Mercedes SL350 Multimedia Upgrade – Alpine ILX-705DAB – Phoenix Gold Amplifier | B&B Audioconcepts Cardiff
The Challenge of Upgrading a Mercedes SL350
At B&B Audioconcepts, we pride ourselves on delivering top-tier audio and security upgrades to our clients. Recently, we had the pleasure of working on a sleek Mercedes SL350, a powerful machine deserving of a multimedia experience to match its performance. However, this particular model poses unique challenges for any upgrade. Due to its design and wiring complexity, an SL350 multimedia upgrade requires meticulous planning, specialist skills, and time.
When the owner of this luxury car approached us for an upgrade, they requested a modern, high-performance multimedia system that would allow them to enjoy the latest in-car technology. The existing system was outdated, limiting their access to features like digital radio and smartphone integration. After consulting with the client, we recommended the Alpine ILX-705 DAB multimedia unit for its excellent functionality and sleek interface. We also paired this with a Phoenix Gold Amplifier to boost the audio quality significantly, offering them a comprehensive system upgrade.
Installing the Alpine ILX-705 DAB
One of the standout products in our installations, the Alpine ILX-705 DAB, is a multimedia unit that delivers a seamless in-car entertainment experience. This model offers an impressive 7-inch display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and DAB+ radio, giving drivers full control over their media, navigation, and communications. Its sleek design complements the luxury interior of the Mercedes SL350, making it the ideal choice for a premium vehicle like this.
However, installing the Alpine ILX-705 DAB in the SL350 required full rewiring. This car has a complex factory system, meaning that simply swapping out the old unit for a new one isn’t a straightforward process. The Audioconcepts team took extra care to ensure all the existing connections were correctly adapted to work with the new multimedia unit.
Maintaining the factory steering wheel controls was a high priority for this upgrade. Many drivers are used to controlling their audio systems from the steering wheel, so losing this feature during an upgrade can be inconvenient. We ensured that the new Alpine system was fully integrated with the SL350’s steering wheel controls, so the client didn’t lose any functionality. This is where our experience as Cardiff audio and security specialists really comes into play—knowing how to navigate these tricky integrations is key to a successful upgrade.
Enhancing Audio with a Phoenix Gold Amplifier
To complement the Alpine ILX-705 DAB, we installed a Phoenix Gold Amplifier, renowned for its ability to enhance audio quality with crisp sound and robust power. The Phoenix Gold Amplifier is particularly effective in luxury cars like the Mercedes SL350, where sound clarity and volume need to be balanced perfectly to match the car’s premium acoustics.
One of the challenges we faced during this installation was that the adaptors necessary for a straightforward installation were no longer available for this model. In response, our team opted for a fibre optic bypass, a more intricate solution but one that ensured flawless integration between the amplifier and the existing system. This approach, while time-consuming, allowed us to maintain the integrity of the car’s audio wiring, ensuring high performance without compromising the vehicle’s structure.
With the Phoenix Gold Amplifier installed, the sound quality took a dramatic leap forward. The combination of this amplifier with the Alpine ILX-705 DAB created an immersive audio experience, transforming the SL350 into a personal concert hall on wheels. From rich bass tones to crystal-clear highs, the upgraded system exceeded our client’s expectations.
Alpine ILX-705 DAB Top 10 Features
The Alpine ILX-705 DAB is a high-performance multimedia unit known for its advanced features and seamless in-car integration:
- 7-Inch HD Touchscreen: The large, high-resolution 720p display provides clear and sharp visuals, perfect for media, navigation, and camera views.
- Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Offers full smartphone integration for hands-free calls, messaging, music, and navigation via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
- DAB+ Digital Radio: Enjoy crystal-clear digital radio broadcasts with a wide selection of stations and improved sound quality over traditional FM.
- Hi-Res Audio Playback: Supports high-resolution audio files for superior sound quality, ensuring a premium listening experience.
- Built-In Bluetooth: Provides wireless streaming for music and hands-free calling, allowing you to stay connected while keeping your hands on the wheel.
- Dual USB Ports: Two USB inputs allow you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a USB drive, for easy access to media.
- Customizable Sound Settings: The unit includes advanced sound tuning features like a 56-band parametric EQ, digital time correction, and built-in crossovers for precise audio customization.
- FLAC Support: Enjoy lossless music files (FLAC) for superior sound quality, even when playing high-compression audio formats.
- Compact Chassis Design: Its shallow chassis allows for installation in a wide range of vehicles, including cars with limited dash space.
- Steering Wheel Control Compatibility: Retains factory steering wheel audio controls, providing convenience and maintaining original vehicle functionality during the upgrade.
Why Choose B&B Audioconcepts
This Mercedes SL350 multimedia upgrade was no small task. Given the car’s complexity, this job took longer than usual, but we believe the end result speaks for itself. The car left our Cardiff workshop not only with a cutting-edge multimedia system but also with significantly enhanced sound quality, all while retaining essential factory features like steering wheel controls.
At B&B Audioconcepts, we understand that luxury cars require high-quality upgrades that respect the original design while enhancing functionality. Our expertise in installing advanced systems like the Alpine ILX-705 DAB and Phoenix Gold Amplifier means that your car gets the best in multimedia and audio technology, no matter how challenging the installation may be.
If you’re considering upgrading your Mercedes SL350 or any other premium vehicle, trust the specialists at B&B Audioconcepts. As Cardiff’s leading audio and security experts, we ensure every installation is handled with the utmost care and precision, delivering results that not only look great but perform exceptionally.
Previously at B&B Audioconcepts
B&B Audioconcepts has an impressive track record of completing top-quality car audio, car security, and car modification projects for their clients. Their team of experienced professionals has worked on a variety of projects, ranging from basic audio upgrades to full car customisations. They have installed state-of-the-art audio systems, advanced security features, and high-performance modifications in all types of vehicles, from sports cars to luxury saloons. B&B Audioconcepts is committed to delivering exceptional results and ensuring customer satisfaction on every project they undertake.
Meet the Alpine Dealer: An Exclusive Interview with Waz from B&B Audioconcepts
