Radio Bait and Switch - WATCH OUT!

[bryanknie]

I just took my radio to the dealer to find out why my DSP button does not perform all of the functions it should. It will change from the Driver, Rear and to All Seats, but will not display or change to the equilizer settings as stated in the "2003 Maraurder Owners Manual"

After 1 whole day in the shop I was told nothing was wrong, but the "radio" tech will be back in tomorrow. Well the next day I drove to the dealer and showed the "radio" tech my problem. He pulled out the radio and called int the numbers and stated that it does not have this function because it is not a "Audiophile" stereo.

I blew my top because I just paid close to $30,000 for a car with a window sticker on it that shows "Audiophile". I was told to see my sales person. My sales person also agreed that I should have the Alpine "Audiphile" radio, after he also checked all of his literature on this subject, but the Sales Manager refused.

After getting even hotter, calling Mercury and finding that my car was indeed shipped from the factory with the standard radio, I threated the Sales Manger of calling the local news because the "Window Sticker" lists my car and VIN as having this Audiophile radio. He is now going to replace it at no charge.

Watch out! I have learned that your radio should have the word "Alpine" or "Audiophile" printed on it, if not, take your window sticker showing "Audiophile" back to your dealer and ask for the proper radio.

The Audiophile radio sounds twice as good as the standard radio.

[Mike M]

I will give it a shot tomarrow.
Thanks

[jgc61sr2002]

brynknie - First of all I would like to welcome you to the best site on the web. Thanks for the heads up and keep us posted. Enjoy the new ride. John:up:

[bryanknie]

I hope it works for you!

[Blue Marauder]

You have the correct radio. There is nothing wrong with your radio. There are no DSP equilizer functions, only the Driver, All, and Rear. The early owner's manuals were wrong. Later ones, like mine, deleted references to the equilizer functions. This was discussed in an earlier thread. You just made a lot of trouble for people for no reason.

[LincMercLover]

I thought there was a write up about the literature being incorrect? But hey, if I can get a better radio for free, what the hell!

[nexstar7]

thanks will try

[jgc61sr2002]

Originally posted by Blue Marauder
You have the correct radio. There is nothing wrong with your radio. There are no DSP equilizer functions, only the Driver, All, and Rear. The early owner's manuals were wrong. Later ones, like mine, deleted references to the equilizer functions. This was discussed in an earlier thread. You just made a lot of trouble for people for no reason. Blue Marauder - If your information is accurate the dealer should have known that. But what do the dealers know about the MM? Zero. John

[Grasshopper]

So should the radio say "Audiophile" or "Alpine" on it? Mine is blank... :confused:

[Blue Marauder]

There is no better radio.

The face plate is blank.

I bet he will get the same type radio when all is said and done.

The "Driver", "All", and "Rear Seats" ARE the equilizer settings. That's why the sound changes when you change settings.

[jgc61sr2002]

Originally posted by Grasshopper
So should the radio say "Audiophile" or "Alpine" on it? Mine is blank... :confused: Mine is blank also. I think there is only ONE radio for the MM. John

[yorks]

Originally posted by Grasshopper
So should the radio say "Audiophile" or "Alpine" on it? Mine is blank... :confused:

Mine is blank also. I think this is another case of dealer BS due to lack of technical knowledge. They're promising something they can't deliver.

[yorks]

The Audiophile radio sounds twice as good as the standard radio.

PS..How do you know this if you have the "standard" radio installed?

[mensrea]

Wouldn't it be interesting if the Owners Manual and window sticker weren't wrong, but Mercury decided to give us a cheaper radio at the last minute... anyone got a Lincoln to see what the radio says.

[LincMercLover]

Go sit in a Lincoln LS and compare. The MM's DSP is not a true equalizer, just a quickie seat change option. The Lincoln's has different "modes" to play in as well as different sound "environments." Also, if Mercury has corrected this problem, why haven't they fixed their web site?

http://www.mercuryvehicles.com/vehicles/marauder/fe_int_sound.asp

I say hey, if they're gunna throw a true Audiophile system in his car, I'll sure as hell try it! It IS a better radio, and would set the car further apart from those who decide NOT to pursue this option.

And as for the badging, all Ford radio's do not show badging, even though they show it in the manual. I believe the Mustang is the only car to show the badging of Mach on it's audio system.

[FordNut]

The LS I had came with an Alpine system and it had the badging on it. The Mark VII has JBL badging. Since the MM has no badging, I would assume it's a Ford system. Maybe it's better than what you get in a pickup truck but it's not engineered by a big name audio company.

As for bait n switch, I don't think it is an option that has a price associated with it, so it's a standard system whatever it is.

