I recently purchased a Sunlight Silver MS3 GT with Navigation and I am very happy with my choice.
The only "rub" is that I wanted to purchase the Integration Solutions iPod direct connect with text but I heard that it is not working properly with the 2008 Bose system. Apparently some people have even replaced the radio with a 2007 Bose and it still doesn't function properly.
Does anybody know, specifically, what changes were made to the MS3 audio systems for 2008?
I heard that the connection port at the bottom of the unit is missing (MD/Tape).

This method of ipod integration seemed like the best option since I'm also planning on adding the OEM Sirius reciever, which will, in turn, disable the aux jack in the center console.

 

I know that for 2006 or 2007 model year they totally changed up the way the audio system functions (though it looks the same when it's installed in the dash). They changed the way the display integrated as well as stuff to do with the inputs.

Have you contacted Integration Solutions to see if they plan to update their product to work?

 

I sent them an e-mail. Hopefully I'll hear from them soon.

 

I got my reply from Bryan at Integration Solutions today:

Miguel

Thanks for writing us, Im sorry but I do not recommend this kit for your 2008 Mazda 3, they do not work with that radio. It lacks the MD port that was in the 2004-2007

I hope something comes out soon that works with through the SAT input port

Anything else just ask

thanks
Bryan

 

Interesting info...
wish I had looked here before I just purchased my MZ3 last Saturday, and the
iPod intergration module has been ordered...
My dealer seems to not know that it won't work...

thanks
Robb

 

edspaw,
The Mazda OEM ipod adapter will work. It simply occupies the Sat port on the head unit. This disables the Aux Jack unless you buy the Mazda switchbox. Additionally, installing the Mazda OEM ipod adapter rules out an installation of the OEM Sirius receiver since they use the same port.
The main reason I'm not buying the Mazda OEM ipod adapter is that from everything that I've read, the integration and playlist control is marginal at best. And the lack of text display is a show stopper for me. In my previous car, a Vibe GT, I installed an Alpine head unit with the Alpine ipod integration module and loved the text display.
The axxess module was very exciting because it plugged into the Tape/MD port on the bottom of the head unit, leaving the Sat port available. Unfortunately, the Tape/MD port no longer exists on 2008 OEM head units.
This is why I'll just have to be patient and wait for Axxess to develop a text compatible ipod adapter that pluggs into the Sat port.

I hope this clarified the issue a bit.

 

what is this your trying to install? The 3 comes with an adapter I thought-in the center console or are you trying to install something completely different?

 

The 3 comes with an 1/8"aux connection jack. Operative word: Connection. What I'm looking for is an iPod Integration module. Integration implies control over your ipod from the installed head unit. The aux connection jack only allows you to control the volume of whatever you have connected to it from the head unit or steering wheel controls, but it won't allow you to change tracks or playlists. What I want for my car is an integration method that will not only allow playlist and track control of my iPod but will also display the song name and playlist info on the LCD display of the stock head unit.

 

that sounds like a really neat gadget! something I wouldn't use that much, lol. I need it.

 

is there any ipod adapter for 2006 mazda 3's that anyone knows of?