Is anybody able to place their system in surround mode option rather than default option when in radio mode? I can do it when playing a CD but not the radio. Likewise, when accessing the balance control, I have no fader option only side to side.

I'd highly recommend you upgrade your system to Reus Audio. Words can't describe the difference it makes over the stock Bose.

~ Ian

I second Xeron's opinion. I've done two cars with Rick Reus and both were amazing. They are over the top professional and their systems exceeded my expecations (both a 2004 Porsche Turbo Cabriolet and a 2005 Ferrari F430). In the case of the Ferrari, it was the first Reus did and they spent a ton of time making sure it was just right. All their work is done "internally" and your car still looks stock - my preference over a bunch of logo's all over the speaker grille's -- Japanese imports can keep that look all to themselves .

Sanford

I forgot to mention that I'm getting my SL65 done sometime over the next couple weeks...

Where is he located and do you have contact info? Also, how long does it take.

Thanks a lot for the info..

He is located in Orange, CA (near Anaheim - Disneyland etcetera). I think they quoted me 1/2 day or full day to do the install, but it may take a little while to schedule a time to get it done as they are always busy.

Here's their website:

http://www.reusaudio.com/

If you call them and speak to Rick, tell him "Sanford" sent you ).

Good luck.

You can also tell him IAN sent you! LOL...

1/2 a day for the SL. Completely stealth though you will give up some trunk space for the subwoofer (in the spare wheel well). Hands down the single best thing you can do to your SL.

~ Ian

Seriously though, I'm really bummed with the quality of the stereo in this car. You would think that they would put in something halfway decent with the amount of money the car costs. My M3's Harmon Kardon blows the Bose out of the water.

No highs, No lows....Must be Bose.

I think I'm going to Reus audio and let them fix the damn thing.

I totally agree with you - MB should be embarrassed putting such a P.O.S. unit into its flagship car.

~ Ian

Yeah, agree completely. It's like Bose hypnotized all these car manufacturers into thinking that their speakers are worth a damn. My Porsche, BMW and now SL65 have all had Bose crap speakers in them. It's like these car manufacturers think all their buyers are tone deaf. Don't even get me started on the Mercedes archaic navigation system - for christ sake, it's a $200,000 car; at least they could put in something better than you'd find in a $30,000 BMW 3-series (or any Infiniti or Lexus on the road for that matter).

Even if a nice sounding system with a newer navigation system (with better GUI and functionality) was another overpriced option, they should at least consider offering it to people spending boat-loads on their cars. I personally, and I'd guess a large number of other people, would pay without hesitating.

Agreed! Got Reus last month. Sounds totally better. Great guy to work with! Getting video capabilities with DVD/MP3 player upgraded to my old 04' CD-Nav unit... pain in the ***, getting it sent to FL for the job. Will call Rick to update my spkrs once I get my car back with the new tinted AMG tail lights and AMG breaks... Should've just gotten an SL55 2 years ago... aye! car is a money pit!

Where in florida for dvd?

can i ask what one of these systems costs for an sl55?

The system is still in FL getting the upgrade. I don't have an address or a name. I am going through my customs shop. I leave him my car, he gets the stuff done for me. As for cost, are you asking for the Reus system or the video upgrade? The Reus was around $3200 for the LA auto show promotion. Don't know how much they are now. The video upgrade with labor and the new DVD player will probably reach $3000... not cheap... Reus is in City of Orange, if you live in So Cal, you can drive it over and get it installed same day.