I have been considering adding a Dension Gateway and BT module to integrate with the stock PCM. After much research and a visit to a dealer recommended shop, I am seriously considering swapping the stock PCM for an AVIC to provide more functionality (I don't have NAVI) and technology for a bit of an increase in price. I have read some of the AVIC threads although most seem a few years old.

I am curious to get feedback from anyone on the concept and if the recommendation is AVIC which one is preferable given the existing space and look.

Thanks in advance.

 

I've looked through those threads too debating if it would be worth it to get better nav/sound. I don't think much has changed, people still like the swap. The mounting bracket/trim piece looks clean. You just have to weigh the benefit of better technology vs. having a non OEM part in the car if you're going to sell it. If you're holding on to it, i'd say go for it. It becomes more of a factor if you were going to sell in under 5-10 years.

 

I have debated this as well. I am not planning on selling the car and thus could stomach the idea of a non-OEM part (Even though I normally wouldn't choose that option) to get the BT, iPod, and Nav.

Here is my opinion of this and maybe it will help shape your decision.

To begin, I must be next to deaf. I think the Bose system in my car sounds great. I have heard better sound systems, but this sounds great. For me, the Avic wouldn't be for the sound as much as for the BT, iPod and nav.

** Most importantly, I don't want to lose the display on the dash. I have 997.1 with Sport Chrono and the audio info is displayed on the dash. I don't want to lose that and am afraid to spend $1500 and lose that. Don't forget that you also have to add an amp and speakers, I think, because you lose the fiber optic system with the Avic.

With all of that lost, I would rather just buy the Dension Gateway with Ipod and BT, and leave the OEM PCM 2.1.

But I am also open to other opinions?

 

If you just want to be able to use an Ipod then go with Dension. I did and I am quite happy.

If you want more... then there is nothing wrong with going with the other options....

Jason

 

Bogart101, I hope I’m not hi-jacking your thread…

I’m also looking to have my iPod integrated with the OEM PCM. Since I do have Navigation, it sounds like the Dension Gateway is the way to go?

Now my questions:
1. What will the interface look like in the PCM? Will information be displayed from the iPod to the PCM display?
2. Will Dension do BT as well? Can I use my cell in the car via the BT (I don’t have the phone module option in the PCM)?
3. Is the Dension setup that same as what Porsche will sell you to integrate your iPod to the PCM? I’ve heard you get a lot of static noise with the system Porsche sells you!
4. Does anyone have a link to the recommended Dension setup?

Thanks guys!

 

1. It will display all the information, song and artist. The controls are not exactly intuitive but if you use playlists more than you scan genre's or artists you will like the system.
2. Yes Dension will do BT but I feel once you start talking about Dension and BT you are getting into the realm of just replacing the whole PCM.
3. No, Porsche sells an FM antenna adapter kit (hard wired to antenna) that you could buy on Ebay for $20 if you wanted. It just splices into the FM antenna behind the PCM. It is a direct link but its not perfect.
4. Bumperplugs.com

Jason

 

Thanks Jason! Just to be sure, the Dension keeps/uses the stock fiber optic system?

Anything better than the Dension to do iPod intergration? How hard is the install?

Thanks

 

Yes, you keep the fiber loop...

The setup only took me 30min to install to the point where it was working. I could probably do it in 15min if my life depended on it. The CD changer port has to be activated by the dealer and that probably took the longest with the PCM programming taking a while also. If you have your CD changer port already activated the whole install would probably take less than a hour. I am going to do a full DIY write up once I have everything installed the way I want it. But I use everyday with no issues.

There are other options but I think Dension has the best customer support through Eric at Bumperplugs. If you want a kit dont buy one from anyone else. Eric is awesome and helped me through my install!

Jason

 

^ Looking forward to that!

 

With the cab-top down and the tire-noise while moving...my current BT ear piece is pretty useless. When I have to take calls while driving, I go old-school: Tethered 2-ear buds and the clip. Ugh.

I was debating getting the BT version Denison/Gateway...but after not being able to hear half the calls with the Jawbone2 "noise assasin' connected to my iphone, I nixed the BT option. Also, my wife tells me she can only hear every other word when I'm on BT in the car. (I don't know if it is selective hearing or not.) If you find a good solution, including the best place to mount the hands free mic, LMK. BTW - My Jawbone earpiece worked in one combination: left ear + rear wind deflector+ the left window rolled up.

So far, I've only witnessed poor phone sound quality in convertibles - My colleague took me out in his 3-series convertible which has an integrated BT & mic. Same result. He says he wish Beemer engineers would figure out a better mic & speakers.

OT: Has anyone ever installed speakers in the headrests?

 

I didn't have PCM in my prior Boxster so there was little point in going the Denison route, but could reliably take calls and hear/be understood with a Jawbone2 up to ~70mph with the windows up and the wind deflector in place.

What you're describing (the every-other-word bit) is poor fitment with the Jawbone. The plastic 'nub' on the end of the headset absolutely needs to be in 100% contact with your face at all times in order for the noise cancellation to work properly.

The earloops are made to be bent to redirect the headset into your face if it doesn't naturally fit snugly - I had to bend mine slightly in order to place it in constant contact.

You've likely already tried this, but thought it was worth mentioning.

MB

 

Maybe the jawbone wasn't fitting perfectly...but it works pretty well when I'm not in the car. I think the issue has more to do with the turbulent air flow inside the c0ckpit...or...maybe the PSE is simply drowning out the conversation. Either way, I don't really miss not taking so many calls.

If anyone in the NorthEast has the BT mic installed in a 911 cab, I'd love to see it some morning, while the weather is top-down friendly.

 

Given that I have the OEM 6 Disc CD changer, am I correct to assume the CD changer port is already active?

Also looking forward to your DIY write up.

 

Yeah you should be ready to go. I am going to do some "finishing touches" on my install this weekend. I will probably be posting the DIY on Sunday ish....

Jason