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Vent removal, XM and FM Modulation

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Old Dec 3, 2003 | 06:03 AM
  #1  
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Vent removal, XM and FM Modulation

I am attempting to install my FM modulated XM into my Bose equipped '03.

While I have tracked down the how-to for gaining access to my antenna connection, I am having a devil of a time getting there. The description of being able to remove the vents with one finger appears very easy but I can't get my Homer Simpson-esque digit in there. I don't want to break the unit trying to pull it out. Is there a safer option or tool solution I can try?

Also, where is a good place to stash the modulator? Is there a hiding place under the center console somewhere? It's a Sony unit that is about 1x6x7.
Old Dec 3, 2003 | 06:08 AM
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Originally Posted by bniedert
I am attempting to install my FM modulated XM into my Bose equipped '03.

While I have tracked down the how-to for gaining access to my antenna connection, I am having a devil of a time getting there. The description of being able to remove the vents with one finger appears very easy but I can't get my Homer Simpson-esque digit in there. I don't want to break the unit trying to pull it out. Is there a safer option or tool solution I can try?

Also, where is a good place to stash the modulator? Is there a hiding place under the center console somewhere? It's a Sony unit that is about 1x6x7.
mine popped right out.
strap the modulator above the ECU. its right under where the radio is at, you will see it. plenty of room in there
Old Dec 3, 2003 | 06:26 AM
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dont bother.....satellite radio sucks when its FM modded
Old Dec 3, 2003 | 06:31 AM
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Originally Posted by Black2000maxima
dont bother.....satellite radio sucks when its FM modded
Your advice would be heeded if I didn't already own the unit and am moving it from my F-150 to the Max.
Old Dec 3, 2003 | 06:33 AM
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Originally Posted by bniedert
Your advice would be heeded if I didn't already own the unit and am moving it from my F-150 to the Max.

so then u already know how low and shietty it is already...
Old Dec 3, 2003 | 01:06 PM
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I was thinking of getting one myself...Why do u say that is ****ty ? because you can use it with any stereo out there ? if the reception is great,the sound should be good ,unless you ve got a POS head unit. Am I right or wrong..?
Old Dec 3, 2003 | 03:00 PM
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Originally Posted by astil
I was thinking of getting one myself...Why do u say that is ****ty ? because you can use it with any stereo out there ? if the reception is great,the sound should be good ,unless you ve got a POS head unit. Am I right or wrong..?
Well I got the console apart without significant damage and installed the unit. I am not happy the I have to mount the plugNplay above the vents. Looks like a radar detector. I mounted the modulator below the radio unit. Power came from the lighter via quick taps. Antenna is on the package tray. Painted it flat black to better match the black leather interior.
Old Dec 3, 2003 | 08:08 PM
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Originally Posted by bniedert
Well I got the console apart without significant damage and installed the unit. I am not happy the I have to mount the plugNplay above the vents. Looks like a radar detector. I mounted the modulator below the radio unit. Power came from the lighter via quick taps. Antenna is on the package tray. Painted it flat black to better match the black leather interior.

Let's see some pics
Old Dec 4, 2003 | 11:40 AM
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Originally Posted by nismaniac
Let's see some pics
Here they are.....



Old Dec 4, 2003 | 02:05 PM
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I went with the stealth method.

Old Dec 5, 2003 | 07:10 AM
  #11  
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Originally Posted by kronnman
I went with the stealth method.


That looks great. I really wish I could have done the same with my gen 1 Plug & Play. I tried a few stealthy options but the unit was just too big.
Old Dec 5, 2003 | 01:46 PM
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Originally Posted by astil
I was thinking of getting one myself...Why do u say that is ****ty ? because you can use it with any stereo out there ? if the reception is great,the sound should be good ,unless you ve got a POS head unit. Am I right or wrong..?
I think he meant "****ty" compared to using a real audio input or XM ready HU. You are paying money for a digital satallite signal but then modulating it to FM which is lower quality. You might consider than a waste of your monthly payment.
Old Dec 5, 2003 | 04:22 PM
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Originally Posted by Kojiro_FtT
I think he meant "****ty" compared to using a real audio input or XM ready HU. You are paying money for a digital satallite signal but then modulating it to FM which is lower quality. You might consider than a waste of your monthly payment.

While it's true that the SQ is not all that it can be when using FM mod, the programming still makes it worth every penny.
Old Dec 5, 2003 | 04:27 PM
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How does the XM sound if you use the cassete adapter? Is that even worse than the FM modulation method?

Originally Posted by mzmtg
While it's true that the SQ is not all that it can be when using FM mod, the programming still makes it worth every penny.
Old Dec 6, 2003 | 09:58 AM
  #15  
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He is right. I have had XM since day one. I first had the FM Mod method and it sucks *** compared to complete setup I have now. If you go to Best Buy (at the one near my house) they have both on display. The FM mod and the complete setup. You CAN tell the difference. Steer clear of the FM mod...9.99 a month isnt worth it.
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