Confused - two tape decks in my ML??
 

Hi all need your collective wisdom.

I've just brought a 99 ML and it seems to have two tape decks??. The top one doesn't power on (haven't checked the fuses yet) but the bottom one works fine. The CD changer in the boot seems ok (haven't tried it yet)

Grateful if you could let me know which is what and what's the difference between them.
The image is here:
http://campl.us/dSF3cAcKgP6
Had to use that as cant upload direct from my iPhone, sorry.

Considering removing both to fit a double din but don't know if this is wise or overly complicated - I've read about Bose fibre optics, amps and powered antennae in some models - gladly take any advice from you all.

Thanks
Matt

That's really interesting. I've never seen that before. I have your bottom din on my ML which is not a fiber optic system. I believe they used fiber optics on 2000+ MLs with the Bose sound system.

I've got your top DIN on my CLK which is a fiber optic system.

Do both dins work to control your audio?

What country are you in?

Hi thanks for the reply. I'm a Brit expat in Cyprus.

Currently only the bottom deck does anything, I'll try and get the top one out (but don't have the keys...) to see if it's connected up or not (I'll check the fuses first #21 apparently??

Wondering if it will be easier to take them both out and fit an aftermarket double din?

Should be straight forwards... I hope as there is no fancy electronics - and only 4 speakers - it might get complicated if the CD player works in the boot?

Is the top one 'better' than the bottom one?

Cheers

I think the top radio is the European model and the bottom is the North American model. Most likely only one is hooked up at any one time. Removing the radios should tell you what is going on.
Mike