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So - the odd thing is that I had an MBUX software update a few months back - and the "standard" Burmester seems to sound better after that. (Or I am just used to it now...)
Probably used to it. I'm now having a strange issue where it will randomly change FM channels. If the car is turned off for a few hours, sometimes when the car is restarted, the channel will have changed even though the on screen display says it is on the original channel selected. Very strange! Has happened several times.
This won't help fix anything, but my bet is that MB added all of that "tubby" bass to the Burmester systems in response to the decade-long gripes of those of us who have W212 E-Class cars with the Harmon-Kardan Logic-7 systems. These systems sound clean, but lack the punchy bass of competitor systems like the Lexus Mark Levinson systems.
IMHO, the Burmester bass sounds loose and flabby, maybe like we are just hearing sub-harmonics of the speaker cone vibrations rather than any real bass energy.
Again, my opinion, but if that super car audio system won't make your pants legs flap and your ears bleed, it isn't finished!
2021 GLE 350 purchased Dec 2020 updated yesterday February 24, 2021. I waited almost 2 hours for this and when I left I had no sound at all on any sources.. wasn’t even 2 min down the road. The service GM took it back and had the system reflashed again. Apple CarPlay was an still remains half screen, Tech stated this is normal on newer MBUX systems. I just killed 2 hours of my day for this and now I have no sound at all and there offering a loaner pending the outcome of reflashing this update again. About 35 min later they were finished. GM said the audio quality is specifically outlined in this update. It does sound louder and better but I need time to give an honest opinion.
I hope that mine is built with that update, scheduled for 3/9. I found that the system needed high volume in order to fill the speakers with sound. Another question I have is...... does anyone believe that an update in the future could give mbux wireless apple carplay?
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by Williemv
I hope that mine is built with that update, scheduled for 3/9. I found that the system needed high volume in order to fill the speakers with sound. Another question I have is...... does anyone believe that an update in the future could give mbux wireless apple carplay?
I bought a used, 2018 Ford Transit van and imagine my amazement when I found it to have WIRELESS Apple CarPlay! Sometimes, I really wonder what’s going on in Stuttgart.
Took my 2020 GLE 450 in for the first maintenance service a week ago. I complained that the Burmester radio sounded like crap and more annoying is sometimes it randomly changes to a different radio station when the car is restarted. To my surprise, they found a software update for the Burmester System which appears to have not only fixed the random station changing, but more important, it appears to have disabled the really annoying "speed compensated volume" and whatever they did made the system sound much better in general! Sounds like a totally different system...for the good.
Mike
I had the same experience after the update back in February. I have tested the audio multiple ways. Have you noticed in the Sound Focus Setting selecting Rear Seats the bass extends lower and the front midrange widens?
Also fading all sound to Front with the Balance Pure Mode sounds good but Surround adds lower midrange effect thats distorted at the front.
IMO its still horribly tuned. The update helped, but this system is a 6/10 where my E Class was a 8.3/10
Low +1. Mid -0- High +3. Sound Focus Rear Seats Balance -0- Surround Pure Mode FLAC USB 24bit-96Hz
I had the same experience after the update back in February. I have tested the audio multiple ways. Have you noticed in the Sound Focus Setting selecting Rear Seats the bass extends lower and the front midrange widens?
Also fading all sound to Front with the Balance Pure Mode sounds good but Surround adds lower midrange effect thats distorted at the front.
IMO its still horribly tuned. The update helped, but this system is a 6/10 where my E Class was a 8.3/10
Low +1. Mid -0- High +3. Sound Focus Rear Seats Balance -0- Surround Pure Mode FLAC USB 24bit-96Hz
I agree with you. I still haven't found a setting that even comes close to the Lexus I had before the MB. I would have expected better from MB. I'm STILL trying to get use to the "speed compensated" volume changes... really hate that. So far, it's better than it was before the update but still no better than a 5/10 in my view.
I agree with you. I still haven't found a setting that even comes close to the Lexus I had before the MB. I would have expected better from MB. I'm STILL trying to get use to the "speed compensated" volume changes... really hate that. So far, it's better than it was before the update but still no better than a 5/10 in my view.