[mensrea]

Hey FordNut... is that axle girdle part number M-4033-G, how's it look and how hard was it to put on???? Got any pictures?

[joflewbyu2]

get your facts straight !! take 2 minutes to pull the radio to see that it does indeed say "alpine" on the rear. DSP - digital signal processing, is the only way to time correct for seating position. equalization is just tone controls to compensate for acoustics. i can set my own preferences with the bass and treble control along with the fader. FMC has a disclosure that states " FMC reserves the right to change product specifications at any time without incurring obligations." this is printed in the owners manual and brochures. enjoy the car. if you are going to ditch, get rid of the car. maybe some other manufacturer needs a paranoid nut case.

[FordNut]

Mensrea:
Yes, that's the part number. You can get them from other places cheaper but they don't have the SVO lettering cast in them. Doesn't really matter since you can't see it anyway. I believe the one in Summit catalog is the best price I found. I had it powdercoated before installation and had it installed when the gear change was done so I can't say how much trouble it was to install. I'll jack up the car and take a pic either tomorrow or the next day (it's supposed to rain here tomorrow so I'll work around that.)

[Blue Marauder]

Bottomline is, since the original poster stated that there was a DSP button on his radio, he has the ONLY AND CORRECT radio for the Marauder.

The top of the line LS radio is THX certified and states so on the front of the radio. Now what use THX certification (a performance standard applied to sound equipment and speakers for movie theaters and home theaters) does for an in-car stereo system, I don't know.

As to why the dealer said/did what they did, either they were totally clueless or were just trying to mollify a very angry customer. In other words, give the customer what he (thinks) he wants to shut him up.

Think its time for this thread to be closed since it really can't go anywhere.

[RCSignals]

The regular radio does not have a DSP button. They are both made by Alpine.

I've seen early pictures of the Marauder dash with "Audiophile" on the cassette door, but production vehicles do not.

As long as you have the DSP button you have the Audiophile radio

bryanknie, let us know what the numbers are on the replacement radio

[Mercury_Rising]

Call it an Alpine, Audiophile or whatever. For a "$35000" vehicle, this system is terrible. Period!

------------------
Jay
03 300A
CD changer

[01 Interceptor]

My PI has an awesome sound...I'll have to go to the dealer and see how the MM sounds. The only thing I have done to my stereo besides the sub and amp(that I can turn on/off from my seat) is the MACH MP3 player. Even with the base AM/FM it sounded awesome. Way better than my SS did with an Alpine deck w/stock speakers.

[yorks]

Originally posted by RCSignals
bryanknie, let us know what the numbers are on the replacement radio

Maybe jefferson-mo can help us out with some #'s here if we ask him nicely...

[SergntMac]

Originally posted by joflewbyu2@aol.
get your facts straight !! take 2 minutes to pull the radio to see that it does indeed say "alpine" on the rear. DSP - digital signal processing, is the only way to time correct for seating position. equalization is just tone controls to compensate for acoustics. i can set my own preferences with the bass and treble control along with the fader. FMC has a disclosure that states " FMC reserves the right to change product specifications at any time without incurring obligations." this is printed in the owners manual and brochures. enjoy the car. if you are going to ditch, get rid of the car. maybe some other manufacturer needs a paranoid nut case.

Ditto...Thanks JoeFlew...

My '97 Mountaineer has the JBL system, marking all over the place. Great system. My '98 and '00 Mountaineers got the Mach system and junk it was. I called LM back to tell them "ya sphelled it wrong, it's m o c k!" My G/Fs '02 Mountaineer has a nicer radio, she got the 6 CD changer built into the radio. My MM radio, unmarked as it is, compares to my JBL of '97, and is IMHO way better that the two mocks I had in between.

I think we've been trolled, someone reel me in?

PS...Added after post.

About markings...Recently got my non-resonator Megs tips, they are engraved "Megs." My production tips are not. Moreover, we all got "genuine" AutoMeter gauges that are not genuine gauges...Perhaps LM/FMC has a "product liability" issue somewhere here causes them to brag about a brand name participation, but deliver unmarked products? Just a thought...

[bryanknie]

I traded in my 98 Lincoln Town Car for my Marauder and my Dad has a 92 Town Car, both of these cars the radio had this function and both have "Alpine" or "Audiophile" on them. My trade in is also still on the lot.

Yes, I understand now that my current radio is not supposed to have the full DSP function. But as per the radio tech, he checked all of the numbers, and also called them in. He stated that my radio is not an Audiophile. My Sticker shows I paid for an Audiophile, that is my problem.

