[cavallino]

I have a 1998 ML to which I have retrofitted a "non-fiber" MY2000 MCS (which powers a non-fiber CD changer) and new DVD navigation. I would like to integrate a phone, such that I could use the MCS to dial and view numbers, mute the radio for calls, and hear calls through the speakers. I've looked at many of the threads here dealing with phone solutions, including the mikbox, though most seem to deal with later model MLs.

Based on what I've read as to earlier MLs, including mine, my understanding is that even though I have a non-fiber optic MCS, it still has a fiber port that could power an integrated telephone system, which could be the Mercedes system, or a Mikbox. Though the factory system has required the use of overpriced and outdated MB phones, I understand there is now an MB V60 bluetooth adaptor that would allow the use of any bluetooth phone. Mikbox would work too, but only with certain phones.

Has anyone done a phone integration in a 2000 or older ML? Is my information correct? What would it cost roughly for the MB system compared to Mikbox? Finally, has anyone installed an aftermarket system into an ML, such as Parrot? (I understand these would not integrate into the MCS, and utilize an independent speaker for calls). Thanks for any help you can offer.

 

[DelJ]

The Mikbox requires the Mercedes system, so the Mikbox ends up being more expensive than the standard MB system.

My wife has the integrated phone in her Mercedes sedan, while I use a normal cell phone with a very good built-in speaker phone (Motorola V60S). The only real difference between the two is that I have to turn down the stereo myself when answering a call. My honest opinion is that I do not think that it is worth the high cost of the integrated phone. $500 maybe, but definitely not worth $2000.

DelJ

cavallino - 4/18/2006 8:18 AM

Has anyone done a phone integration in a 2000 or older ML? Is my information correct? What would it cost roughly for the MB system compared to Mikbox?

 

[Benz-ene]

I have a 1998 ML to which I have retrofitted a "non-fiber" MY2000 MCS (which powers a non-fiber CD changer) and new DVD navigation. I would like to integrate a phone, such that I could use the MCS to dial and view numbers, mute the radio for calls, and hear calls through the speakers. I've looked at many of the threads here dealing with phone solutions, including the mikbox, though most seem to deal with later model MLs.

Based on what I've read as to earlier MLs, including mine, my understanding is that even though I have a non-fiber optic MCS, it still has a fiber port that could power an integrated telephone system, which could be the Mercedes system, or a Mikbox. Though the factory system has required the use of overpriced and outdated MB phones, I understand there is now an MB V60 bluetooth adaptor that would allow the use of any bluetooth phone. Mikbox would work too, but only with certain phones.

Has anyone done a phone integration in a 2000 or older ML? Is my information correct? What would it cost roughly for the MB system compared to Mikbox? Finally, has anyone installed an aftermarket system into an ML, such as Parrot? (I understand these would not integrate into the MCS, and utilize an independent speaker for calls). Thanks for any help you can offer.

I have the exact same question! I have a 1999 ML430 with a non-fiber MCS unit and would like to know if ANYONE has ever retrofited the integrated phone option. I am not CRAZY about having it work (so if it means a lot of headache or $$$$ forget it). Thanks for the responses!!

 

[Benz-ene]

I found a link from one of Wolfgang's posting (the MAN when it comes to ML MCS'). He cited Paul's cite. Check this out: http://phdwebsite.powerpulse.cc/Phone Install Bulletins/ML 00.pdf

The install looks do-able, but Installation Kit will probably cost way more than I am willing to invest in this option "Linear Compensator" just sounds expensive!!

NOTE: Although this is for a 2000 ML, it should work for a 1998/99 equipped/retrofitted with a 2000 MCS.

 

[Bogie]

I had the same question a month ago, but then decided that it wasn't worth the trouble. :surrender: Instead, I bought a really nice bluetooth phone (www.bberry.com :read: ) and I'm totally happy. I took the additional $1931.82 and put it into my mods budget. wned: