9" Aftermarket Radio for the W211
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 49
Likes: 9
From: DMV
'07 E350 4matic Sedan
9" Aftermarket Radio for the W211
Hey guys,
Have been thinking of replacing the OEM COMMAND system on my car with something more modern. I have seen other options discussed here and I am not really a fan of them.
However while browsing Ali Express, I came across this one - which is unique as it doesn't try to emulate the OEM unit, but rather goes all out on screen size. I have a black interior and I think it will fit my car nicely.
I haven't seen this particular unit discussed here, but was curious what you guys think? I am on the fence whether I want to put a clearly sub par quality unit in such a nice car. On the other hand, the OEM unit while being great at the time of production is clearly getting very old and pixelated looking anyway.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/9-in...377bc842&tpp=1
Have been thinking of replacing the OEM COMMAND system on my car with something more modern. I have seen other options discussed here and I am not really a fan of them.
However while browsing Ali Express, I came across this one - which is unique as it doesn't try to emulate the OEM unit, but rather goes all out on screen size. I have a black interior and I think it will fit my car nicely.
I haven't seen this particular unit discussed here, but was curious what you guys think? I am on the fence whether I want to put a clearly sub par quality unit in such a nice car. On the other hand, the OEM unit while being great at the time of production is clearly getting very old and pixelated looking anyway.
https://www.aliexpress.com/item/9-in...377bc842&tpp=1
Super Member
Joined: Jul 2015
Posts: 795
Likes: 189
From: San Diego, CA
2016 E350 Sport; Mom Wrecked the 2008 E350; sold the 2002 C320
Looks pretty nice, but it's up to you if you want to spend that kind of money and the time to rewire your car for a unit that has less than mainstream service support. From what I've heard from the audiophile big fish is that these Chinese units are very low quality and the stated output specs are usually over-exaggerated (search posts from jbondox).
For one, I wonder how long that unit takes to boot up. Also, I don't know how frequently they update maps or if it just runs off Google maps.
I tried a Kenwood network/multimedia unit once and for me, it was just too cumbersome to use while driving (too many submenus, soft-button presses, etc). Another thing was having my phone connected via MHL cable for network features, but having to disconnect and change settings on the HU to Bluetooth for hands-free phone operation - couldn't have both at the same time.
I went back to my old Kenwood DNX9990HD which requires no modification to the vehicle wiring (needs a NAV-TV/Opti-1 interface and very minimal wiring work).
Bottom line - who knows? Might turn out to be a great unit but someone has to be the first to try it. If you decide to go for it, let us know how it goes.
For one, I wonder how long that unit takes to boot up. Also, I don't know how frequently they update maps or if it just runs off Google maps.
I tried a Kenwood network/multimedia unit once and for me, it was just too cumbersome to use while driving (too many submenus, soft-button presses, etc). Another thing was having my phone connected via MHL cable for network features, but having to disconnect and change settings on the HU to Bluetooth for hands-free phone operation - couldn't have both at the same time.
I went back to my old Kenwood DNX9990HD which requires no modification to the vehicle wiring (needs a NAV-TV/Opti-1 interface and very minimal wiring work).
Bottom line - who knows? Might turn out to be a great unit but someone has to be the first to try it. If you decide to go for it, let us know how it goes.
Junior Member
Joined: Jul 2016
Posts: 56
Likes: 4
2005 E320 CDI
Relying on a screen for all buttons is perilous in my opinion. Physical buttons in a car are easier and safer to operate because of tactile feedback and not needing to look away from the road to fiddle through a screen UI. I'd prefer the units that mix physical buttons and a screen. Also, lack of a volume knob is a deal killer for me. Having said that, I would try this option and see if the increased screen real estate made a difference. My hunch is that the extra screen doesn't provide anything of substance over the other units and lack of physical buttons outweigh.
Thread Starter
Junior Member
Joined: Feb 2017
Posts: 49
Likes: 9
From: DMV
'07 E350 4matic Sedan
Would keep your floor really clean though 
