CDR 23 Bluetooth

These devices have come a long way since this unit was made.  For phone and music streaming what are the best options?  I know about the Continental/VDO mechless radio units with A2DP, but I would like to keep the CDR 23 head unit. Any experience with the iSimple Transit Blu Handsfree? https://stingeraustralia.com.au/product/pacisfm2351/ Or other suggestions?

I have the Tranzit Blue HF in the Cayenne (after a recommendation from Einsteiny), it works well in phone calls, and music playback and displays ID3 tags of music. The skip/answer button isn't very responsive, I installed it myself and was pretty simple (but I imagine there's more room to work in a Cayenne) The only reason I went with the Tranzit Blue was replacing the head unit throws error codes from the ECU that it can't communicate with the gateway, and I'm a bit OCD about these things I had the 420 BT in my 911, and it was great, so off the back of that I just bought a Blaupunkt Bremen SQR 46 DAB for another car. I'll let you know how it goes (it looks vintage but has Bluetooth) from here: https://www.retrosoundusa.com.au/index.php?l=product_detail&p=2911

Just this week I've been contemplating this and have been eying this off, which seems to hijack the CD stacker input on the MOST fibre optic circuit, avail. on ebay for ~$190. https://mr12v.com/the-products?olsPage=products%2Fbluetooth-handsfree-adapter-for-audi-mmi-2g-high-blt-hnd-dpt-for There's a decent how-to write up here . Haven't pulled the trigger yet, so will see what other options people reply with here, as I'm like @Merv and want to keep the factory look of the CDR23 and also want Spotify, handsfree etc.

Thanks Russ and Steve. The reviews I have read seem very good, especially as it does not appear to be disturbed in its radio/FM link and actively suppresses the radio while on a phone call or streaming music.  The stock unit in the 2003 996TT is a CDR 23 with Bose speakers.  But I am told by the current owner (i collect the car on Friday) does not  have a stacker.   Not sure when this started in the 996 or if they all had this?  The MR12VOLT MOST Bluetooth Adapter for Porsche seems to work and is available in Australia https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Bluetooth-A2DP-USB-adapter-for-Porsche-CDR23-CDR24-Boxster-Cayman-Cayenne-/123251644993 Another alternative is the Continental/VDO unit that I fitted to my Carrera 1988.  Nice mechless unit with full BT phone sand streaming for just over $200. https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/VDO-CONTINENTAL-TR7412UB-OR-PORSCHE-MERCEDES-12v-RADIO-ORANGE-DISPLAY-BLUETOOTH/323356747149?epid=25021936599&hash=item4b4990658d:g:P9sAAOSwBdRbUXF7 EDIT Becker below is a 220, mine is a CDR23

from what i recall the Tranzit unit is wired inline to the antenna connection, and then you tune your radio to a station and it receives the info from the phone and displays it that way

Yes Russ, but also has a suppression function to stop interference from adjacent frequencies. I welcome any further or different suggestions for BT or FM phone/music connection to a CDR23.

mines set to 103.5 and tuning into 98.9 i can tell my bluetooth is paired - not sure if mine has an issue or if that's a feature

Is that on the Bremen?  If the Transit, as I understood Russ, that shouldn't happen.  Is there a ground loop problem?

nope. on the tranzit. the earth is connected in the same place the radio earth was (and it was working fine)i think it's the module itself but i haven't done much more troubleshooting yet - I never use the radio anymore

I have a CDR23 with MOST and I used a Dension Gateway 500 + Bovee WMA500 - basically one of the best options you can get. Can also change the song on the headunit too. I didn't want to bother with FM transmitters - they are inferior solutions IMO

Probably right Dan. But how much does the Denison cost?  I can buy a whole new VDO unit with BT streaming and phone (above) for under $200.

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Can't get the dension setup for under $200. There is also the new PCM unit but it's even more

A work in progress for me then ...

