leafseh

Given there seems to be no inexpensive solution to upgrading my radio without rewiring and changing the amp, can anyone guide me on whether it is possible to simply replace the stock radio with a Command unit - and how to tell which Command it would be? 2009 CLK350 Cab w/ Harmon Kardon

mcgsxrclk500

I get that you want to upgrade the radio - what features are you looking for?
I ended up gutting the system and going all new, but I know not everyone wants to go that route.
I did not consider a Command unit, as they are getting pretty long in the tooth now too.

leafseh

Yes...I would prefer an upgraded radio that has Apple Play - I can use my cell phone functions for everything I need - nav, spotify, etc. Just don't want to spend $3-4k gutting the system. Don't need the highest quality sound.

Rudeney

All you need is a new head unit. The rest of it is just wiring. You need to run new analog audio wiring to the trunk, unplug the speaker wiring harness from the HK amp, then patch your analog wiring into that harness. If you want a separate amp, run pre-amp wiring from the dash to the trunk and connect to your new amp, then tie its speaker-level outputs to the car's speaker wiring harness that is unplugged from the HK amp. Running wire from the dash to the trunk is easy - there are existing channels under the door sill trim.

leafseh

Rodney,
Thank you for the feedback. Question: The wiring from the AMP to the speakers and HK sub-woofer are not fiber optic?

C280 Sport

New head unit is like $500 on ebay or try to find a parts car. Should be plug and play.

leafseh

C280 Sport - are there not two different head units - one with Serv button and one something different - does it matter?

Rudeney

Correct. There is no such thing as "fiber optic speakers". The fiber is only used between the head unit and HK amp (and CD changer, TeleAid, and satellite radio tuner). The wiring from the amp to the speakers is plain old copper pair.