Today's Message Index:
----------------------
1. 01:16 PM - Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? (justinjbaron@comcast.net)
2. 04:01 PM - Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? (Randy Visentine)
3. 05:16 PM - Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? (DJholl98@aol.com)
4. 06:36 PM - Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? (Randy Visentine)
5. 06:40 PM - Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? (justinjbaron@comcast.net)
Message 1
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| Subject: | Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? |
--> XDP4000X-List message posted by: justinjbaron@comcast.net
Randy
You seem to have covered all points in the system concept. What firewire box are
you going to end up using? Are you a software programmer?
Is the mac mini truly only 1DIN? I just haven't looked at the dimensions yet.
I can help you buy a mac mini if you are interested. I work for a technology reseller.
If you like, email me directly and I will send you my contact information.
Take care
Justin
-------------- Original message --------------
> --> XDP4000X-List message posted by: Randy Visentine
>
> Hey gang,
>
> I posted this idea a while back, but no one responded. Who has a
> computer actually mounted in their car? I don't know if you have
> heard of the new Mac "mini", but it will fit DIRECTLY into a 1-Din
> dash opening, and has a front "slot load" CD-R/DVD-R Superdrive, and
> an optional 80Gig HD.
>
> This seems like a Mobile Install "match made in heaven". My thinking
> is to have the MAC Mini replicate what the lovely XDP-4000x already
> does, and use a 8-channel DA (like a Firewire Audio Interface), and
> send a seperate output channel to each amp input (just like the XDP
> does now). I would use software apps in the Mac to actually perform
> the DSP to the signal (EQ, Delay, Crossover, etc discretely for each
> channel).
>
> The "source" signal would be Mac's "I-Tunes" software, and I would
> need to add and app called "JACK OSX" to allow me to send I-Tunes'
> audio to the secondary application for the DSP processing, and for
> assigning the 8 channels to the 8 discrete outputs. This way, I can
> have I-Tunes run as an audio Jukebox, and the "master" volume would be
> controlled from I-Tunes. Then, if I need to make an audio adjustment
> (crossover, swap to 5.1 audio, change time-alignment, etc), I would
> open the secondary program, and do any DSP changes there.
>
> All you need is an appropriate power supply, a readily available
> motorized 7" TOUCHSCREEN LCD with VGA connections, and stash a
> Bluetooth micro-keyboard under your seat. Add a USB GPS sensor, and
> some software, and you also have instant GPS Navigation! Pop in a DVD
> movie, and you can have 5.1 surround and video! Rip you ENTIRE CD
> collection onto the 80Gig HD, and even add external Firewire HD's if
> needed (add a FW hub). You also have wireless file transfers, and
> wireless Internet surfing options, and just anything a computer could
> do in general - all in your car!
>
> With my C90 starting to act squirrely on certain CD's, and the XDP-4K
> having its limited crossover options and awkward programmability, this
> seems to be a likely solution for an "upgrade" IMO. As long as the
> DA's in the soundcard are good, I don't think quality would be any
> less than the XDP4K. I have some RME Audio interfaces in my audio DAW
> PC's, and I may do something like their Fireface or something like the
> M-Audio 410 FW (4 ins, 10 BALANCED +4dBu outs!). +4dBu outputs will
> put any 8V RCA outs to shame. I believe these untis use good DA's (I
> know the RME does), and the RME actually has a REAL WORLD S/N of like
> -108dB on the outs! Oh yeah - 24 BITS, too!!!! (I have LOTS of stuff
> I produce/record in 24 bit format that I could play w/o dithering back
> down to 16bit CD-R standards).
>
> I also know there are some PC "Micro-ATX" style form factors that may
> work, also. But the Mac Mini is a PERFECT fit for in-dash, and the
> base model is only $499! With more RAM and the 80Gig HD, I think it
> jumps to ~$650 or less. Add a LCD Touchscreen for ~$450, and the
> soundcard and GPS sensor for about ~$600, and you are still below the
> cost of a new C90+XDP4K! Also considering the Phatbox is like $800 -
> and you are still stuck with the C90's sub-par daytime display - I
> think a Mac Mini seems really affordable, and REALLY cool.
