Craig, I found most of your observations right on the money. The parking brake lever and door controls have not been an issue for me, but I can see what you mean. The clock is hard to read in the never-ending Arizona sunlight, but the glare on the chrome trim around the shifter is more annoying -- blinds me sometimes. Anyone else notice this?
I find myself stashing CDs here, there and everywhere, and I miss all the little storage places in my old ‘99 Forester. I have a couple of crazy solutions: I have found that unwrapped toothpicks fit perfectly in the ‘05’s ash tray, and flat chewing gum packages can pile up in the empty DIN flip-top box! Hmmmm...maybe my priorities are just a bit off :-)
The manual says that the dealer can adjust the sensitivity of the perimeter alarm. I also live up here in the NW and have not put my car on any of the Ferries yet, nor have I ever triggered my alarm. I don't think alarms are very useful except for causing noise pollution when they go off on accident and for the insurance deduction. If a thief really wants your car, an alarm isn't going to do much. (I had my SUV stolen out of my driveway in the middle of the night- not a sound from the alarm!)
Karen- Thanks for the thoughts on use of the storage spaces. I don't know what to use the tiny ashtray for- I put spare change and tire pressure gauge and sunglass cleaning cloth in the little bin above the trip computer. All my CDs are either in my glovebox or armrest storage. I have 6 CDs loaded in the changer which helps. A visor CD holder would probably be useful. I'm going to pick one up.
I wish there was a sunglass holder- right where the passenger seatbelt alarm is would be great! I'm pretty much resolved to wearing my seatbelt all of the time to stop the chiming. It might save my life someday, you never know when you are going to get in a head on collision while parked on the side of the road! ;-)
Anyone know what model radio is in the base model OB? I know that it has a Clarion amp in the back at the antenna connection, so I am assuming it's a Clarion radio. I was hoping one of us could figure out what input options we might have to hook up an iPod directly to the stereo system.
From what I have read about FM modulators, they are nowhere near CD-quality sound (assuming you can even find an unused frequency in the busy metro areas), so I am opposed to that route, at least for now.
Knowing Apple, they've already got someone working on this. Any thoughts? Rumors? Advice?
seatbelt, Tom. It's a good thing. Pretty soon, you'll feel like something's not quite right if you forget to put it on. But I guess you won't forget... there's that buzzer..I'll shut up now. Owen
Craig: Great write-up! I think I can relate to many of the things you pointed out except for a few items. I'm only 5'8" so the parking brake handle is fine where it is. Also my autodimming mirror seems to take the bass just fine.
I'm really digging the 5EAT steering wheel buttons. I now thumb one gear down in anticipation of passing vehicles. The tranny does a great job of downshifting so that there's very little shock. When the time is right, you just give it a little more gas and "swooooosh", you're two car lengths ahead!
My most recent praise? Insurance! My 6 month premium went up only $50 compared to my 5-year old Forester! Despite having my VIN, the description comes up as 05 Legacy so for now there seems to be no distinction for the turbo.
Karen: I was dreading FM transmitters too, but given that there is no direct in solution yet, I went out and bought a Belkin Tunecast II. I was actually pleasantly surprised by the result. Of course, it's not CD-quality sound, but to my ears, it sounds a lot better (cleaner) than the strongest of the FM stations. They're only $40 at Circuit City so give it a try -- worst case you can just return it. Also, the Tunecast II comes with an AC adapter. I bought a splitter at a local Pep Boys so now both my iPod and Tunecast are running off of the center console.
I think I asked this before but didn't hear back so here it goes again.
Do you guys hear a "click" sound coming from the center console directly below the shift lever when coming to a full stop? It can also be felt through the shift lever itself.
Ken, thanks for the info. I actually had been looking at the Belkin FM mod product. I'll give it a whirl!
BTW, since the new Outbacks are so highly thought of by reviewers, and are being compared to the upper-echelon of autos, perhaps we'll soon see commercials entitled "iPod your Outback" !
Subaru, are you listening???? Oh, sorry, I didn't know you had your earPods on :-)
Ken- I don't hear any clicks, but then again I don't have the same tranny. Your post on the dyno was interesting. I would think Subaru would want to use higher numbers for their advertising. It's a great engine, it's amazing how that rush of power puts a smile on my face every day ;-)! I can't wait to take it above 4000!
