While I cannot wait to trade my M5 in for my new 2010 911 TT (not because I don’t like the M5, I do, but because, well, I don’t need to tell you guys), the one thing I fear I will miss is the radio controls on the steering wheel. I use them all the time. I am getting the PDK wheel with paddle shifters (no controls on the wheel). How are the radio controls on the PCM? Easy to reach and navigate? I played with it only briefly, and it looks like to change to a different preset station, you need to 1) rotate the dial, and 2) then push the dial to select that station. While it may only take another second, seemed bothersome. Also, I think there were only 6 presets on the screen. I'm sure there is a second screen of presets, but that's one more step you have to take. I guess the other option is to use the touch screen, but that requires looking at it. That's the beauty of steering wheel mounted controls. So, again, how are the stereo controls on the PCM? thanks.

 

Why not just get the MF wheel?

Any way, I have the MF wheel and it's a waste as the controls are very easy to reach and use...

Something you'll learn is that once you are in a Porsche the stereo controls are no longer as important to you as they once were...in lesser cars.

 

Agree with the sound system rather missing the point of the whole experience. I keep the volume way down but still audible just in case there's something worth interrupting the performasnce. My MF wheel seems to have more volume resolution than the dash control, important when getting the sound level in that barely there zone.

 

The PDK with paddles doesn't come with multi function. So either i get a MF wheel with the stupid buttons, or the get the paddles w/o MF. Have to have the paddles over MF.

Yeah, hear you on the "experience". sometimes in my m5 with race exhaust, I just like to listen to the V10. But sometimes I like to crank up the music and enjoy the convenience of the MF wheel.

 

I just came from a 07 M5 and I have to say the sound system doesn't matter u will not be listening to the stereo any more...once your in the TT you will understand

 

you must have an aftermarket exhaust, because of the tt's that i have driven, the engine note is so minimal. the driving experience is great, i get that, but the engine is so docile, especially compared to what i'm use to.

i know, it will be awesome. and everybody says the same thing "you won't care about the radio". but i will. maybe i'm the exception around here, but while sometimes i like the radio off, other times the "experience" for me is the incredible drive coupled with my favorite music.

 

I didn't say that the music isn't still important...just not as important as it once was.

The controls are easy to use...don't worry about it.

Seriously...don't waste another moment thinking about it...the stereo works great for when you want it...and it turns off easily for when you want to focus on driving!

 

I haven't turned on my radio/CD player for a while now. I just have the Nav on but have the volume level to zero. I prefer to listen to the car.

 

I personally am very glad I went with the Multifunction steering wheel. I don't think the PCM is very easy to navigate in certain areas without it. For instance in the GPS and phone screens you can use the right scroll wheel on the MF wheel to navigate a list very fast, you can also click that scroll wheel to select an item. Otherwise you hit the down arrow button on the touchscreen touch screen to navigate the list. With the steering wheel controls I find I can keep my eyes on the road much easier.

That said I think I would go with the paddles. Or just get the MF wheel with the paddles when Porsche comes out with it.

 

The local Porsche dealer here just did the update to the MF wheel for my friend, less than 2 hours and the bill was around $980 for everything. not bad considering.

 

so i think that answers another question i was having - can the different steering wheels be retroffited? sounds like yes. now i just need to wait for them to offer a MF wheel AND paddles i guess.

 

Couldn't have said it better myself!!

 

trice9 - first, you're not alone

I went from an '09 turbo to a '10 GT3. I posted a review of the differences and one thing that I mentioned was that I missed the multi function steering wheel! It was well designed and very convenient to change stations, scroll through phone lists, adjust volume, etc.

As for PCM, it's a touch screen, which makes things a little easier than scrolling with the dial.

I love the engine & exhaust sound as much as anyone (I believe). However, I love music as well. My turbo had a phenominal Bose system that sounded incredible. I also miss that greatly in my GT3.

So, some days I'd just be inspired by the driving experience with the sounds from the engine, and other days I'd crank up the tunes.

With that said, I think you made the right choice going with the paddles on the wheel and not having the MF wheel.

 

I couldn't find a before picture, but this is what it looks like afterwards, partially. The same steering wheel and airbag is used, the blank covers come off and these replace them. a wiring harness, and control module are needed plus software