Confirmed: MMI 2G High > Add AMI + Tune2Air = Bluetooth Music Goodness
06-20-2016, 11:21 PM
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Confirmed: MMI 2G High > Add AMI + Tune2Air = Bluetooth Music Goodness
Hi All,
Having relied on this forum to do my research into each of the independent steps on my quest to add Bluetooth music streaming to my 2006 A6 Avant, I wanted to post what was successful for me in the hopes that others can get there directly. Thank you to all who make this site the bible for Audi owners.
I also relied heavily on this great site https://a6retrofit.com/ami-retrofit-...sic-interface/ which covers the AMI installation well, and includes the MMI updates including the update files. Note however that I used a different part number for the AMI than the site editor recommends, as referenced below, but confirmed in other posts on AudiWorld before ordering that it was appropriate. The site does not address the Bluetooth adapter portion of the solution, however.
MMI UPDATE:
I have the 2G MMI High (color screen between speedo & tach) w/ Nav and had only a 6-disc CD changer in the left position in the glove box. I bought the car used and it was not fitted with the AMI module. As you well know, the car only comes with Bluetooth for phone integration. I upgraded my MMI software to the latest version (4610) - see site above on how to do this.
PARTS:
I ordered the AMI module off of eBay from a UK seller "turbo_herbie", model #4E0 057 785F. New Genuine Audi Music Interface Ami iPod Interface MP3 Complete Retro Fit Kit | eBay
It came complete with the optical wiring harness and power splitter harness to allow use of both the CD Changer and the AMI. Also included the keys to remove the changer to gain access to the connectors, instructions, and the iPod connector for the AMI. The seller is quick and knowledgeable.
I also ordered the ViseeO Tune2Air WMA3000A Bluetooth adapter from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1) which plugs into the AMI in place of the iPod cable.
INSTALLATION (this is not comprehensive, see the A6Retrofit site referenced above):
1. As mentioned, prior to installing the AMI or the Tune2Air, I upgraded my MMI to 4610 using the site above. Piece of cake, no disc burning/reading issues. As numerous posts discuss, before you remove the changer or any connections, make sure that the car is completely off and the MMI has turned completely off as well (you'll hear a faint sound when the MMI stops supplying power to the speakers, but waiting a few minutes is also safe).
2. Removing the CD changer was a pain and while the keys supplied unlocked the retainer clips, what I think was adhesive overspray from the glove box upholstery and 10 years of time created a lot of friction making it very difficult to pull out. I had to result to using some hooks in the ends of the CD slot to make it break loose. Luckily, no harm done, hope yours is easier...
3. If you don't intend to keep the CD Changer, the install is VERY simple as you just disconnect the fiber optic and power cables from your CD Changer and connect them to the AMI, slide it back into the compartment until it clicks and you're done. I wanted to keep the changer in case I ever needed to reload an MMI upgrade or whatever, so I chose to keep the CD Changer, your call...
4. Before installing the Changer and AMI into the glove box, I connected the cables, and booted it up to test functionality, first with an iPod connected to the cable (worked perfectly, first time), and then with the Tune2Air Bluetooth Adapter. The Tune2Air took a few MMI and phone reboots to get it all to initialize properly, pair properly, etc., but has been flawless ever since. I should note that I have a Windows 10 phone, so I can't say whether this initial rebooting is likely to happen with iOS or Android, but all are claimed to be supported by the Tune2Air, with iOS apparently having the best quality of integration with the MMI screen/console/steering wheel controls. Windows 10 Phone has minimal track/artist visibility in the MMI screen, but forward/back/volume works and I have my phone as my interface in a Kenu Airframe vent-mounted phone holder in the center of the dash within index finger distance from the shifter **** anyway and like the familiarity of touchscreen interface better anyway. In some posts and the site referenced above, it's mentioned that if you add the AMI to the changer you have to do some coding in the MMI or something and that you have to update the AMI to the latest software via a USB stick (which means you need another AMI cable that has USB, not the iPod connector). I'm not sure if this is a difference with the part number that I used versus the one suggested on the site, or not, but I didn't have to code anything or update the AMI firmware for it to work or recognize the Tune2Air. Mine worked right away, just having to push the CD button on the console to toggle back and forth between CD and "Interface" which is the AMI. Super easy.