>
> PS - I realize I COULD send the XDP-4K a SPDIF Toslink signal from an
> external USB-to-SPDIF box, BUT then I would still have to have a
> Unilink HU for volume and power functions. If I do this Mac install,
> I WILL NOT have any other "standard" radio stuff in my car (no CD
> changers, no external EQ's, no Head Unit). Just the Mac Mini, and the
> LCD display in my dash (I have a 2-Din opening).
>
> Any thoughts, or suggestions? I know MANY people have done the Mac
> Mini mobile installs, I just can't find any specifics (like what
> software would I need to replicate the XDP4K's processing, etc).
> Thanks for any input and ideas...
>
> Another special thanks to Matt for keeping this list up and running. 8-)
>
> --
> Randy V.
> Houston, TX
> Audio-Dude/Musician/Crazy Guy
>
Randy
You seem to have covered all points in the system concept. What firewire box are
you going to end up using? Are you a software programmer?
Is the mac mini truly only 1DIN? I just haven't looked at the dimensions yet.
I can help you buy a mac mini if you are interested.I work for a technology reseller.
If you like, email me directly and I will send you my contact information.
Take care
Justin
-------------- Original message --------------
-- XDP4000X-List message posted by: Randy Visentine <RANDYMAN@GMAIL.COM>
Hey gang,
I posted this idea a while back, but no one responded. Who has a
computer actually mounted in their car? I don't know if you have
heard of the new Mac "mini", but it will fit DIRECTLY into a 1-Din
dash opening, and has a front "slot load" CD-R/DVD-R Superdrive, and
an optional 80Gig HD.
This seems like a Mobile Install "match made in heaven". My thinking
is to have the MAC Mini replicate what the lovely XDP-4000x already
does, and use a 8-channel DA (like a Firewire Audio Interface), and
send a seperate output channel to each amp input (just like the XDP
does now). I would use software apps in the Mac to actually perform <
BR> the DSP to the signal (EQ, Delay, Crossover, etc discretely for each
channel).
The "source" signal would be Mac's "I-Tunes" software, and I would
need to add and app called "JACK OSX" to allow me to send I-Tunes'
audio to the secondary application for the DSP processing, and for
assigning the 8 channels to the 8 discrete outputs. This way, I can
have I-Tunes run as an audio Jukebox, and the "master" volume would be
controlled from I-Tunes. Then, if I need to make an audio adjustment
(crossover, swap to 5.1 audio, change time-alignment, etc), I would
open the secondary program, and do any DSP changes there.
All you need is an appropriate power supply, a readily available
motorized 7" TOUCHSCREEN LCD with VGA connections, and stash a
Bluetooth micro-keyboard under your seat. Add a USB GPS sensor, and
some software, and you also have ins
tant GPS Navigation! Pop in a DVD
movie, and you can have 5.1 surround and video! Rip you ENTIRE CD
collection onto the 80Gig HD, and even add external Firewire HD's if
needed (add a FW hub). You also have wireless file transfers, and
wireless Internet surfing options, and just anything a computer could
do in general - all in your car!
With my C90 starting to act squirrely on certain CD's, and the XDP-4K
having its limited crossover options and awkward programmability, this
seems to be a likely solution for an "upgrade" IMO. As long as the
DA's in the soundcard are good, I don't think quality would be any
less than the XDP4K. I have some RME Audio interfaces in my audio DAW
PC's, and I may do something like their Fireface or something like the
M-Audio 410 FW (4 ins, 10 BALANCED +4dBu outs!). +4dBu outputs will
put any 8V RCA outs to shame. I believe t
hese untis use good DA's (I
know the RME does), and the RME actually has a REAL WORLD S/N of like
-108dB on the outs! Oh yeah - 24 BITS, too!!!! (I have LOTS of stuff
I produce/record in 24 bit format that I could play w/o dithering back
down to 16bit CD-R standards).
