[s-cars] Nav Plus & iPod Installation

[CaptMagu at aol.com]

s-heads

Thanks and kudos to Steve Eiche of Shadetree Software.com for sourcing and 
installing a Navigation Plus system and iPod hook-up into my wife's A6 4.2. The 
install went very smooth and Steve was very helpful in laying down the wiring 
for the BAC iPod hook-up. For those that don't know, the Nav Plus does come 
with a CD reader but its dedicated to the navigation CD's. Since she didn't have 
the multidisc CD player in the trunk, our options were to install one or go 
with something else. Both our daughter's have iPods and she is a desktop 
publisher with multiple Macs so the choice of the iPod was simple. The BAC hooks up 
in the trunk where the multidisc player mounts. Steve was able to run the iPod 
wire up to the center console. We'll pick up the iPod when my wife gets back 
in town and I'll post some pics when I get the iPod mounted. My plan is to use 
the tray below the arm rest. 

I accomplished a quick read of the owner's manual, in english, and was able 
to use the unit straight away. Having the directional arrow and the distance to 
go icon in the instrument cluster along with the moving map display on the 
unit itself makes navigating a snap. The only downside I have found in 
comparison to the aftermarket units is the lack of touch screen and of course the CD vs 
DVD. The ability to integrate everything with OEM parts and the heads up 
display in the instrument cluster makes it the winner compared to the aftermarket. 
I know she's going to be very happy with this setup. Steve is importing these 
units regularily and in fact has one on his work bench. 

Here is what you get:
1.  Navigation Plus headunit, complete with the latest firmware with
compass display and improved resolution.  P/N 4B0 035 192 H. Completely
refurbished and tested.  Looks and works like new.  List price:  $2800
2.  English Manual and Code Card for the above.  (I paid $30 each for
these from the UK.)
3.  TMC module (interfaces Nav + unit to instrument cluster for
directions and street names). P/N 4B1 919 894 A.  Tested and updated
with the latest firmware.  List price $545
4.  GPS antenna.  List $110
5.  Complete installation, programming and testing of above using
factory connectors.  (about 4 hours)
6.  90 day warranty on components.  Lifetime on installation.

Things to consider:
1.  There is no longer a CD or tape player in the head unit.  You will
need the trunk mounted CD changer for CDs.
2.  The Navigation Plus system is compatible with all the Audi and
aftermarket accessories, like satellite radio and phone systems, that
work with the original radios.
3.  This unit is made by Blaupunkt, unlike the Symphony system that is
stock on US cars. You can expect better audio quality than the Symphony
system.  It is fully compatible with the Bose system.

I have no affiliation to Shadetree Software or Steve Eiche. I'm just a very 
happy and satisfied customer. Steve can be reached at 303-940-2468. The price 
with installation is $2000.

Hap, talkin dahkine Navigation in Evahboost, Maguire