Aux input sound quality
 

I was wondering if anyone can comment on what the sound quality is like using an mp3 AUX input on a car deck?
I am looking at changing a deck I just got and very curious about what sound quality I can expect? Is the quality the same as if it was Ipod integrated re: usb connection? :dunno:

Well it shouldn't be as good as the usb input as the usb is typically a direct digital input, but aux inputs generally sound very good, essentially the same as rca inputs. I've used them many times with no problems as far as sq is concerned and with headphones (really good ones) i can't complain too much about the sq, just maybe the output level (just get a headphone amp for those situations).

This is actually a very interesting question as it's something I have concerns with right now, but my answer is probably in no way related to what you're looking for (because I think it's a different issue, NOT Aux).

I have an XM Satellite service hooked up through the AUX option on my deck and the quality of the sound is nowhere near USB, CD or even radio quality. I find that it's missing bands of quality (the highs, the lows) and the most noticeable difference is the lack of volume. Example: I can listen to the radio at 20-26 where I need to max the volume to 35 for XM and it's still not in a 20-22 volume area (Alpine deck).
This is probably related to the unit itself (and XM) and NOT AUX.

So, my opinion, use AUX and it should be just fine. But USB is better because it's easier to use and possibly clearer.

^^something definitely wrong there...any aux input should easily be able to deliver full bandwidth, and should as clear as using headphones.

I think the lack of bandwidth is a sat radio issue vs. an aux issue. A lot of alpine decks have an aux in level control in the menu. That could be adjusted to make the deck more sensitive to input level.

Aux in is fine. You may lose a little through the use of multiple DACs and ADCs.

Alpine level is up all the way. It's an older XM unit so I think it's the unit itself and the technology, not the Aux input. Was thinking of swapping the unit but then again, I don't plan on keeping XM so ... and definitely the bandwidth issue is with satellite radio.

Enough about me, help the OP out lol

I'm very happy with the aux input on my unit(hooked to
An iPhone 4)
the cable that's connecting them is a thicker gauge then a really cheap Head phone to headphone jack

haven't actually compared it to a thinner gauge cable though.

I had the same concerns but again I'm happy.

I've not been able to make a difference between my stock CD player and the AUX input playing the same music.

This ^x2