I also know there are some PC "Micro-ATX" style form factors that may
work, also. But the Mac Mini is a PERFECT fit for in-dash, and the
base model is only $499! With more RAM and the 80Gig HD, I think it
jumps to ~$650 or less. Add a LCD Touchscreen for ~$450, and the
soundcard and GPS sensor for about ~$600, and you are still below the
cost of a new C90+XDP4K! Also considering the Phatbox is like $800 -
and you are still stuck with the C90's sub-par daytime display - I
think a Mac Mini seems really affordable, and REALLY cool.
PS - I realize I COULD send the XDP-4K a SPDIF Tos
link signal from an
external USB-to-SPDIF box, BUT then I would still have to have a
Unilink HU for volume and power functions. If I do this Mac install,
I WILL NOT have any other "standard" radio stuff in my car (no CD
changers, no external EQ's, no Head Unit). Just the Mac Mini, and the
LCD display in my dash (I have a 2-Din opening).
Any thoughts, or suggestions? I know MANY people have done the Mac
Mini mobile installs, I just can't find any specifics (like what
software would I need to replicate the XDP4K's processing, etc).
Thanks for any input and ideas...
Another special thanks to Matt for keeping this list up and running. 8-)
--
Randy V.
Houston, TX
Audio-Dude/Musician/Crazy Guy
Message 2
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| Subject: | Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? |
--> XDP4000X-List message posted by: Randy Visentine <randyman@gmail.com>
Hey Justin (and anyone else),
I'm doing my research, and I am just looking for people who have
already done something simular (using ANY form of PC/Mac/Laptop -
whatever). This would be my first mobile computer install, and I'm
sure I am overlooking a few items. I got to see a Mac MINI in person
earlier this week, and it appears to be 1-Din (6.5" x 2" and 6.5"
deep). I believe standard DIN is 7" x 2" IIRC. Should fit. The
Slot-Load CD/DVD drive really rounds out this application nicely IMO.
One of my main concerns is what software I will need for the 8-channel
DSP processing (to replace the XDP-4K) ? I'm thinking Mac's included
"Garage Band" software may be able to "limp by" for this task. I run
Steinberg's "Nuendo 2.1" on my PC's, and it would do the trick - but
it is a $1200 program. This would also be MY FIRST MACINTOSH and my
first venture in OSX. I am fairly competent at building and tweaking
PC's and tweaking Windows XP/2000/98/ME, but I have NEVER messed with
a Mac.
For the Soundcard, I'm looking at either an M-Audio Firewire 410 (4
inputs, and EIGHT +4dBu outputs in a fairly compact chassis with
descent D/A's - $399), or possibly trying to squeeze an RME Fireface
800 in my Tacoma (the Fireface is a 19" 1U Rack Mount unit with 8
KILLER D/A converters - ~$1300). There are a few others, too. I'm a
HUGE RME fan, but I have never used their Firewire units, and I have
only used RME's PCI cards with a PC (not a MAC). Even Apogee
Rosetta800 conversion is an option (althogh a VERY expensive one -
like $3500 for 8-channels!!!).
Actually finding somewhere that STOCKS the 7" Touchscreen Display
w/VGA is virtually impossible - even in Houston! I know there are a
few different models avalible via mail order - but at $400-$500 - I'd
REALLY like to feel its "Touchscreen" accuracy, and see how the video
quality is IN PERSON. Here is a link I found:
http://www.digitalww.com/DWW-700M.htm . Fully motorized (retracts
into the dash when not in use), and has a VGA input, AND a TV-Tuner
built in! USB out for the Mouse "Touchscreen" Control, too! Has
anyone used a LCD touchscreen they were happy with in a mobile
install?
