Does anyone know if the USB input that is in several cars, is capable of accepting a 3.5mm audio signal? I have a portable XM radio for another car, and it has a usb input not an aux I put. I know they make usb -> 3.5 cables but I'm not sure if that's going to accept the signal.

 

That's a good question. I would be interested in knowing if someone knew a definite answer. If I had to speculate I would say no because I've tried plugging in a USB data cable into that port in the Max and connecting my Android phone but it doesn't recognize it. That would lead me to believe that you can only use it for what they intended--an Apple device.

 

I know the interface can accept usb sticks and different phones, just not sure if it can accept a direct signal for audio

 

My car does not have a USB port, although I have used my phone (Samsung Galaxy S2 and S4) in several vehicles that do have it and usually is a hit or miss. For Android, many of these devices have different specifications on how it handles the USB mass storage on the device. Newer Androids on the Jelly Bean or KitKit firmware will default to a mode called MTP which is what needs to be done for some of the older Android phones to be utilized.

As for your portable XM radio, what specific model do you own? I am sure the unit will have a 3.5mm opening if the USB connection does not work.

 

It's an XM Onyx. It has an aux port. The car doesn't though. Only a USB (2014 civic). I'm using the FM transmitter which sucks.

 

Wait, Mike this isn't for a Maxima?

 

No. I tried asking this question in another forum and nobody knew, so I figured if look for some help here

 

USB is a digital interface think 1's and 0's like your CDs. The audio jack you are talking about is analog. You would not be able to use it unless you convert the signal to digital.