[PrazVT]

I thought I'd mention an interesting option for those looking to improve the SQ in their F30s (frankly, I suspect this is a better option than even having the 'enhanced' (read: normal) USB.

Patryk & Aleks did attempt a combox retrofit on my car, but it looks like I need a different HU. So while Patryk does some research on all that, I decided to try something else to improve the SQ in my car. I have the HK system in my car, but no BMW Assist.

So I picked up an HRT iStreamer 12V DAC & some mid grade Audioquest ICs & digital cables. The iStreamer connects directly to your iPod/iPhone/iPad and allows you to bypass that device's DAC w/ its own high quality DAC, then outputs to analog RCA. From my experience with home HiFi, I know DACs make a HUGE improvement, so I was hopeful that this interesting device would help things.

I hooked it up to my iPod Classic 160GB (only Apple Lossless files on it), and plugged it into the Aux port. My first reaction when I played a song was 'WHOA!!'. I honestly think that the stock iPod DAC y-cable was sending a weak ass signal to the HU, because with the iStreamer the improvement was akin to a more power amp or something. The speakers and subs have come alive - it's insane, and it's across the board. Clarity and detail is much improved, with a blacker background. Mid-range is fuller and the bass finally doesn't sound weak and boomy. I've actually reset all the EQ and tone controls back to defaults for now because I'm not finding any significant faults.

The Audioquest iPod data cable and usb charging cable haven't arrived yet, but I suspect those will provide some improvement as well.

The downside of course is that you can't control the iPod from the iDrive interface ..but at least for me, that is minor compared to the SQ improvement. Also, the '12v' version comes with a car power adapter.

Anyway, thought I'd share my thoughts on the iStreamer in case anyone else is interested in something like this.

- Praz