5. I installed my AMI in the right side of the glove box, where it fit most of the way in, but not all. Since the Tune2Air Bluetooth adapter stays in there all the time and you don't have to access an iPod or phone, it really didn't matter to me which side I installed it in.
6. The AMI has to slide all the way back in, flush in front with the divider panel between the AMI and the Changer, or else the glove box won't close. I used a 1" hole saw to drill a hole in the left side of the back of the right compartment to pull the fiber optic and power harnesses into the glove box from the back of the changer. I also used the hole saw to cut out the right half of the back of the right compartment to allow the right side of the AMI housing (the tray is needlessly deep) to protrude into the open area under the dash about 3/4". I drilled about 8 overlapping holes, but a few 2" holes might be easier. After a little work with a loose hack-saw blade to cut off the peaks that remain between the holes, it slid right in. Do be very careful with the routing of the fiber optic harness and power cables, especially as you slide the changer or AMI into the compartments as getting them pinched or kinked will likely lead to broken fiber which will prevent it from working. You have to plan it a bit to make sure you hook it up so that the longer end of the harnesses are headed to the AMI, giving you enough length to connect them with the AMI in front of the compartment, not just in their final location, as unless you remove the glove box (waste of time) your access to the back of the CD changer or AMI when in place is essentially non-existent. I reinstalled the changer 90% of the way in (didn't want to repeat removal headache) before hooking up the AMI. There is an optional glove box meant to handle the changer and AMI that provides the room for the AMI and the locking track that would allow it to be as secure as the changer, but I didn't see the need and don't have a problem with it shifting around. If you did, a little double stick tape would certainly fix it.
7. I fired up the car, MMI and the AMI and Tune2Air Bluetooth adapter all came right back up like after the test prior to final install.
OPERATION TIPS:
1. Sometimes if I pause a song, but don't select another source for the MMI (CD/FM, etc.) the song will pause for a few seconds and then come back on. It's strange, but I've learned to use the volume button on the console "push to mute" function as my pause, as it automatically pauses the track. It's actually easier and safer for handsfree use.
2. Turn the phone volume all the way up for richest sound in the car. Since most phones have a specific volume setting for Bluetooth (vs. headphones or speakerphone) it's easy to keep it there.
3. You can only have one phone/tablet/device paired at a time so if you're wanting to allow others to play something from their phone, the previous person has to disconnect the Bluetooth pairing on their device first.
4. I find the sound quality to be great when playing from my phone, though other posts on AudiWorld have suggested that it's not up to par...can't speak to that. I'm a stickler for good sound and I'm satisfied.
5. It does remember what you were listening to last and will start playing it when you get back in the car, which I find convenient.
That's it. Good luck!
Having relied on this forum to do my research into each of the independent steps on my quest to add Bluetooth music streaming to my 2006 A6 Avant, I wanted to post what was successful for me in the hopes that others can get there directly. Thank you to all who make this site the bible for Audi owners.
I also relied heavily on this great site https://a6retrofit.com/ami-retrofit-...sic-interface/ which covers the AMI installation well, and includes the MMI updates including the update files. Note however that I used a different part number for the AMI than the site editor recommends, as referenced below, but confirmed in other posts on AudiWorld before ordering that it was appropriate. The site does not address the Bluetooth adapter portion of the solution, however.
MMI UPDATE:
I have the 2G MMI High (color screen between speedo & tach) w/ Nav and had only a 6-disc CD changer in the left position in the glove box. I bought the car used and it was not fitted with the AMI module. As you well know, the car only comes with Bluetooth for phone integration. I upgraded my MMI software to the latest version (4610) - see site above on how to do this.
PARTS:
I ordered the AMI module off of eBay from a UK seller "turbo_herbie", model #4E0 057 785F. New Genuine Audi Music Interface Ami iPod Interface MP3 Complete Retro Fit Kit | eBay
It came complete with the optical wiring harness and power splitter harness to allow use of both the CD Changer and the AMI. Also included the keys to remove the changer to gain access to the connectors, instructions, and the iPod connector for the AMI. The seller is quick and knowledgeable.
I also ordered the ViseeO Tune2Air WMA3000A Bluetooth adapter from Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...?ie=UTF8&psc=1) which plugs into the AMI in place of the iPod cable.
