aftermarket Head Unit referral

[tonyg]

Guys,

I just purchased a 1998 C280 with 69,000 original miles. I searched the forums but couldn't find exactly what I need. I'm not knowledgeable about head units so in order to replace this stock cassette player with a CD unit I need to go to a stereo shop to have this done. Can you guys reccomend any unit that I can have swapped in without messing up my bose system? I've been told that it sounds really good with a CD player. I was thinking about best buy or circuit city. What are your thoughts.

[kameraguy]

It sounds like your OEM head unit isn't the stock CD controller? If not, the OEM cassette/CD controller for the w202 can be found on ebay for a reasonable price on occasion. It looks correct and youc an also pick up the OEM CD changer to go along with it. It's all plug-and-play.

Or, a superb upgrade is the now defunct Harman Kardon Traffic Pro HU. It is a CD head unit with Navigation, but looks lik estock and AFAIK is plug-and play as well. Unfortunately they are hard to come by, but worth it if you do stumble upon one.

If you have the stock Bose system, then thes eplug-and-play options sound good. Otherwise you'd have to get some adapters to make an aftermarket HU play nice with the Bose AMP, and even then it doesn't sound too nice. You may as well take everything out and start from scratch if that will be the case.

[tonyg]

I have the stock cassette system with the cd button and bose system. I would just rather have another unit instead of this cassette or putting the CD changer in the trunk. However, If i run across that changer for a reasonable price I'll try it.

[matt09]

I have an Alpine CD changer on the back, and im happy with it. I like keeping the stock radio because it was made to fit in the car's design.
The only problem I have, is some weird rattle comming from the back when the subwoofer kicks in...

[tonyg]

what model alpine changer do you have and does it work with the CD option on the stock radio? Also, who did you get to install it and what all was needed to perform the install?

thanks.

[matt09]

I dont know how it was installed because it was done by the previous owner. The unit works with the CD function from the stock radio. The model I'll give to you tomorrow.

[kameraguy]

The rattling could be the first-aid kit in the rear parcel shelf.

[matt09]

Ok, PICTURES TIME!!!!!!!!

How the CD changer looks:
http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f274/matt091988/100_1347.jpg
The model:
http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f274/matt091988/100_1348.jpg
The cable on the back + A mini Amp(Dont know why the hell I have that):
http://i49.photobucket.com/albums/f274/matt091988/100_1349.jpg