With regards to the sunglass holder, maybe Legacy owners are so cool they never take their sunglasses off? ;-)
Owen- I'm a big supporter of seatbelt use. Having done trauma and seeing what happens when you don't buckle up, it's hard to argue against wearing seatbelts. I just don't need to be reminded when I'm in park!
Anybody know if a roof rack will fit on a GT sedan (assuming that there was a fit kit for it)? It doesn't seem like there is any place on the underside of the roof where the roof rack foot could clamp.
I found a cool FREE program by Griffin Technologies to help find available FM stations in over 240 cities in the US for use with your FM modulators and iPods, MP3 players, etc.:
I tried that app also, but the frequencies it said were "free" actually had some static. I found a frequency that worked through trial and error.
The nice thing about the Tunecast is that it has four memory settings that can easily be toggled by pressing a button.
Lastly, I have my Tunecast plugged into my Belkin Auto Kit rather than in the headphone jack of my iPod. This way, I not only get to use the better line-out quality of the Belkin Auto Kit (it gets the sound from the dock) but the only thing that sits outside is my iPod connected by a single wire. I'll try and take a photo later to show you.
Also - further to your previous request, I hear some whine when coming to a stop, but I believe it is just normal transmission noise due to changing from 3rd to 2nd to 1st.
But a question for other 5EAT owners - has anyone had to use the button just in front of the gearlever? I'm sure you compulsive handbook readers will know all about it - apparently something your press when the car is turned off and it is locked in gear?
Not being a traditional auto-buyer I can't really work out why it would be needed.
<Warning - weird aussie humour to follow>
Or maybe it is the nagging-wife ejector seat...now that would be handy. The sunroof would be just about big enough too. Mind you, as she gets more pregnant, she might get stuck on the way out...
1) It seems like many in here have ordered their Legacy/OB. Are dealers typically as willing to order a specific vehicle if you are purchasing under the VIP agreement?
2)When ordering a specific vehicle, what kind of committment does the dealer reasonably expect you to make. ie... Will I need to put say, a $500 deposit on the car?
3) How long do orders typically take? I'm hoping (as in banking, cause a lease is up in) 8 weeks.
Thanks in advance! ~alpha
PS- It looks like Im going to be ordering an Atlantic Blue 2.5i 4EAT Sedan with Rear Spoiler, PEG, Emissions (a requirement, in my area, I think), and Wheel Locks. Im using the VIP agreement, through my employer.
I was able to put down $100 on my ordered F-XT via the IMBA VIP program. Java Black MT's were rare around here I guess. They first look at the dealer stock in the surrounding area, including neighboring states. If no match, then they'll search the port. No match there, and they'll grab one from the other side of the pond and put your name on it.
Mine took 7 weeks. They expected it in 6 weeks, but there was a miscommunication that left it sitting in Portland an extra few days.
In fact, to get an STi (at least back in April), you had to order it if you opted for the VIP pricing. You could not take one from the lot, even if it had the options you wanted.
Originally posted by kmartin From what I have read about FM modulators, they are nowhere near CD-quality sound (assuming you can even find an unused frequency in the busy metro areas), so I am opposed to that route, at least for now.
Actually BMW has a dealer installed ipod adapter. I think with the popularity of MP3 players it's very convenient to be able to take it from home to car to office. Some MP3 formats will actually exceed CD quality, which itself has compromises and actually has less frequency range and accuracy than those old LPs (however you have to be a true audiophile to appreciate this- from what i've been told) Now SACD is what CD should have been had Sony and Philips not made compromises, but that's a different topic.
I think it would be great if Subaru offered something similar to BMWs system. I would definitely get one.
I noticed my car has two little mud flaps in front of the rear tires. Anyone have an idea as to what they're for? Are they on the Outbacks?
I also noticed the rear fenders are one piece with the roof and A-pillar. Does that mean this whole piece needs to be replaced if the rear fender is damaged? Is this common on other cars? I am going to look at some other cars and see, I've not noticed this before.
I tried 'shaking' my whole car, moving it, hitting it with my shoulder to try to set off the alarm and I couldn't. Has anyone accidently (or purposely) set off their alarm?
I've spoke to my dealer about the air filtration and short shifter- no idea on availability yet. But they did order the parts. Maybe late August?
The Yakima EasyRider kit installs on legacy wagons, for the sedans you'll have to wait for a fit kit. Could take a few months for Yak or Thule to release one, but they always (almost) have a fit for any vehicle.
