The first step is to install the Phat Noise software from the included CD; upon restart, the USB dock can be connected. When you first run the software, it will ask if you want to register, followed by a message for upgrading to the new Phat Noise 2.0 software (free.) The software has some additional features, such as ripping audio files straight to the DMS cartridge.
The easy-to-use software can search your hard drive and subfolders for audio files which can be added to your collection. Once you have dragged and dropped the files into artists/playlists, simply choose "save and eject" to copy the files to the DMS. The DMS can then be returned to the Phat Noise system for your listening enjoyment. As a point of interest, Phat Noise works with both MP3 and WMA file formats. Hopefully, a future upgrade will work with the copy-protected Apple Music Store files I've been purchasing for my Mac iTunes. At the very least, I haven't been able to figure out how to move and play those files.
As a side note, the Phat Noise software is designed to work with PCs running Windows 98, 2nd Ed. or newer, or thru emulation on Mac OS 9+ with Virtual PC/Win 98.
To date, Phat Noise has exceeded my demanding requirements for an in-car audio system. I have yet to optimize my playlists to assuage my ever-changing moods, but they're easily edited and saved. For the consummate audiophile, or the everyday person, it's easy to exceed the storage capabilities of many on-board solutions. Phat Noise is probably just the thing for which you have been searching, offering convenience, compatibility and the all-important cool factor.
For those not fortunate enough to own a Volkswagen, Phat Noise is available for other cars at www.phatnoise.com. Volkswagen owners can also go there to buy hats, extra docking cradles and cartridges (up to 60 GB.) If you have your own MP3 player hardware, you can try and buy a freestanding version of Phat Noise Music Manager.
Check it out.