Upgrade to Mark Levinson
03-28-21, 08:03 AM
#49
Lexus Fanatic
Mark Levinson doesn’t sell aftermarket car audio. So you can’t “go to a high end audio shop” and listen to ML.
How great ML is depends on the model. It was amazing in my LS460, that’s my only disappointment with my new S560 is I miss the ML audio.
If you want to improve the base audio in the GS, best to go aftermarket. You’ll get better quality for less money than trying to buy the OEM ML components.
How great ML is depends on the model. It was amazing in my LS460, that’s my only disappointment with my new S560 is I miss the ML audio.
If you want to improve the base audio in the GS, best to go aftermarket. You’ll get better quality for less money than trying to buy the OEM ML components.
03-28-21, 11:49 AM
#50
I’ve had GSs with and without Mark Levinson, and
It’s not worth the price difference. In fact I think the lows have a more prominent sound in the standard audio system. If you’re listening to CDs, OK, there is difference in terms to the sound complexity with ML. But my advice is don’t waste your money.
03-28-21, 12:48 PM
#51
Lexus Fanatic
My experience with ML is the source of what you're listening to makes a big difference. If you are listening to CDs or say lossless streaming there is a big difference.
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03-11-23, 10:35 AM
#52
1st Gear
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How to find a reputable, conscientious installer? I understand OP's thought to just try to have Lexus aftermarket ML - it's a known quantity (to Lexus) and the parts & installation should in theory work with the vehicle and do no damage. I completely understand, even as a non audio fanatic, that ML is likely not 'the best' and that there are systems available that would be an improvement over a factory (non-ML) system, and I'm sure there are many great installers who take care and pride in their work and don't promise knowledge they don't have, etc., but - how is your average Joe supposed to find that person? How do we know that the $300 or $600 or $2,000 recommendation by the audio guy is appropriate - and that they will do the job right? Someone who knows all about audio and has done this multiple times can judge these things - a lot of us cannot. We don't know what we don't know so the aftermarket options are hard - suggestions for who to deal with (especially any in the Dallas area)?
The ML system in my gs450h is actually quite good. It does break a few basic audio rules, but despite this the imaging, depth, and clarity are all better than I expected. I agree it needs more “bump” for my liking.
I am an audio fanatic. I have heard thousands of stereos both aftermarket and factory. I am extremely picky. I would never pay the money for the ML system off ebay or whatever, but for about $2k you can have a truly beautiful system installed in your ride. I have owned at least 15 cars with aftermarket audio, so Ive heard my fair share to compare to.
It is funny to me that people on here are critical of the ML system, yet recommend crap like Pioneer as a real upgrade.This tells me two things:
1) you have probably never heard a true audiophile level sound system in a car. Pioneer...seriously?
2) you probably have your levels all jacked up. Are you screwing with bass, treble, and mid controls? Stop it. Listen to a flat EQ for a while.
There is some personal preference in audio, but the reality is that good=good. Its measurable.
I am an audio fanatic. I have heard thousands of stereos both aftermarket and factory. I am extremely picky. I would never pay the money for the ML system off ebay or whatever, but for about $2k you can have a truly beautiful system installed in your ride. I have owned at least 15 cars with aftermarket audio, so Ive heard my fair share to compare to.
It is funny to me that people on here are critical of the ML system, yet recommend crap like Pioneer as a real upgrade.This tells me two things:
1) you have probably never heard a true audiophile level sound system in a car. Pioneer...seriously?
2) you probably have your levels all jacked up. Are you screwing with bass, treble, and mid controls? Stop it. Listen to a flat EQ for a while.
There is some personal preference in audio, but the reality is that good=good. Its measurable.
03-19-23, 09:40 AM
#53
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