My 2005 2.5 replaced a 2001 Limited, which didn't have one; (my new model is the base model with an after market sunroof) neither did my other OB's. I'm of that 'certain age' where I need to keep an extra pair of reading lasses in the car, so I really appreciate the holder.
As far as the weather band, I hardly ever used it because I found the computer talk obnoxious. I do find, though, that the new antenna location (in the back window) gets poorer reception than the old location in the third window back.
The substance is that iPod compression renders the audio much closer to FM radio broadcast quality than to CD-quality.
If that's the substance of the article, then there is a major misunderstanding somewhere in the writing or the reading. There are multiple formats supported by the iPod -- including a lossless version of AAC (advanced audio codec). Lossless means you lose no quality when converting the music to/from a digital format. Regardless, even the 192kbps AAC format (which does use compression) is far closer to CD quality than any method of broadcasting with an analog signal (such as FM). Even the MP3 formats, which have lower quality for a given bit rate compared to AAC, sound closer to CD quality than an FM broadcast, never mind the theoretical comparison I aluded to above. So I think the article, or the interpretation of the article, must be wrong.
In addition, with hard-disk based music players fast becoming a standard, I think it behooves mobile audio and car companies to think about incorporating compatibility features. Many car stereos, factory and aftermarket, already have some sort of line-in jack for this purpose.
alpha: I waited about 7 weeks for my LGT. It's usually 6 weeks from when Subaru takes the order from your dealer plus whatever time you ordered prior to that date. My dealer required a $1000 deposit -- a real one, not just one where they photocopy a check. I was told that Subaru requires a real deposit as some errant dealers were placing fake orders to build inventory.
tom: Those flaps are there to improve airflow under your vehicle. I'm not sure it's on the OB. As for the alarm, try sitting in your vehicle, arming it and then hitting the steering wheel. That was the recommended test with my previous Forester alarm.
jon: I also read that NYT article and also thought that the writer was misinformed. He wrote "The bit rate for iTunes, 128, is so low that when played side by side against the original, the difference is audible not only to audio enthusiasts, but also to mortals with ordinary hearing.". I agree that audio enthusiasts can tell the difference, but I think 80% of owners are fine with 128kbps AAC (which sounds more like 192kbps MP3). I normally rip at 192kbps AAC and for 95% of my music, I need to reallly strain to hear the difference with a CD. In a suboptimal environment such as a car, the differences are moot.
As promised, below is the iPod solution I'm using in my LGT. You'll need to be signed in on Imagestation to see the pics.
Here's what it looks like when I'm driving around. I can also open the cupholders and have it stand at an angle as well:
And here's the jumble of items that make it happen. I have the 12V socket split into two. The Belkin Tunecast II plugs into one and the Belkin Autokit into the other. The Tunecast II is then plugged into the Autokit.
Ken finally hit the nail on the head. In any car, driving at any speed, there will be a certain amount of background noise which will interfere with the quality of any sound system in any format, regardless of the quality of the sound source or volume/audio settings. You will never experience true CD-quality sound in a moving vehicle.
128 bit rate is a great compromise for sound quality vs. storage space for this type of use. As technology improves, we will no doubt experience something better sometime in the near future. But for now, it works, and it works well.
It seems there's definitely enough interest in the world for BMW owners to want iPods, and other manufacturers will surely follow. And since Subaru and other owners are constantly talking about it here, there and everywhere, it won't be long before aftermarket manufacturers will see a need and respond, as many already are.
Thanks to everyone for all their input here!
It's great to have forums like these as tremendous resources of information and ideas. As a professional musician, I know a little about the subject of music. And as a 40-something-year-old, I am thrilled to be called an "adolescent"...thanks!
Thanks for the pictures!! So, should I go out and get a Tunecast today? I already have an extra Belkin auto-kit that I can use.
Based on your previous experience with the setup you had in the Forester (a cassette adapter I believe) how would you rate the sound quality of the Tunecast setup?
Ken, great pictures...thanks! Something more to think about...
Did read somewhere that you shouldn't use those y-adapters in the 12V outlets? Is that in the owners manual, or did I imagine it? I know I've used them before, and they are readily found in auto stores. Maybe I dreamed it...
The only reason I can see not to use a y-splitter is if the combined current of the multiple devices is too much for the main wiring (in which case a the fuse should pop). For these kinds of devices that Ken is using, I would not worry at all -- the amperage is very low. In fact, I will probably look for a 3-way splitter so that I can also power my cell phone in addition to the other two devices for the iPod.
