I have an '08 w/Nav and park assist... no ML. I don't listen to hip hop, but I think the stock pio. is just fine. Albeit, I've not heard the ML... so I can't say if it's worth the $... I'd have to take the opinions on the board.

I sat in both GS, ML and non ML for about 45 minute when I was deciding which GS to buy. The ML sounds a little better, but not $1500 better. I even try FM and CD, not much difference. Some say the real differnces is when you put in a DVD audio disc, which I do not own

ability to play dvd + dvd changers + more speakers alone are worth the 1500

The 3 extra speakers are worth 1500 bucks?

along with other things I mentioned, yes they are worth it.

see, ML is like HDTV, if you watch it from 480i signal, a $5000 1080p tv is going to look worse than a cheapo 400lbs tv from the 80's

of course if you compare both systems with radio or regular cd, it's not going to sound much different!

go buy one of those dvd-a and some member recommended, then you'll see why it's worth it.

1500 is nothing man compared to the regrets of not getting it when you have the chance.

first time when I listened to my Chesky DVD-A collection in my GS, I was shocked by so much detail ML was able to reproduce to the sound stage.
In "Love Drum Talk" by Babatunde Olatunji, I specially enjoy the percussion detail that is been shown to the extent that I can feel the weight of the instrument that's being struck!

Later I did some research on the internet and found ML does model-specific acoustic fine-tuning for Lexus.
http://www.autospectator.com/cars/le...cedented-audio

Well said the this article:
"Harmonic richness allows for the full reproduction of an individual instrument's or vocal's particular harmonic structure or overtone. The richness is refined to such a degree that instead of hearing a piano or an acoustic guitar, a discerning listener could identify a Bosendorfer from a Steinway, or a Martin from a Gibson."

It best described the thrill I have with the ML system.

yes, correct, all speakers position and angle on ML systems are designed according to the acoustic of the car. that's why the ML system on all lexus are done differently (not random)

Wow, I didn't know ML specially designed for each different Lexus Model. I am sure glad I got it! =)

I hardly even watch DVDs at home, let alone in my car! I listened to both systems and decided the regular one was plenty good enough for me. But then, I am definitely not an audiophile (I doubt listening to sports talk radio or POTUS '08 on XM) would sound that much better on ML.

Same here, I drive around with no music on 1/2 of the time. The other half, I just listen to the radio. I hardly play any CD let alone owned any DVD music disc. I guess to a average guy like me, $1500 is too much for sometime that sounds just a little better in radio and CD mode.