in dash cd player for 94 E320 - Page 2 - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

#16 12-12-2002, 12:36 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by MUYAMAN
I know you can get it from your dealer, but they will charge something ridiculous for it, and if you look around I'm sure you will find them somewhere for cheap.
Jordan

I just bought the clips to remove the stock head unit in my '95 E-320 from a Mercedes dealer. Cost me $11. I'm not sure I'd be able to fashion something myself to get the unit out.

MUYAMAN · #17 12-12-2002, 12:44 AM

out of curiousity, what is different on a "special edition" E320?

#18 12-12-2002, 09:32 AM

MUYAMAN,

I bought my car a used a few months ago, so I'm not exactly sure. I do know that the Special Edition was really nothing more than a package deal that included different wheels (six spoke) and, I believe, paint. My car is Spruce Green. I think that's about it, unless the burled wood rather than Zebrano is also part of the package. The car is pictured below my name.

Holson Adi · #19 12-13-2002, 12:35 AM

This radio is OEM on the Ferrari 575 Maranello too I think

Too bad it is rather expensive. maybe in the future...

for now I guess I'm content with my lowly Pioneer.

rmasteller · #20 12-13-2002, 12:47 AM

Hello,
A little background on me and my presumably stock system. First, I am not an audiophile. I have no interest in stereo contests or announcing my arrival at the hardware store from 1/2 mile away. I just like to have a "good" stereo system for those occasional times when some volume is appropriate. So, I'm looking for information on what I have, what it may cost to upgrade some components, and what that cost will provide. I have a 1994 E420 (W124 chassis). My Becker head unit is AM/FM/Tape and it has a CD button. I don't know what Becker model number it is. I have searched this forum but didn't find that info. I did read that the E420 had a different and possibly better stock unit than the E320. This system has the fader control in the head unit, not on the center console. I have 6 speakers, 2 in dash, 2 in rear deck, 2 in front doors under arm rests (not by door hinges). I have an option code on my data card for Preimum Sound, whatever that means.

Questions:
- Can you tell me what model head unit I have, or do I need to buy the removal tools, pull it out, and look?
- Once I know my Becker model number, where's the best place to get documentation on it? Things like watts/channel, peak watts, in/out connectors, signal-noise ratio, stereo seperation, etc. I just want to know what I have.
- What specific current models of Becker, Alpine, or other brand CD changer connect directly to the changer cord I found in my trunk today. It's a block connector, 2 rows of maybe 8 pins.
- Rainbow speakers are frequently mentioned and praised. Is that my only option? What are the differences between them and stock that makes the big difference?
- What's the best thing to do with the door speakers? I have heard of people converting them into sub-woofers? Are they currently full range?

Thanks in advance!

SCLJA · #21 12-13-2002, 02:40 AM

Rodd, we can answer most of your questions about your stereo for you. The 1st is what model is it and this can be seen by looking at the code card as it it will start with a BE or and A to let you know if you have a becker or an alpine. (not much difference as they are clones). Your radio supports an alpine 6 cd changer with a basic 10 pin sq to 8 pin round adapter. There are no pre-amp outputs as the signal that goes to the stock amp is balanced high level. If you have any questions you can either contact my repair department @www.lajollaaudiorepair.com or you can call my sales shop@ 800-467-6545 and ask for Donald!

Scott@lajollaaudio

rmasteller · #22 12-14-2002, 02:56 PM

Thanks Scott! I have a "BE 1492 P". I'm not sure what the P means, maybe it's part of the SN?

So, looking at the current CD changer products from Alpine at http://ecominet2.alpine-usa.com/pls/admn/subcategory_info?p_category=20&p_subcategory=25&p_main=10 and it only shows only 3 options (4th is an RF unit).

CHA-1214, 12-disc, Ai-NET, $360 msrp
CHA-S634, 6-disc, Ai-NET, $330 msrp
CHM-S630, 6-disc, M-Bus, $250 msrp

What's the difference between, Ai-NET and M-Bus? I'm not familiar with these terms.

Looking at the technical specs, the S634 seems to have the best:
- channel separation
- dynamic range
- signal to noise ratio
- total harmonic distortion

It also appears to have other good qualities like:
- 8x oversampling
- 24-bit noise shaping
- MP3 & CD-R/RW compatability
- TPE Silicone-Oil Dampers (at least they sound cool!)

Should this system be fully controlled by my Becker head unit? I'm sure I won't be able to do some things, like random play, right? I will call your sales shop for a price quote for this unit, it's cable connector, and shipping. Thanks for everything Scott, you're greatly appreciated here!