INSTALLATION (this is not comprehensive, see the A6Retrofit site referenced above):
1. As mentioned, prior to installing the AMI or the Tune2Air, I upgraded my MMI to 4610 using the site above. Piece of cake, no disc burning/reading issues. As numerous posts discuss, before you remove the changer or any connections, make sure that the car is completely off and the MMI has turned completely off as well (you'll hear a faint sound when the MMI stops supplying power to the speakers, but waiting a few minutes is also safe).
2. Removing the CD changer was a pain and while the keys supplied unlocked the retainer clips, what I think was adhesive overspray from the glove box upholstery and 10 years of time created a lot of friction making it very difficult to pull out. I had to result to using some hooks in the ends of the CD slot to make it break loose. Luckily, no harm done, hope yours is easier...
3. If you don't intend to keep the CD Changer, the install is VERY simple as you just disconnect the fiber optic and power cables from your CD Changer and connect them to the AMI, slide it back into the compartment until it clicks and you're done. I wanted to keep the changer in case I ever needed to reload an MMI upgrade or whatever, so I chose to keep the CD Changer, your call...
4. Before installing the Changer and AMI into the glove box, I connected the cables, and booted it up to test functionality, first with an iPod connected to the cable (worked perfectly, first time), and then with the Tune2Air Bluetooth Adapter. The Tune2Air took a few MMI and phone reboots to get it all to initialize properly, pair properly, etc., but has been flawless ever since. I should note that I have a Windows 10 phone, so I can't say whether this initial rebooting is likely to happen with iOS or Android, but all are claimed to be supported by the Tune2Air, with iOS apparently having the best quality of integration with the MMI screen/console/steering wheel controls. Windows 10 Phone has minimal track/artist visibility in the MMI screen, but forward/back/volume works and I have my phone as my interface in a Kenu Airframe vent-mounted phone holder in the center of the dash within index finger distance from the shifter **** anyway and like the familiarity of touchscreen interface better anyway. In some posts and the site referenced above, it's mentioned that if you add the AMI to the changer you have to do some coding in the MMI or something and that you have to update the AMI to the latest software via a USB stick (which means you need another AMI cable that has USB, not the iPod connector). I'm not sure if this is a difference with the part number that I used versus the one suggested on the site, or not, but I didn't have to code anything or update the AMI firmware for it to work or recognize the Tune2Air. Mine worked right away, just having to push the CD button on the console to toggle back and forth between CD and "Interface" which is the AMI. Super easy.
5. I installed my AMI in the right side of the glove box, where it fit most of the way in, but not all. Since the Tune2Air Bluetooth adapter stays in there all the time and you don't have to access an iPod or phone, it really didn't matter to me which side I installed it in.
6. The AMI has to slide all the way back in, flush in front with the divider panel between the AMI and the Changer, or else the glove box won't close. I used a 1" hole saw to drill a hole in the left side of the back of the right compartment to pull the fiber optic and power harnesses into the glove box from the back of the changer. I also used the hole saw to cut out the right half of the back of the right compartment to allow the right side of the AMI housing (the tray is needlessly deep) to protrude into the open area under the dash about 3/4". I drilled about 8 overlapping holes, but a few 2" holes might be easier. After a little work with a loose hack-saw blade to cut off the peaks that remain between the holes, it slid right in. Do be very careful with the routing of the fiber optic harness and power cables, especially as you slide the changer or AMI into the compartments as getting them pinched or kinked will likely lead to broken fiber which will prevent it from working. You have to plan it a bit to make sure you hook it up so that the longer end of the harnesses are headed to the AMI, giving you enough length to connect them with the AMI in front of the compartment, not just in their final location, as unless you remove the glove box (waste of time) your access to the back of the CD changer or AMI when in place is essentially non-existent. I reinstalled the changer 90% of the way in (didn't want to repeat removal headache) before hooking up the AMI. There is an optional glove box meant to handle the changer and AMI that provides the room for the AMI and the locking track that would allow it to be as secure as the changer, but I didn't see the need and don't have a problem with it shifting around. If you did, a little double stick tape would certainly fix it.
7. I fired up the car, MMI and the AMI and Tune2Air Bluetooth adapter all came right back up like after the test prior to final install.
