ssoji

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I know a number of people have been looking at audio-visual mods for their SLK.
NR4L has done a great job with his own custom solution.
A few people have recommended the Pioneer AVIC1 unit but this requires removal of the factory Command screen.

I have been looking for a solution to intergrate front and rear camera functions and expanded audio to the existing system and have found this solution provided by Alpine.

I haven't seen it mentioned on this forum before and thought others may wish to pursue this option.

Rather than try to describe it myself i've pasted the info directly from the Alpine web site.
I was unable to provide a direct link to the site so i hope everyone doesn't find this post too long.

Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with Alpine
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Many of today’s vehicles have advanced entertainment systems that are integrated with other functions such as the HVAC (heat, vent, air conditioner) and are controlled through the factory in-dash screen. Removing the factory system to install an aftermarket unit can affect these functions.


Now it’s easy to add audio-visual sources and build a high quality system based on the existing factory equipment and without altering the dashboard or vehicle bus system.

Alpine has the perfect solution:

The Perfect F.I.T - Factory Integration Technology


VehicleHub Pro

Alpine’s VehicleHub Pro lets you add audio-visual components such DVD, Digital TV, rear view camera, iPod®, USB media and much, much more. Plus, with it’s advanced expansion features you can upgrade to hi fidelity sound, adding amplifiers, high quality speakers and subwoofers. Or, for the ultimate in car theatre experience, add the PXA-701 for explosive Dolby Digital and DTS 5.1 surround sound.

What’s more, you can continue to use your factory equipment, but use the Orb, advanced command unit to control your entire system. The best part is, you won’t lose any of your factory functions like telephone or navigation, and you won’t need to permanently remove your factory display. Maintain your dash and still upgrade your system.

VehicleHub

Now you can easily add on and upgrade your system without sacrificing the factory look or functionality in your car. With the Alpine VPAB211E VehicleHub Interface you can easily connect and control audio visual sources.

Add DVD, Digital TV, iPod®, aftermarket navigation. rear view camera and much more – all via your car factory screen and audio system. Control of your newly upgraded system is fast and convenient through VehicleHub’s easy-to-use graphical interface and wireless remote control.

Vehicle Specific Solutions

The VehicleHub Pro and VehicleHub are only as strong as the Audio Visual interfaces that allow the use of the factory-installed equipment. Together with its partner NAV-TV in the UK, Alpine offers a wide range of applications for European and Japanese vehicles.

Vehicle Specific Solutions are available for the following manufacturers;

Audi, BMW, Ford, Honda, Jaguar, Lexus, Mercedes Benz, Mini, Nissan, Porsche, Range Rover, Landrover, Toyota, Volvo and Volkswagen.

Using a recommended vehicle specific adapter offers quality input of video sources and RGB input for ultra-clear display of Navigation maps to the factory screen.The range of available vehicle specific applications is continually expanding.

Interface solutions for locally manufactured vehicles have also been recently released and other vehicles are continually under development. Right now, applications for the Australian Ford BA/BF Falcon and Territory premium sound system are available.

Add and Control Sources

With VehicleHub you can add, connect and control components to enjoy a wealth of music and entertainment.
Whatever your entertainment source it’s ready to play them. Connect the DVA-5210E DVD/CD/MP3/ WMA player to VehicleHub and instantly you have on hand a vast range of playback capabilities. What’s more, control them all efficiently and easily with the Orb controller and graphic user interface.



Easily connect your iPod and enjoy quality sound, with a larger display providing track, artist and album information. Plus, you can access your iPod’s content conveniently with Quick Search operation. Requires optional KCA-420i iPod interface.






Parking has never been so easy. Add the HCE-C100 reversing camera and manoeuvre your way in and out of tight car spaces. More importantly, safely reverse from driveways avoiding obstacles that might be in your path.


Expand your music variety and play MP3 and WMA tracks stored on your USB memory stick, USB powered hard drive or portable media player such as iRiver etc.

Even more exciting, music content downloaded from certified Microsoft ‘PlaysforSure’ online music stores gives you advanced search functions. Requires optional KCA-620M USB interface - available late 2006.



Enjoy the benefits of Digital Terrestrial TV (DVB-T) with CD level sound and exceptional sharp picture quality. Now you don’t have to miss favourite sports or TV program – no matter where you are. Requires optional TUE-T200DVB, Digital TV reception is only available in broadcast areas.