I agree with your 5/10 expected more from MB! I was being modest with my 6. I just can’t find a acceptable setting for the life of me. My previous Lexus GS was good.
“Speed Compensated” Thats the last setting in the menu I believe called Volume Automatic Adjustment I have Off
I agree with your 5/10 expected more from MB! I was being modest with my 6. I just can’t find a acceptable setting for the life of me. My previous Lexus GS was good.
“Speed Compensated” Thats the last setting in the menu I believe called Volume Automatic Adjustment I have Off
This is all very interesting to me and I am excited to hear the system for myself. I didn't splurge for the upgraded GLE system (it would have added $7K to an already $103K vehicle) so I hope the base Burmester system isn't as 'bad' as it is being portrayed.
I will be coming from a larger SUV with the top level Revel Ultima 28-speaker system, which I honestly don't think sounds that great. I was a little happier with the Revel Ultima 19-speaker systems in previous mid-size SUVs, but I admit that I'm no audiophile and have no idea how to properly set up an EQ.
This is all very interesting to me and I am excited to hear the system for myself. I didn't splurge for the upgraded GLE system (it would have added $7K to an already $103K vehicle) so I hope the base Burmester system isn't as 'bad' as it is being portrayed.
I will be coming from a larger SUV with the top level Revel Ultima 28-speaker system, which I honestly don't think sounds that great. I was a little happier with the Revel Ultima 19-speaker systems in previous mid-size SUVs, but I admit that I'm no audiophile and have no idea how to properly set up an EQ.
Oh, it may be worse than it’s portrayed. I’m 5 days in to my new 2021 GLE 450 (3/21 build), and I’m appalled that an $89K SUV sounds this poorly. The only other system I have to compare it to at the moment is my 2018 BMW 540 with it’s mid-range stereo offering (Harman Kardon). The Bimmer system is 10 times better. I’m not a stereo guy so I’m not sure if the speakers are trash in the GLE or if it’s poorly tuned, whatever that means. It’s seriously an embarrassment though.
Oh, it may be worse than it’s portrayed. I’m 5 days in to my new 2021 GLE 450 (3/21 build), and I’m appalled that an $89K SUV sounds this poorly. The only other system I have to compare it to at the moment is my 2018 BMW 540 with it’s mid-range stereo offering (Harman Kardon). The Bimmer system is 10 times better. I’m not a stereo guy so I’m not sure if the speakers are trash in the GLE or if it’s poorly tuned, whatever that means. It’s seriously an embarrassment though.
The audio was a big factor in any new vehicle I was going to get but I bit the bullet and placed my order not long ago anyways. I'm sure it's similar to our 2021 GLC and based on reading an the comments, I'm already disappointed and will have to find a 'fix' as soon as I can.
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by Professor1234
...............I didn't splurge for the upgraded GLE system (it would have added $7K to an already $103K vehicle)...............
I’m a bit confused: When I look on the MBUSA site and “Build” a new GLE450, the only audio upgrade I see is in the Premium Pkg. and the cost for that is only $1,375.00. Where is this $7K you are talking about?
I’m a bit confused: When I look on the MBUSA site and “Build” a new GLE450, the only audio upgrade I see is in the Premium Pkg. and the cost for that is only $1,375.00. Where is this $7K you are talking about?
I just looked at the Build too. The $1,375 Burmester shown is included in the Premium Package. It is a 9 channel system. They say 13 speakers, but there are 9 locations and 4 of them (in the 4 doors) are 2-way speakers. The system is fine for multiple people in the car and having music on in the background, but if music is the primary focus, I would rate this about 3 out of 10. There was also a Burmester upgraded system that costs an extra $6k+, but I no longer see it listed as an option although I see it available on other models like the S-Class.
