What is the difference between a USB Audio Interface and an MP3 Imput Jack?

Question

I am interested in buying a car and it says that it has a USB Audio Interface and an MP3 Input Jack. All I really want is the ability to plug my iPod directly into the car. Which one of these allows me to do that? Thanks!

Answer 1

Mp3 Input Jack is the plug that you are looking for that will play your ipod through the car. The USB Audio Interface is pretty cool though because it allows you to connect anything (Although I imagine there will be slight limitations) USB to the car. For example, you could plug a USB memory stick into the car and any Mp3s on that USB stick will be available for playback in the car.

Answer 2

"MP3 input jack" is marketing jargon for a 1/8" stereo jack that takes line-level input. This input is selected via the menu on the receiver. Any ipod can source this. As for the "USB Audio interface", my best guess is since power is available at the USB port (5 volts DC) it's just used to power an ipod so as to save your batteries.

Answer 3

u can charge the device with the usb and you will get a bit better sound quality- trust me I have heard both, go usb if u can. And teh radio will probably be able to read whatever u play as it's small internal cpu can read the ipod and display the song. mp3 input jack is like a headphone jack. Sound quality is good, just plug in and play, no song display. not as good as usb,