Charlie_Iliff

After an entertaining and educational time trying to devise a sophisticated automatic switch to allow my XM and Phatbox to work together, I reached the conclusion that such a thing is certainly feasible. But, I got impatient to see how well the Phatbox worked. I'd been just loading CDs in flac format for a while.
So, I chose the alternative to his passive mixer recommended by Greg01. I wired up a double pole double throw marine switch and wrote up detailed instructions by wire color for the installer. I went the switch route because I didn't want the 6 dB signal degradation, even though I realize I probably couldn't hear the difference.
So, now I have to throw the switch when I change between XM and Phatbox, but the sound is as good as the Bose. Now all I have to do is figure out the controls of the Phatbox. Currently 50 CDs in flac format on 20 gig DMS. Thanks to Greg01 for the basic information needed to make the two inputs work.

gregm0

That guy has a great name. But in all seriousness it sounds like everything turned out great

ArrayMFC

I have a Phatbox in my B5, what stereo option (or not) should I get to hook up my Phatbox into a new S4?

Thanks

Charlie_Iliff

The necessary option is the rear CD changer cable. The dealer delivered mine in a bag, and made clear he was uninterested in installing it, so I had it and the Phatbox installed by a local sudio shop. If you have XM or Sirius, you will need to install a switch like mine, or solder 10K Ohm resistors in the audio wires that connect to pins 19 and 20. Search the audio forum for Greg01's post with name like Sat Radio and Phatbox solved - almost.