iPod Interface Group Buy - ends June 15th!

[mayerg]

iPod Interface Group Buy - ends June 18th!

Wanted to make sure everyone was aware that the VAIS SLI http://www.vaistech.com/sli.html is on Group Buy right now and it ends next week. It's going for $209 (it is normally $299!).

Allows for control of iPod through steering wheel buttons. Will also automatically push the I Agree button on NAV systems (included in group buy).

Sign up here if interested: http://www.vaistech.com/forums/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2006-5-28&e=2&c=1

 

[no1sportz]

Any word if they fixed all the bugs? I recently installed one in my Lexus and eventually got fed up with the unit. Not only was it slow in responding to changes made with the playlists/play functions but it also caused my Nav to go haywire. The GPS function would completely shut down causing the Nav to be inoperable.

 

[mayerg]

Geez! Did you install the SLI or the older Aic100i? I'll ask him about that. I was planning on getting one for sure, but not if that's the case. Will let you know what I find out.

 

[mayerg]

Yes, it sounds like they have been addressed. Here is what he told me:

Problem with Navigation has been fixed, it was a defective part installed on the board, and iPod is taking commands as fast as it can, iPod is a slow device to begin with, but now it is working faster.

 

[no1sportz]

Yeah mine was the SLI. It sounds as if they have been addressing the issues then. I am still skeptical about the speed of the unit though. Basically when you pushed your button on the steering wheel there would be a 2-3 second delay. I knew about this prior to purchasing mine but I thought "Big deal I can live with that". But man did it get frustrating!! I never thought that would annoy me as much as it did.

I think it went beyond just the delay. If I remember correctly the unit would sometimes not even respond correctly...as if it wanted to jump more than one song or playlist...I can't remember exactly what the other issue was. Also if you accidentally unplugged the iPod from the unit you would have to turn off the car, plug the iPod back in and start over or everything would get screwy. In other words you couldn't use the iPod at all. Needless to say once the Nav went I had to let them know I was unhappy. They refunded my money no questions asked after over a month. That I was impressed with.

I hope they have fixed everything. If the delay is gone completely I would be game to buy another. I had the AUX input in my 2006 4Runner and I didn't mind at all using that with my iPod since you could play ANY SONG you wanted from the iPod. However the Lexus has no input and I am left with no other decent option.

 

[mayerg]

I posed your concerns to vais and they assure me that all bugs have been fixed and that the units work a lot faster with 4th and 5th gen iPods. I definitely plan on getting one, so I'll post my findings.
Also, it's good to hear from someone who has bought from them before and that they will do what it takes to make the customer happy.
I know that they have been very responsive via email.

 

[mtnrunner]

I'm selling my AIC-100i, (acquired on a group buy last year) with $40 custom T4R ipod holder and Toyota wireless rear seat audio headphones: $200 less shipping.

Works great and never had issues. I traded in my T4R for an FJ cruiser which is why I'm selling it.

See this post for more info:

or the "iPod for Nav 4 Sale" under Audio and Electronics

 

[mayerg]

Extended from 15th to the 18th

FYI - He extended the sign ups through June 18th.