EDIT:
I just looked again. The upgraded Burmester Audio is no longer offered on the GLE 350 or 450, but it is on the AMG versions for $4,550.00
"Engineered to be the pinnacle of mobile high-end audio, the Burmester® 3D system combines innovations in automotive audio with legendary quality. A 1,590-watt amp combines analog and digital signals to deliver the most natural sound spectrum in any music genre. A total of 25 speakers includes a subwoofer with its own 400-watt amp, ceiling-mounted surround speakers, and LED-illuminated tweeters. Adjustments include five preset listening modes and a seat-specific VIP function."
Last edited by Vegas Benz; Apr 25, 2021 at 11:25 AM.
Reason: more info
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by Vegas Benz
I just looked at the Build too. The $1,375 Burmester shown is included in the Premium Package. It is a 9 channel system. They say 13 speakers, but there are 9 locations and 4 of them (in the 4 doors) are 2-way speakers. The system is fine for multiple people in the car and having music on in the background, but if music is the primary focus, I would rate this about 3 out of 10. There was also a Burmester upgraded system that costs an extra $6k+, but I no longer see it listed as an option although I see it available on other models like the S-Class.
Yes, I have the “3D” system in my 2020 S560. I believe they offered the 3D in the 2020 GLE450, but not for 2021.
Yes, I have the “3D” system in my 2020 S560. I believe they offered the 3D in the 2020 GLE450, but not for 2021.
I just edited my last post. The 3D system was available when I ordered my 2021 GLE450, but no it appears it is only available on the AMG GLEs. But since you have it, how does it sound? Does it get loud for rock, or is it mostly better for sound quality?
2019 SL450, 2019 E450 Luxury Trim Wagon, 2024 BMW I7 xDrive60
Originally Posted by Vegas Benz
I just edited my last post. The 3D system was available when I ordered my 2021 GLE450, but no it appears it is only available on the AMG GLEs. But since you have it, how does it sound? Does it get loud for rock, or is it mostly better for sound quality?
We have a member over on W222, goes by Katie22. She raves about the system. I like mine, but just don’t listen to enough music. I don’t do loud rock. Ask Katie, she really knows her stuff.
I just edited my last post. The 3D system was available when I ordered my 2021 GLE450, but no it appears it is only available on the AMG GLEs. But since you have it, how does it sound? Does it get loud for rock, or is it mostly better for sound quality?
Oh, it gets LOUD, and without the associated Listener Fatigue that typifies most loud auto systems. It is excellent and definitely worth the investment. (Yes, Investment - because it increases satisfaction in a premium car.)
But besides Loud, it also sounds great when playing SOFT, which is (to me, an audiophile) a good test of a system's quality. Good clean sound. I really like (miss) the VIP seat which really does focus a balanced spectrum on the designated seat.
Our 2020 GLE450 had 3D, but our order failed for our '21 53, and I really miss it. I barely listen to the base Burmester, except for trying various source materials and spending time to find acceptable settings. No luck yet, but getting toward "listenable."
Another nice feature of the 3D system is that the front door post tweeters are outlined with ambient lighting, which completes the interior effect of the nice lighting scheme. And that's a strange comment from me, who is a Form Follows Function kind of guy.
The audio was a big factor in any new vehicle I was going to get but I bit the bullet and placed my order not long ago anyways. I'm sure it's similar to our 2021 GLC and based on reading an the comments, I'm already disappointed and will have to find a 'fix' as soon as I can.
Audio is a big factor for me, too.
One of my disappointments with our 2019 GLC was the $850 Burmester "upgrade." We ordered in late 2018 and spent a half hour on the showroom floor, trying my various audio test sources, to see if the Burmester could sound good. It sounded pretty nice after some tweaks, and we ordered the first '19 that would arrive at the dealership, some months later. REALLY DISAPPOINTED that the '19 Burmester sounded so lousy when it arrived. I have since tried some current GLC's with the "upgraded" $850 Burmester, to compare and see if we have a valid complaint or defect. No, they sound the same - Not Worthy. It looks like '19 was the year that they cheaped out.
Our AMG53 has the base "upgraded" Burmester and, while it's better than our '19 GLC, it's still pretty "average."
I've given it a lot of Speaker Break-In hours, and it improved, but still not nice.
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