Zune system with no head unit
 

I have the original AM radio in my uncut dash. I'd like to be able to use my Zune mp3 player in the truck, but I'd rather not spend the money for a new head unit and cut the dash. The Zune has a radio built in, and all of my music collection has been converted to mp3, so I really don't need a head unit.

I was thinking about building a custom console, then throwing a set of speakers and and amp in it. I could just plug the Zune directly into the amp using a 1/8" to RCA adapter.

Sounds straight forward to me, but I know absolutely nothing about car stereos. Does this sound like it would work? Do I just need to get power to the amp?

Re: Zune system with no head unit
 

The short answer: Yes.

Re: Zune system with no head unit
 

Hey PMPSKI 1,
How do you like the Zune? I have be contemplating on getting a Zune or Ipod.

Re: Zune system with no head unit
 

I like the Zune. It's not the same thing that everyone else has, so that is one of the main draws for me.

1. The Zune software for the PC is sweeeet. I hate iTunes. I haven't used the iTunes store to buy music, but the fact that whatever I buy will only play on apple products turns me off. The Zune market place let's me download mp3s so I can play them wherever I want.

2. I like the Zune pass. I can 'rent' a whole bunch of music and then decide what I actually want to buy for my permanent collection.

3. You can buy an older version of Zune (they have them as cheap as 80 bucks lately) and 'upgrade' it to the latest version of the firmware.

4. It has an FM tuner built in. Perfect for the scenario I posted about.

5. www.zuneoriginals.net

6. The sound quality of the Zune is better IMHO.

7. Wireless sync with my PC. I haven't used this yet, but it's nice to know that it's there. I can think of scenarios where this will be cool to have in the future.

8. I like the feel of the Zune better. Something just feels right with it.

The only downside is that there are so many products out there with iPod integration, but few with Zune integration. I can get a kit for my wife's car that will allow me to control an iPod from the buttons on the steering wheel. Lots of new cars come with iPod integration as an option. New aftermarket stereos have this option. Next thing you know my dishwasher will have ipod integration. There is very little offered for Zune integration outside of new Fords. I could handle a new Mustang that has Zune integration, but I decided to hold out for a new Camaro :) Hopefully I'll have more choices by then.

Anyway, it looks like I'll be creating a custom console with my own Zune integration.

Re: Zune system with no head unit
 

Does it pull in the FM as well as a car stereo?

Re: Zune system with no head unit
 

I don't have a lot of experience with the FM tuner, but it's been ok so far. Since it doesn't have an external antennae I wonder how it will do once you get farther away from a strong radio signal. I'm in a city so I haven't had any problems so far.

Re: Zune system with no head unit
 

I use my Zune in my '72 Sierra.

Works great.

Honestly I have the Custom Autocrackle stereo and set it to Auxillary to use the Zune. It works better...without the Custom Autosound stereo.

To do it over I would have left the stock AM radio in the dash and do the same thing w/ my Zune.