How to get an iPod to work in my car? (i had to use this title)

June 8, 2008 2:34 PM

Hooking up an iPod/amp after car stereo was stolen?

My friend's car was broken into and his stereo was stolen. He'd like to know if it's possible to make a connection for an iPod without purchasing a whole new stereo system. The speakers are still there, there must be a way to access them via USB.

posted by Pants! to Technology (4 answers total)

He can buy a new receiver/deck/head-unit, then use it with the existing speakers. He could also plug the iPod directly into an amplifier, though there are some significant downsides to that route. I'm not sure what you mean by 'access [the speakers] via USB.'
posted by box at 2:40 PM on June 8, 2008

What box was alluding to is that the IPOD does not have enough power to run standard car speakers. A standard car radio (I think?) can push 30-40-60 watts to the speakers, whereas your tinsy ipod at best can do 2-3. You could wire up a cheap amp in the car, and interface the ipod to that.... but really.. your friends best bet is to just buy a new stereo.

There is no way to "access [the speakers] via USB".
posted by SirStan at 2:50 PM on June 8, 2008

If your friend needs a REALLY cheap stereo system... find a set of PC speakers that run on 12-15 volts, and wire them into the cig lighter without the power adapter :).
posted by SirStan at 2:51 PM on June 8, 2008

Just go out and buy the best portable stereo you can find for $30. Bonus point if it comes with a remote.
Make sure it has a 3.5mm stereo mini jack input. Place said stereo in the passenger foot well.
posted by terpia at 5:33 PM on June 8, 2008