CD Changer Info. Posted this in alt.autos.audi, might as well do so here, long (656 words)

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04-01-1999, 05:00 PM

KLHI

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CD Changer Info. Posted this in alt.autos.audi, might as well do so here, long (656 words)

KLHI kimon_ioannid@yahoo.comThere are several options for CD Changers for A4's. For the purpose of this post, I will refrain from discussing the changer needs of models manufactured before mid-1998 (all my information is relevant only to 98.5 and later A4's For information on Pre 98.5 A4's, go to http://www.a4.org/faq/faqs/faq12.shtml). All information for American A4 with standard stereo only. Information on Bose system might be different. Information for A4's in other countries may also vary. Sorry, if I sound like a lawyer in this part.The A4 stereo system has a pre-run cable (known as a DIN cable) to the A4's trunk. This cable can be connected to a CD-changer for operation through the regular controls on the stereo in the dash. There are several options for CD-changers:1) You could order one from Audi. A 6-disc CD-changer is included in the $1200 Bose Stereo upgrade (a.k.a., premium audio package).2) You could buy a system for dealer or self-installation from Audi. This changer, a 6-disc model, is available prom Clair Parts Express (http://www.clair.com/clair.html, this page is somewhat more specific: http://www.clair.com/parts/a4acc.html), similar companies, or your local Audi dealer (not sure if this is true. I'm assuming that this is correct, so don't quote me). At Clair it costs $249.95 plus a $63.75 installation kit (something required for ALL of the Audi model stereos and the changers discussed in item number 3 if mounted as discussed in the FAQ linked to below. You can have your dealer install it for about $50, or you do it yourself - a difficult process. For more information on the process, go to the A4.org FAQ article on this topic (http://www.a4.org/faq/faqs/faq75.shtml). 3) In American A4's after 98.5, Audi uses a Panasonic CD-changer (Actually the changer discussed above, though without the Audi logo and the accompanying benefits). This changer can be bought separately, as can it's 8-disc equivalent. Both changers plug into an adapter which in turn plugs the DIN cable. The 6-disc changer apparently preserves all of the Audi changers functions, as does, the 8-disc changer with the exception of the Random function, which becomes disabled. With the Panasonic 6-disc changer (Model number CX-DP601), discs are accessed through the preset buttons. With the Panasonic 8-disc changer (Model Number CX-DP801) the discs are accessed through the presets and the tune down/up buttons (the little "<" and ">" buttons next to the LED display on the stereo). In other words to get to disc 7 from disc 3 (for example press the 6 button and then use the ">" to cycle up the discs until you get to 7 (it should take just one push). To get to 8, you just push the ">" button again. These changers are widely available from many retailers. I found the 6-disc changer at Crutchfield (ht.//www.crutchfield.com/ more specific link to changer: http://www.crutchfield.com/cgi-bin/S-njOoNf192XJ/blockpub.exe?bid=863&store=2&sid =S-njOoNf192XJ (with a picture) more specific link to adapter: http://www.crutchfield.com/cgi-bin/S-njOoNf192XJ/blockpub.exe?bid=863&store=2&sid =S-njOoNf192XJ), see the section on this Crutchfield offering at Sean’s A4 page (http://www.ns.net/~seang/logbook/faq.html, go to the "What aftermarket CD changer will work with my factory stereo?" section). The adapter costs an extra $20 or so. Both the 6- and 8-disc changers (strangely, the 8-disc changer costs slightly LESS than the 6-disc model) are available from Autotoys (http://www.autotoys.com specific link to 6-disc changer: http://www.autotoys.com/Store/Browse/1001/1020/1952?id=9.17841 specific link to 8-disc changer: http://www.autotoys.com/Store/Browse/1001/1020/2612?id=9.17841 ) for somewhat less than Crutchfield. This price includes shipping AND the adapter, something you have to pay for with Crutchfield). Autotoys also includes A "universal mounting bracket" with their changer. The most common position for the Autotoys system is under the trunk roof just behind the trunk door. I don't know how to install it, nor have I found someone who does. I'm not sure what Crutchfield suggests for installation.Please, please correct any inaccuracies people. There's bound to be something wrong in this thing. More information on anything is also gladly accepted.

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