73446

When I purchased my '02 a few months ago I knew that the 6x9 door woofers were blown, but [***]umed that there would be a easy aftermarket fixed. I also wanted--no, needed Sirius radio installed. With the help of members on this forum here's the solution I came up with and the costs involved. I should note that I used a high-end stereo retailer/installation outfit here in Sacramento, California, so I suspect that I paid a premium there.

1) Speakers. The 8 ohm specification for the 6X9's in the ML system posed a bit of a problem. I didn't want to pay for new ones, so after reading a few posts on speaker repair, and receiving psychological counseling from WTiBob, I decided to go that way. I'm a real dummy with doing things like tying my shoes, so I didn't even think about doing it myself. Repairing two speakers cost $180.

2) Sirius. Having Sirius installed in my 2005 ES 330 was a snap. No so with the SC because of the lack of an unused auxiliary input plug. After whining on the forum about my plight, Habious suggested visiting www.vaistech.com and checking out the SL2u audio interface there. Cost: $150. Labor for install: 150.

I saw a Sirius installation on this forum that had the receiver in the ashtray, and really liked that idea. Cost: $230. Labor: $150.

Total: $480.

Evaluation. Trying to strike a balance between price and result can be a challenge, but I'm very pleased with the result! The ML system is, indeed a premium sound system, and it now sounds absolutely beautiful. I was beginning to doubt the value/wisdom of the ML system with its odd ohm requirements, but I'm sold. I could have put in more goodies, but I had other issues to deal with..like paying the mortgage and feeding the wife and kids.

All-in-all:

Thanks to everyone who helped out along the way!

Mike

Here are the photos: The SL2u audio interface is integrated into the ML system and the ash tray cover closes. Now you see it...now you don't.

A1Lexis

iTrader: (6)

Glad to hear you had a great install the vaistech unit is a great add on to our system with updated technology. It's an easy install but is more difficult than tying your shoes lol. I followed the DIY mandyfig posted on the speaker repair and the sound now is amazing. I only wish I had repaired them sooner. Truly night and day difference. Enjoy your tunes!!

Habious

Mike,

I'm glad that all is well in your ML World now!

Any chance we could talk you into some pictures of the Sat Radio in the ashtray?

johnsfe

Mike....glad to hear about your successful XM install. I too have to go through the process and may ask for tips later. But I, like you, am still in counseling sessions with Harold and V-Bob on ML amp issues...lol.

But it's encouraging to hear you are very happy with the outcome. Please post pics if you can.

Felicia

73446

Sure...I'll post the pics ASAP!

73446

Thanks again to all members who gave advice and helped me along!

Solman

If anyone else is going to do this and needs the VaisTech for an 02, PM me. I no longer have a use for mine since I replaced the ML with the Pioneer head unit.

73446

Can you post a pic of the Pioneer head unit? What did it cost?

Mike

mandyfig

John, PM sent.

mandyfig

Please give us the model number of the radio. Where did you end up putting your antenna? And BTW how much is the subscription?

Thanks.

73446

Sure...I'll post that when I get home, today or tomorrow. I have that info in a file. As for the antenna, its on the passenger side just above the windshield. I'll post a pic of the "bug." The reception is great.

Mike

JPBJR

Solman-How much do you want for the Vais----? I assume it works for a 04. Thanks John Bradley

johnsfe

Mike ..... That looks hot! I am rereading the info you sent. I'm excited about how it looks.

73446

The Sirius is a "SCV1." I believe it also has video capabilities, but I purchased it for the size.

Sirius subscriptions are $175/year. Expensive, I know, but I had it in my ES 330, and I just can't stand commercials and chattering from over the air radio!

Here are two pics of the antenna, which is magnetically mounted over the windshield on the passenger side. My hand is in one pic to give you a better idea re: size. Maybe it's because I'm used to it, but I don't notice it on the car.





Mike

Jefff1

Nicely done...I'm debating whether to add a Sirius unit in the ashtray or replace a now 9 year old head unit with the more up to date Pioneer unit....Yesterday was the first chance I had to listen to CD while driving as our 2003 just arrived late Thursday night...The sound seemed good and no buzzing from the speakers that I could tell.....We have a 4k mile road trip coming up in 3 weeks so I'm a fence straddler at the moment....