I do miss having my iPod inthe car -- I loaded 6 CDs in the radio, and quickly ran out of songs to listen to in a couple hours. In addition, I miss having playlists and the ability to quickly browse the music library and get to songs easily. The CD changer is limited and clunky in comparison.
The other issue with the Ipod is that it does not have the best amp for headphones. So there is a loss in quality coming from that. If your Ipod is hooked up through the headphone jack then there is some loss there compared to the Creative models or the Iriver. Perhaps that is what the NY Times was getting at? this particular issue has nothing to do with the compression of the music.
And of course none of this has anything to do with Subaru.
The audio coming out of the iPod's dock connector, which is what Ken and I and many others use, is a clean line-level signal. I agree that the headphone output is not as good. Part of that is due to the fact that headphone out has a lower amplitude than the dock's line-out (which was surprising to me at first). So the dock line-out is the way to go -- you get a louder and cleaner signal that has not passed through the iPod's headphone amp.
I use the dock line-out when connecting to my stereo at home, and it sounds great there as well.
Yes, my previous setup was with an Auto Kit and a cassette adapter. Compared to this set up the Tunecast sound does seem a little flat, but I find that tweaking the treble control or even using the "Latin" EQ setting helps. It's hard to contrast since my previous setup was on the Forester and it didn't offer nearly as good as an in-car audio experience as the Leg.
In short, I find the sound quality of the Tunecast to be between a CD and FM radio. If I would rate a CD in my LGT as a 10, FM would be about a 7 and the Tunecast II (assuming little interference) is about an 8.
Are there any electronics stores in your area that offer a x-day money back guarantee? Try the it out(I think Circuit City and Best Buy have the ones with the AC adapter on sale for $40) and if you don't like it, you can always return it.
Karen:
Yeah, the Y-splitter worried me too, but I figured the iPod and Tunecast combined couldn't be drawing very much current. Plus the Y-splitter has an inline 5A fuse (although I didn't check what the allowable load was on the power source :-P).
NY Times is the LAST place I would look for any kind of objective technical reviews. If I wanted in-depth info on audio quality, I would check out some audiophile magazines or web sites.
As far as MP3/AAC - with 128kbs compression, some of the high frequency range is lost and everything usually sounds more "bass"y. At 192kbps, that loss is almost imperceptible.
Since the iPod has massive storage capacity (20GB minimum as far as I know), I would go to an even higher compression than 192, at which point the loss would be basically non-existant.
Just wanted to echo Karen's sentiments thanking all for this discussion--a perfect example of why these forums are such a great resource. As an Iriver person, I sometimes feel on the outside looking in, but our issues are the same with the Subaru hook up. I have a six-year old Aiwa system in my car now that has a line in. BTW, I'm pleasantly surprised by the sound produced by the ogg vorbis format--think it's somewhat preferable.
Craig & Karen - regarding the y-splitter, you can alawys go the route I did. I use a surge protector 3 outlet adapter from Radio Shack. This way I can have radar, cell, and if necessary, my wife's cell.
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I called Yakima and they plan to get to it soon. I was the second call the rep received in the last hour and he said the more people that called the sooner they would get to it.
Earlier this summer, before I purchased my Subie, I read recommendations on types of bike racks for a Subie - maybe in the "Towing" forum? Can't find those recommends now that I need to buy a reachable bike rack for a trip! Any suggestions?
I am looking for a 04 while the prices are low. I found a new 2003, 5M with no options. The sticker is $23,500. I was going to offer $17,000 Cash. Does anyone think this is a GREAT deal? Or can I do better? I tried to research but there is no info available for a new 03. Your input is appreciated!
Well, I bought a Tunecast and tried it today. Seems like there are too many stations around here to provide a clean signal for the whole length of my 35 mile commute -- I'd have to switch frequencies at least once. I had no idea, but it turns out there are only about 3 unused frequencies around here!
When I got a strong clear signal, it sounded pretty good -- certainly not CD quality but acceptable. But once the stereo indicator on the radio started flickering, the sound quality was horrible. I guess at that point a radio broadcast was probably competing with the Tunecast.
