The volume drops with the installs I have done with the PIE adapters. I just installed an Isimple in my daughters Escape and I haven't noticed a drop. I installed a USA Spec adapter in my F350 and there is not any noticable drop in volume. The USA Spec is the easiest and slickest I have used. It has two outputs and doesn't require any splicing. The hot and ground are provided from the factory harness. It is a little pricier but I would use it again.

 

There was an adjustment on the PIE adapter. It's in the directions.

 

which is what, the gain ****? already adjusted that to max sound output

 

the iSimple does not require any splicing either (for 2008 at least)

 

Yes, that would be it.

 

Which USA Spec adapter did you use? The BT45-Ford1 Bluetooth adapter states they will not work with an SD older than 2007. I have a 2005 with the factory 6-disc changer without the MP3 script on it. Was hoping the BT45-Ford1 would work anyway.