I recently updated my MMI 2G high to version 4610. I then installed the AMI in place of the CD changer. After pulling the power and initializing it a few times it finally recognized, but I later realized that the update had knocked out Bluetooth. I then put the CD changer BACK IN and ran the CD1 update again and all is good in the world. Not wanting to have to deal with this again, I read that it was possible to have both the CD changer and the AMI at the same time. I assume Audi would have offered it, so I have to assume it works (maybe not on my MY2005, since the MMI software does not support AMI without the update). I got the Bluetooth dongle working, but it has to be powered as I found out the 2G system doesn't provide power through the AMI cable. So while it works, you would have to have your glove box open and a cable running through the passenger area, which is inconvenient at best. So I bought the following things (some are from China, so I won't likely have everything fully done for a few weeks, but will keep everyone informed if I do get it all up and working):



Bluetooth to AMI dongle. Note the USB cable for external power.



Add a circuit standard size



12V to 5V converter with USB female end.



Called: Retrofit Fibre Cables cd changer Connector for Audi Media Interface AMI MMI 2G

Current state of affairs:


Plenty of open fuse locations.


AMI, not currently hooked up, but confirmed working after MMI update.


CD changer. Hooked up for re updating MMI. Bluetooth puck and USB also shown.


So the thought process goes as follows:
Take the add a circuit and place into the passenger fuse box on an unused, switched circuit.
Power the converter to 5V USB.
Chase the USB power for BT into area behind glove box.
Split power and MOST to both cd changer and AMI.
Feed power, USB power, and MOST into empty cubby hole for AMI.
Plug up and test.
Tidy up install for permanent solution.

 

Note: You'll probably find those fuse locations are not wired either. To wire properly I think you have to go to a dealer to get the appropriate terminals on pieces of wire.

 

You are correct...
I did notice that some of them have the bottom terminal but not the top for the circuit. I then tested one of the empty, but with the positive bottom lead (self-leveling suspension, which I guess I do not have) and the bottom is switched 12v to ground. Tested to ground against a nut on the firewall next to the fuse panel. So that means I can make it look even more factory. The add a circuit will not be needed. I will just solder the 5v converter directly to the lead I pulled, install it in the self-leveling top location on the back of the fuse panel and add a fuse. Now it should look completely stock! Will likely pull the glove box to really make a clean install once I test it is all working.



Hijacked from an old VW fuse panel.

 

If you want both CD changer and AMI installed and don't have the dual position glove box, you can find it from salvage yards in the EU (and maybe Canada?)

 

My car has a 6 disk CD changer and an AMI plug in the glovebox. It has the 30 pin iPhone end on it. (I use a 30 pin to Lightning adapter and keep an older iPhone always plugged in)

 

Well the AMI fits almost perfectly in the spot. The back is not cut out like the CD side, but there are a few vent holes that look like the cables will fit through one at a time. I might have to disassemble the MOST optical cable as I think it is the biggest and may not fit. That or when I drop the glove box just dremel it out a bit since it will be hidden and I don't plan on removing it.
I am in the US. I looked at the closest breaker yard and they have 2 Audi A6 C6's. I might go check as I have a few small odds and ends I need as well. Seeing as I basically will never touch the AMI unit again, I think a little rubber shim should secure it more than enough.

 

Well, I am a long time Android guy and the 2G AMI cord does not supply power, so I am having to go about things differently. But I would rather have Bluetooth. I tried it out and it sounded incredible.

The great thing is that it automatically connects both to the car for calls and to the BT dongle for music. Truly hands free!

 

Using the Bovee tune2air, you do not need to add power.

 

As indicated in my earlier post I have a 2005 A6 with the 2G High MMI and on that link the listing says:

AMI 3G

Important: Compatible only with Audi vehicles made in 2009 and onwards (some older Audi vehicles may also have compatible 3G systems - check your media system software version before purchasing)

So my endeavor involves the 2G system that does not supply power from the AMI plug, but still allows BT music to be sent over it. I used a radio app and I didn't see any meta information like song title, etc. But I really could care less as long as it sounds good. Splitter wires should be here this week to at least test the dual setup.

 

Update!

So the splitter came in today... and it ALL WORKS!
I think since I let the AMI initialize on its own after the update, my MMI knew I had both. It took about 5 tries to finally get the AMI to register the first time, but now it shows up instantly. My process was to let it try, fail, cycle key to off, unplug AMI power plug for a few seconds, plug back in, key on, try again. Eventually it initialized and connected and I have had zero issues since. The 12V to 5V converter won't be here for likely a couple weeks, so the clean up and clean install update won't be for a bit, but I can confirm that the retrofit cable (~$25) is truly plug and play after the 4610 MMI update (for the US). And like I mentioned if you have BT wiped out after the update re run CD 1 to reinstate it.
Attached is a sample of the BT audio. It doesn't sound great as it is just the voice recorder on my phone sitting in my lap, but there is no "noise" and it plays through the full optical connection of the AMI MOST cable so it sounds great.



Ugly, but hooked up.



Clicking CD, then source shows both. Scroll and click your choice!