I am very tempted to try a hardwired FM modulator -- one that would go inline with the antenna wire and switch off the antenna when the modulator was in use. That way the modulator is not competing with broadcast radio, and you can always use the same frequency. Unfortunately, this requires access to the back of the radio, which is a big unknown at this point.
So, it looks like I will be going without the iPod in the car for a while.... maybe I will go back to full time NPR and forget about music for a while!
Ok, I have to admit that I haven't driven the legacy yet, but I'm trying to reconcile the potential problem areas first. I have sat in several 2.5 and gt's..the latter which is my preference.
I just went to a second dealer yesterday to get better acquainted with the interior...after hearing some gripes on this forum and the larger 'Subaru' forum. I come from a '98 altima. I quickly noticed a problem (that has been mentioned before here)....the placement of the rear view mirror seems LOW and the mirror ain't small. If you opt for the auto-dimming, the problem is worse.
I'm probably just shy of 6'0" and have absolutely no issues with this in my Altima or any previous car. I also notice that, while cozy, the Legacy's A pillar is 'closer' to me than in my Altima. Plus, it seems to be a little fatter.
Questions: Anyone else finding the r.v. mirror to be poorly placed, too big, etc, and having troulbe adjusting..not just when sitting idle, but actual driving conditions? Do you get used to it (non-issue) after driving with it, or does it always seem to get in the way? Are there 'any' reasonable solutions??
Second, again, I come from a '98 altima. Does anyone (who might have the same perspective) find the 'closer' and slightly fatter A pillars to be limiting vision wise...or does one quickly adjust. I'll ask this over at the Subaru forum as soon as they finish my registration. Thanks in advance for all replies. So far, this is the most critical criticism I've encountered, for me, because all the other goodies won't matter if I don't feel comfortable looking out the front window.
The mirror on my wrx seemed low when I got it. If the legacy's mirror has two ball joints like the wrx's, you can place the rod that connects the two ball joints to point up, moving the mirror up. If the actual mirror mount is glued to the windshield, you can remount it higher. I have no idea how the mirror in the legacy/ob is attached. Don
Not sure about the newer Legacy, but I have the same problem in my Outback Sport (Impreza). I'm over 6'-2" and found the mirror was too low. Folks on the boards said it could be moved up. I grabbed the mirror with two hands and just shoved it upwards. Got an extra inch or so that way, as the mount articulates. Not perfect, but definitely liveable. I testdrove an 05 GT last weekend with the auto-dimming mirror, and you're right, that things HUGE. With my height, I'd pass on that style mirror.
Great car, though. Hope the mirror issue doesn't eliminate it from your options.
Ken: yeah, I'll return it to Circuit City, I am sure they will take it back. The quality under optimum conditions was encouraging, leading me to think that a hardwired modulator will be an ideal solution.
Bolbo: I have always felt that the forward vision out of the Legacy/Outback was not the best, but believe it or not, it's better in the 05 models compared to my previous 02. As others have mentioned, be sure you have adjusted the mirror up as high as it can go -- that helps a lot. On the previous cars you could not adjust it too much since the visors would hit it. With the new visor shape, there is more freedom in the 05 models.
Also, take the time to adjust the seating position, especially the height and angle, for a combination of comfort and forward vision. Seating position has a huge effect on the line of sight (I say this as someone who is sensitive to pilot's line of sight when developing fighter aircraft).
Finally, I have found that the view out the front seemed confining at first, but I quickly adjusted to it and it's no big deal. Honestly, I don't think the Legacy/Outback are any worse than other cars I have driven even though the initial impression suggests otherwise.
Comments
I find myself stashing CDs here, there and everywhere, and I miss all the little storage places in my old ‘99 Forester. I have a couple of crazy solutions: I have found that unwrapped toothpicks fit perfectly in the ‘05’s ash tray, and flat chewing gum packages can pile up in the empty DIN flip-top box! Hmmmm...maybe my priorities are just a bit off :-)
-KarenM-
Karen- Thanks for the thoughts on use of the storage spaces. I don't know what to use the tiny ashtray for- I put spare change and tire pressure gauge and sunglass cleaning cloth in the little bin above the trip computer. All my CDs are either in my glovebox or armrest storage. I have 6 CDs loaded in the changer which helps. A visor CD holder would probably be useful. I'm going to pick one up.
