Enginerd

I'm considering ordering this unit because I like the idea of multiple ways to source the music (not just I-Pod). Doe's anyone here use this unit, if so, how do you like it? I'm looking for something I could use for the next 3 + years without any worries. I figure there will be USB flash drives and USB hard drives available for a while. I-Pods seem to change so often these days, and personally I'm not crazy about I tunes, logging into accounts, and their specific media format. I guess I like the flexibility idea this unit seems to provide, but would like some one to verify. The current price is $275 and I would use a 8-16 gig USB flash drive, which is way cheaper than me buying the SL2i for $200+ and an I pod for another $200-$300...any thoughts? By the way, i don't care about video playback as I don't really use it and I have ML so I have a couple of emergency DVD's in the glove box if I get stuck in a snowstorm or something. Thanks in advance...

anach

I just ordered one and installing it (hopefully) next week. I'll try & give some insight after I've played with it for a while...

I do have to say though... I don't think I'm gonna put a hard drive in it until they streamline the process to get music on & off the internal drive. I'm just gonna keep a bunch of flash drives with random music handy as well as my ipod.

Enginerd

I was also thinking of running a few USB flash drives, or maybe just a USB hard drive, so I could carry it upstairs and update it, then plug it back into the unit in the car when updated.

anach

So far... not so good. I installed the multimedialinq three days ago and its been working sporadically since then. I've been in contact with their technical support to figure out what's wrong but I personally believe I may have to send it back for a replacement. As it is right now, the unit sporadically picks up if there is something connected to the usb. I guess this is the price of being so "cutting edge"

anach

Just an update... I sent the unit back and the engineers did some diagnostics & patched up the firmware to fix the problems. It is now working as advertised. If anyone has any questions regarding functionality, feel free to ask.

Enginerd

I installed this unit a couple of weeks ago and lovin it! Installation went fine with the exception of removing that stupid center vent piece (followed NAV hack instructions). I used a USB extension cable and placed a 16 gig flash card in the center console. I took lots of pictures and will probably post a DIY on the Vais forum when I get a chance. Decided to perform the NAV hack while I was at it. Everything works wonderfully! The only thing I can't wait for is the firmware update providing advanced search functions, according to Vais about 2-3 months out. This is a great product for anyone that does not have an I-Pod or does not care for I-Tunes (there are a few of us, I know, hard to believe).

bruceko

I installed one but it wouldn't program so i sent it back.
Vaistech called me and told me the dip switches were installed upside down so when I put it in program mode it was actually taking it out of program mode. It could only happen to me.

Enginerd

Well, hopefully you will get it working now. Let us know how you like it when you get it goin!

TwentyTen

Thanks for the write up. Just bought one a few minutes ago, should be here at the end of the next week. I have an 8gb iPod Touch but I like the idea of having a 320gb USB drive for the same reasons you stated. And for only $90 (link here) it's a LOT cheaper and I can use MY folder structure, not Apple's.

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