I also called Mercury and verfied my car was shipped with the Standard radio. I have looked on the dealer lot and all cars with the same radio as the Marauder just show on the sticker "AM FM CD Cassette. Not "Audiophile" as my sticker shows. All other cars on the lot with the Alpine Audiophile radio show Alipine Audiophile on the sticker as does the Marauder.

Trust me I have been driving my 98 Lincoln I traded in since new for 5 years and the Audiophile sounds twice as good, it also costs more.

I also have a 1928 Ford Roadster and 1952 F1 Truck, neither of these have a radio, they are as stock.

[prchrman]

bryanknie...no :flamer: from me...do update with the outcome of this sound system controversy...i.e. if they do change and if it is a better system and if the new system has identifying markings...if no info down the road from you will lead alot here will think our chain is getting jerked...I am interested in what you find...thanks

[bryanknie]

Dont worry, I will keep the board updated as to what happens.

To me when the sticker say Audiophile and the actual radio is a Ford Motor Co standard per their own technician stating it is not an Audiophile because Audiophiles have a different number, I feel I have been baited and switched.

I only have less than 800 miles on my car and my trade in is still on the lot, I hope I dont have to play that card as I like the Maraurder, I just refuse to not get what I paid for.

I also have a long service record 7 years of using this dealership, along with my Dad and paying for a lot of non warrenty repairs. I hope they dont blow it.

On a side note, if I turned the traction control off the my old 98 Town car, it would smoke right off the line, of course my Marauder is a 300A, but it will not smoke off the line (yet). Of course it is also 10K less expensive. The handling for a large car is what I like about it.

[Mark McQuaide]

Sarge -- My production tips are engraved with the Megs logo on the top of the pipe.

[WolfeBros]

This car is always interesting. My car is a june 2002 build and had the MEGS engraved tips. I just told someone in a post the other day that we had not heard of a non engraved tip on the car yet and here Sarge comes up with it.

On the topic of this thread.."bait and switch"......this is the biggest bunch of baloney I have ever read on this board and I am surprized that some of you old timers got sucked into the vortex. :nono:

The manual may have been a misprint but there was no misleading here. That radio does have DSP and it is a pretty good system. Can we please stop whining and enjoy the car ? :rolleyes:

[MAD-3R]

would love too....

[WolfeBros]

Its ok Mad.....you have an excused absence.
Your butt will be back in that charcoal seat before you know it. :up:

[Blue Marauder]

Originally posted by WolfeBros
On the topic of this thread.."bait and switch"......this is the biggest bunch of baloney I have ever read on this board and I am surprized that some of you old timers got sucked into the vortex. :nono:

The manual may have been a misprint but there was no misleading here. That radio does have DSP and it is a pretty good system. Can we please stop whining and enjoy the car ? :rolleyes:

I agree with Wolfe. This is all :bs: and a waste of time.

[bryanknie]

Wolf, I agree the radio does have DSP and it mabe does not work like the book says, I understand that small changes are made via the factory, but my radio is not an Alpine radio. The Alpine radio as advertised, also listed on my sticker vs the standard ford radio which is in my car is a big problem to me. Take a look at the price difference it is over $800 list. In addition I just traded in my Lincoln Town car with the Alpine there is a big sound quality difference.

I called Alpine today and found that "Audiophile" is their registered trade mark. If this is true, my dealer, ford or whomever owes me an alpine. Which I know by experience the alpine is a better radio than the standard one I have which is in every Grand Marquis on the lot which is also in my Marauder.

The General Manager has called me back today and stated it looks as if they will be providing me an Alpine radio and replacing the Ford. He asked me to be patient for a day or so as he is trying to figure out who is going to pay for it.

Please note I am not miss leading anyone, just stating what I found on my car hoping to help some one else. Isnt that what this board is for? If your radio is not labled Alpine on the outside or inside and your service technician agrees, you too may be able to ask for the Alpine that shows on your sticker, but then again your sticker may not have the Alpine Audiophile listed as equipment.

So be it, if I get my Alpine I will let you know.

[WolfeBros]

Bryanknie,
My problem is not with you trying to get a new radio, it is what you called a " bait and switch". IMHO there was no premeditated intent on LM's part to defraud anybody with a different radio. A stupid mistake maybe but not a bait and switch operation. Lord knows that LM has made some stupid mistakes in marketing this car.

I hope you get your radio. If you do I think the floodgates will open for a bunch of other Marauder owners to do the same. Thanks for your post and let us know how it turns out. Perhaps we all will be listening to sweeter music as the result of your efforts. I do know that Ford/ LM has the right to discontinue or change equipment on the car with no notice. You might get the radio because the dealer wants you happy.

