C30 (2009 R-Design): Upgrade stereo for MP3?

[Durburger]

Hi,

I'm considering a 2009 C30 R-Design. It's pretty appealing.

One thing that bugs me is the stereo seems to lack MP3 capability. It has Bluetooth for the phone, but I don't think that extends to audio.

What options do I have to get it to play audio from either an iPhone or a USB stick? Aux-in is better than nothing, if that's available, but I'm not sure how to find that out.

Am I able to swap in a head unit from a more recent model, for example?

Thanks

[iainmd]

Swapping the headunit isn't really an option. The sound systems on these cars are fibre optically linked units, coded to the car and the bit that looks like a headunit isn't really (it's one part of a multi-part system distributed around the car).

So essentially, try before you buy and get a car with a system you won't regret. My advice would be, if you like your music, look for High Performance/Premium/Dynadio systems. I'd avoid the "Performance" low end system (we have it in the V50) as the High Performance we have in the S40 sounds way better.

Post-2007 cars normally have an AUX-in. Some have USB, some don't. Bluetooth, when fitted, sometime seems to result in Aux-in being deleted from the spec so choose carefully.

[Clan]

Originally Posted by Durburger

Hi,

I'm considering a 2009 C30 R-Design. It's pretty appealing.

One thing that bugs me is the stereo seems to lack MP3 capability. It has Bluetooth for the phone, but I don't think that extends to audio.

What options do I have to get it to play audio from either an iPhone or a USB stick? Aux-in is better than nothing, if that's available, but I'm not sure how to find that out.

Am I able to swap in a head unit from a more recent model, for example?

Thanks

Take a look at the PURE DAB 300Di . you get DAB radio , AUX in ,and USB to play your MP3 . Volvo had an offer of supplying and fitting it for £295 with custom fixed wiring loom and neat bracket . you could DIY for about £150

[Durburger]

Originally Posted by iainmd

Post-2007 cars normally have an AUX-in. Some have USB, some don't. Bluetooth, when fitted, sometime seems to result in Aux-in being deleted from the spec so choose carefully.

Aha. A distinct possibility, and might explain why I couldn't find an Aux-in port. I wonder if, therefore, it might be possible to disconnect the Bluetooth and run an Aux cable?

[Durburger]

Originally Posted by Clan

Take a look at the PURE DAB 300Di . you get DAB radio , AUX in ,and USB to play your MP3 . Volvo had an offer of supplying and fitting it for £295 with custom fixed wiring loom and neat bracket . you could DIY for about £150

Thanks for that tip. There are a few on Ebay. I see Halfords also do the installation, possibly much cheaper. Could be the only option if I can't get an Aux port going.

[domhart10]

I had one previous that I wanted to upgrade and Halfords couldnt change or upgrade it apart from the terrible fm transmitter things. I just got another one later on which i still have with the performance stereo stuff with aux etc

you can then get an Aux bluetooth adapter for your phone.

[Bungo]

Should have a Aux socket (possibly in centre console).
If looking to buy car then Aux should be listed in advertised spec.

[benfredlive]

Have a look on Google for GROM AUDIO UK.
I'm looking to buy one of the boxes they sell.
That or Volvo tech have a Bluetooth adapter that takes place of the aux.

[C30KEV]

My aux in is in the centre arm rest - pretty handy as I can plug in any type of MP3 player including my iPhone.
If your stereo has the option for aux - (when the mode button is pressed ) you should be able to select cd or aux.

[Kevano]

Hi in the centre glove box there is a plug you can use to play your mp3 on the stereo unit or phone i have been using an ipod on mine works fine hope this helps you