tigmd99

Hey all,

Has anyone truly compared the two systems?? I am possibly in the market for Avalon vs. ES350. I have heard the JBL system and felt that it was significantly better than the BASE ES350 system. However, i have not had the chance to hear the ML system. At least on paper, the specs are comparable, except the front stage speakers on the ML has an extra midrange speaker on each side.

Thanks in advance.

kalvano

ML wins.


ML systems are simply incredible.

tigmd99

Yes, but have you listened to Avalon's JBL??

GFerg

This is a very good question. I would like to see a comparison as well.

I've read reviews that the JBL system is a great system. It has that sound that gives you the best seat in the house in any seating position. Dont know much about the ES350 as I have not truly tested out the system. BUt I wouldnt rely on the name too much. Yes, in general the systems are great, but in some models, the ML is exceptional (IS and LS) and in others its just okay (GS). Just my quick non professional opinion and from reviews I've read.

tigmd99

According to Edmunds, the Avalon's JBL system was rated a perfect score (10/10): http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...7/pageId=63254

ES350 ML: http://www.edmunds.com/insideline/do...7/pageId=69241

The ES ML is excellent as well...thus, i would like to hear actual comparisons.

Thanks in advance.

Osteoman

I had a 2006 Avalon with the JBL and now own a 2008 ES with the base system. My opinion is the base on the ES is better. The ML has to be.

Don't flame me is only my opinion but the more I have listened the more convinced I am. I know the base on the ES is not supposed to be good but it does sound better then the Avy.

superchan7

I came from a Monsoon system in the 1998-2001 VW Passat. The ES base audio system was a downgrade. It's not torture, but definitely easily noticeable.

It would be interesting to see a points-based comparison between these premium audio systems. I won't rule out aftermarket upgrades in the future for my ES.

tigmd99

Thanks all...keep it coming!

Tarkio

Why not go and listen to the ML yourself?

I haven't done any comparisons, but the ML in my ES350 is EXTREMELY pleasing in every respect. Clean bass (and plenty of it), clear precise sound-stage, and plenty of volume. If there's a better system that's great, but I find nothing lacking in the ML.

jeffofla

Aren't Mark Levinson, Harmon Kardon, and JBL all made by the same company?

tigmd99

My Lexus dealer is a bit far from me. The Avalon JBL system uses very similar MATERIALS to the Lexus ML system...but i am sure that the amplifier is better in the ML.

garsarno

Our ML system is by far the best I have heard in a car. Beats out the Bose in my Impala and the JBL in the Grand Cherokee. Imaging, clarity all contribute along with decent bass. Have mine set up with full treble, two bars short for mid, and one bar short for bass. Also have the front / rear fader set up with one notch extra off center. Surround sound on.

toneman

Agreed about the ML, but IMHO the ML subwoofer is a wee bit lacking in that--at least in my car--it doesn't handle bass-heavy passages at high volume (e.g., >40 on the ML volume ****) very well.