Passat B6 (2006): replace RCD 300 with RCD 510. Lots of questions

[Mister Jim Lahey]

Looking to replace the OEM stereo (RCD 300) in my Passat with something that sounds better, plays MP3's via cable and Bluetooth, and integrates with my MFSW and red MFD.

Phone integration would be nice, but i don't care about displaying the phonebook etc. I don't need GPS, but it would like the RDS to at least display the station names. At a later date I might like to add cameras, but not for now.

My questions:

1. The stock setup sounds a touch tinny to me. Would swapping out the head unit give it a bit more depth or would I need to add a sub or switch out a pair of speakers or two?

2. What's the AM/FM reception like on the RCD 510? My existing setup has good AM, but FM isn't great.

3. I understand the Bosch unit is the one to get. And to leave the possibility of camera support I need to get the A revision, is that right? Is it hard to get this model, and is there anything to watch out for when buying one?

4. Will I need the 9W7 (not 9W2) Bluetooth kit, and is there anything to watch out for when buying it?

5. I understand the Steering Wheel phone button probably won't work with the 9W7 and my configuration (Red MFD). Other than that are there likely to be issues that might complicate things?

6. Can I run the USB cable through to a port on my centre console? I've seen a kit on Ebay.

7. Will I most likely have to update the Can Bus?

8. Is Apple likely to scupper my good intentions the next time it updates IOS (a couple of weeks)?

Thanks for your help.

[kamold]

I'll try my best to answer most questions:

1. The RCD510 has a 4x20watt amp, the same as the RCD310 (which as far as I know is the same as RCD300 except with mp3 support) so to get a decent sound you would ideally add an amp and optionally a sub.

2. Reception is fine, would not expect any difference to RCD300 unless there is something wrong with the antenna or head unit itself.

3. You want to get an RCD510 with 26 pin multimedia port on the back (sometimes called the 'mustard yellow plug'). This allows installation of a backup camera.

4. If you want bluetooth then yes you should get a 9W7 kit. This will work with your steering wheel button. If you get this kit it will be fully compatible with your car.

5. See 4. above

6. Yes

7. You need to check the revision of your CANbus gateway. You will likely need to replace it with a newer version or have the software on the gateway upgraded (very limited number of people in Aus who can do upgrades, talk to Transporter in Adelaide.

8. In regards to what? Bluetooth pairing? Unlikely. Bluetooth audio streaming? Unlikely.

[jackafrica]

In response to question 6.

The centre console switch blocks either side of the DSG shifter are a different size and shape to those of the Chinese units.
The B6 console blocks are not square.
You might consider another location.


I'm in the same boat...where to put the AUX/USB switch block.

cheers,
richard

[Mister Jim Lahey]

I'll try my best to answer most questions:

Thanks!

1. The RCD510 has a 4x20watt amp, the same as the RCD310 (which as far as I know is the same as RCD300 except with mp3 support) so to get a decent sound you would ideally add an amp and optionally a sub.

I dread you might be right, but hope not. Otherwise maybe I should be looking at another system.

2. Reception is fine, would not expect any difference to RCD300 unless there is something wrong with the antenna or head unit itself.

Another thing to check then.

3. You want to get an RCD510 with 26 pin multimedia port on the back (sometimes called the 'mustard yellow plug'). This allows installation of a backup camera.

Thanks. Can you recommend where I might get one at a good price?

4. If you want bluetooth then yes you should get a 9W7 kit. This will work with your steering wheel button. If you get this kit it will be fully compatible with your car.

Ah now this is where I'm getting confused. This site alone lists several variations including two with the K revision you've linked me to. Is this one the only one I should consider?

Would this one, for example, have shortcomings?

https://jku.com.au/vw-parts/vw-genuine-bluetooth.html

7. You need to check the revision of your CANbus gateway. You will likely need to replace it with a newer version or have the software on the gateway upgraded (very limited number of people in Aus who can do upgrades, talk to Transporter in Adelaide.

Dammit. Another thing I'll need to investigate. Thanks again.

[Mister Jim Lahey]

In response to question 6.

The centre console switch blocks either side of the DSG shifter are a different size and shape to those of the Chines units.
The B6 console blocks are not square.
You might consider another location.


I'm in the same boat...where to put the AUX/USB switch block.

cheers,
richard

I see what you mean. Scrap that idea then. Starting to think other branded units that come with onboard Bluetooth, proper RDS and USB/AUX sockets on the front might be more convenient.

But that's a whole nuther can of worms isn't it?

[kamold]

Most head units are designed with moderate output only. If you want more sound, you hook up an external amplifier. It depends on your personal requirements, an all-in-one head unit with 4x45w might be sufficient.

Ebay for your RCD510 needs.

The BT unit I linked is specifically for Red MFD setup such as yours, it has a FIS-link to allow output to your MFD. Without you are only able to control via the head unit.

You need to consider the cost/benefit of staying all OEM (RCD, BT unit, CANbus gateway probably) vs an all-in-one solution that has navigation and integrated bluetooth unit.

[Mister Jim Lahey]

Most head units are designed with moderate output only. If you want more sound, you hook up an external amplifier. It depends on your personal requirements, an all-in-one head unit with 4x45w might be sufficient.

I'm okay with the volume: it just sounds a bit tinny to my ears. Is this a common complaint?