This article recommends DVD-audio discs for the ML, and discusses pros and cons of various setups vis a vis CDs.

http://www.caraudiomag.com/features/...us_ls460l.html

 

That article states the ML system can play SACD's. I was under the impression that it could not.

What's the real story?

 

The real story is that the ML system in the LS cannot decode the hi-resolution tracks on an SACD. However most SACD discs also have a standard ("Redbook") CD layer, and if you put such an SACD disc in the ML it should play as a CD. This common type of SACD is called "Hybrid", though some Hybrid SACDs are not labelled that way. Part of the confusing world of hi-res audio.

 

Thx for the clarification, LAMark!

 

The ML system does play the other hi res audio format, DVD-A, which is audio only. I have mentioned that the Beatles LOVE album is DVD-A (as well as CD), it comes with two separate discs containing each. THere are not too many DVD-A's around. I think they are the best sounding software for the ML. Many are encoded in multichannel surround, and will play that way on the ML system. In addition, Reference Recordings and Telarc make generally fine sounding CD's - if you want to explore them.

 

Go aftermarket before ML, other great systems come of age so fast

 

hes leasing, going aftermarket is a very bad idea.

 

I agree that DVD-Audio discs sound great on the ML. I have about 50 of them, and so far they play without a hitch. One of the problems with the DVD-A format is that many discs are authored so that you need a video display to navigate through the tracks. So far, the ML has consistently found the DVD-A tracks, even the multichannel ones, and just started playing them (even though I suppose the touchscreen could be used to navigate the tricky ones if required).

Here's a somewhat related question: On the top-level audio display is there any way to show the titles of all 6 discs that are in the ML? On mine, DVD-A discs just show up with the icon "DVD-A", and CDs as "CD". I keep forgetting which disc is number 1,2, etc.

 

I don't have the ML system in my car. I added a powered sub in the trunk (mounted to top of trunk just forward of the hatch) and I am extremely happy. Unfortunately, I got an early 07 and there were no ML's on the lot at the time. I have a "good" ear for music and I must say the stock system is quite good. Yes the ML is near the top, but you won't be too disappointed by the stock system (but could use more base) Just wanted to put a + in for the non ML system.

 

Pay for it!

 

I personally I think it was well worth getting ML

 

Even though I don't like the way ML handles the low end, I would still recommend it for sheer versatility and the "coolness" factor. You'll forget about the price difference soon enough. But if you don't buy it, you'll remember and regret a lot longer

 

over the years i have had a great amount of systems but by far the ML is the most satisfying and everyone who gets in my car loves it... make sure you get it.

jesh

 

LAMark --

I'm hoping you can clarify something. Are you saying that when you play a DVD-A with ML-surround (Meridian Lossless) it actually plays the discrete rear surround channels through the rear speakers individually? If so, please tell me the DVD-A titles where that works.

I ask because in mine when I want to play ML Surround, the rear channels are silent. I've tried it with several DVD-As that have very clearly discrete rear channels, including the Beatles "Love", The Who "Tommy" and the Chesky DVD-A surround test disk.

BTW I have DVD-A surround in my living room so I know what's supposed to come out of the rear speakers.

Thanks,

Alan.

 

I do have it,and I do love it!