So I just picked up my Forester XT and I am very happy with it. One problem, the stereo has no cassette player so I am forced to use iTrip in order to hear my iPod. I live in New York City so iTrip is practically useless (no empty stations, cell phone interference everywhere).

 

Can any of you guys recommend a way to modify my stereo so I can plug my iPod directly into the stereo? I am desperate to figure this out because this iTrip is driving me insane. Thanks!!!!

this is a bad idea, but you could try to amplify the signal.. or maybe wire your own antenna to it and slap it right next to the stock antenna.. OORR you could wire an aux input...

this is a bad idea, but you could try to amplify the signal.. or maybe wire your own antenna to it and slap it right next to the stock antenna.. OORR you could wire an aux input...

 

Thanks Andyjo. I am very interested in wiring an aux input. Is this possible? If so, how where do I do it?

i know it's possible... i read something about it a while ago when i was thinking of doing it, i'll have to check google or something to see if i can find the link again

Unless you know something about electronics, I wouldn't attempt it.

 

If you have a single CDplayer, consider buying a new one with an aux jack on it.

 

You could also pull the antenna cable out of your radio, find another cable to plug in, then tape about 2' of the inner conductor of the other end on the itrip unit, it will help get the signal to the radio and cut down on other incoming signals.

 

It will screw up your ability to pick up some of the radio stations tho.

So today I bit the bullet and bought a new Sony stereo with an Aux input. honestly it sounds 1000 times better than the stock stereo and the iPod works perfectly in the Belkin cup holder. Thanks for you help!

That was your best bet. Many factory stereos are garbage.

So today I bit the bullet and bought a new Sony stereo with an Aux input. honestly it sounds 1000 times better than the stock stereo and the iPod works perfectly in the Belkin cup holder. Thanks for you help!

 

I've been struggling with the same issue regarding the crappy reception. I'm not too familiar with the Forester center console, but how does the new Sony w/ the AUX input interface with the previous system?

You only replaced the head unit? The stock Subaru speakers are absolute garbage, the absolute pitts of the cut rate car audio universe. An upgraded head unit will only further demonstate the infinite crappiness of the stock speakers. If you won't do it for yourself, for heaven's sake do it for your passengers, replace those speakers NOW.