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Best audio/phone connectivity options 2021?

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Richardz
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Best audio/phone connectivity options 2021?

Post by Richardz » Mon Mar 08, 2021 10:38 pm

Hi guys,

Sorry if this has already been answered, but what’s the recommended audio connectivity options in 2021? I want to be able to run music from Spotify in my 2006 E85 with good sound quality. I want to keep the OEM Stereo. Here’s my setup:

- BMW Radio Business
- Hi-Fi audio (Regular, not DSP)
- Bluetooth (Not sure it’s working, can’t get it to show up on my phone)
- CD-changer

I have narrowed down my options to:

- Bluetooth module that I understand will allow audio streaming, steering wheel controls and calls.
- AUX
- Grom? (What’s the value of this? I see they are more expensive)

Can anyone link the Bluetooth module you have used successfully with my setup? Also, how’s the sound quality compared to AUX?

Many thanks,
Richard

CryptoWhale
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Best audio/phone connectivity options 2021?

Post by CryptoWhale » Tue Mar 09, 2021 12:08 am

I've got a GROM unit installed on my car, came with the car when I purchased it and I have the same setup as you. Phone automatically connects as soon as I get in the car, I use Spotify and the steering controls work perfect, has a mic for calls all though I never use this but it does work pretty well. Sound quality is good, it's not state of the art but I have no complaints and I listen to music a lot when driving. Not used AUX so can't compare, I imagine there is no difference though.

Richardz
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Best audio/phone connectivity options 2021?

Post by Richardz » Sun Mar 14, 2021 8:50 am

Thanks, cryptowhale!

Any idea how this would compare to the cheaper Bluetooth dongle options?

Many thanks,
Richard

Coops387
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Best audio/phone connectivity options 2021?

Post by Coops387 » Fri Sep 03, 2021 6:51 am

I have this coming today:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B09 ... UTF8&psc=1

I'll let you know how it goes.

ZedsDeadbabyZedzdead
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Joined: Sat Jul 24, 2021 5:07 pm

Best audio/phone connectivity options 2021?

Post by ZedsDeadbabyZedzdead » Wed Nov 24, 2021 3:45 pm

Out of interest how did you get on with this gadget pleas?


quote=Coops387 post_id=1866052 time=1630648319 user_id=37870]
I have this coming today:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B09 ... UTF8&psc=1

I'll let you know how it goes.
[/quote]

Coops387
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Location: Lancashire

Best audio/phone connectivity options 2021?

Post by Coops387 » Sat Nov 27, 2021 12:20 pm

I couldn't get it to work, so I bought one of these. Cost just over a tenner and neatly plugs into what we used to call the cigarette lighter socket:~)

It works like all the rest - tune into a wavelength on the radio. The phone sits in it's holder (as seen in the pic) and the hands free works well. I am glad I didn't spend a lot on one - apart from the one I couldn't get to work!
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