iPod hook up
10-09-2010, 11:02 PM
#3
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2003 ML 350
After 2000 they all came with cassette standard behind the front face. But there isn't enough clearance to fit the wire of a cassette adapter between the face.
There is no factory integration solution. The choices are FM modulator system, an expensive aftermarket adapter (Dension Lite GWL1DB1) that works with the fiber-optic system, or what is commonly referred to as the "cassette hack" The hack involves taking your radio apart and soldering wires to create an auxiliary input in place of the tape player. The tape player remains in the car and must be playing a cassette to fool the system into thinking a tape is playing. They all have their drawbacks. The hack requires electronics skills, I have yet to hear of one person who had success with the fiber-optic adapter, and the FM modulators don't sound good.
There is no factory integration solution. The choices are FM modulator system, an expensive aftermarket adapter (Dension Lite GWL1DB1) that works with the fiber-optic system, or what is commonly referred to as the "cassette hack" The hack involves taking your radio apart and soldering wires to create an auxiliary input in place of the tape player. The tape player remains in the car and must be playing a cassette to fool the system into thinking a tape is playing. They all have their drawbacks. The hack requires electronics skills, I have yet to hear of one person who had success with the fiber-optic adapter, and the FM modulators don't sound good.
10-12-2010, 06:09 PM
#4
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01 ML55, 05 Jaguar X type, 05 mini Cooper convertible, 03 VW Eurovan
It is not that difficult to install an aftermarket head end in the dash and just forego the CD changer. There are buffer / preamps that can take the standard 500mv to 1v pre out voltage of an aftermarket head unit up to the required 3v that the Bose likes, PAC Turbo 1 is a good one that is cheap ($30). Ampersand makes a wiring adaptor for around $20 that will preclude cutting any wires. A dash kit should be no more than $50, and an antenna daptor to go from the European style to the Motorola is another $10 retail. You can use a lot of head units and maybe even get GPS if you want to spend a couple hundred more. I put a Pioner Divac D3 in my 01 ML55 and got a decent GPS, XM, DVD capability, in-dash CD, AM-FM, and an IPOD connection in the glove box. It actually sounds really good. I have since expanded it w/ a couple subs,etc but even w/ the factory Bose amp and speakers it is far superior to the OE installation.
Most reputable shops should be able to install a head end system in 4-5 hours. You will have to buy: The dash kit, antenna adaptor, wiring adaptor, (2) buffer preamps, and obviously an IPOD and head end unit that can control the IPOD. Just keep the old stuff for when you sell the truck.
Steve
Most reputable shops should be able to install a head end system in 4-5 hours. You will have to buy: The dash kit, antenna adaptor, wiring adaptor, (2) buffer preamps, and obviously an IPOD and head end unit that can control the IPOD. Just keep the old stuff for when you sell the truck.
Steve
