Best iPod Connection for 2007 Tahoe?

[ugadawgs311]

I want to connect my iPod/iPhone to my stereo nav unit in my 2007 Tahoe. I want to be able to control the iPod through my factory radio and have the song name, artist, and album display on the screen much like it does with an MP3 CD. Does anyone have any experience with any periphials than will connect the iPod to the factory nav system? Also, I have Bose, onStar, and XM if that makes a difference. Thanks for any and all help!

 

[ptwat]

I am using a uPAC-GM29 (PAC Audio) and it works okay. The interface is clunky but works- not very intuitive. I am not sure there is anything much better. I find that using Pandora with this interface is much better that trying to navigate through the one line menus to find artists, title or playlist with the uPAC.

 

[zach2011]

I use the PXAMG device and I love it. It is also made by PAC Audio. It shows the song name and artist on the nav screen and you can control the songs with your steering wheel controls. Pretty great investment.

 

[ugadawgs311]

Zach,

Thanks for the response. I've found the PXAMG online for about $100. Is the install pretty easy? Also, does the unit work all the time? I only ask because I used something similar to this on my 2003 Tahoe, and at times it would either work or just not work, which was very frustrating. Have you found the PXAMG to be fully functional all the time?

Another question: Can you sift through folders (i.e. artisits, albums, etc.) while driving? I've noticed that the Tahoe must be stopped in order to sift through folders in XM or in an MP3 CD.

Thanks again for the responses!

 

[IrishTR]

ugadawgs

I run the GM Lock Pick Gen6 with Ipod integration. I can control with steering wheel for songs based of the screen selection. Namely if I am listening to all songs by an Artists, it will Skip or do previous. The screen I can select Artists, Albums, Playlists, etc.

There are just a few times where need to make sure to let the device get read essentially after starting the vehicle before trying to change any selection other than track. But other than that no real problems.

It was very easy install took like 10mins and that was mainly prying the trim around the stereo off carefully so I didnt crack/break it. Then just plug in harnesses and go! The whole kit allows me to edit NAV in motion, Watch DVD in motion as well as IPOD features.

I think the interface could be better sure but part of that is the crummy factory NAVs software fault and nothing I can really do about it :/ But I drive my 2010 TL all the time and its 100X better factory system imo, while the wifee is content with the Denali.

Anyways best of luck with whatever option you choose, and if you want real control... Go aftermarket always gonna be a better choice (I just got tired of a$$hat$ stealing/breaking into my cars taking the stuff so I leave it all stock now)

 

[zach2011]

Zach,

Thanks for the response. I've found the PXAMG online for about $100. Is the install pretty easy? Also, does the unit work all the time? I only ask because I used something similar to this on my 2003 Tahoe, and at times it would either work or just not work, which was very frustrating. Have you found the PXAMG to be fully functional all the time?

Another question: Can you sift through folders (i.e. artisits, albums, etc.) while driving? I've noticed that the Tahoe must be stopped in order to sift through folders in XM or in an MP3 CD.

Thanks again for the responses!

Mine works fully functional 24/7. Install is a little tricky depending on where you want the iPod connector to be located, I chose mine to come out of the center console (I have the Denali one). The only difficult part I found about the install was tucking the extra harness behind the nav to get the nav to fit right, but it's easy once you do it simultaneously.

The neat thing about the PXAMG is that you can also add Bluetooth and HD Radio functionality. I have Bluetooth added to mine and it's great, works just like factory. Calls mute the radio and everything is controlled through the steering wheel.

And yes, you can go through playlists/folders/albums/artists/everything else while in motion, I also like that feature. Overall a really great device. Everybody that has seen it in my truck thinks that my Tahoe came with iPod and Bluetooth functionality, it is a very clean and factory-like interface.

 

[ugadawgs311]

Zach,

Thanks again for the response. I'll most likely be purchasing this device. Is your iPhone running on OS 4.1? Also, did you have to drill a hole in the center console in order to get the iPod wire to come through (the bottom of it I assume)?

Also, did you have to buy a specific wiring harness to connect the PXAMG to the factory nav system? Is it the PGHGM1?

 

[zach2011]

I am running 4.1, yes, and I did have to cut a hole, but it is not noticeable. The PGHGM1 is the correct harness to order. Be sure you also get the iPod cable.

 

[ugadawgs311]

Awesome. Thanks for all of the help. One last question: will this disable OnStar and/or XM?

 

[zach2011]

No. It will not affect either features.

 

[ugadawgs311]

Sounds great. I ended up ordering one. Do you have any tips as far as removing the bezel around the radio and removing the radio itself? What's the best way to pry off the bezel?

Also, what did you use to drill a hole in the center console?

 

[ptwat]

There are some youtube videos showing how to do it but you basically have to pry it from the side with flat tip screwdriver or other flat stiff device. You will no doubt think the plastic is going to break before the metal clips let go but that is how it comes out. Try to get as close to the clips as possible. I am going to post some pictures the thread where I am working on my lastest project replaciing my OEM with a z120bt on my '09 Tahoe maybe later tonight. I will put a picture of the plastic cover with the clips showing if I have one. Harbor Frieght has some plastic prying tools for about $5 if you have one close. That is what I used.

 

[daytonflyer53]

Mine works fully functional 24/7. Install is a little tricky depending on where you want the iPod connector to be located, I chose mine to come out of the center console (I have the Denali one). The only difficult part I found about the install was tucking the extra harness behind the nav to get the nav to fit right, but it's easy once you do it simultaneously.

The neat thing about the PXAMG is that you can also add Bluetooth and HD Radio functionality. I have Bluetooth added to mine and it's great, works just like factory. Calls mute the radio and everything is controlled through the steering wheel.

And yes, you can go through playlists/folders/albums/artists/everything else while in motion, I also like that feature. Overall a really great device. Everybody that has seen it in my truck thinks that my Tahoe came with iPod and Bluetooth functionality, it is a very clean and factory-like interface.

Are you running the BLU-GM29 ($159) from PAC Audio? Also which bluetooth kit are you using with this (EGO TALK, Parrot CK3000 & Motorola IHF1000/IHF1700)?