I am also curious on GPS Navigation software and GPS USB hardware for
this application.
I am surely trying to cover all of my bases - buit there is still a
LOT of stuff I am not sure about. Before I start ploping down a few
grand, I need to make sure all of my theroies and foresight are
in-check.
Thanks for ANY further input on this very exciting venture (well,
exctiting for me at least!). I hope I get some responses - even
though I am asking for info to get me away from the XDP-4K - I can
understand any reluctance on XDP-4K users' parts to help me "move on"
with my killer audio system. Just think - I may have an XDP-4K and
C-90 for sale CHEAP if this Mac install works out !!! Maybe to your
benefit?
Later,
Randy V.
Audio-Dude/Musician/Crazy-Guy
Message 3
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| Subject: | Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? |
--> XDP4000X-List message posted by: DJholl98@aol.com
wow that mac mini looks awesome for in-car use. IM thinking about using one
myself now... though just as a computer not for sound. it seems like a steal
at that price and you could mount it behind the dash and just cut a thin slot
for the cd. randy my one question for you would be do you think it would be
powerful enough to run all the software you would need for EQ/X-over/multiple
outputs etc.
have you thought about using a micro PC and just mounting an external drive
in a DIN slot, if you already have the software for PC it would save you a lot
of money and be easier to setup.
good luck
Dave
Message 4
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| Subject: | Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? |
--> XDP4000X-List message posted by: Randy Visentine <randyman@gmail.com>
Hey Dave (and all),
I'm sure the Mac Mini will do at least 8 channels of X-Over, EQ, and
Delay. Even my ~5 year old Dell 700MHz Celeron will do that! The MAC
Mini's FSB is a bit slow, but I'm sure this is WAY more power than an
XDP-4K could even think about having (considering the XDP-4K design is
now over 10 years old IIRC)... I am indeed looking into Mico-ATX "PC"
systems, too. But I think the Mac Mini will be easier in the end, and
it just looks cool, too (smooth silver face w/CD Slot)...
PS - This will be going into a 1999 Tacoma 4x4 X-Tra Cab - so space is
a luxury. The xtra-cab is reserved for the Sub Box (4 x 10" HE-2's -
with the BD1500.1 mounted on the side), and enough room for 1
passenger crammed in there. The only "extra" room I have is the 2-Din
Dash opening (Mac Mini and LCD Display), and under the 2 bucket seats
(Soundcard breakout box will go under 1 seat, and my Mid/High amp
squeezes in under the passenger seat). That's it. I need my Glove
Box and center console for stowage. So a 2-part Micro-ATX system may
be out of the question (Unless there is a Micro-ATX that will fit into
a SINGLE DIN opening?). Does anyone know of such a beast? Actually -
once I remove my dual Sony 10-disc changers, I may have enough room so
squeeze a Micro-ATX system IN-BETWEEN the driver's seat and the sub
box (where the CD-Changers are now - facing vertically +
side-by-side). I forgot the CD-Changers will be removed, and I will
have that extra space.
Again, my main concerns are the LCD Touchscreen ($500 is a big wad of
change to take a risk on w/o seeing the display and using the
"touchscreen" in person). Even Car Toys and places like that don't
carry stuff like this. I'm REALLY hoping someone here has some "hands
on" and "eyes on" experience with ANY brand of Touch-screen LCD.
Anyone? I'd figure with $2400 worth of C90 Head Unit and XDP-4K
processor in our systems, we would have more elaborate video systems
on this forum?
The "Garage Band" software is included with the Mac, and I believe
"Jack OSX" is cheap, or free (this allows I-Tunes to send its audio to
the secondary DSP application, and THEN to the soundcard's outs after
DSP processing). I-Tunes is also included with the Mac. I *THINK*
alI would need would be the GPS software, the GPS hardware (USB
device), the Soundcard, and LCD Display. I just know it is not going
to be THAT easy. I'm trying to dig in and see what I'm overlooking...