OPERATION TIPS:
1. Sometimes if I pause a song, but don't select another source for the MMI (CD/FM, etc.) the song will pause for a few seconds and then come back on. It's strange, but I've learned to use the volume button on the console "push to mute" function as my pause, as it automatically pauses the track. It's actually easier and safer for handsfree use.
2. Turn the phone volume all the way up for richest sound in the car. Since most phones have a specific volume setting for Bluetooth (vs. headphones or speakerphone) it's easy to keep it there.
3. You can only have one phone/tablet/device paired at a time so if you're wanting to allow others to play something from their phone, the previous person has to disconnect the Bluetooth pairing on their device first.
4. I find the sound quality to be great when playing from my phone, though other posts on AudiWorld have suggested that it's not up to par...can't speak to that. I'm a stickler for good sound and I'm satisfied.
5. It does remember what you were listening to last and will start playing it when you get back in the car, which I find convenient.
That's it. Good luck!
12-01-2016, 12:38 PM
#2
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Im trying to do this for my daughters 2005 A6 C6.
Simple question is...Is it really going to be this pricey just to allow her to use her iphone pandora etc..? there is no cheaper alternative?
Thanks. Tod
Simple question is...Is it really going to be this pricey just to allow her to use her iphone pandora etc..? there is no cheaper alternative?
Thanks. Tod
12-01-2016, 01:22 PM
#3
To stream music via A2DP BT, you will need an interface to the MMI loop (i.e. AMI, Dension 500, Xcarlink, etc...) and you will need a "Good" dongle which allows streaming (i.e. Tune2Air, or DIY route)
BTW, check out the following threads if you are looking for alternatives:
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a6-...a-mmi-2791080/
https://www.audiworld.com/forums/a8-...mi-2g-2896771/
12-01-2016, 11:24 PM
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As Raj said, there are other ways, but I chose to go the AMI route because of its ease of installation and lack of potential part compatibility issues, given that some of the solutions are 6+ years old and parts are either not available or have evolved by now.
If you have any specific questions on my install, let me know...
Good Luck!
12-21-2016, 09:35 AM
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Sealroad, Smack me if this sounds stupid, I'll gladly accept.
After more reading it seems I can just replace the CD unit with this? AMI 4E0 035 785 B.
Or... Because she has the Bose system I cannot? 1 other question... When I search eBay all I seem to find when looking for this part are overseas sellers (I'm a Yankee) Actually I hate the Yankees, and Baseball for that matter, but that's another discussion altogether.
Thanks for any help.
Tod
After more reading it seems I can just replace the CD unit with this? AMI 4E0 035 785 B.
Or... Because she has the Bose system I cannot? 1 other question... When I search eBay all I seem to find when looking for this part are overseas sellers (I'm a Yankee) Actually I hate the Yankees, and Baseball for that matter, but that's another discussion altogether.
Thanks for any help.
Tod
12-21-2016, 10:31 AM
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4E0 035 785 B
Sealroad, Smack me if this sounds stupid, I'll gladly accept.
After more reading it seems I can just replace the CD unit with this? AMI 4E0 035 785 B.
Or... Because she has the Bose system I cannot? 1 other question... When I search eBay all I seem to find when looking for this part are overseas sellers (I'm a Yankee) Actually I hate the Yankees, and Baseball for that matter, but that's another discussion altogether.
Thanks for any help.
Tod
After more reading it seems I can just replace the CD unit with this? AMI 4E0 035 785 B.
Or... Because she has the Bose system I cannot? 1 other question... When I search eBay all I seem to find when looking for this part are overseas sellers (I'm a Yankee) Actually I hate the Yankees, and Baseball for that matter, but that's another discussion altogether.
Thanks for any help.
Tod
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12-21-2016, 11:06 AM
#8
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Hi Tod,
You're correct that you can just swap the AMI for the CD Changer, which negates the need for the additional fiber-optic loom and power extension harness. It gets really easy in terms of installation if you choose to go that route, as it becomes plug and play, without need to cut out the back of the glove box. However, the downside of removing the CD changer is that it is used for all updates to the firmware of the car via CD. Mind you, you'll be updating to the most current firmware as part of the process, prior to installing the AMI, so the chances of needing to do a future firmware update are slim. I doubt Audi will release any further updates for our cars anyway, given the age. However, I'd recommend you hang onto the CD Changer in case something ever goes wrong with the install of the firmware and it has to be reloaded. If that happened, you could simply temporarily swap back to the CD changer, make the upgrade and then swap back to the AMI again...
