Porsche 997: MP3 Player Integration Options
Do you want to bring your Porsche 997 into the modern age of automotive technology by integrating MP3 capabilities? This article will show you the ways to do so.
This article applies to the Porsche 997 (2005-2012).
Forget radio and CDs! MP3 is the most popular music format integrated in today's passenger vehicles. Unfortunately, pre-2006 Porsche 997s are unable to play MP3s—not even from a CD. This capability was added years after. But if you have the older model car without the MP3 function, don't feel left out just yet as there are several ways of listening to your iPod on the road without using earphones. Keep reading as this article will show you some of the most popular and common ways to add MP3 integration into your Porsche 997.
FM Modulators/Bluetooth Adapters
One of the quickest, easiest, and cheapest ways to add MP3 sound to your car is through an FM transmitter. These transmitters send the sound from your portable music device over any open FM frequency. You simply mount the transmitter in the vehicle, plug it in, and you're good to go. The downside to this option is that the sound quality is usually not very good. Also, the signal can come and go depending on where you are.
Bluetooth adapters are also inexpensive and easy ways to stream music from your Bluetooth-enabled music device. They simply plug into your AUX jack (if your car has one), and connect to your phone wirelessly, allowing for MP3s to be played and hands-free calling. These Bluetooth devices cost around $20 to $30, and must stay charged to continue operating.
AUX Input Kit
The Porsche 997.1 model features two in-car media device connectors: AUX and iPod. The Porsche 997.2 has three: USB, AUX, and iPod. An iPod or AUX input kit is FM modulated, and allows you to play music through the car's PCM (Porsche Communication Management). Music or hands-free calling must still be controlled through the units themselves, with the exception of volume as it can be controlled directly via the PCM. These kits are inexpensive and run around $30. They also have a battery charging function for the older iPods. In addition, they do not cause any interoperability problems with the OEM head unit.
Fully Integrated PCM Units
For the best sound quality and full use of your car's factory PCM, the main option is purchasing a unit from Dension Audio Systems. For around $400 to $500, you get an interface that works with your factory system and provides superior quality sound. Many of these devices offer not only iPod/iPhone controls, but they also come with USB connections and Bluetooth integration. These units are relatively easy to install, and retain your 997's factory appearance 100% while offering several modern media-streaming applications.
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