My Radio is dying and I have an iPod and XM - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Botnst · #1 10-23-2007, 01:03 PM

W124 E320. The volume control is whacked. You turn the knob and the volume responds in a psychotic manner -- loud, quiet, loud, LOUD, silent etc.

So rather than repair it I'm thinking of dumping it and buying a tuner/CD player that has built-in XM (I have a 1 yr paid-up subscription). I'm thinking about somewhere in the $500 Samoleans range.

I am not an audiophile and I am interested in simplicity. I'm keeping the stock speakers.

My favorite thing about the Becker is that it has actual knobs that turn -- I don't have to look at the dang thing to get it to run.

Got any suggestions?

B

PS Yes, I used the search function. Couldn't find a thread that combined everything I'm looking for.

MTI · #2 10-23-2007, 04:22 PM

I believe Alpine was the first with XM built into the headunit and most of their units have iPod integration kits or AUX in. If you have the iPod, you might not need MP3/AAC compatibility for the CD player. Bluetooth for future phone integration might be nice.

TX76513 · #3 10-23-2007, 04:27 PM

I just upgraded to an Alpine 92xx with XM from a 62xx Alpine that been in there for four years. It has a nob

Botnst · #4 10-23-2007, 07:54 PM

Thanks guys. Exactly what I needed.

Gratefully,

Bot

Botnst · #5 10-23-2007, 08:03 PM

I searched Crutchfield & eBay for Alpine 92XX and couldn't find any. I did find 98XX. Could you have mislabeled?

Bot

iwrock · #6 10-23-2007, 08:20 PM

I would avoid Alpines.... I have had multiple problems with their stuff.

I would reccoment Pioneer Premier or Nakamichi. They are in your price range and they are very nice.

And those that have heard my system know I love sound.

MTI · #7 10-23-2007, 08:47 PM

The Alpine CDA-9820XM seems to be discontinued, but still available on eBay. Having the XM reciver built in doesn't seem to be an option on many units.

rfdillon · #8 10-24-2007, 01:01 PM

I have just installed a JVC KD-BT1 bluetooth radio in my 1983 300D, and can heartily endorse it. The bluetooth radio is awesome - It is fantastic to be able to drive and talk on the phone just like the person on the other end was sitting next to you. The bluetooth and USB connectivity is also great - I know that you can get a satellite radio to hook up to this unit as well, as I saw it discussed in the manual that came with the radio. I personally am not into satellite radio, but with USB connectivity and IPOD, that gives me a HUGE choice for music. If you talk on the phone while driving, you might want to look into this, as it is worth the price of the radio for that feature alone!

TX76513 · #9 10-24-2007, 01:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Botnst

I searched Crutchfield & eBay for Alpine 92XX and couldn't find any. I did find 98XX. Could you have mislabeled?

Bot

Yup dyslectic 9825. I've had really good luck with Alpines and MB's. Now that I have figured the wiring colors out install is a snap. Fader, antenna, pre-a all work. I am very anal when it comes to audio stuff, so it's been a natural for me to stick with what I know.

Whiskeydan · #10 10-24-2007, 02:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by W124.090

I would avoid Alpines.... I have had multiple problems with their stuff.

I would reccoment Pioneer Premier or Nakamichi. They are in your price range and they are very nice.

And those that have heard my system know I love sound.

Same here. I used to do warranty on consumer electronics. Alpine was one I would never own. Pioneer would hold your hand thru a problem if needed.

I've been looking at a DEH-P2900/GEX-P920XM for the SD. Rotory knob volume, aux input, plenty of power out @ 22wrms x4. Hard to beat for $120 plus another $100 for the XM receiver.

Botnst · #11 10-28-2007, 09:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Whiskeydan

Same here. I used to do warranty on consumer electronics. Alpine was one I would never own. Pioneer would hold your hand thru a problem if needed.

I've been looking at a DEH-P2900/GEX-P920XM for the SD. Rotory knob volume, aux input, plenty of power out @ 22wrms x4. Hard to beat for $120 plus another $100 for the XM receiver.

I bought the Pioneer Premier DEH-P4901B and kept the speakers stock. XM and iPod work as advertised. The sound is very much richer than the stock Becker. I was amazed at how much better it sounds. I am not an audiophile per se (upper range hearing loss). But I do appreciate that this system made the Becker sound flat by comparison.

iwrock · #12 10-29-2007, 01:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Botnst

I bought the Pioneer Premier DEH-P4901B and kept the speakers stock. XM and iPod work as advertised. The sound is very much richer than the stock Becker. I was amazed at how much better it sounds. I am not an audiophile per se (upper range hearing loss). But I do appreciate that this system made the Becker sound flat by comparison.

Sweet choice man! The Premier is one of the best units on the market.

The frequency range of aftermarket units is superior to stock stereos.... Thats why there is a great change in fidelity, and in pretty much all the cases, its for the best.

Botnst · #13 11-19-2007, 10:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Botnst

I bought the Pioneer Premier DEH-P4901B and kept the speakers stock. XM and iPod work as advertised. The sound is very much richer than the stock Becker. I was amazed at how much better it sounds. I am not an audiophile per se (upper range hearing loss). But I do appreciate that this system made the Becker sound flat by comparison.

I am very happy with the system and the installation is flawless. The unit looks designed to fit, though I still prefer the Becker unit's non-glossy appearance. But the sound from this unit just blows the Becker into a lesser world.

Thanks, everybody for your helpful suggestions.