There is a Dennison Mini that I have enquired about. Not sure if anyone has tried that? It seems the other adapter which has a more secure (non FM) connection - does not work with any car WITHOUT a CD changer. https://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Bluetooth-A2DP-USB-adapter-for-Porsche-CDR23-CDR24-Boxster-Cayman-Cayenne/123251644993?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649

My car didn't have a CD changer and for my dension to work I had to tell my car it had a CD changer. Not sure if that's why they state it won't work. The MOST system is not the most simple system as you're dealing with fibre optic cable.

It is Dan.  You have to take it to a Porsche Centre and get them to re-program the system to 'think' there is a CD changer.  Having just driven for 4 hrs to the OPC in Brisbane to get a key coded to my central locking (they still could not get it to work and I have to go back), I am not keen to drive down again to get the non-existent CD changer to be turned off! I really don't want to change the head unit and all that entails.

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Dan, how is the phone functionality with your setup?

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I've just installed this one in my 997.1 and Its a treat. Phone is a bit cumbersome but the music from my iphone is exceptional. Keeps all the original looks. i love it

Wish it would work on my no-CD CDR 23 on the 997TT.

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Non existent - I had the very rare Dension Bluetooth module but it only worked with the PCM not CDR so I sold it - I only have music streaming. Another option is the new Classic PCM for the 996 - not cheap but looks great. There are some MOST boxes that will do what the Dension does but I haven't tried them as I like my setup and i've retained my CDR-23 and didn't need to cut, splice or damage anything. It just sits on a bracket I made neatly in the frunk. It can be done - they might tell you otherwise (either because they don't want to or don't know how). Its in PIWIS2/PIWIS3 - PCM > Maintenance Repairs > MOST expected units. I can get you a screenshot of it if you need one.

Thanks Dan do send that screenshot please. I am currently leaning towards the Tranzit Blue HF that Russ (above) used.  It seems least problematic.  I am really most interested to get the BT phone and the music is of second importance.

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Thanks.  I’m on the list at PCM for PCCM Plus when they’re due for release Q4 this year, was hoping to find a CDR23 solution for wifi in car telephony, but looks like a big spend is the only way to resolve the problem.?

Is there an AU price on the PCCM+ yet?  I like the idea of it but damn it's expensive and seems a bit out of date already.  Best price reference I've seen thus far is about 1300ukp over there (might include their VAT of 15% or more), so that's getting on for 3 grand.  Ouch.  I'm looking forward to more comprehensive reviews as they make their way into the wild though. For my e39 I bought an Extrons android unit for $400 which looks absolutely factory and hardware-wise was all plug and play.  I did some refinement of the interface with another launcher but it did work as-was.  It's not perfect but it's pretty damn good, a shame there is not an equivalent unit for the 996/986.  Call me old, but having physical buttons/knobs is a must for me, the button-less touch screens do not appeal, especially with no steering wheel volume buttons for quick distraction-free adjustments. Having a changer, Bose and MOST, the BT module devices like Mr12Volt are probably my best bang for buck at the moment.  Music, streaming and the ability to receive and make the occasional phone call are all I really want for.  I'd even be quite happy with a Conti unit and get rid of the PCM2 and do a console delete, but ironically that would probably be a much more difficult exercise. I assume the PCCM+ does the speed sensitive volume?  These cars are not quiet and really need that or you'd be forever tweaking volume up and down.  First world probs...

These look pretty good but very expensive in the post-COVID environment.  Based on the US price, we could expect $2500 here. https://www.digitaltrends.com/cars/porsche-adds-android-auto-apple-carplaly-to-classic-models/ The PCCM+ is now being installed by Porsche Classic Centres in Europe and I guess the cost has to be weighed against the fact that this is a Porsche part and a 'factory' system upgrade, unlike aftermarket options. The Mr12 (won't work on some systems) and the Tranzit seems the best options ATM.

