Stereo Headunit

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Aero94
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 I wondered if anyone had replaced their factory headunit with a something iPod / Bluetooth phone friendly recently?

As most of my other projects will have to wait until the Spring, this is one thing I can crack on with while the weather isn't at it's best.

Looking at all the main web sites, most, if not all, the aftermarket headunits are horrid disco light Max-Power-like looking things. It is a shame Becker went out of business because a modern Becker headunit with Bluetooth phone and iPod connection would have been ideal.

Has anyone fitted something recently that is subtle and looks similar to factory spec?

stig
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Re: Stereo Headunit

You can still buy Becker as far as I'm aware.
Go here- http://www.mybecker.com/enUK/Automotive+Archive-Grand+Prix+7990.html
I have one of these in another Merc car, it's excellent, will plug straight in, assuming you have original wiring, ipod interface lets you put the ipod out of sight and access it through the radio controls, bluetooth etc etc but still looks classic. Usual becker quality. Enough info??!!!

Aero94
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Re: Stereo Headunit

 Stig, thanks but there is a reason your link goes to the Archive section of the site! ;)

Becker, afaik, are dead in the water and most of the old stock is sold - I have been looking on eBay for awhile and haven't seen any new old stock coming up for sale. The was a rumour that Becker were going to be restarted but as yet, nothing has happened. 

If anyone has any other info or other suggestions for an OEM look upgrade, would love to head them.

stig
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Re: Stereo Headunit

Really??!! Strange.. Try searching 'becker grand prix' in google, let me know.

Ah yes, I see what you mean, they're all out of stock. There's one on e-bay though, not sure if it's ipod connectable, but should be. http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Becker-Grand-Prix-7990-CD-MP3-Dash-Receiver-Bl...

Aero94
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Re: Stereo Headunit

 Unfortunately, I have.

There is one used, red display, for sale on eBay. That is the extent of the available units.

I looked for one, for another project about 12-months ago, and the Amber display models were already very thin on the ground then (a lot of the old model Porsche owners bought them up at the time for the same reason we are talking about them: perfect fit for their interior).

If anyone knows of a secret stock pile.....

Aero94
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Re: Stereo Headunit

 Thanks Stig - hadn't seen that link (mobile eBay didn't pull it up but did link to a red display version).

Would rather buy new, especially at the current bid level but will see how the auction goes.

Spider1V
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Re: Stereo Headunit

 Hmmm I have been asking the same question. MB do have a unit that has an iPod fitting, but they could not be supplied as they are slightly too big for the aperture in the G. (I am assuming you have the same ). Am surprised you would not want to BIG it up like I have done to my 500! :)

Two potentials you may want to look at are:
Alpine Amber CDE111RM
or
Calibre RCD110B (very retro)

These are in stock at the place I had my DVD installed and I can not recommend them enough. 

http://www.soundgallery-incar.co.uk/Contact%20Us.htm

Speak to Matt and tell him you have a G Wagen.

Spider1V

Pistonhead
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Re: Stereo Headunit

Excuse poking my beak into this thread, but just thought I would mention this.  Depending on your models and electronics, I think, fitting a radio has to be programmed into the vehicles system for it to recognize there is a radio on board; so after fitting yours, you find it does not work, it should be taken to a dealer or some one with the equipment to enter this in for you.

beak off,

Aero94
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Re: Stereo Headunit

Rakesh - no beak at all - very useful - thanks!

Joe - the Calibre looks like the economy version of the Becker Mexico Retro and I don't think it would look right in the G. Alpines tend to be flashy flashy light show but I'll take a look at the unit you've mentioned.

Pioneer do a nice, clean, headunit but the price is eye watering.

I think waiting for a NOS Becker 7990 is the best course of action but it is frustrating that no one offers something similar that you can buy off the shelf.

gav.helme
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Re: Stereo Headunit

Hi

Not sure if there is anything on here to interest you

www.classiccarstereo.co.uk

maybe a little too retro?

Gav

gav.helme
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Re: Stereo Headunit

Hi again

Or but a standard 80's Becker or Blaupunkt and have it converted

http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C72795

Cheers

Gav