[V8V] How to access cd player back connector?

[fvert]

Hi All,
I received a GROM MST4 multimedia player to upgrade my 2006 V8 Vantage (manual) system and finally get the bluetooth
It is apparently plug and play, you just have to disconnect the CD player and plug the connector to the GROM.
The problem is that before you plug you have to unplug
So I removed the upper fascia (easy) and I can slip my fingers behind the CD unit, but I can not unplug the cable, as I am not able to push on its side and force it out of its socket at the same time
So I remove the armrest, freed the central console (but not removed the gearknob), and the instrument stack. The problem is that as I did not remove completely the console and the stack, so I can not access the screws to remove the CD unit.

Did someone sucessfully disconected the CD player (power + optic fiber socket) withouth having to remove entirely the CD unit?
Should I continue and remove the gearknob and then hopefully remove completely the central instrument stack or is it a waste of time?

Any advice welcome and don't worry, I'll keep you updated of how the GROM performs.

Thanks and Regards!!!

Edited by fvert on Tuesday 4th October 18:01

[Zuman]

My car is an '06 DB9 (auto), but removing the center console pieces is one of the easier jobs I've attempted. Check 6speedonline for general panel removal hints (there's a sticky) and review the infamous Youtube video on removing a DB9 "radio."

[fvert]

Hi
I already watched this famous video several times but the reality is a little bit more complicated, at least on my car
So I disconected all the cables, had to force it a little bit and finally removed the center stack! Victory!
Removed the cd player, disconnected it, put everything more or less in place, connected the GROM and it worked immediately!
I could stream spotify rigth away
Tomorrow I will figure out where to put the microphone.
One problem when reconnecting the central console, I have an extra connector and I don't know where to plug it. Shame on me...
I'll put a picture...

[fvert]

Anybody has an idea of where to connect his cable? this is the rear of the central console, with the parking sensor, passenger airbag off and windscreen defrozer buttons...

[Zuman]

My console is still apart...and I labeled the connectors! I'll look when I get home tonight and see if I can figure it out (assuming mine's the same).
Sorry...US East Coast time.
PS: Which GROM unit did you get? One of the Volvos?

[fvert]

Yes, the GROM MST 4 for volvo with optional bluetooth dongle. Actually, if you visit the official GROM UK website you can chose Aston Martin and the proposed product is the MST 4 Volvo.
Tomorrow I will test the interface and provide a summary. Compared to the Dension I had on my Porsche the install is much easier

[Zuman]

Good news...I also have an extra (unused) connector. So don't worry about it!

[fvert]

Great! Thanks

[Veg]

Come on them how is the Grom? Really need to know as it sounds a great upgrade but your real life install could clinch it

[fvert]

I still have to test all the features, but I can stream Spotify which as my main objective I'll report after this weekend

[paul1962]

Hi,

Just wondered how you were finding this unit now you've had it a while.
Have you used it to play from USB or just Bluetooth streaming ?
Also wondered what is displayed on the dash in the various modes it can be used in. ie, If playing from USB does it show file names or just track numbers etc

I'm considering this or the Denison.

Thanks
Paul

[fvert]

Hi,
I used the GROM only with Bluetooth and spotify. So far it works well, I can use the console next and previous track buttons.
I had a dension gateway 500 and gateway 500S BT on previous cars (997S and A6) and here are the pros and cons I noted:
Pros:
- The GROM is theorically easier to install. Just unplug the CD charger and plug the GROM. Nevertheless, the GROM was more difficult to install to the vantage than in the Dension in the 997 as I had to remove the whole console and CD player, while the CD charger was on the boot on the 997. This depends on the vehicule but I would say overall the GROM is easier to install.
Cons: with the GROM you lose the CD Charger, so no more CDs. I do not really care, as I am using only the bluetooth. Radio still works, so all fine for me. With the Dension, if I remember well you can still use the CD charger. Advantage to the Dension here.

Overall I am very happy with the GROM, it works fine for my use and is easier to install than the Dension.
When streaming spotify I can see the title of the song, but being given the size of the screen this is a little bit useless
One last point, the GROM is cheaper!

[paul1962]

Thanks for your reply.

Just noticed the GROM plays FLAC files too which the Denison doesn't so I'll be ordering later today.

Not sure I'm brave enough to dismantle the car myself so might need to find an installer.

Paul

[Zuman]

I also installed the GROM in my '06 DB9 Volante and will be re-connecting the final bits tonight (done the upper wood console and radio/climate control panel, just the lower between-the-seats bits to go).
Removal was no problem, but re-attaching some of connectors - particularly those behind the radio/climate control panel - was painful. It would help to have Donald Trump's small hands.
Nevertheless, with determination and confidence, I succeeded.
I'll report on functionality after I've finished.

[paul1962]

Hi Zuman,

Did you finish your install ?
I got side tracked with boring stuff like work so not ordered mine yet so would be interested in your thoughts especially if you use a USB drive.

Thanks
Paul