car kit thing for our new GT/CS, but at $400+, it might be a bit out of my budget. I was wondering what kind of handsfree set-ups you all are using and how you like (or don't like) them. I'd like the system to be able to utilize the car's audio system for the sound and preferrably, mute. But, I'm open to suggestions in order to cut the cost way down.

 

I bought a Sosche unit that clips on the visor and it was like $50.00 at BestBuy and it works very well. It doesnt interface with the radio but it is inexpensive and easy to use.

 

I had a Parrot 3200 for a while. It worked pretty OK. I later upgraded to a Pioneer AVIC-D3.

 

I've tried the portable bluetooth units and overall, I don't care for them. I'm okay with paying $200-ish for a nice install unit. I'm just wondering what you all use.

Bigray, how do you like your AVIC-D3 and if you don't mind me asking, what did it cost you?

 

Good question. I'm interested to see the replies.

 

I had a Motorolla bt-1000 in my 02 for a while. It didn't interface with the radio, it has its own speaker. The main problem I had with it was the mic. didn't pickup well I tried several locations, but couldn't get it to work. So I got the mobile ease (ME) and it worked great, even though the 02's are not on the supported list, until I replaced the radio with a Z1 and got the BT module for it. I still prefer the ease of use of the ford unit over the pioneer. The ME now resides in my fathers 06 f150. I also have the ME in my 06 with the nav unit. The menus in the moto were very similar to those of the ME, but there is no provision for connecting it to the radio for sound there is a mute wire, but where it connects on the for harness Is a good question. IMHO save up and get the ME the controller is one of the smallest and IMHO it just works better.

 

I absolutely LOVE my AVIC-D3. I have the bluetooth module, iPod cable, navigation, and rear view camera. Voice quality It was expensive for all that, like $1000, but well worth it in my opinion. They can be had online for $600ish nowadays, since newer units are out now. There are a ton of threads about D3 installations on the various forums, so there's plenty of reading and pictures.

Here are a few pics of mine...





Here's what the Parrot looked like...

 

That's a nice setup. If I have a Shaker 1000, will it affect the system?

 

I had the Shaker 500, and I removed the head unit and kept everything else. I'm not sure how the 1000 is different, so I recommend doing some reading at avic411.com.

 

I bought a Delphi NAV300 from QVC.com for my recent road trip from Detroit to Charlotte. Works pretty good and has built in hands free bluetooth. I was able to attach it right next to the front pillar on the windshield so it didnt obstruct my view. It was only $150 bucks.

http://www.qvc.com/qic/qvcapp.aspx/v...cm_ite=E191571

 

I would highly suggest you replace your stock stereo to a unit that has built in or add on Bluetooth. I have a Kenwood DNX7120 in mine and I added the kenwood bluetooth unit to it and people can't even tell that I'm not using the phone. Sound Q is outstanding and you can't beat built-in Nav system, touch screen, Ipod contoller, DVD, and USB. You can also install custom back grounds!

pic

 

Hey CW, I was just getting ready to start a thread on the Kenwood series. Does the ipod controller come built into the 7120 like it does in the 8120? If not, how much was it and how do you like the ipod interface and controls on the 7120? Last question, does it play iPod video? I'm THIS CLOSE || to pulling the plug on one. Thanks.

 

I have the Parrot CK 3000 installed in my car. It was a simple plug and play install with Shaker 500. It works perfectly, I don't have to touch anything. It's completely voice activated and the sound is clear and distortion free. The unit was 99.00 and harness was an additional 50.00.