I wish there was a sunglass holder- right where the passenger seatbelt alarm is would be great! I'm pretty much resolved to wearing my seatbelt all of the time to stop the chiming. It might save my life someday, you never know when you are going to get in a head on collision while parked on the side of the road! ;-)
tom
From what I have read about FM modulators, they are nowhere near CD-quality sound (assuming you can even find an unused frequency in the busy metro areas), so I am opposed to that route, at least for now.
Knowing Apple, they've already got someone working on this. Any thoughts? Rumors? Advice?
-KarenM-
Owen
Frank
I'm really digging the 5EAT steering wheel buttons. I now thumb one gear down in anticipation of passing vehicles. The tranny does a great job of downshifting so that there's very little shock. When the time is right, you just give it a little more gas and "swooooosh", you're two car lengths ahead!
My most recent praise? Insurance! My 6 month premium went up only $50 compared to my 5-year old Forester! Despite having my VIN, the description comes up as 05 Legacy so for now there seems to be no distinction for the turbo.
Karen: I was dreading FM transmitters too, but given that there is no direct in solution yet, I went out and bought a Belkin Tunecast II. I was actually pleasantly surprised by the result. Of course, it's not CD-quality sound, but to my ears, it sounds a lot better (cleaner) than the strongest of the FM stations. They're only $40 at Circuit City so give it a try -- worst case you can just return it. Also, the Tunecast II comes with an AC adapter. I bought a splitter at a local Pep Boys so now both my iPod and Tunecast are running off of the center console.
Ken
Yeah, it's kind of lame, but someone at Subaru decided that Legacy owners don't wear sunglasses.
I just leave mine in the navi hole.
Ken
Do you guys hear a "click" sound coming from the center console directly below the shift lever when coming to a full stop? It can also be felt through the shift lever itself.
Just curious.
Ken
BTW, since the new Outbacks are so highly thought of by reviewers, and are being compared to the upper-echelon of autos, perhaps we'll soon see commercials entitled "iPod your Outback" !
Subaru, are you listening???? Oh, sorry, I didn't know you had your earPods on :-)
-KarenM-
-KarenM-
With regards to the sunglass holder, maybe Legacy owners are so cool they never take their sunglasses off? ;-)
Owen- I'm a big supporter of seatbelt use. Having done trauma and seeing what happens when you don't buckle up, it's hard to argue against wearing seatbelts. I just don't need to be reminded when I'm in park!
tom
iTrip Station Finder
http://www.griffintechnology.com/software/software_itrip.html
(available for Mac or Windows)
There are some other nice resources listed on that page as well.
-KarenM-
I tried that app also, but the frequencies it said were "free" actually had some static. I found a frequency that worked through trial and error.
The nice thing about the Tunecast is that it has four memory settings that can easily be toggled by pressing a button.
Lastly, I have my Tunecast plugged into my Belkin Auto Kit rather than in the headphone jack of my iPod. This way, I not only get to use the better line-out quality of the Belkin Auto Kit (it gets the sound from the dock) but the only thing that sits outside is my iPod connected by a single wire. I'll try and take a photo later to show you.
Ken
Also - further to your previous request, I hear some whine when coming to a stop, but I believe it is just normal transmission noise due to changing from 3rd to 2nd to 1st.
But a question for other 5EAT owners - has anyone had to use the button just in front of the gearlever? I'm sure you compulsive handbook readers will know all about it - apparently something your press when the car is turned off and it is locked in gear?
Not being a traditional auto-buyer I can't really work out why it would be needed.
<Warning - weird aussie humour to follow>
Or maybe it is the nagging-wife ejector seat...now that would be handy. The sunroof would be just about big enough too. Mind you, as she gets more pregnant, she might get stuck on the way out...
- Aussie Outback
1) It seems like many in here have ordered their Legacy/OB. Are dealers typically as willing to order a specific vehicle if you are purchasing under the VIP agreement?
2)When ordering a specific vehicle, what kind of committment does the dealer reasonably expect you to make. ie... Will I need to put say, a $500 deposit on the car?
3) How long do orders typically take? I'm hoping (as in banking, cause a lease is up in) 8 weeks.
Thanks in advance!
~alpha
PS- It looks like Im going to be ordering an Atlantic Blue 2.5i 4EAT Sedan with Rear Spoiler, PEG, Emissions (a requirement, in my area, I think), and Wheel Locks. Im using the VIP agreement, through my employer.
Mine took 7 weeks. They expected it in 6 weeks, but there was a miscommunication that left it sitting in Portland an extra few days.
