iPod integration with STOCK MB BE1492

[Glen]

Been doing more research and found this:
http://www.gromaudio.com/store/ipod_ada ... i2-mb.html

It looks like it will plug into our stock '94 and newer HU's and emulate the CD changer. If I didn't already have a solution for my car, I'd give it a try. Someone, try it and report back!

 

[Glen]

If this Grom device works as advertized, they have a model that has USB, Aux-in, and iPod control. And pricing is pretty good...much better than the Solisto I just bought from Germany.

 

[jano]

Woah.. I think I might want to try this. What would be the ideal way to route the wires and position an ipod to minimize visible, dangling wires and maintain convenience? Having trouble picturing it in my head, maybe the ash tray?

This would be for a 1994 e500, with the phone-style flip-top armrest and the wood-rolly-thingy-center console.

 

[Glen]

I put the adapter next to the HU against the carpeted (removable) panel on the passenger side. It's a bit of a pita to remove the panel do do this but, I found it easier than trying to place the adapter and route all the wires through the HU opening. I ran the aux-in and iPod cables under the wood shifter panel back into the roll-top box. You have to drill a hole into the box but you can place it such that it cannot be seen. With my Solisto, there is enough cable length to handle the iPod from either front seat when you are in that mode. Otherwise, the iPod can stay in the closed box, completely hidden.

I suppose if you can get longer cables, you could mount it in the flip-up armrest.

 

[gsxr]

All my cars with iPod connections are wired like Glen described, where the cable enters the roll-top box, where it is out of sight and out of the way. The cable is plenty long enough. Getting it set up in the arm rest would be much more of a challenge.

 

[gerryvz]

Has anyone purchased this GROM box for their BE 1492? I'm tempted to get one and try it out.

 

[Glen]

I never got one for my 1492 but I do have a GROM with bluetooth dongle in my BMW and it works great. No complaints.

 

[gsxr]

Their website information leaves quite a bit to be desired. Doesn't appear they have anything for the newer Becker / HK TrafficPro units, or at least a search for "Becker" comes up with zilch. The 1492 info is not very clear either, lots of yapping about blue teeth and artificial life forms, but not much about how exactly the head unit controls an iPod (note: special cable must be purchased in addition to the unit, for iPod integration).

 

[Glen]

For me, I prefer to use my iPhone directly and stream music via bluetooth to the headunit. Using the headunit as a controller is cumbersome to me plus you would have to look down to do it. I mount my phone at center vent level so I can see (peripherally) the road even while glancing at the phone.

 

[gsxr]

We have iPod Classics and almost always leave them on shuffle. I mostly just would like the ability to skip tracks with the head unit controls, instead of having to touch the iPod, which would allow it to remain tucked away in the center console. I doubt Grom (or anyone else) makes an interface for Nakamichi CD-700's, lol... but that sure would be cool!

 

[gerryvz]

I agree with using the ipod to control itself, not the head unit. Much easier/faster/less hassle. I have had a video iPod Classic 5G for the past 6 years or so and it's served me well as a permanent mount in the phone cradle of my E500. Maybe I should just stick with what I have with the cable plugged into the CD changer plug on the back of the HU.