Hardwire iPod connect for audio 20?

**Dolebludger** · 02-12-2008

My '07 SLK 280 has the audio 20 radio, Sirius, and CD changer. My goal is to install (or have installed) a simple, direct hardwired iPod connection and have it in my center console. The factory unit is a bunch of money, requires modification of a perfectly good radio, and would include features I would not need or use, such as control of the iPod via steering wheel buttons.

Any suggestions for a simple hardwire?

Thanks,
Richard

Ikarus · 02-12-2008

A little bit of searching would have taken you to this thread.

**alroumi** · 02-13-2008

Check out Lenny's Noregret4life's setup with the Harmon Kardon unit.

**Dolebludger** · 02-13-2008

One of my MB buddies brought over one of those FM transmitter devices for my to try in my SLK. But it differed from most of these. Instead of hooking to the iPod at the USB/charger input at the bottom of the iPod, it hooked into the Ipod via stereo jack at the top of the iPod -- so the volume control on the iPod can be adjusted. Weak signal was the problem I had in the past from FM transmitters that connected at the USB, and the Ipod volume control won't work with this set up. My buddy's transmitter needs a separate charger for long distance/time use.

Well, I tried it out, and got very good, noise-free sound, with the iPod volume turned up so that the receiving station had as much volume as other FM stations. I put the iPod and transmitter in the center console box, and it continued to give at least FM radio quality reception.

It is a "Monster" brand he got at Radio Shack for $60.

I'm going to borrow it and check it out for a little while. If no problems develop, I'd like to just get one of these, and bring 12v power into the console box to get rid of external wires, and be done with it until technology progresses a little further.

Any comments on how to get 12v power into the console box?

**SLKDawg** · 02-13-2008

Are you using a wireless or wired FM transmitter?? I have a wired one hooked up thru the antenna and sound is at least CD quality.

DansSlk · 02-13-2008

Depends on how much power you need and when you need it.

For a negligible draw you do have a light in the box thats switched with the ignition but won't support much in terms of current even an amp is pushing it.

Anything above that you will need to take it from the 12 volt socket feed, you have a few choices for this -

1) Buy a new contact spring and join both your wiring and the OEM wiring together at the SAM connector.

2) Tap the wire (cut and solder, scotchlock or cut and connector)

3) Again buy a new contact spring but replace the pin on the socket side of the wire, this will give you a shorter cable run.

**Dolebludger** · 02-13-2008

SLKDawg:

The device my friend loaned me is wireless -- not hardwired to any radio component. That is why I was so surprised at how good it sounded, as I have an old wireless FM transmitter type device that is really sorry. But my old one hooks to the bottom of the iPod where the USB and charger inputs are. With the old one, the iPod's volume control didn't do anything. The one my friend bought hooks to the iPod via the headphone jack stereo input and the volume control on the iPod is brought into play. With the old one, the signal was so weak (for lack of gain) that it would be "knocked off" by even a weak competing FM station. The one my friend loaned me will actually OVERRIDE a fairly strong FM station. The iPod volume needs to be turned up to about 80% for maximum depth. I hooked the iPod up to a computer and set the pre-amp gain to max, and set the graphic equalizer with the classic "U" pattern, which emphasizes bass and treble, and cuts mid-range "honk".

I am not an audiophile, but I was formerly a musician. (electric guitar, rock, long before I turned 64!) With the gain and EQ so set, I find sound to be better than FM quality. I personally like it better than CD sound, as my radio unit has only a two band equalizer (bass and treble) whereas the iPod has a nine band equalizer so depth can be added to the sound.

Now, about your set-up. What kind of device are you using to hard wire to the antenna? Do you have any problems receiving certain FM stations with it, as did some posters on former threads on this subject?

**SLKDawg** · 02-13-2008

Here is my original post that explains everything:

http://www.slkworld.com/general-modi...udio-20-a.html

I did have a reduction in signal, however, I installed an on/off switch under the dash where I can turn the modulator off when not in use - all reception returns to normal.

