Hooking up an I-pod to base factory head unit

[gapsierra]

I did a search and found several links to I-Pod adaptors for the Factory Head Unit that has the CD Changer, but none that worked with the base unit. I have the steering wheel controls on my 2006 SLE1 Sierra 1500 Crew Cab and want to add an interface so I can control my I-pod through the steering wheel controls and see the ID3 tags on the head unit. On to my question..

 

Is there such a unit that connects into the back of the base stereo other than FM Modulated units?

 

If so, where did you get it? Crutchfield said I'm SOL unless I buy a new head unit.

 

This leads me to my next question.

 

Would I be better off buying a new head unit like the Alpine CDA9875 with the PAC Steering Wheel control and I-Pod inteface cable (About $500 before install) or swapping out to the factory 'premium' radio which has the Aux input for a changer on the back and buying either the Peripheral, USA Spec, or other I-pod adaptors?

 

Thanks,

Newbie

[lerbud]

does your HU have a CD player? If so look at the back of the radio for a 12 pin plug. Nothing will be plugged in to that plug. This is where you add the interface for the i pod.

[gapsierra]

Thanks, I will check. The Crutchfield site said that the radio had to have the 'Band' button on the lower left in order for it to be a head unit that is compatible with the products they offer.