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Price at bottom of the page, yep. Ouch https://www.porschemelbourne.com.au/pccm i have the continental in my SC works fine but about to add an amp as it's pre amp is gutless find the cabin noise kills it Hi Russ any update and what car did you fit it to? Mate has a 993 and needs Bluetooth

Ta TIPS.  I have the VDO/Conti on my 88 911 and it is the best value for money - ever! However on the 996 I want to keep the original Becker head unit.  Options are limited to the PCCM+ and the Tranzit Blue as the original unit has fibre optic and the computer 'thinks' there is a CD changer. The PCM price of the PCCM+ is the unit only - I guess they would want a lot more for installation!

The new Porsche Classic Communication Management is available for $2,643.10* (PCCM) and $2,968.33* (PCCM Plus) across official Porsche Centres in Australia. Yep, just enough change out of $3k to buy a posh beer to cry into. 🤑

A lot of disposable after tax ... in these times.

Bought an TranzIt Blu device. Easy to fit, no mods to the original Becker set up. Works really well. Very pleased.

Hey all. Newbie here. New 2003 996 owner with the stock CDR23 MOST system. I've been combing the forums looking for the best solution and am thankful to have found this forum as I am in Sydney. I bought a $50 FM transmitter from Kogan which is suitable for now. However, I have not found an affordable solution and appealing solution for iPhone mounting without having so stick something to the dash. The Rennline ExactFit unit looks good, but it quite pricey to order from overseas. I would like to keep the car stock in appearance, and do not want to mess with the MOST system. It seems the iTransitBLU is a good option. I'm wondering what advantages the Dension set up has, and what it costs fully installed? And any recommendations for an iPhone mount? Thanks.

Dension is the best quality but the most expensive and complicated. It's digital direct into the MOST system.

I had a chance to test the TransitBlue during our long drive across various regional/country areas.  It worked perfectly and phone calls and music streaming met requirements well. I liked it because it did not mess with the original unit and I could do it in 30 mins.  Track changes are done with one button press on the unit and the car stock LED display automatically displays the track titles/names. Phone mounts: https://www.holdmyphone.com.au/mounts/car/porsche.html?gclid=CjwKCAjw34n5BRA9EiwA2u9k3yUu1Es77I3K2tlh1o3c-dQv_7i5mu-g7xvX0EVEv1uQKhZeqkjOHRoCu8MQAvD_BwE However I generally keep mine in my pocket.

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I’m installing a Mr12Volt kit in my 996’s CDR23. Integrates with the Most fibre optics rather than using the FM band on the radio. A little more of a direct connection.  Not too complicated if your car has the factory CD changer. Great quality phone reception, immediate connection, great streaming. More complicated installation process though (I think?). https://mr12v.com/ Just arrived in my PO Box!

KGB, did you have a CD changer?  Apparently if you don't the system is hard to get working properly on the CDR23.  The Bluetooth emulates the CD changer as I understand.  I explored this but the seller said I could not use it on a non-CD 23.

Merv, yes I have a CD changer.  The issue with the fibre optic loop is programming, if you replace the CD changer with the B/T unit it’s fine, but if your car has no CDC you’ll require programming by your dealer or the system doesn’t recognise the B/T unit (emulating the CDC).

Yes thanks, that is what I understood.  I really didn't want to go to a dealer to manage this installation.  My Turbo has no CD changer with its Bose/MOST system.

Some dealerships don't know how to do it. You don't need a CD changer installed to turn it on. If anyone in Melbourne needs it activated PM me.

Finished off my instal this morning, all in dash beneath & behind the head unit.  There’s a lot going on in there, wish my hands were smaller! Mic at top of A pillar.  Reception and streaming working very well.  I think only a Dension and phone module would be better as control would be available via CDR23, not the phone only as per my set up. But the Dension and phone unit run well over $700 plus instal. Might as well go for PCCM+ in that case and gain many additional benefits.  Pretty satisfied with a spend of about $250 for the unit, radio removal tools and sundries. Offered a challenging little lock down project, bit of fun and some cursing. Cheaper than one “holding a phone whilst driving” infringement. Still keen on a PCCM+ later in the year if the world hasn’t ended....