As for sourcing the AMI, you're right, all of them seem to be available from overseas sellers. I'm in Seattle and found mine from a seller from the UK, but I also considered one in Japan and one in Czech. They are essentially unavailable in the US at this point, unless you can happen to find one in a salvage yard. My buying experience was clean and easy via eBay.
The part number you're referring to is one that I've seen on various other posts and the external site I referenced I'm my post, however there are several versions that differ in two versions of the middle three digits of the part number "#4E0 035 785B" versus "#4E0 057 785F" and the last letter designation, which had several letter options, I think mostly connected to age/updated versions. I think the "B" was not available when I was looking and I found the " #4E0 057 785F" version available and had come across other posts that suggested it would work as well. I think it was OEM on similar age or slightly newer A8 models, but I don't recall exactly, but I know mine works! Generally, I think I found that A4 models which had similar AMIs are not compatible, but not 100% sure. The critical thing is that you get one that is the "MOST" version, not "CAN". The latter is a different version that will not communicate with a US car. You will be able to see the letters "MOST" on the same label on the top of the AMI that shows the part number, which should be visible in the sellers picture. I'd also ask any seller you're dealing with to confirm that their part will work on your car. Though not foolproof, I found my seller to be able to go into detail on it's application and installation...
Good luck in your search!
You're correct that you can just swap the AMI for the CD Changer, which negates the need for the additional fiber-optic loom and power extension harness. It gets really easy in terms of installation if you choose to go that route, as it becomes plug and play, without need to cut out the back of the glove box. However, the downside of removing the CD changer is that it is used for all updates to the firmware of the car via CD. Mind you, you'll be updating to the most current firmware as part of the process, prior to installing the AMI, so the chances of needing to do a future firmware update are slim. I doubt Audi will release any further updates for our cars anyway, given the age. However, I'd recommend you hang onto the CD Changer in case something ever goes wrong with the install of the firmware and it has to be reloaded. If that happened, you could simply temporarily swap back to the CD changer, make the upgrade and then swap back to the AMI again...
As for sourcing the AMI, you're right, all of them seem to be available from overseas sellers. I'm in Seattle and found mine from a seller from the UK, but I also considered one in Japan and one in Czech. They are essentially unavailable in the US at this point, unless you can happen to find one in a salvage yard. My buying experience was clean and easy via eBay.
The part number you're referring to is one that I've seen on various other posts and the external site I referenced I'm my post, however there are several versions that differ in two versions of the middle three digits of the part number "#4E0 035 785B" versus "#4E0 057 785F" and the last letter designation, which had several letter options, I think mostly connected to age/updated versions. I think the "B" was not available when I was looking and I found the " #4E0 057 785F" version available and had come across other posts that suggested it would work as well. I think it was OEM on similar age or slightly newer A8 models, but I don't recall exactly, but I know mine works! Generally, I think I found that A4 models which had similar AMIs are not compatible, but not 100% sure. The critical thing is that you get one that is the "MOST" version, not "CAN". The latter is a different version that will not communicate with a US car. You will be able to see the letters "MOST" on the same label on the top of the AMI that shows the part number, which should be visible in the sellers picture. I'd also ask any seller you're dealing with to confirm that their part will work on your car. Though not foolproof, I found my seller to be able to go into detail on it's application and installation...
Good luck in your search!
11-25-2017, 06:52 AM
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Sorry to resurrect an old thread but been struggling with his for a while on my 2008 A6 C6. Bought the bovee 1000wma to plug into my iPod dongle in my glove box (ami is my understanding) and I cannot get it to work with my iPhone 7plus. Did I purchase the wrong Bluetooth connector?
11-25-2017, 09:17 AM
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Sorry to resurrect an old thread but been struggling with his for a while on my 2008 A6 C6. Bought the bovee 1000wma to plug into my iPod dongle in my glove box (ami is my understanding) and I cannot get it to work with my iPhone 7plus. Did I purchase the wrong Bluetooth connector?