My setup also runs thru the earphone jack on the iPod. I tried a cable that plugs into the flat port and has 2 RCA plugs on the opposite end, however, the volume output was awful, so I switched back to my original setup.

**Dolebludger** · 02-14-2008

For a change in direction of this thread, we have discussed the lower priced iPod solutions. Now I'd like to ask a question now about the higher priced solutions -- specifically the audio 50 with the iPod kit. My local MB dealer's service manager says they can change out one of the curcuit boards in my audio 20 head unit and that will give them the input they need for the factory iPod kit. If I wait for them to get an audio 50 radio on warranty (not uncommon, they say), the dealer gets to keep the defective radio. If the board I need is not defective (he says it probably won't be) his tech will scavange it and GIVE it to me, if I buy the factory iPod kit and their labor to install it. Price about $650. As I am an MBCA member, this dealer give me a 10% parts and service discount, making my total bill $585.

Now, the question. If anybody on this board has the audio 50 with the factory iPod kit, how do you like the sound and convenience of this set up?

Thanks,
Richard

DansSlk · 02-14-2008

That sounds odd to me, i work for Merc and we have to RMA parts otherwise we could warranty whatever we wanted.

There is a mod for the Audio 20 to enable the AUX in since the needed parts are already on the board but i've never heared of putting Audio 50 APS parts into the Audio 20.

**Dolebludger** · 02-14-2008

Dan:

Of course, there is always the question of whether the MB dealer service manager and tech know what they are talking about -- especially in such an esoteric area as this one. I know the SM personally, and his statement was "Strange as it seems, we are not required to return defective radios to the factory on warranty claims. We've done this before from scavenged parts."

You say there is a part available from MB to make the Audio 20 compatible with the factory iPod kit? If you could supply me with a part number, it would be of great help to me in exploring my options.

And I do request input from those with the audio 50 + factory iPod hook-up as to sound quality and ease of operation.

DansSlk · 02-14-2008

Press and hold the CDC button for 5 seconds or so and see if it changes mode.

**Dolebludger** · 02-15-2008

Dan:

It does not do so. I have a CD changer in the glove box, so that could be the reason? In any event, this whole thing about how to get iPod sound through an audio 20 head unit like mine with Sirius and CD changer has become one of those "dark mysteries" in which people who should know the answer disagree. It is part of my personality that I enjoy solving such mysteries as much as I enjoy the solution. No, I do not want to lose the Sirius or the CD changer, but I do want to listen to the iPod too.

And let me throw this in -- I have heard from some with the audio 50 + factory iPod interface who are not satisfied with the sound and/or the means of control from the steering wheel buttons.

So I am wondering, if money were no object, would I like the result?

DansSlk · 02-15-2008

The factory system is so-so to be honest with you.

Have you thought about a Dension (sp?) Gateway?

**Dolebludger** · 02-16-2008

Dan:

Yes I have thought about this, and other after market systems, I just don't want to clutter my stock interior on a new car with 1600 on the odo with controlers and screens that aren't stock. And frankly, some of the reports I've read about the performance of these are less than glowing.I would rather simply have the iPod in the center console, and control it from there, if the factory system is impossible, or is only so-so, in light of its hefty price.

I'm beginning o get the disticnt impression that I am in an area where car stereo technology someply hasn't caught up to iPod technology. I have a "Monster" RadioPlayer 300, which I bought for $60 at Radio Shack after my friend loaned me one. It is a wireless FM transmitter, that is surprisingly good, considering how sorry some of these are. All it lacks is a charger. Unless somebody discovers something new, I think I'll just continue using it, and perhaps have a couple of power plugs installed in the console to get all the wires out of the cockpit. I have tried this "Monster" unit in all four of my vehicles, and it works with slightly better than FM quality in all of them.

noregret4life · 02-17-2008

Monster puts out great parts and i am not surpised their FM transmitter is more powerfull than the rest out there.

I'm no pro with the Audio 20 since i have Command w/audio input. BUT... if you are satisfied with the audio quality, than perhaps all you really need is a wireless remote that uses RF to control the ipod in the glove box.

