Installed an iPod Amplifier today
#1
MBWorld Fanatic!
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Installed an iPod Amplifier today
Thought I would post the results of the iPod amplifier install. The $.10 part A 204 870 39 94 part really makes a difference. I have an older revision of the iPod adapter that does not have the built-in volume adjustment through the menu system, so I ordered the iPod amplifier. Installation took less than 10 minutes and is installed by removing two torx-head screws in the passenger-side kickpanel, disconnecting the bulb and lowering the kickpanel. This should provide access to the iPod integration box. Just disconnect the RJ45 connection that goes to the iPod and connect it into the amplifier. Then connect the amplifier into the iPod integration box. Simple as that.
Made a BIG improvement in sound quality. Several albums I have - i.e. Dire Straits / Brothers In Arms was recorded originally at a very low volume, and with the volume at max setting the HK system was not loud at all. Also, due to the loudness compensation curve the HK unit utilizes, it removes all of the good bass response that we are used to when listening to audio CDs when the volume is turned up to the limit. The amplifier allows you to listen to the iPod closer to a "normal" volume and the bass response is much better.
Well worth the price!
The amplifier comes with a box, two "superlock" strips (hard velcro type material) and a felt dampening strip to allow mounting and prevent rattling.
Made a BIG improvement in sound quality. Several albums I have - i.e. Dire Straits / Brothers In Arms was recorded originally at a very low volume, and with the volume at max setting the HK system was not loud at all. Also, due to the loudness compensation curve the HK unit utilizes, it removes all of the good bass response that we are used to when listening to audio CDs when the volume is turned up to the limit. The amplifier allows you to listen to the iPod closer to a "normal" volume and the bass response is much better.
Well worth the price!
The amplifier comes with a box, two "superlock" strips (hard velcro type material) and a felt dampening strip to allow mounting and prevent rattling.
#2
MBWorld Fanatic!
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OK - after some experimenting around, I have noticed that it is called an amplifier for a reason!
On some albums on the iPod, I can hear some clipping/distortion. Turning on Sound Check does lower the volume slightly and address the problem somewhat, but it is still noticeable on some albums. I have an iPod photo 60GB. I am going to do some experimenting around and see what I can determine.
On some albums on the iPod, I can hear some clipping/distortion. Turning on Sound Check does lower the volume slightly and address the problem somewhat, but it is still noticeable on some albums. I have an iPod photo 60GB. I am going to do some experimenting around and see what I can determine.
#3
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Join Date: Jul 2006
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'06 E500, '99 ML430 and '07 SL65
Went to the dealer and ordered one. That is truely the cheapest part I have ever ordered from the dealer or the MB. $0.10 and that is it. The parts guy didn't even want to use paper to write up the ticket so he gave it to me for free! Even better...!
The part works like a champ and amplifies as expected. I don't hear any distortion at all.
The part works like a champ and amplifies as expected. I don't hear any distortion at all.
#4
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Thread Starter
Went to the dealer and ordered one. That is truely the cheapest part I have ever ordered from the dealer or the MB. $0.10 and that is it. The parts guy didn't even want to use paper to write up the ticket so he gave it to me for free! Even better...!
The part works like a champ and amplifies as expected. I don't hear any distortion at all.
The part works like a champ and amplifies as expected. I don't hear any distortion at all.
I used a program called iVolume to normalize my iTunes library and it made a big difference.
#5
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2021 E450 4matic
My car is an 08 E350 with the iPod adapter. The volume sucks on mine too - if you open the windows on some songs you can barely hear it at all. Is this something that would have already come in my model year (I got in Sept of 07)? Or should I also go get one and put it in?
#6
MBWorld Fanatic!
Get the .10 Ipod Amp; it really works.