amgstyle

hey guys i have a 00 ml430 with the bose system with nav. and i have everything i need. i got all the wires, subs, amp, and the line out converter.

i was told to tap the line out converter where the factory bose amp is and don't behind the factory HU. why is that ?? is that where everybody else did ???
where is the factory bose amp located ??
does anybody have the wiring diagram for the factory amp ???
and is there anything else that i need to do or know before i install all this ???

saturnstyl

I think you can tap the head unit..... The amp on that year was not fiber optic if I remember correctly. So the head unit will either output a line level or a speaker level output depending on how it is programmed. You should be fine, as your head unit is already set up to run an amplifier. A simple way to test whether or not the amp is fiber optic is to pull the head unit out, then turn on the RADIO. Not CD not Phone, just the radio. While its playing, unplug the fiber optic connector. If you still have sound, then your amp is hard wired to the head unit.

mihir_d

I own a 00 ML320, and to the best of my knowledge fiber optics was introduced in the 01 model year.

What is the advantage of fiber optics anyways? Can anyone explain? I have driven a number of 01 and higher model year MLs as loaners, never could feel the difference in sound quality...

saturnstyl

The advantages of fiber optics were explained as such:
-Reduced wieght. The 2 plastic cables weigh less than all the copper wire it replaces.
-Fiber optics are not susceptible to electromagnetic interference.
-It is claimed a higher data transmission rate is possible.

I am sure there is another reason or two I have forgotten, but I am sure proprietary technology was another reason to have it. Keeps service more within the dealers realm than the aftermarket.

ataie

have a bad amp on my 02 ML320. can I use an aftermarket AMP, or I have to go with factory. if so, then what years wouldbe compatible with 02?

also where is the AMP itself locatd at?

thanks

KENNETH04S

The Amp Is Located Under The Driver's Seat, It's Black Metal Thing Lays Nearly Flat To The Floor