Great job, I’ll be picking your brain when I start considering that area, so many things to learn.

When you’re ready, fire away..

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Just had  look at that website...this looks promising and infinitely cleaner looking than my current set up, which is one of those FM transmitters. How much to have you install it for me @KGB ?

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Dave,  happy to "help desk" you through it. Judging by your m/cycle collection you're a couple of sizes smaller than me allowing easier in-dash and foot well access! Can you remove your radio head unit? Where is your current setup located, in dash or sun visor unit? Is your car MOST fibre optic equiped, unit to unit (2 strands of orange stiff cable), and do you have a CD changer? Very likely you could replace your existing unit with the Mr12V with only half the hassle.....or maybe not. How hard can it be...

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1. I'm not that handy 2. The FM transmitter is a simple plug into the cigarette lighter one 3. I assume it's MOST (997.1) PCM2.1 with CD changer and the factory telephone 4. Yes 5. See point 1 above!

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Steve Varrasso is your man. http://www.svautoelectrical.com.au/ it’ll take him 2-3 hours.

Hopefully someone can help me with this one. I’m not sure if it’s an issue with me or the car, but I can’t seem to get my stereo to work at all! I’ve tried putting in my favourite Michael Bublè Christmas Album but it just won’t play. It’s like the stereo doesn’t even know that a CD is in there! As for the radio, the reception just seems nonexistent. Any help diagnosing the problem would be much appreciated

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Have you tried turning the knob on the left to turn the volume up, and the one on the right to change stations??  Or alternatively, try something other than Michael Buble, preferably on 8 track as that is rather a wide slot.....

You need to use this type of CD .

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That's one of them fully optioned jobbies obviously! ... original purchaser went all out! ... Must of preferred the sound of the flat 6 music ...

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The old Porsche pay more to get less trick. And it damn well gets me every time too

Being one of many PFA members who just read and learn and hardly ever post I followed this thread and installed the Tranzit BLU into my 996 Turbo with out CD stacker. The unit works great, is easy to install and is really worth considering if you want to keep things original. Now thinking of putting original radio back into  the G series with the Tranzit BLU reciever

Thank you all for the response and feedback. Next question, it seems there are a few different versions to purchase online, what exact model number am I looking for with the Tranzit Blu for my MOST CDR23 unit? Any any recommendations on where to purchase it online reliably?

I used Sound Labs in Melb as they provided excellent instructions and correct aerial adaptors. They know their products.

@Merv do you know what adaptor was needed? Are you able to send me the product number or details?

Sound Labs know the correct ones.  "Motorola" to "Fakra", IIRC.  It comes with their product if you ask.  Took me all of 30 mins to install. PS you do need the Becker 'keys' (on eBay or I have a spare set).

Just fitted the Mr12Volt system to the 996.2 with original PCM2.0, cd changer, Bose and MOST.  I liked the idea of a PCCM+ but it just seems too flawed and buggy to justify the price tag.  Maybe Porsche will make a v2.0 with proper modern features and a properly tested software?  Then again, if they do I guess it'll be five grand instead of three. Anyhow, got the Mr12Volt working last night after sourcing the closest available adapter harness from SCA and modifying it so I didn't have to damage the original harness with wire taps.  All up and working, can play off the SD card, paired the phone, can stream from the phone (my main requirement for the update) and the car audio works for making and receiving calls but so far only from the phone itself.  The answer and hang up buttons on the PCM do not work.  This is a little annoying as it means you'd need the phone on a cradle and could still perhaps get a ticket even just for touching the phone to answer or hangup. Has anyone else with a PCM2.0 installed one of these P600 units (LAPower, Mr12Volt, perhaps others) and been able to do basic phone functions via the PCM2.0 buttons?  The sketchy info provided suggests they chould work. I had the CD changer coded in already but I'm wondering whether one requires the original phone connection (which I didn't have) enabled in the PCM in order for the buttons to work?