I'll surely need help there! I'm sure I can handle the 12V DC power
supply - I'll make one if I need to...
Thanks for the replys - guys! Please keep them coming, and do
yourself a favor. CHECK OUT THE MAC MINI !!! I am a DIEHARD PC guy
with 3 ground-up builds, dozens of HD and RAM upgrades, and countless
OS re-installs under my belt - but this Mac Mini is just too perfect
for my requirements. Perfect enough for me to consider buying a MAC -
even though I know NOTHING about them. That should tell you how
PERFECT the Mac Mini is for this application. I just need HELP
rounding up all the lovely details.
You guys rock.
Randy V.
Audio-Dude/Musician/Crazy Guy
Message 5
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| Subject: | Re: Anyone have a Computer installed in their car? |
--> XDP4000X-List message posted by: justinjbaron@comcast.net
Cool project.
In my reading, I noticed also that M-Audio sells a $100 firewire optical audio
output device. Could also be interesting to see the mini integrated into existing
audio systems as a dash-mounted source device, even if you leave the processing
for a downstream unit.
So you have given me some inspiration as well..
Take care
-------------- Original message --------------
> --> XDP4000X-List message posted by: Randy Visentine
>
> Hey Justin (and anyone else),
>
> I'm doing my research, and I am just looking for people who have
> already done something simular (using ANY form of PC/Mac/Laptop -
> whatever). This would be my first mobile computer install, and I'm
> sure I am overlooking a few items. I got to see a Mac MINI in person
> earlier this week, and it appears to be 1-Din (6.5" x 2" and 6.5"
> deep). I believe standard DIN is 7" x 2" IIRC. Should fit. The
> Slot-Load CD/DVD drive really rounds out this application nicely IMO.
>
> One of my main concerns is what software I will need for the 8-channel
> DSP processing (to replace the XDP-4K) ? I'm thinking Mac's included
> "Garage Band" software may be able to "limp by" for this task. I run
> Steinberg's "Nuendo 2.1" on my PC's, and it would do the trick - but
> it is a $1200 program. This would also be MY FIRST MACINTOSH and my
> first venture in OSX. I am fairly competent at building and tweaking
> PC's and tweaking Windows XP/2000/98/ME, but I have NEVER messed with
> a Mac.
>
> For the Soundcard, I'm looking at either an M-Audio Firewire 410 (4
> inputs, and EIGHT +4dBu outputs in a fairly compact chassis with
> descent D/A's - $399), or possibly trying to squeeze an RME Fireface
> 800 in my Tacoma (the Fireface is a 19" 1U Rack Mount unit with 8
> KILLER D/A converters - ~$1300). There are a few others, too. I'm a
> HUGE RME fan, but I have never used their Firewire units, and I have
> only used RME's PCI cards with a PC (not a MAC). Even Apogee
> Rosetta800 conversion is an option (althogh a VERY expensive one -
> like $3500 for 8-channels!!!).
>
> Actually finding somewhere that STOCKS the 7" Touchscreen Display
> w/VGA is virtually impossible - even in Houston! I know there are a
> few different models avalible via mail order - but at $400-$500 - I'd
> REALLY like to feel its "Touchscreen" accuracy, and see how the video
> quality is IN PERSON. Here is a link I found:
> http://www.digitalww.com/DWW-700M.htm . Fully motorized (retracts
> into the dash when not in use), and has a VGA input, AND a TV-Tuner
> built in! USB out for the Mouse "Touchscreen" Control, too! Has
> anyone used a LCD touchscreen they were happy with in a mobile
> install?
>
> I am also curious on GPS Navigation software and GPS USB hardware for
> this application.
>
> I am surely trying to cover all of my bases - buit there is still a
> LOT of stuff I am not sure about. Before I start ploping down a few
> grand, I need to make sure all of my theroies and foresight are
> in-check.
