OK. I took the plunge and have switched from terrestial radio to satellite radio.

The pictures below show the location of the XM Commander unit.

The sound quality from satellite radio is just incredible. I am very pleased.

Satellite is better than CDs, but not as clear as the iPod-enabled Alpine HU in my daughter's 1989 300TE.

Only problem...brief loss of signal when going under bridges or overhangs and the antenna can't "see" the satellite.

I have satellite TV at home and during last winter's storms in So. Calif. we often lost signal, albeit for only brief periods of time.

BTW...I am such a dummy...

Last night on my way home I was playing with the XM Commander. I switched to the radio's AM--no signal. I switched to the FM--no signal. I switched to the WB--no signal.

I was really bummed out.

So this morning I drove back to my stereo guy. I toldhim my tale of woe. No AM, no FM, no WB.

He smiled and asked me..."did you turn off the XM Commander before switching the raido to AM, FM or WB???"

I, of course, had neglected to turn off the XM Commander, so there were two signals competing for "attention." DUH!!!

Now that I have figured out my mistake I am happy to report that I am getting AM, FM and WB transmissions and the XM radio has not affected the radio signal quality.

I am a happy camper!!!

First picture shows XM location, with door opened. Second picture shows XM location with door closed. There was no cutting, modifying or any other alterations involved. I had t em set the controller a little deeper inside the "well" to shield the screen from glare.

Attached Thumbnails

   

__________________
Current Benzes

1989 300TE "Alice"
1990 300CE "Sam Spade"
1991 300CE "Beowulf" RIP (06.1991 - 10.10.2007)
1998 E320 "Orson"
2002 C320 Wagon "Molly Fox"

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Not in this weather!

Hi BENZ-LGB,

Just to let you know, I have been modifying the Mercedes radios for a direct feed of the XM or I-Pod audio signals for some time now. Having to tune it to a station is no way to appreciate satellite radio. Plus it will interfere with regular radio reception. If you would like more information please contact me through my WEB site.

Cleeve Morrison
La Jolla Audio Repair
www.mercedesradiorepair.net