Downside is that you need to still install an Ipod charger along with the power for the Monster RF modulator. Then after all that you will always have to plug in the headphone jack and the power jack for the ipod. Not sure how often you remove the Ipod from your car, but that might be a pain for some.

Next... by hiding away the ipod, you can't get access to titles, scroll playlists visually. a bit tough with the Ipod's crappy interface and design (as you can tell i am not an ipod fan, but am forced to use one)

Dan's method is the most direct for wiring power via the light. But isn't that light off during daytime? when the light sensor disables it along with the rest of the interior lights?

But if all of the above is not an issue for you, you can easily run a seperate fused, and ACC controlled power line into your glove box not messing with any pins, or soldering.

You can use the same install i wrote out for Editor58 on his laser jammer wiring.
http://www.slkworld.com/performance-...html#post59080

Except you can run the wire from under the drivers side pannel to the center console between the carpet and the plastic on the side. a wire easily slips in there. This is how i wired my ipod via the HK Drive & Play. Then to the back of the armrest and up and through into the inside of it where the phone cradle is, or is supposed to be. I can get you more details if you choose to actually go this route.

Also, i know you said you are not a fan of adding extra displays or module, but check this out:

http://www.harmankardon.com/drive-1/

I have the drive + play on the left (version 1) the newest on the right, has a wireless control and many many new features. Dive + play 2 is all wireless, which is great. and you can use bluetooth for phone calls with an upgrade.

My drive + play is connected via direct Line in, however it has the feature for the FM modulator already built in. I never turned it on, but if you are interested i can test it out for you as well.

For example, picture this. you install the Drive + Play display near the left pillar in the front. and wire the puck controller like i have near the roof control switch. You can then either use the RF modulator built into the Drive + Play, or connect the Line out on the drive + play to a better modulator like the Monster you have or even BETTER a Direct inline FM modulator that connects hidden away via the FM antenna plug on the back of Audio 20.
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...Modulator.html

DansSlk · 02-17-2008

That light's on constantly its just circuit 15 so it comes on with the ignition.

Its LED so i guess they are doing it like that since bulb life is no issue.

noregret4life · 02-17-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by DansSlk

That light's on constantly its just circuit 15 so it comes on with the ignition.

Its LED so i guess they are doing it like that since bulb life is no issue.

Thats cool... never knew that!

Thanks for the heads up.

DansSlk · 02-17-2008

Quote:

Originally Posted by noregret4life

Thats cool... never knew that!

Thanks for the heads up.

No worries

**Dolebludger** · 02-17-2008

On the subject of Monster products, the one that works for me is the "RadioPlay 300" which connects to the iPod via a mini stereo jack connected to the headphone input on the iPod. This is very important, as I can increase the signal from the iPod by turning its volume up to just below the point of "overdrive distortion" of the car radio. I have had poor experiences with other similar Monster products, such as the iCarPlay, which connects to the bottom of the iPod via the USB. With this connection, the iPod volume control has no effect, and even with the iPod programmed for max gain, the signal is too weak to get ANYTHING out of rear antenna cars, and only a weak signal out of cars with the antenna built into the windshield.

This experience (and that of others) has indicated to me that any successful iPod hook up in the car MUST connect to the ear phone stereo jack on top, and not to the USB on bottom. Of course, an in-line amp might correct the problem -- I don't know. I will certainly check out the links posted above, however.

02-12-2008	#1 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	Hardwire iPod connect for audio 20? My '07 SLK 280 has the audio 20 radio, Sirius, and CD changer. My goal is to install (or have installed) a simple, direct hardwired iPod connection and have it in my center console. The factory unit is a bunch of money, requires modification of a perfectly good radio, and would include features I would not need or use, such as control of the iPod via steering wheel buttons. Any suggestions for a simple hardwire? Thanks, Richard Last edited by Dolebludger; 02-14-2008 at 06:56 PM.

