Spencer wrote:

Can you kindly outline the pro's and con's of each.

Hi Spencer and Happy New Year!

(the site didn't notify me for some reason of your post so apologies for the delay)

Basically, the GVIF is a little more "automated" in that it toggles between OEM SatNav and AV1-AV3 at the push of a button (instead of having to go through the hidden menu). Another plus is there's no icons on the screen - just your chosen input. And finally, the fact you can also hook up a reversing camera which will come on automatically when you select reverse... The downside is the cost, which at 250 or more is a bit steep for what the box actually does.

The SMB solution is cheaper but fiddlier to get to, which if driving could distract you enough to be dangerous. Other than that, I have not noticed any difference in the picture quality (if anything, it's a little grainy with the GVIF but I'm being fussy saying that). The other negative is that if you use one of the inputs of the rear of the screen for the reversing camera, you would still need to get to it through the hidden menu as one of the video feeds (no automatic switching).

TBH, ever since I installed the GVIF I really haven't used the SMBs at all as for now my AV needs are covered with the 3+1 inputs of the GVIF. I do have a little project in mind though wich may resurrect those inputs to use

Hope this helps

rnlisg wrote:

i have just got a pioneer avic f55bt system to put in mine!and i am a bit nervous about fitting that

Hi Sandy,

glad you find it useful

Re the Pioneer, it's all in the mind, take your time to understand the wiring of the unit, the wiring in the car, drawing your cable laying will almost certainly help as well. Don't rush to take things off and snip wires before you are happy with how things will go... and of course, when in doubt ask the forum!

Hope it goes well, keep us posted!