I've got a 1998 E55 AMG Estate, with a Becker/MB Audio 30 (not APS) head unit & a Bose sound system (amp/sub woofer/speakers). My car did not have a CD changer fitted & I was really missing CD. I don't listen to MP3, only CD or FM radio.

I wanted to keep the OEM/Becker head unit look, plus it's designed to work with the Bose amp/speakers. Been reading on the forum about possible complications. I just wanted a CD changer to work with my existing setup & therefore not spend thousands ripping it all out & starting over.

Today I had fitted an Alpine CHM-S630 in the boot/trunk next to the Bose amp. They also needed to fit an Alpine D2B changer/aux-in interface KCA-430A.

Sound quality from CD & radio is terrific. Thought I'd post this in case anyone else in similar position to me in the future & wondering what to do on a small budget.

The audio fitter told me that the Becker head unit is actually pretty good & that Becker are the only manufacturer to feature 2 RDS tuners, which means excellent radio reception, which to me is very important. Is this true about Becker being the only manufacturer offering 2 x RDS tuners?

The fitter also suggested replacing the Bose sub woofer when I was able to afford it. This fitter, earlier gave me a demo of his £9,500 car stereo (Alpine F1, Focal speakers, JL amps etc.) in a BMW 325. I was seriously impressed, but way beyond my budget. Wife went crazy when she heard about just my CD changer! I'm quite content for the moment, I think.....

Chris