I found two Radio Shack cords for MP3 players. But don't know which is better and works/compatible with my center console Aux. Jack? Can I use both? 3-Ft. 1/8" Stereo Plug Cable - RadioShack.com Griffin 1/8" Auxiliary Audio Cable for iPod® and iPhone™ - RadioShack.com
I just bought the radio shack brand one (the first one) yesterday. Works fine. The other one you're paying a little bit more for a "name brand."
I use one of [ame="http://www.amazon.com/Belkin-Auto-Charger-iPod-White/dp/B00009KAPX"]these[/ame] from Belkin. It charges the iPod and has an aux-out socket with volume control on the plug. Coupled with a simple 3.5mm male to male cable. Connected to the iPod Sync port it gives a proper line-out feed rather than the headphone's feed and the the amplification can be controlled to suit your head unit.
Yes that is a limitation. I may have to upgrade to the Kensington LiquidAux which is a similar solution but also works with iPhones AND has a wireless steering wheel mounted remote.
In my last car I used a Monster iCarCharger, which is similar to the Belkin, but without the internal amp (which isn't very high quality and distorts the output). I believe they now make one with an integrated mini stereo cable and music controls on the power adapter, that does charge the iPhone. Search Amazon for info.
That looks neat but the Kensington has the steering wheel remote which is very neat.. Agree the internal amp in Belkin is poor but does help to match any device you connect to. It has always worked well for me with an iPod Classic mounted to a Belkin TuneDok and fitted in the pop out cup holder. No interference issues at all. But not working with the iPhone is a dealbreaker.
I bought the Kensington LiquidAux, which works well. the steering wheel remote is a little funky with the prius steering wheel, but lets you close your phone in the console, and start stop, next song. I'm assuming you have an ipod or iphone its a good choice.
Since she specified "mp3 players" I would assume she has a non-apple product. The second cable that she listed is just a standard mini (or 1/8" or 3.5mm if you prefer) cable. They just slap the iPod/iPhone on there to try to get extra sales. It'll work with any mp3 player that uses that type of headphone.
Thanks for all of the suggestions!! My brother actually gave me an auxiliary cord that he bought online for like $2!