So I replaced my stock radio that took the standard USB cable that came with my iPhone just fine as USB only and played it very well over the system. So when I ordered the Flag ship Z130BT, I assumed that the cable it came with would be just fine and I would only have to use USB. Turns out there is an option 50 dollar cable, if I want to use my ipad or 30 dollar cable without! just using the computer USB cable, my iphone hooks up fine, but I get no audio. So I also hooked in the 3.5mm at the same time, and viola I get Sound. Is this basically the same thing as the cable? Because I need to unplug and replug my 3.5mm every time I restart my car, or switch apps. Also I can't get any video over ipod app mode. I'm hoping that these problems are because I don't have that interface cable, and not because my unit is defective. Can someone please illustrate for me why they felt the need to add this extra cable instead of just using solid USB like my shitty stock deck did? Is there a sound quality improvement because of this.

Please explain to a noobie what the dealio is with the 3.5mm +USB vs interface link, and why it couldn't be done with just USB only with optional Aux 3.5mm? If this has been explained somewhere else please direct me, I looked but could not find this exact issue.

I have pictures of my install on this other forum... HERE

Thanks for the help!

You need the Pioneer cable.

You need the Pioneer cable.

Ok, thanks for the info, I ordered it and it's on its way... care to elaborate on the technical side of why the 3.5mm and USB vs just USB was chosen by pioneer? Is it a functionality thing, or a marketing make an extra 50 bucks thing?

It's not a standard 3.5mm, it's a 4 pin 3.5mm that provides audio and video via the dock connector. USB handles charging and data.

It's not a standard 3.5mm, it's a 4 pin 3.5mm that provides audio and video via the dock connector. USB handles charging and data.

Oh video too, that explains a lot, thanks again!