>
> Thanks for ANY further input on this very exciting venture (well,
> exctiting for me at least!). I hope I get some responses - even
> though I am asking for info to get me away from the XDP-4K - I can
> understand any reluctance on XDP-4K users' parts to help me "move on"
> with my killer audio system. Just think - I may have an XDP-4K and
> C-90 for sale CHEAP if this Mac install works out !!! Maybe to your
> benefit?
>
> Later,
> Randy V.
> Audio-Dude/Musician/Crazy-Guy
>
Cool project.
In my reading, I noticed also that M-Audio sells a $100 firewire optical audio
output device. Could also be interesting to see the mini integrated into existing
audio systems as a dash-mounted source device, even if you leave the processing
for a downstream unit.
So you have given me some inspiration as well..
Take care
-------------- Original message --------------
-- XDP4000X-List message posted by: Randy Visentine <RANDYMAN@GMAIL.COM>
Hey Justin (and anyone else),
I'm doing my research, and I am just looking for people who have
already done something simular (using ANY form of PC/Mac/Laptop -
whatever). This would be my first mobile computer install, and I'm
sure I am overlooking a few items. I got to see a Mac MINI in person
earlier this week, and it appears to be 1-Din (6.5" x 2" and 6.5"
deep). I believe standard DIN is 7" x 2" IIRC. Should fit. The
Slot-Load CD/DVD drive really rounds out this application nicely IMO.
One of my main concerns is what software I will need for the 8-channel
DSP processing (to replace the XDP-4K) ? I'm thinking Mac's included
"Gar
age Band" software may be able to "limp by" for this task. I run
Steinberg's "Nuendo 2.1" on my PC's, and it would do the trick - but
it is a $1200 program. This would also be MY FIRST MACINTOSH and my
first venture in OSX. I am fairly competent at building and tweaking
PC's and tweaking Windows XP/2000/98/ME, but I have NEVER messed with
a Mac.
For the Soundcard, I'm looking at either an M-Audio Firewire 410 (4
inputs, and EIGHT +4dBu outputs in a fairly compact chassis with
descent D/A's - $399), or possibly trying to squeeze an RME Fireface
800 in my Tacoma (the Fireface is a 19" 1U Rack Mount unit with 8
KILLER D/A converters - ~$1300). There are a few others, too. I'm a
HUGE RME fan, but I have never used their Firewire units, and I have
only used RME's PCI cards with a PC (not a MAC). Even Apogee
Rosetta800 conversion is an option (althogh a VER
Y expensive one -
like $3500 for 8-channels!!!).
Actually finding somewhere that STOCKS the 7" Touchscreen Display
w/VGA is virtually impossible - even in Houston! I know there are a
few different models avalible via mail order - but at $400-$500 - I'd
REALLY like to feel its "Touchscreen" accuracy, and see how the video
quality is IN PERSON. Here is a link I found:
http://www.digitalww.com/DWW-700M.htm . Fully motorized (retracts
into the dash when not in use), and has a VGA input, AND a TV-Tuner
built in! USB out for the Mouse "Touchscreen" Control, too! Has
anyone used a LCD touchscreen they were happy with in a mobile
install?
I am also curious on GPS Navigation software and GPS USB hardware for
this application.
I am surely trying to cover all of my bases - buit there is still a
LOT of stuff I am not sure about
. Before I start ploping down a few
grand, I need to make sure all of my theroies and foresight are
in-check.
Thanks for ANY further input on this very exciting venture (well,
exctiting for me at least!). I hope I get some responses - even
though I am asking for info to get me away from the XDP-4K - I can
understand any reluctance on XDP-4K users' parts to help me "move on"
with my killer audio system. Just think - I may have an XDP-4K and
C-90 for sale CHEAP if this Mac install works out !!! Maybe to your
benefit?
Later,
Randy V.
Audio-Dude/Musician/Crazy-Guy
cs.com/
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