minidisc connection question

[carlosthejackal]

i own a 99 a3,with a concert stereo system.
at the moment,i use a minidisc walkman that is connected to the stereo via a mini jack to cassette thingy!!

the problem is,it looks unsightly,and i don't like the sound of the cassette mechanism.

i would like to know,if the is a simple way of taking the head unit out of the dash,and connecting a mini jack to the rear of the unit,so there are no wires etc,coming out of the front,the walkman can then be put in the glove compartment.

there are several reasons for doing this,

i don't want to change the head unit,i like the standard one.

i don't want to make it more stealable.

i am not keen on putting in a cd changer,as i like the versitility of a minidisc.

i don't want to spend much money.

any ideas?

[carlosthejackal]

o.k,have any of you fitted a minidisc changer in the boot?
i would like to keep the original head unit,is it easy to fit ? what parts/leads do i need?

[peterb]

I always fancied an MD changer in place of the CD changer, but then found the PhatBox and took that as the easier (but more expensive) solution.

[carlosthejackal]

if you don't mind me asking,what is a phatbox??

[peterb]

It's a plug-in replacement for the standard CD changer, but uses disk cartridges to hold a variety of audio formats.

See the phatnoise site

[DaveP]

Wow...not seen those before...looks good!

What do you think of it ?..Work fine ?

[carlosthejackal]

looks interesting.
did you import it and fit it yourself?
if not,could you post details of who did?
also,was it very expensive?

[peterb]

Yep, works fine.

I did import from the states and fit it myself (back in May). Cost was $699.95 + $110 shipping, then another £126.67 in duty, VAT and handling charges.

However, Audi UK may soon be offering the PhatBox through the dealers. The Audi/VW unit is only available through VAG, not direct from Phatnoise or other dealers.

[golfttish]

o.k,have any of you fitted a minidisc changer in the boot?
i would like to keep the original head unit,is it easy to fit ? what parts/leads do i need?

You could try one of these md for audi

[carlosthejackal]

it's a thought,if the PhatBox isn't available.