I am looking into purchasing a used ML and was wondering what people who have lived with the MCS unit think about it. At first glance, it would seem that the unit would be a constant hassle because of the volume and radio presets located on the wrong side. Also it would seem to be a pain to change single disk cd's with always having to lower the screen to do so. I don't see people complaining about the operational inconvenience of the unit, so I am wondering if living with it is not all that bad? Also, why did MB use this MCS unit instead of the COMMAND unit found in other MB vehicles?
I am looking into purchasing a used ML and was wondering what people who have lived with the MCS unit think about it. At first glance, it would seem that the unit would be a constant hassle because of the volume and radio presets located on the wrong side. Also it would seem to be a pain to change single disk cd's with always having to lower the screen to do so. I don't see people complaining about the operational inconvenience of the unit, so I am wondering if living with it is not all that bad? Also, why did MB use this MCS unit instead of the COMMAND unit found in other MB vehicles?
I like mine. It would be nice to have the volume on the other side but it really isn't a big deal. I keep the nav CD in the CD drive and use the 6 disk changer in the back for CD music.
I can't speak to MB's motives. [:)]
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Andy
2006 ML350
723 - Pewter, 104 - Macadamia Interior, H04 - Brown Birds Eye Maple Wood, 167 Standard Non-Sport Pkg, 317 Comfort Pkg, 318 - Trim Package, 319 - Lighting Package, 320 - Entertainment Pkg, 324 - Sunroof Pkg, 580 - Std. Climate Control, 873 - Heated Front Seats, 890 - Power Liftgate, Navigation System, iPod interface kit
Modifications:
Added: Chrome Door handle cups, MB Twin Spoke 5-Spoke 18" wheels and tires
KyAl1013 - 1/13/2004 1:43 PM
At first glance, it would seem that the unit would be a constant hassle because of the volume and radio presets located on the wrong side.
I'm glad i'm not the only one. It would make ergonomic sense if the buttons that drivers use the most in the audio system (power on/volume, radio presets/cd track #) is located nearest the drivers position. [:(!]
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Also it would seem to be a pain to change single disk cd's with always having to lower the screen to do so.
I use my 6 CD changer for that. [:D]
Quote:
I don't see people complaining about the operational inconvenience of the unit, so I am wondering if living with it is not all that bad?
I've learned to live with it, and now it is really not so bad. I just ask my wife (or whoever happens to be sitting on the front passenger) to change the station or raise/lower the volume. Talk about "voice command"! [:D]
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2005 C320 4MATIC | 2003 ML350 Inspiration Edition | 2001 Audi S4 Avant (Blk) - Stage II | 2001 Audi S4 Avant (Nogaro Blue) - Stage I | 2000 Audi S4 Sedan (Silver)
I just ask my wife (or whoever happens to be sitting on the front passenger) to change the station or raise/lower the volume. Talk about "voice command"! [:D]
You da man! [:D]
I generally set the volume where I want it and never touch it when I'm driving, unless I have to take a cell phone call. [:D]
l have to agree..lt's not the most "Ergo" friendly thing in the world.....but when l purchased my 99 ML 430..lt did not come with the MCS unit, now that l have it "l love it"(especially with the Nav..)
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1999 : Black Opal ML 430 : 125,000 KM (traded-in)
2002 : Bordeaux AMG ML 55 : 130,000 KM (traded-in)
2006 : Silver lridium ML 350 : 53,000 KM (stolen)
2006 : Cubanite Silver ML 350 : 24,000 KM
I am looking into purchasing a used ML and was wondering what people who have lived with the MCS unit think about it. At first glance, it would seem that the unit would be a constant hassle because of the volume and radio presets located on the wrong side. Also it would seem to be a pain to change single disk cd's with always having to lower the screen to do so. I don't see people complaining about the operational inconvenience of the unit, so I am wondering if living with it is not all that bad? Also, why did MB use this MCS unit instead of the COMMAND unit found in other MB vehicles?
I retrofitted an MCS into my '98 as the first step toward NAV. From what I've read, the MCS/NAV is superior to aftermarket (e.g. Alpine) due to VSS, etc. If the goal were strictly audio, I would have taken another approach.
From an audio perspective, the MCS is OK. But, since you don't have AUX input or pre-outs, you have to get a little creative with upgrades. Another member recently added Sirius satellite radio with a cassette form factor (rather than FM modulation), and others have added MP3 players, etc. Some members have added subs (enclosure or "stealth") - but not having pre-outs makes that more of a challenge. As to the CD changer, the OEM changer is trunk-mounted - not all that convenient. I suppose its possible to mount it in the glove box, though. If you can overcome the inconvience of the control placement, etc., you'll find HUGE gains from upgrading speakers. Consider MBQuart Component, Sail Panel tweeters, and a sub.
On the other hand, if you want to replace it with an aftermarket solution, you'll find lots of help here (MCS pinouts, etc.), and you can resell the MCS! If it's a '00 MCS, you'll find a really good market for it!
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_______________ '08 Acura MDX w/ Tech package
Previously - '98 ML320 - 285k miles in 7 years
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