Help me understand this iSimple HD radio tuner

[ladysmanfelpz 10+ year member]

I have an 07 honda accord coupe so new dash kit and stereo is out of the question as I want to maintain stock appearance. I am in the preliminary steps of my build and first want to expand the features of the current radio with an iSimple device. The HD651 will provide me blu-tooth, a USB for my iphone or flashdrive music, and aux cord for other devices. Another thing that turned me onto iSimple is that their units support HD radio. I like HD radio and have decent stations in my area and had it before, so yes I know how HD radio works. I'm curious on how it actually functions on my car through the iSimple device as the support guy wasn't too helpful.

So its my understanding that if I install it I it taps into my stock antenna line. He was saying then radio has to be run through the iSimple device. So do I lose my regular FM/AM button functionality? I want HD radio, but it already sounds like there is somewhat of a learning curve to switching from ipod control, usb control on deck, and aux control and if I have to go through this BS just to listen to radio I don't know if it is worth it. However, if I am able to use the FM/AM button for regular radio listening and then switch to the iSimple device for further radio listening of HD radio stations (and perhaps all radio channels?) then I will go for it. Please let me know if this is worth my time or if I should just retain what I have and reserve the iSimple for high quality music stored on my devices.

Thanks guys.

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[fly_marlin]

Most people seem to like it, has positive reviews on amazon. Chances are, your stations on regular radio may have HD versions you can listen to anyway. By the way, I have an '07 accord sedan. I didn't touch the radio, but simply removed the pocket underneath it and replaced with a dash kit and an aftermarket deck...FYI.

 

[ladysmanfelpz 10+ year member]

Ya but I'm wondering if those HD stations come in automatically through my FM/AM feature on my radio. My understanding is it does not as they said the radio will now come through the iSimple unit, hence you would have to use your aux or sat feature on HU to access radio. Now if I have to do this for HD listening then I don't mind, but if it makes my FM/AM button obsolete then I'm not going for it. It will be too much of a pain and I can see family getting pissed when I lend them my vehicle when they come into town when they can't figure out how to listen to the dam radio.

 

[fly_marlin]

Just bank on the fact that people shouldn't complain when you do them a favor in addition to providing them with free HD radio.

 

[ladysmanfelpz 10+ year member]

K still haven't gotten a clear answer on whether the factory button works with standard radio and the unit receives HD. I'm at the point to try it anyway. So if I don't am i able to run a Y splitter to have both functions? Would this decrease my signal?

Also with running the blu-tooth do I have to do anything special to remove my A pillar? It has an airbag in it.