Not sure Steve.  I seem to recall that you had to get the changer set to 'off'.  However, it seems that your basic functions streaming and receiving calls through the system work fine? I can't see how the original PCM systems would work the added BT system however. As there question on the UK 996 forum as there are heaps of threads about the NR2.  On the Tranzit I just press the provided button to cancel/end the call. Elvisattva how did you go with your TranzitBlu?

Hi Merv, Thanks for that.  The info page from the manufacturer suggests it allows "Hands-free calling directly from the car stereo via Bluetooth".  Anything phone related I try to do from the head unit just does nothing shows a "Phone not available" message on the screen.  But clearly the bluetooth module part of the Mr12Volt is working, it just has not interface with the PCM.  I'll send a question to the makers but suspect the answer will be I need to get the phone enabled on the PCM via PIWIS or similar.

Brains trust, I have the CDR-220 & CDC-3 stacker option in my car. What's the best option to allow music streaming (Spotify) whilst retaining a factory look? Also, as a side note, what is the "cubby" part called that replaces the CD holder in the dash?

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Unlike the CDR23, I believe the 220 has an AUX input on the deck that means you can easily hook in a bluetooth>AUX device.  Mine's got the CDR23 so not speaking from experience, but hopefully a nudge in the right direction.

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No AUX input on the CDR-220, that I can determine, unfortunately.

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Google is your friend:

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The aforementioned Tranzit connects to steaming Spotify perfectly.

Hey all. I went with the Tranzit Blu, and it's been ideal. Visually, it's undetectable so everything still looks original. Regarding functionality, it was exactly as expected. Connects to Spotify and phone calls very easy, I highly recommend it. I didn't install myself, but had my trusted mechanic install it during a service and the feedback was that it was a straightforward install.

Hey.  I ordered a Mr12Volt system a few weeks ago for my new to me 997.1 and bought a FM modulator from SCA for $50 whilst I waited for the unit to ship.  The modulator was fine but the audio quality wasn't fantastic.  The Mr12Volt arrived in around two weeks and I installed it the same day.  I have Bose + a CD changer so it was a relatively easy install and the sound quality is amazing.  Mounted the phone mic on top of the steering wheel cover and apparently, the sound quality is pretty good (but not 'new car' good - suspect newer cars have better background noise filtering) at the other end.  I actually can't understand what the more expensive uints could do to justify the addional spend as I think the Mr12Volt is absolutely brilliant.  A couple of notes: *  I have the steering wheel buttons and they work for call pick-up, call end and volume control but I don't beleive 'previous track' or 'next track' works off the wheel (thought it does by using the left and right buttons on the console); *  the pack I got from Mr12Volt did not include the phone bypass cable (they mention this) so when I start my car now, I get a 'phone cannot be found' message.  I've ordered a bypass cable of eBay (~$10) which apparently will sort that 'problem' out; *  I'd rate myslef as a 5/10 hack mechanic and I found it pretty easy to install.  If you were only going to use the paper instructions, you'd be in a bit of trouble but there are some awesome tutorials on YouTube which outline every single step.  The only misake I made was plugging the fibre connector loom in the wrong way initially (it's a 50/50 chance as there are only two possible ways but tweirdly, those probabilities always seem to work out with me getting it wrong 90% of the time 🙂 ) and as the guy in this video made the same mistake, it was clear straight away what I'd done; *  if you're going to do this and are a bit particular, I'd recommend de-pinning the original wiring from the adaptor and soldering, rather than splicing the wires with the provided 'quick splice' adaptor.  Note that you only need to connect power and earth if you have the Bose/CDC combo. Like quite a few of you, I thought I'd be first in line for the PCCM+ when it comes out for the 997 but after a few weeks of using this, I'm not going to bother.  I love the standard look and if you're happy to use a phone in a holder with Android Auto or Apple Car Play running off the phone (inc. navigation etc.), then that's all I and most others need. Greg