Unique needs for BMW

[jhirsh]

Hi all this is my first post on this forum and I'm hoping someone will have an idea of what products i can use to achieve what im looking for. Price isn't much of a concern.

I have a BMW M coupe with a unique stereo setup. There is an automated fold down monitor on the dash connected to the factory stereo/nav. The headunit is single din.

This is about what my dash looks like: http://www.bimmernav.com/images/z4.jpg

I am looking to replace the factory system with aftermarket parts mainly because the factory stuff has horrible UI.

The functionality Im looking for: I would like the factory monitor to be replaced with a touchscreen monitor that would act as the interface to an aftermarket head unit. I understand the installation would be difficult (especially monitor replacement). I have been doing some research and have yet to find equipment that fits my needs. Any recommendations would be helpful.

If my post is unclear or you need further information please let me know.

Thank You much for your time.

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[michaellane 5,000+ posts]

so you wannakeep your factory...screen but have it control a aftermarket radio?

 

[robertoyoung08 10+ year member]

**** if you've got the money to get a crazy custom system like that going, then do it i guess. personally, i would just recommend a processor to give signal to aftermarket amps. i have a lexus with factory system all connected to my touch screen nav- nav, radio, climate control and everything else was on it, not to mention the way its molded on to the dash... so i didnt have a way to replace it with an aftermarket screen or hu. so i went with a processor. it helps out a lot, compared to a loc or any other way. a processor, depending on the brand would probably cost you a lot less than doing what you mentioned. try looking into processors first. it would probably be cheaper and quick/easier to install. theres a ton out there, the more popular ones are the fosgate 3sixty, jl audio cleansweep, and my own processor, the mtx re-q5 (cheapest and does a very good job)

 

[jhirsh]

Just to clarify. I don't want to keep any of the factory systems. I want to replace the monitor and hu.

A processor would be an ideal solution if my main goal were audio fidelity. In this case I really want to replace the factory nav/stereo because the interface is terrible. Anyone that has used a BMW non-Idrive nav knows what im talking about.

 

[jhirsh]

Does anyone know if these products exist?

 

[misfit138 5,000+ posts]

If money is no object, have someone install a nasty carputer for you. It'd most likely take a lot of effort on the installer's part, but I guess that wouldn't be your concern. If you're willing to do that, the possibilities are nearly endless...