I have searched for this and found only one thread from back in 2008.

 

I'd like to update my columbus to a DAB version, but can't justify all of that money. I don't really want an add on unit on the dash, so searching for alternatives.

 

The Dension unit appears to plug into the USB port on the MDI, and by selecting track names from the folders, you control the DAB receiver. So has anyone got one? Any good? I don't have MDI, but I do have the components to fit it. This would make it worth doing, and a lot cheaper than a new columbus.

It would cost you probably about £200 to update the Columbus to a DAB version. Based on £300 for your old one at sale time, and £500 for a DAB version, difference £200. Then the aerial to sort out. I don't think you'd get a better solution any other way, and certainly £150 on a doohickey solution like you've suggested wouldn't be high on my list.

Aerial is sorted, and would be the same with either solution.

 

If I could get £300 for my none DAB then it makes it more palatable, but DAB columbus's seem to be the best part of £700, not £500. I agree though there won't be a better solution. Plus I already have the MDI, meaning for me the total cost is less than £150. If I can find a DAB version for that money and know its not going to cause me grief then it's worth looking at.

 

So back to the question. Has anyone actually tried one of these?

Well, when dabonwheels had a sale, and had the Dension for a shade over £70 I decided to go for it. Because it buffers, changeover between stations takes a few seconds but other than that it looks quite like you are using a proper DAB installation. I changed my sharkfin to a VW group part that includes the DAB antenna. This was the only problem I had, the Dension unit can't phantom power the VW antenna, so I had to pay a few notes to buy a phantom power adaptor.

 

My MDI socket is in the armrest, so the whole lot lives in there, with the DAB antenna coming through a tiny hole in the base.  When I get time I'll put the tension unit, USB cable and phantom power adaptor inside a nicer looking box to live in the bottom.

 

Haven't driven anywhere as yet but DAB reception is quite poor at home, so I don't expect any problems. 

 

At less than £100, I'd recommend it to anyone who already has MDI, but bear in mind the restrictions with the antenna before you buy.