On a W208, the only fiber connection from a non-COMAND (no nav) head unit is the CD changer. If the stock head unit on a W209 is the same, there are other options. If you get a new head unit the reads digital content from an iPhone, iPod, or USB powered hard drive, it will make the CD changer obsolete. This removes the need for a fiber connection. I’ve got one of these head units and I’d never consider going back. The sound is clearer, the storage capacity is much greater, the sound quality doesn’t degrade over time, and uploads are faster than burning a CD.
As an aside,
- Converter boxes can allow you to keep steering wheel controls.
- If you have Bose amps that you want to keep, and you chose to use a head unit with an unbalanced interconnection, that can overcome for $15 in parts. The Bose amp will accept an unbalanced signal, but the sound will be cleaner with a balanced signal.
- If you use a wiring harness adapter, installing a headunit straightforward and takes very little time.