02-13-2008	#3 (permalink)
alroumi Moderator Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Kuwait City, Kuwait Vehicle: 2006 Kleemann Designo Mocha Black SLK55 AMG Other Toys: 2007 Ebony Jaguar XKR Coupe' and 06 Black Cayenne S Posts: 6,271 Country: Thanks: 288 Thanked 231 Times in 145 Posts	Check out Lenny's Noregret4life's setup with the Harmon Kardon unit. __________________ 06 Kleemann Designo Mocha Black SLK55 AMG 06 Porsche Cayenne S 07 Jaguar XKR Coupe' I use the Torque and keep the HP for my Steak Sauce!

02-13-2008	#4 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	Another idea -- on my own. One of my MB buddies brought over one of those FM transmitter devices for my to try in my SLK. But it differed from most of these. Instead of hooking to the iPod at the USB/charger input at the bottom of the iPod, it hooked into the Ipod via stereo jack at the top of the iPod -- so the volume control on the iPod can be adjusted. Weak signal was the problem I had in the past from FM transmitters that connected at the USB, and the Ipod volume control won't work with this set up. My buddy's transmitter needs a separate charger for long distance/time use. Well, I tried it out, and got very good, noise-free sound, with the iPod volume turned up so that the receiving station had as much volume as other FM stations. I put the iPod and transmitter in the center console box, and it continued to give at least FM radio quality reception. It is a "Monster" brand he got at Radio Shack for $60. I'm going to borrow it and check it out for a little while. If no problems develop, I'd like to just get one of these, and bring 12v power into the console box to get rid of external wires, and be done with it until technology progresses a little further. Any comments on how to get 12v power into the console box?

02-13-2008	#6 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	Depends on how much power you need and when you need it. For a negligible draw you do have a light in the box thats switched with the ignition but won't support much in terms of current even an amp is pushing it. Anything above that you will need to take it from the 12 volt socket feed, you have a few choices for this - 1) Buy a new contact spring and join both your wiring and the OEM wiring together at the SAM connector. 2) Tap the wire (cut and solder, scotchlock or cut and connector) 3) Again buy a new contact spring but replace the pin on the socket side of the wire, this will give you a shorter cable run. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

02-14-2008	#9 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	A change in direction --- For a change in direction of this thread, we have discussed the lower priced iPod solutions. Now I'd like to ask a question now about the higher priced solutions -- specifically the audio 50 with the iPod kit. My local MB dealer's service manager says they can change out one of the curcuit boards in my audio 20 head unit and that will give them the input they need for the factory iPod kit. If I wait for them to get an audio 50 radio on warranty (not uncommon, they say), the dealer gets to keep the defective radio. If the board I need is not defective (he says it probably won't be) his tech will scavange it and GIVE it to me, if I buy the factory iPod kit and their labor to install it. Price about $650. As I am an MBCA member, this dealer give me a 10% parts and service discount, making my total bill $585. Now, the question. If anybody on this board has the audio 50 with the factory iPod kit, how do you like the sound and convenience of this set up? Thanks, Richard

02-12-2008	#2 (permalink)
Ikarus Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jul 2006 Location: NorCal Vehicle: 2006 SLK 280 w. 6M Other Toys: 2000 New Beetle GLS w. 5M Posts: 596 Country: Thanks: 18 Thanked 40 Times in 20 Posts	A little bit of searching would have taken you to this thread.

02-13-2008	#5 (permalink)
SLKDawg Senior SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: ATL Vehicle: 2005 SLK350 Posts: 101 Country: Thanks: 1 Thanked 15 Times in 4 Posts	Are you using a wireless or wired FM transmitter?? I have a wired one hooked up thru the antenna and sound is at least CD quality.

