Now that I have a new ride, there are some mods that I’m going to have to investigate to make everything just the way I want it. Since I listen to so much content on my iPod, I’m trying to find out the best way to connect it to the stock stereo. Sure, I can get an FM adaptor but they’re generally not very good. Historically, I used a cassette adaptor which I was quite satisfied with, but the new stereo does not provide a cassette.

Honda makes an iPod integration kit but it’s expensive (about $500 installed) and reviews I have found indicate it’s clunky. I found the Axxess wire-tunes at my local Circuit City but it doesn’t available for the 2006 Civic. I’m also considering getting a TomTom GO 510 as it provides an iPod connection and control but I’ll need to see one in use first.

Not sure what all options are. I’ll probably hit a few pro audio stores (e.g., not big-box stores) to get some ideas and advise.

UPDATE: After some research, I’ve ordered a USA SPEC iPod Interface from Crutchfield (using a $20 coupon from DealCoupon. It lets you use your iPod through the CD changer interface so the controls work on the stereo. Unfortunately, it doesn’t support the text display. Stay tuned for installation experiences.