cwatters

through Drew Auto Parts. Requested info. from Claire parts and they e-mailed me that the VW unit won't work with the Audi head unit> Anyone got the VW unit up and running? Do you get the playlists etc.? Thanks

jbarnhart

I also ran into the "backordered" status of the Audi changer cable. I whined in a couple of places and managed to get one. BUT -- I have since found out that the standard Audi cable needs about 3 inches "behind" the PhatBox for proper installation, and my 2000 A8 does not have the proper clearance. In the photo below, I have my PhatBox (without cable) on the right, where it needs to go. On the left is as far back as it can actually go with the cable installed:

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/68062/phatbox01.jpg">

My solution: I have ordered the special connectors for the Audi changer cable and I plan to make my own "right angle" connector cable. It will permit me to mount the PhatBox as far back as I need to make the installation perfect. I've received one of the connectors (the PhatBox end) and I'm waiting for the other.

cwatters

song list, artist, etc.?

jbarnhart

The unit works exactly as documented in the PhatBox manual. They have one manual for both VW and Audi, so I don't think there's any question about it being the same unit. The only difference is the pesky cable that connects the PhatBox to the CD changer wiring. You still need the CD changer wiring if your car is not so equipped. You can buy the harness from Audi and self install, or have them do it ($$$).

When I get the final connector and make my cable I plan to post the wiring diagram (very important!), connector sources, and pics. It should be a PhatBox extravaganza! I LOVE THIS THING!

A8L_Driver_Dan

I saw this statement in a product description:
"The PHATNOISE System is the only digital music product available that is designed to seamlessly integrate into AUDI'S audio system (except for A8L 2004&gt."

Any insight?

jbarnhart

You may want to check out the forum on the PhatNoise BBS. They may shed more light on the issue.<ul><li><a href="http://www.phatnoise.com/audi/downloads/08-29-03%20A8_S8%20PhatNoise.pdf">PhatNoise web site</a></li></ul>

jbarnhart

Here's the PhatBox end. I got the DIN connectors today so I should be able to finish the cable when the boss isn't looking!

<img src="http://pictureposter.audiworld.com/68062/pict0242.jpg">

PaulW

I've done those projects, they are a PITA.

In hindsite, would you rather just get the Audi Phatbox? I believe the benefit was cost....how much cheaper was it over Clair's $450 price?

pw

jbarnhart

I guess it's what you're used to. Stamping a couple of ribbon cables on to a connector seems easy to me, but I'm an EE by training, not a mechanical guy. Heck, I don't even like to operate a hand drill!

As far as the "$450" price from Clair, that would have been fine with me, only their price is $599, not $450. See the link below. I think they ran a special before Xmas but I missed all that.

I still would have made my own cable, however. I *have* the official Audi cable -- it has a strain relief that prevents me from using it in my A8 with the Symphony I changer. The PhatBox won't fit in the changer's hole unless I can get the cable to come off at right angles. Whether purchased from VW or Audi, I would still need the rt-angle cable.

In retrospect, it has been slightly more trouble than I anticipated. I was glad to be able to find the connectors, and it looks like it's all downhill now. I wouldn't dream of draining and filling my own AT, but this seems easy to me.<ul><li><a href="http://www.clairparts.com/accessories4.asp?product_id=2354&amp;PDID=195021"> Clair's Audi PhatBox -- $599</a></li></ul>

PaulW

You would think they would of thought about these things before.....but maybe it's just the A8 that's unique.

Good luck! I know all about the love/hate relationship of these type projects.

pw