Direct Connect FM Modulator for the 987 (install)

[Westcoaster]

Well I finally got this one to work. Rather then a full blow-by-blow description with pictures I'll give the Readers Digest version.

I wanted to add a way to play back music/audio from external devices such as a MP3 player or laptop. Since the CDR24 does not have an auxilary input and the wireless FM modulators gave poor results I went looking for a antenna connected FM modulator.

First you will need to adapt the connections found on either of the 2 modulators tested from the North American style connector to the ones found in the Porsche CDR24 (possibly other European cars as well). For this Scosche makes adapters, VWA3B and the VWA3RB. These are seen at this website: http://www.crutchfield.com/S-1yVpZoItsWc/c...p;s=0&cc=01

I tried a FM modulator made by Pyle PLMD2 and although it worked the amplitude of the FM signal was so weak or the tuner in the CDR24 was not sensitive enough because the resulting volume was too low for my liking. I would have to listen to the music at a setting of 20 rather then 10, leaving no headroom for top down driving.

Next up I tried the Scosche FMOD01, it too has a choice of 2 selectable frequencies but it also has the addition of a output level control. With this I could more closely match the normal FM signal level and that of the modulator, my eventual setting was 3/4 of max. This unit has the other benefit of being only about 1/2 half the size of the Pyle modulator and because there is not much room under the dash of a Boxster this is a good thing.

So the Scosche modulator is in now, tucked behind the radio in the center console, a switch to turn the unit on and off still needs to find a permanent home and if I can figure how to remove the lower storage cup under the HVAC controls that will be it's place. A set of leads to connect an external device to the modulator sit in that same storage area, snaked up along side the console trim and into the compartment. Power was run from the fuse panel to the unit and hidden by the carpet behind the brake and clutch pedals.

Results: Actually it sounds pretty good, the level of the signal and the resulting volume make this an inexpensive way to add a secondary audio signal into the CDR24, something I think the factory should have made standard on a car at this level.

Edited May 21, 2007 by Westcoaster

[Eric (Plug Guy)]

Not sure if you are aware, but we distribute the Dension Gateway 500 unit for Porsche, and the unit now works with all CDR24 head units. :)

Edited May 21, 2007 by Eric (Plug Guy)

[Westcoaster]

Not sure if you are aware, but we distribute the Dension Gateway 500 unit for Porsche, and the unit now works with all CDR24 head units. :)

Hi Eric, yep I knew that, and I know this will sound a little weird (as a Porsche owner), but I was looking for a 'less expensive' solution.

Al