First Mercedes Radio Replacement Module Debuts for MOST

NAV-TV is offering the world’s first  radio replacement module to work with many  Mercedes-Benz vehicles on the M.O.S.T network.

Many Mercedes radios from 2003 to 2008 vehicles, are ripe for replacement as they don’t have Bluetooth or they have outdated Bluetooth that may not be compatible with today’s phones.  And when the radio breaks, the factory replacement can cost $4,000 to $5,000.

In many cases, the factory cost to replace the  radio can be between 10% to 40% of the total value of the vehicle.

With NAV-TV’s module,  the replacement cost is drastically reduced.  The driver pays $599 suggested retail price plus the cost of an aftermarket radio and installation.  And this provides him updated features such as app control, iPhone/Android control and updated Bluetooth, depending on the radio.

The new OPTI1 MOST HUR MB/NTV-KIT421 module is engineered and manufactured by NAV-TV and  field validated in cooperation with Jim Shields, Director of Collection Auto Sports of Cleveland, OH and Mercedes Benz of North Olmsted, OH. NAV-TV says the device went through extensive field validation.

It works on the M.O.S.T. fiber optic system used by Mercedes-Benz.  “Typically if you were to remove a factory Mercedes radio to add an aftermarket radio you would also need to replace speakers and an amplifier, creating, again, an expensive install.  The module permits users to replace the radio but retain the factory amplifier and speakers, said NAV-TV Vice President, Derek Schmiedl.

In the past 8 months, the company has received a growing number of requests for a replacement radio solution for older Mercedes vehicles, as the radios fail.

The interface accepts the analog audio outputs of the replacement radio, and converts them to an optical signal compatible with the M.O.S.T. protocols used in the audio system from Mercedes-Benz,” thus relieving the client of an expensive install replacing the amplifier, speakers, and subwoofer,” said Schmiedl.

“The installation is straight forward, remove the factory COMAND and hook up power, ground, and the optical cable to the interface box. Mount radio and associated antennas then plug the interfaces RCA inputs to the new radios RCA line outputs,” said NAV-TV.

The module is available and shipping today, January 25, through NAV-TV Corp, Collection Auto Sports and Authorized NAV-TV distribution centers.

The OPTI1 is compatible with the following Mercedes Benz vehicles with a factory MOST fiber optic amplifier:

2005-2008 CLS
2003-2008 E
2004-2006 S
2004-2006 CL
2005-2008 SL
2005-2008 SLK WITH MOST FIBER OPTIC AMP ONLY

Source: NAV-TV