Grom Audio Bluetooth BT-3 Review (used on Infiniti G37)
Since ViseeO WMA1000 and WMA2000 didn't work out on my car for audio bluetooth streaming capabilities, I went with another option, Grom Audio. This article will actually cover two sections. On the first one, I will show you how to do the install on my car. Even if you have completely different car make and model, installation will be somewhat similar. On the section section, I will review the product and will tell you what I like and what I don't like about it.
GROM arrived in a reasonable amount of time after order was placed. It comes in a simple box with unit and cable inside. It also came with posi connector (which you will definitely need to use), instructions, and a microphone cable and mic. I did not use mic because my car comes with handsfree calling already.
I took the box apart, which took me less than a minute, to show you whats inside the box. It looks like GROM box could be smaller, but it's already pretty small and I had no issues with hiding the box in the center console.
Installation:
Installation on Infiniti G37 was simpler than I thought.
I used a plastic pry tool to pry open bottom part of center console. It was pretty easy.
After bottom part is removed, you'll see two screws at the bottom, take them off.
After screws are removed, you can remove the center piece. Disconnect all the wires.
Once that is removed, you'll see two screws, remove them. With that done, you can remove buttons and vents.
Now you have two more screws, take them off and remove the screen.
Believe it or not, you're almost there, now, at the bottom, you have two more screws, further away. Make sure you use a long screwdriver with magnet and remove those screws.
Before removing the system, put a shirt or clothing material on shifting console. You don't want to scratch anything when removing the stereo.
Don't completely remove the stereo, just slide it closer to you, so that you have access to the wires behind the stereo.
Now, you just have to find needed two connectors. One is for SAT, you have to unplug it, plug your cable you got with GROM there and the existing connector needs to be plugged in your new cable as well.
Now you need to connect power wire with Posi connector. Look at pics!
Slide the new cable to the top, behind the screen.
I used foam insulation tape to reduce possible rattling noise from the GROM unit, You can use something similar too if you want.
Then I put the box right behind the screen. It actually look like it belongs there as there is room just for that unit.
Put the screen back. Put Vent and buttons back. If you want, you can test the unit before you put everything back and secure it.
And you're all done.
Now to the actual review of the product.
Sound quality is really good. I have no problem with sound quality whatsoever. Only thing is, I'd recommend on your phone, do not put volume all the way to 100%. It seems that it sounds perfect at around 95%.
BT-3 does not show names of songs or anything like that. I believe their other models have those capabilities, but I was not able to test other models at this time.
Now, main concern I have is with connection issues. Most of the time, like 8 out of 10, i have no issues with starting the car and streaming the media, eventually. I noticed that if I start the car and immediately play music from phone, it wouldn't work. I have to wait like 10 seconds and then click play on my phone for the system to work.
I also noticed that when music is not playing, I have to go to iPhone, bluetooth, and connect to GROM, when it should always stay connected. Once in awhile, I have to restart my car system to get it to work.
With that being said, I can still stream media from phone. I just have to do a quick troubleshoot sometimes, either reconnecting to bluetooth on phone, or restarting stereo on a car. Most of the time, everything works great, I just with it would work 100% of the time instead of 90%.
I know that GROM offers different models for cars and I will email them and see if other systems would work better.
Let me know how it works for you. If I'll be able to get my hands on other models, I will be sure to keep you updated.
Official Manufacturer Website