I have a base radio and can't currently connect a thumb drive. I hate having to carry a crapload of CDs with me. Do either of the shaker systems have a USB connector? Just for clarification, I'm not interested at all in the AUX connector because that requires an entire device to work (like an iPod or a phone). I just want to use a thumb drive.

 

Shaker 500 adds a USB port, among sync and other things.

Shaker 1000 has the full shaker 500 system, plus two trunk subs.

 

Just for clarification, I have a 2011 Mustang with the base stereo. Could I do a direct swap and have the Shaker 500 unit in my car and have access to the USB port in order to run a hard drive off of it? Sorry to bring up an old thread...just want to know the options available.

 

I have the Shaker 1000, and the USB port is in the center rear console, not actually a part of the radio itself.

I am not sure how it is wired. Hopefully, someone with tech experience can fully answer your question.

 

If you want it to look factory I think this is your only option:
http://isimplesolutions.com/product.aspx?zpid=416

Yeah it doesn't take USB, but you could buy a cheap/used iPod and just load your MP3s onto it. This would allow you to browse through the songs via the stock radio.

Not the perfect solution for you, but still much cheaper than doing a Metra/Scosche+Aftermarket HU. And retains the factory look if that matters to you. The Gateway also gives you the option of adding factory-integrated Sirius if that ever caught your fancy.

I've seen threads about retofitting SYNC into base '11-13s and it seems nearly impossible.