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USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack?

Posted: Fri Mar 21, 2008 9:06 am
by Eloi
Hello,On my upcoming Vibe 2009, I'll get the base radio system. I'm planning to change it for another model (Pioneer or Sony or else) from a specialized shop cause I'd like to be able to play MP3 CDs, and I'd also like to connect my USB flash drive directly to the auxiliary jack and be able to read what's on the drive on the radio menu. I know that it's possible for a good number of Pionneer and Sony models.Is there an adaptor that exists for GM radio to do this? If so, I'd be interested and would not be forced to change the radio...Thanks.

Posted: Fri Mar 21, 2008 9:15 am
by zionzr2
I'm not currently aware of any such OEM radio that is capable of that feature.

Posted: Fri Mar 21, 2008 9:59 am
by northvibe
as far as I know it would probably only be a ipod capable one and I dont know of one that will for the vibe, but i havent researched them all. That is for the stock HU, after market ones...its all up to the brand.

Re: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack? (Eloi)

Posted: Tue Apr 08, 2008 3:37 am
by vibrtor
This is the most expedient and least costly way to use your flash drive in the factory radio. I have one of these and it's performed reasonably well for what it cost. http://www.walmart.com/catalog...56678

Posted: Tue Apr 08, 2008 6:31 am
by ColonelPanic
The '09 Vibe is strictly an audio signal input only, there's no way to do any sort of conversion to USB. There are a few models out there from different manufacturers which have USB ports that will read flash drives or portable hard drives in addition to iPods on their OEM systems, but this ain't one of 'em. I have a feeling though that the '09 Vibe radio is going to be very difficult to change out, it's probably highly integrated into the car unlike the first gen. Since all have OnStar, you'll probably lose that feature since I believe that all runs through the radio. Mounting-wise it definitely is going to be a challenge, it's oddly shaped and I doubt any mounting kits exist at this point. Probably have to replace the whole center trim panel.

Re: (ColonelPanic)

Posted: Tue Apr 08, 2008 10:30 pm
by Sublimewind
Quote, originally posted by ColonelPanic »The '09 Vibe is strictly an audio signal input only, there's no way to do any sort of conversion to USB. There are a few models out there from different manufacturers which have USB ports that will read flash drives or portable hard drives in addition to iPods on their OEM systems, but this ain't one of 'em. I have a feeling though that the '09 Vibe radio is going to be very difficult to change out, it's probably highly integrated into the car unlike the first gen. Since all have OnStar, you'll probably lose that feature since I believe that all runs through the radio. Mounting-wise it definitely is going to be a challenge, it's oddly shaped and I doubt any mounting kits exist at this point. Probably have to replace the whole center trim panel. yeah, this is one of my biggest gripes with the 09'. Alas, a LOT of companies are doing it, trying to hold back the aftermarket... they are realizing that the aftermarket is a multi billion dollor a year thing and seem to want to kill much of it, or force the aftermarket to come up with some crazy intigration gizmos... Products like the Rockford Fosgate 360 and hte JL Audio Clean Sweep are here to help, but that offer WAY more tuning and function than the layman can use...

Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2008 4:47 am
by aradlaw
Speaking of WalMart, I was browsing the other day and saw a Jensen dash unit (5112 I think) HD AM & FM, MP3 cd, as well as USB & aux input...all for $150.cdn

Re: (aradlaw)

Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:38 am
by briantforce
i have a pioneer deh-p6900ub and it will play and FAT formatted usb drive through the HU. It is discontinued but i believe they have the same thing now with just a different styling. dont know if that helps at all

Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:43 am
by Sublimewind
There are plenty of aftermarket HU's that are adding in USB support, you just have to be carefull what you use on it, some require more power than others... Depending on the unit picked, adding a laptop HDD is as easy as plugging it in and supplying it proper power (most USB input only provide enough power for a flash type drive)I've read of people using 250g HDDs in the car..

Re: (Sublimewind)

Posted: Mon Apr 21, 2008 7:16 am
by imspace2
I'm kinda ticked. The '09 Matrix is available with an iPod kit but the Vibes stereo wont be compatible from the looks of it the Vibe stereo is a Toyota shell with GM/Delco innards. But I'm still going to try and find what iPod kit is compatible with the Vibe, The display looks similar to a Malibus, Impalas and Auras so hopefully there is just some magic jack on the back to add an iPod adapter

Re: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack? (vibrtor)

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2008 1:47 am
by w8_4_me
Vibrtor, did you pick that up in the store or on line? Wondering what department? Auto? Music? w8

Re: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack? (w8_4_me)

Posted: Fri Apr 25, 2008 11:25 pm
by dianebrat
Quote, originally posted by w8_4_me »Vibrtor, did you pick that up in the store or on line? Wondering what department? Auto? Music? w8FWIW I've never had an FM transmitter that was worth using.just my experiences.Diane

Re: USB flash drive adaptor to connect into auxiliary jack? (w8_4_me)

Posted: Thu May 08, 2008 4:09 am
by vibrtor
Sorry guy - haven't browsed the site in awhile. The FM modulator at WalMart has been updated with a remote control now included (saw it a few days ago. It's in the audio dept of many stores.