jaltuner

Agree with many of the posts here. Pluses of ML ; A great sound system and it does sound great with jazz. I think it's fine with rock music as well, but I do understand Doorman's point. It's all a matter of taste and aesthetics. I have a 2004 SC 430. I roll with the top & windows down and have incredible sound. I think great sound while driving is one of the true joys of motoring. And, yes, as someone stated, I believe it works best with levels 'zeroed out.' Initial reviews of the ML sound system, when product debuted, said as much. Technicians and engineers, designing for higher ends of the audio market, will say the same. Minuses: Well, it's all been said before. I've heard some say it's too bright (okay... that's a matter of taste - you've got to find what system sounds right and works for you). Also, it is true that ML blows out. Simple to complex fixes are posted throughout this site. I've been fortunate in that when I purchased my car, I also purchased a 3 year bumber-to-bumper. Honestly, it has paid for itself with, in less than a year, both door panel speakers blowing out... In ML's defense, my car is almost a decade old. As for your dilemna, I don't think it's much of one. You are buying a car. if you love the car, there are plenty of great aftermarket products out there that will more than suffice. I wouldn't walk away from a great car/deal just because of the sound system, unless you can do better costwise (Simply put: Does cost of car + new sound system = way too much dough... could you do better elsewhere? And, of course, if cost and the sound system is an issue, you could try ot negotiate the price down a bit to cover paying for a new sound system. I've seen truly great systems for just under, or around, $1,000 that would work for your car. At this end of the market, more money = usually equals superior product. Thanks for the conversation!