After VW Bus and Fiat Ducato, now the Mercedes Sprinter can enjoy a sound upgrade: Here is the new Emphaser EM-MBF3 for Sprinter W907.

When people talk about sound retrofits for Mercedes, they are usually talking about the C-Class and E-Class and other sedans. But there is also a need on another site: The Sprinter is ubiquitous on the roads and is becoming steadily more popular with campers. Therefore, it is only logical that Emphaser offers a matching speaker set for retrofitting. As always, of course, with exactly matching speakers and plug&play connection to the original vehicle plugs. The special thing about our EM-MBF3 is that it is not only a two-way front system, but also includes a center. The small 8-centimeter full range driver comes with its own crossover that protects it from low frequencies, and it also has a dual voice coil.

Mercedes needs this to support the automatic emergency call system eCall, which requires the center to be controlled independently of the HiFi system. Apart from that, the MBF3 is a loudspeaker set with the usual fine workmanship. The baskets are made of fiberglass-reinforced plastic, and aluminum is used for the cones of the woofer and center. Due to the limited space in the Sprinter door, the woofer also works with a neodymium drive. Very practical is the accommodation of the crossover of the bass-midrange, which is located directly on the basket. It filters the 16er with a 12 dB low pass, whose coil is still bridged with a RC element. The tweeter crossover sits as usual in the supply cable, where it is pleasantly slim.

Measurements and sound

The 80-millimeter center is naturally not a miracle of efficiency, and it also runs a bit rough in the midrange without correction. On the plus side, it shows a very broadband working range, so it is well equipped for its job as centerfill. The main work of music reproduction is done by the door speakers, which Emphaser has well in hand. The 16 runs nicely linear with perfect level drop under angle. The tweeter is suitably levelled and plays up to above the 30 kHz mark - the new 19 mm dome tweeter with coupling volume has turned out really superb. Sonically, the system is no slouch, delivering clean bass and an overall lively sound. High-frequency details are well audible, but do not push themselves to the fore. The positioning of the musical actors in the room succeeds safely and conclusively. Overall, the MBF3 is a clear recommendation for sound improvement.

Conclusion

With the EM-MBF3, Sprinter pilots can now enjoy a plug-and-play retrofit for better sound. The system is made with center and neodymium drive quite elaborate and it has its price, but the sound gain speaks for itself.

Source: Hifitest