02-13-2008	#7 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	SLKDawg: The device my friend loaned me is wireless -- not hardwired to any radio component. That is why I was so surprised at how good it sounded, as I have an old wireless FM transmitter type device that is really sorry. But my old one hooks to the bottom of the iPod where the USB and charger inputs are. With the old one, the iPod's volume control didn't do anything. The one my friend bought hooks to the iPod via the headphone jack stereo input and the volume control on the iPod is brought into play. With the old one, the signal was so weak (for lack of gain) that it would be "knocked off" by even a weak competing FM station. The one my friend loaned me will actually OVERRIDE a fairly strong FM station. The iPod volume needs to be turned up to about 80% for maximum depth. I hooked the iPod up to a computer and set the pre-amp gain to max, and set the graphic equalizer with the classic "U" pattern, which emphasizes bass and treble, and cuts mid-range "honk". I am not an audiophile, but I was formerly a musician. (electric guitar, rock, long before I turned 64!) With the gain and EQ so set, I find sound to be better than FM quality. I personally like it better than CD sound, as my radio unit has only a two band equalizer (bass and treble) whereas the iPod has a nine band equalizer so depth can be added to the sound. Now, about your set-up. What kind of device are you using to hard wire to the antenna? Do you have any problems receiving certain FM stations with it, as did some posters on former threads on this subject?

02-13-2008	#8 (permalink)
SLKDawg Senior SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2007 Location: ATL Vehicle: 2005 SLK350 Posts: 101 Country: Thanks: 1 Thanked 15 Times in 4 Posts	Here is my original post that explains everything: http://www.slkworld.com/general-modi...udio-20-a.html I did have a reduction in signal, however, I installed an on/off switch under the dash where I can turn the modulator off when not in use - all reception returns to normal. My setup also runs thru the earphone jack on the iPod. I tried a cable that plugs into the flat port and has 2 RCA plugs on the opposite end, however, the volume output was awful, so I switched back to my original setup.

02-14-2008	#10 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	That sounds odd to me, i work for Merc and we have to RMA parts otherwise we could warranty whatever we wanted. There is a mod for the Audio 20 to enable the AUX in since the needed parts are already on the board but i've never heared of putting Audio 50 APS parts into the Audio 20. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

02-14-2008	#11 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	Dan: Of course, there is always the question of whether the MB dealer service manager and tech know what they are talking about -- especially in such an esoteric area as this one. I know the SM personally, and his statement was "Strange as it seems, we are not required to return defective radios to the factory on warranty claims. We've done this before from scavenged parts." You say there is a part available from MB to make the Audio 20 compatible with the factory iPod kit? If you could supply me with a part number, it would be of great help to me in exploring my options. And I do request input from those with the audio 50 + factory iPod hook-up as to sound quality and ease of operation.

02-14-2008	#12 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	Press and hold the CDC button for 5 seconds or so and see if it changes mode. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

02-15-2008	#13 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	Dan: It does not do so. I have a CD changer in the glove box, so that could be the reason? In any event, this whole thing about how to get iPod sound through an audio 20 head unit like mine with Sirius and CD changer has become one of those "dark mysteries" in which people who should know the answer disagree. It is part of my personality that I enjoy solving such mysteries as much as I enjoy the solution. No, I do not want to lose the Sirius or the CD changer, but I do want to listen to the iPod too. And let me throw this in -- I have heard from some with the audio 50 + factory iPod interface who are not satisfied with the sound and/or the means of control from the steering wheel buttons. So I am wondering, if money were no object, would I like the result?

02-15-2008	#14 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	The factory system is so-so to be honest with you. Have you thought about a Dension (sp?) Gateway? __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

02-16-2008	#15 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	Dan: Yes I have thought about this, and other after market systems, I just don't want to clutter my stock interior on a new car with 1600 on the odo with controlers and screens that aren't stock. And frankly, some of the reports I've read about the performance of these are less than glowing.I would rather simply have the iPod in the center console, and control it from there, if the factory system is impossible, or is only so-so, in light of its hefty price. I'm beginning o get the disticnt impression that I am in an area where car stereo technology someply hasn't caught up to iPod technology. I have a "Monster" RadioPlayer 300, which I bought for $60 at Radio Shack after my friend loaned me one. It is a wireless FM transmitter, that is surprisingly good, considering how sorry some of these are. All it lacks is a charger. Unless somebody discovers something new, I think I'll just continue using it, and perhaps have a couple of power plugs installed in the console to get all the wires out of the cockpit. I have tried this "Monster" unit in all four of my vehicles, and it works with slightly better than FM quality in all of them.

