I just bought and installed this iPod solution from In Dash PC. IMO, it's the best way to hook up an iPod for Mercedes radios that aren't fiber-optic. If you have the Becker 1692 radio, you can get this product.

It basically connects at the back of the head unit and replaces the CD changer. Instead of a crappy 6-disc changer in the trunk, you get a 1000+ song iPod.

What makes this product so fantastic, IMO, is -

1) it is a direct digital connection to the iPod (via the bottom connector, not the headphone jack) so the sound quality is SUPERB.

2) it charges the iPod as you drive

3) that you can fully control the iPod via the stereo controls. Disc 1 allows you to control the songs via the iPod wheel. Discs 2-6 select your playlists on the iPod.

To me, No.3 is the key feature. At any point, all the factory head unit controls work and they control the iPod - fast forward, next track, time, volume, etc. are all controlled by the factory stereo. So it's a complete stealth install. You don't need to ever access the iPod, just tuck it away.

Essentially, the iPod becomes the CD changer.

Brilliant product. I am also impressed with their service. They item shipped prompty and installed in minutes. I have had a couple of glitches with mine (some intermittent control issues) but I e-mailed them the problems, they followed through, and they have sent me a firmware update for free to address the issues (easily fixed).

So thumbs up to the company for their service and for making an excellent product. They have other car makes/products available as well.

And no, I'm not affiliated with them in any way - lol - just impressed with their service, communication and product.

http://indashpc.org/new/ipod_adapters/grom-ipod-mb.html

Thanks for posting this, Chris. That looks impressive. They have a place to sign up to beta test new products, too. I hope they continue to expand their product line. It sounds a lot less expensive than other solutions I've seen mentioned here that have similar features.

Np, you're welcome!

Yeah, they seem like a very innovative and eager young company. I like the fact that they actually respond to you within minutes or hours - instead of days.

If I had to design an iPod integration for my car, this would have been it. For $75, you can't beat the features.

Anyone have any equally keen solutions to connect an Ipod to the Becker 1432 in my '92 400E?

I just hate to go back to the old cassette adapter but that might be the only way to go and still keep things stock.

Becker will modify your radio for $100 or so. Then you can plug into the female receptacle.
You have to have a cassette tape in the player, but the sound does not go across the tape head. Works great.

Steve