In fact, to get an STi (at least back in April), you had to order it if you opted for the VIP pricing. You could not take one from the lot, even if it had the options you wanted.
-Brian
Note to Subaru: Please try to ignore requests for features popular with adolescents (like iPod compatability) and, instead, focus on what adults want.
I think it would be great if Subaru offered something similar to BMWs system. I would definitely get one.
tom
I also noticed the rear fenders are one piece with the roof and A-pillar. Does that mean this whole piece needs to be replaced if the rear fender is damaged? Is this common on other cars? I am going to look at some other cars and see, I've not noticed this before.
I tried 'shaking' my whole car, moving it, hitting it with my shoulder to try to set off the alarm and I couldn't. Has anyone accidently (or purposely) set off their alarm?
I've spoke to my dealer about the air filtration and short shifter- no idea on availability yet. But they did order the parts. Maybe late August?
tom
~alpha
As far as the weather band, I hardly ever used it because I found the computer talk obnoxious. I do find, though, that the new antenna location (in the back window) gets poorer reception than the old location in the third window back.
If that's the substance of the article, then there is a major misunderstanding somewhere in the writing or the reading. There are multiple formats supported by the iPod -- including a lossless version of AAC (advanced audio codec). Lossless means you lose no quality when converting the music to/from a digital format. Regardless, even the 192kbps AAC format (which does use compression) is far closer to CD quality than any method of broadcasting with an analog signal (such as FM). Even the MP3 formats, which have lower quality for a given bit rate compared to AAC, sound closer to CD quality than an FM broadcast, never mind the theoretical comparison I aluded to above. So I think the article, or the interpretation of the article, must be wrong.
In addition, with hard-disk based music players fast becoming a standard, I think it behooves mobile audio and car companies to think about incorporating compatibility features. Many car stereos, factory and aftermarket, already have some sort of line-in jack for this purpose.
Craig
tom: Those flaps are there to improve airflow under your vehicle. I'm not sure it's on the OB. As for the alarm, try sitting in your vehicle, arming it and then hitting the steering wheel. That was the recommended test with my previous Forester alarm.
jon: I also read that NYT article and also thought that the writer was misinformed. He wrote "The bit rate for iTunes, 128, is so low that when played side by side against the original, the difference is audible not only to audio enthusiasts, but also to mortals with ordinary hearing.". I agree that audio enthusiasts can tell the difference, but I think 80% of owners are fine with 128kbps AAC (which sounds more like 192kbps MP3). I normally rip at 192kbps AAC and for 95% of my music, I need to reallly strain to hear the difference with a CD. In a suboptimal environment such as a car, the differences are moot.
Ken
As promised, below is the iPod solution I'm using in my LGT. You'll need to be signed in on Imagestation to see the pics.
Here's what it looks like when I'm driving around. I can also open the cupholders and have it stand at an angle as well:
And here's the jumble of items that make it happen. I have the 12V socket split into two. The Belkin Tunecast II plugs into one and the Belkin Autokit into the other. The Tunecast II is then plugged into the Autokit.
Ken
128 bit rate is a great compromise for sound quality vs. storage space for this type of use. As technology improves, we will no doubt experience something better sometime in the near future. But for now, it works, and it works well.
It seems there's definitely enough interest in the world for BMW owners to want iPods, and other manufacturers will surely follow. And since Subaru and other owners are constantly talking about it here, there and everywhere, it won't be long before aftermarket manufacturers will see a need and respond, as many already are.
Thanks to everyone for all their input here!
It's great to have forums like these as tremendous resources of information and ideas. As a professional musician, I know a little about the subject of music. And as a 40-something-year-old, I am thrilled to be called an "adolescent"...thanks!
-KarenM-
http://members.cox.net/kamartin/2005outbackreviews.html
Based on your previous experience with the setup you had in the Forester (a cassette adapter I believe) how would you rate the sound quality of the Tunecast setup?
Craig
Did read somewhere that you shouldn't use those y-adapters in the 12V outlets? Is that in the owners manual, or did I imagine it? I know I've used them before, and they are readily found in auto stores. Maybe I dreamed it...
-KarenM-
I do miss having my iPod inthe car -- I loaded 6 CDs in the radio, and quickly ran out of songs to listen to in a couple hours. In addition, I miss having playlists and the ability to quickly browse the music library and get to songs easily. The CD changer is limited and clunky in comparison.