02-17-2008	#16 (permalink)
noregret4life Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: NJ Vehicle: '05 SLK350 Posts: 1,092 Country: Thanks: 1 Thanked 17 Times in 11 Posts	Monster puts out great parts and i am not surpised their FM transmitter is more powerfull than the rest out there. I'm no pro with the Audio 20 since i have Command w/audio input. BUT... if you are satisfied with the audio quality, than perhaps all you really need is a wireless remote that uses RF to control the ipod in the glove box. Downside is that you need to still install an Ipod charger along with the power for the Monster RF modulator. Then after all that you will always have to plug in the headphone jack and the power jack for the ipod. Not sure how often you remove the Ipod from your car, but that might be a pain for some. Next... by hiding away the ipod, you can't get access to titles, scroll playlists visually. a bit tough with the Ipod's crappy interface and design (as you can tell i am not an ipod fan, but am forced to use one) Dan's method is the most direct for wiring power via the light. But isn't that light off during daytime? when the light sensor disables it along with the rest of the interior lights? But if all of the above is not an issue for you, you can easily run a seperate fused, and ACC controlled power line into your glove box not messing with any pins, or soldering. You can use the same install i wrote out for Editor58 on his laser jammer wiring. http://www.slkworld.com/performance-...html#post59080 Except you can run the wire from under the drivers side pannel to the center console between the carpet and the plastic on the side. a wire easily slips in there. This is how i wired my ipod via the HK Drive & Play. Then to the back of the armrest and up and through into the inside of it where the phone cradle is, or is supposed to be. I can get you more details if you choose to actually go this route. Also, i know you said you are not a fan of adding extra displays or module, but check this out: http://www.harmankardon.com/drive-1/ I have the drive + play on the left (version 1) the newest on the right, has a wireless control and many many new features. Dive + play 2 is all wireless, which is great. and you can use bluetooth for phone calls with an upgrade. My drive + play is connected via direct Line in, however it has the feature for the FM modulator already built in. I never turned it on, but if you are interested i can test it out for you as well. For example, picture this. you install the Drive + Play display near the left pillar in the front. and wire the puck controller like i have near the roof control switch. You can then either use the RF modulator built into the Drive + Play, or connect the Line out on the drive + play to a better modulator like the Monster you have or even BETTER a Direct inline FM modulator that connects hidden away via the FM antenna plug on the back of Audio 20. http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...Modulator.html

02-17-2008	#17 (permalink)
DansSlk Dude Join Date: Jun 2006 Location: Wales Vehicle: 05 B55S (Brabus 6.1 S) Posts: 6,752 Country: Thanks: 96 Thanked 221 Times in 173 Posts	That light's on constantly its just circuit 15 so it comes on with the ignition. Its LED so i guess they are doing it like that since bulb life is no issue. __________________ One thing you will learn with German cars - If it's simple it ain't happening.

02-17-2008	#20 (permalink)
Dolebludger Elite SLK World Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Yukon, OK Vehicle: '07 SLK 280; '04 C 320, '01 Honda S 2000, '98 Ford Ranger truck. Posts: 547 Country: Thanks: 39 Thanked 76 Times in 51 Posts	On the subject of Monster products, the one that works for me is the "RadioPlay 300" which connects to the iPod via a mini stereo jack connected to the headphone input on the iPod. This is very important, as I can increase the signal from the iPod by turning its volume up to just below the point of "overdrive distortion" of the car radio. I have had poor experiences with other similar Monster products, such as the iCarPlay, which connects to the bottom of the iPod via the USB. With this connection, the iPod volume control has no effect, and even with the iPod programmed for max gain, the signal is too weak to get ANYTHING out of rear antenna cars, and only a weak signal out of cars with the antenna built into the windshield. This experience (and that of others) has indicated to me that any successful iPod hook up in the car MUST connect to the ear phone stereo jack on top, and not to the USB on bottom. Of course, an in-line amp might correct the problem -- I don't know. I will certainly check out the links posted above, however.