Craig
And of course none of this has anything to do with Subaru.
I use the dock line-out when connecting to my stereo at home, and it sounds great there as well.
Craig
Yes, my previous setup was with an Auto Kit and a cassette adapter. Compared to this set up the Tunecast sound does seem a little flat, but I find that tweaking the treble control or even using the "Latin" EQ setting helps. It's hard to contrast since my previous setup was on the Forester and it didn't offer nearly as good as an in-car audio experience as the Leg.
In short, I find the sound quality of the Tunecast to be between a CD and FM radio. If I would rate a CD in my LGT as a 10, FM would be about a 7 and the Tunecast II (assuming little interference) is about an 8.
Are there any electronics stores in your area that offer a x-day money back guarantee? Try the it out(I think Circuit City and Best Buy have the ones with the AC adapter on sale for $40) and if you don't like it, you can always return it.
Karen:
Yeah, the Y-splitter worried me too, but I figured the iPod and Tunecast combined couldn't be drawing very much current. Plus the Y-splitter has an inline 5A fuse (although I didn't check what the allowable load was on the power source :-P).
Ken
As far as MP3/AAC - with 128kbs compression, some of the high frequency range is lost and everything usually sounds more "bass"y. At 192kbps, that loss is almost imperceptible.
Since the iPod has massive storage capacity (20GB minimum as far as I know), I would go to an even higher compression than 192, at which point the loss would be basically non-existant.
Mark
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When I got a strong clear signal, it sounded pretty good -- certainly not CD quality but acceptable. But once the stereo indicator on the radio started flickering, the sound quality was horrible. I guess at that point a radio broadcast was probably competing with the Tunecast.
I am very tempted to try a hardwired FM modulator -- one that would go inline with the antenna wire and switch off the antenna when the modulator was in use. That way the modulator is not competing with broadcast radio, and you can always use the same frequency. Unfortunately, this requires access to the back of the radio, which is a big unknown at this point.
So, it looks like I will be going without the iPod in the car for a while.... maybe I will go back to full time NPR and forget about music for a while!
CRaig
Sorry to hear that you get too much FM interference. I hope you can return the Tunecast for a refund, though.
But when the signal is clear the sound isn't too bad, no?
Ken
I just went to a second dealer yesterday to get better acquainted with the interior...after hearing some gripes on this forum and the larger 'Subaru' forum. I come from a '98 altima. I quickly noticed a problem (that has been mentioned before here)....the placement of the rear view mirror seems LOW and the mirror ain't small. If you opt for the auto-dimming, the problem is worse.
I'm probably just shy of 6'0" and have absolutely no issues with this in my Altima or any previous car. I also notice that, while cozy, the Legacy's A pillar is 'closer' to me than in my Altima. Plus, it seems to be a little fatter.
Questions: Anyone else finding the r.v. mirror to be poorly placed, too big, etc, and having troulbe adjusting..not just when sitting idle, but actual driving conditions? Do you get used to it (non-issue) after driving with it, or does it always seem to get in the way? Are there 'any' reasonable solutions??
Second, again, I come from a '98 altima. Does anyone (who might have the same perspective) find the 'closer' and slightly fatter A pillars to be limiting vision wise...or does one quickly adjust. I'll ask this over at the Subaru forum as soon as they finish my registration. Thanks in advance for all replies. So far, this is the most critical criticism I've encountered, for me, because all the other goodies won't matter if I don't feel comfortable looking out the front window.
I have no idea how the mirror in the legacy/ob is attached.
Don
Great car, though. Hope the mirror issue doesn't eliminate it from your options.
-Dan-
Bolbo: I have always felt that the forward vision out of the Legacy/Outback was not the best, but believe it or not, it's better in the 05 models compared to my previous 02. As others have mentioned, be sure you have adjusted the mirror up as high as it can go -- that helps a lot. On the previous cars you could not adjust it too much since the visors would hit it. With the new visor shape, there is more freedom in the 05 models.
Also, take the time to adjust the seating position, especially the height and angle, for a combination of comfort and forward vision. Seating position has a huge effect on the line of sight (I say this as someone who is sensitive to pilot's line of sight when developing fighter aircraft).
Finally, I have found that the view out the front seemed confining at first, but I quickly adjusted to it and it's no big deal. Honestly, I don't think the Legacy/Outback are any worse than other cars I have driven even though the initial impression suggests otherwise.
Craig