[Marauder57]

Welp, I just picked mine up yesterday and the radio sounds pretty good....is it the best ever nope...but I am going to upgrade the speakers.....(as seen here on the board) and go from there....maybe down the line I will get a different radio...but truth be told I listen to a lot of AM talk radio and you don't need an alpine for that.....but I would rather listen to the music of my tailpipes!

[bryanknie]

Thanks Wolf, I agree that Ford has the right to change too.

But then Ford should change the window sticker on each car to be accurate to the options/equipment on that car, as that is what we shop and compare by even on the same model/year.

The General Manager at my dealer has checked the other MM on the lot and is going to have the window sticker reprinted.

I hope I do open the gates and everyone here gets better sound, After 795 miles I miss the sound of the Alpine in my old Town Car that I listened to for 80,000 miles.

I use my MM daily for customer visits/lunches/dinners as I am in Sales, it is my work vehicle and the radio is important to me as it is used . Some of my customers liked the plushness and prestige of the Town Car better, but once you step on it for them they all like my new MM

Bryan

[DLoreanMARAUDER]

bryanknie, Im with you on this one. Shouldn't we get what we paid for? yes L/M has the right to change things at the last minute but shouldnt they also change the price? I don't have my window sticker anymore (Dealer kept it) but I DO remember seeing AUDIOPHILE on the sticker. also my dealer got my MM and another (their only 2 MM) at the same time that are carbon copys (same build date and everything) and I just checked the virtual window sticker (still on the lot) that clearly states AUDIOPHILE. I pay alot of attention to detail especially SOUND SYSTEMS. I've also been BRAGGING the whole time that I have an audiophile, and now I find this out? hmm........ I wish you lots of luck, and if they do replace your stereo, please post a part# as I too will inquire about it! if it works for you, i will follow and make it work for me (i do feel the sound could be better). maybe it wasnt so much a "bait and switch" as it was STUPIDITY ON FORDS HALF, but still i think we deserve an explination, and if avalible an upgrade! would you be happy if you paid for a Marauder, but got a Grand Marquis?

I am VERY happy with the car, but when an update comes along, i go for it! kinda like the computer update.

ps- my prodution tips also say MEGS on it

[Blue Marauder]

Funny. I'm sitting here looking at the Marauder sales brochure (dated June, 2002). In it is a photo of a radio that looks just like mine except it does NOT have a DSP button. Mine does have the DSP button. The radio in the photo also does NOT say Alpine or Audiophile on it, just like mine, yours, and everyone elses. The text reads: "A standard Alpine Audiophile dual media sound system kicks out clear, deep, true-to-life reproductions, on CD or cassette." You can argue the validity of these statements all you want. Everyone has their own opinion of how the radio sounds. I think it sounds great, myself.

This suggests to me that Alpine ADDED the DSP function at a later date, thereby IMPROVING the radio functionality. Since you have already stated that you do have the DSP button on your radio, I do not see how it can be anything but the correct and only radio available for the Marauder. There is no option for anything else. Also, just because the radio does not say Alpine or Audiophile on the face plate does not mean it is not. There is no requirment for it to be so labeled.

I predict that one of two things will happen when the dealer gets you a "new" radio"

1. It will be identical to the one you have now, or
2. It will be totally diferent and not fit or work in the Marauder.

[RCSignals]

Originally posted by Mark McQuaide
Sarge -- My production tips are engraved with the Megs logo on the top of the pipe.

mine as well

[RCSignals]

I have one of the "standard" Dual media radios from a 2003 Crown Victoria. It is an Alpine.
My Marauder has a dual media radio that looks exactly lke the "standard" dual media, except it has a DSP function button, and is also made by Alpine.
Both sound good, but the Marauder Stereo sounds much better.

bryanknie If your radio is not made by Alpine, I don't know what it was originally meant for, but you are correct, it's not the correct one.
If your dealer has the window stickers of other MM re-printed to remove reference to "Audiophille" sound system, he's wrong to do it IMO.

[Blue Marauder]

Reading all his posts again, I still think he has the right radio. But I really don't care any more.

[DLoreanMARAUDER]

Originally posted by joflewbyu2@aol.
get your facts straight !! take 2 minutes to pull the radio to see that it does indeed say "alpine" on the rear.

just went outside and pulled out my radio. nowhere on it does it say ALPINE or AUDIOPHILE, just has a sticker on the side with the Ford oval and It states its a ford radio with Dobly, made in japan. just to let you know.

[bryanknie]

That is exactly how mine was labeld when the service tech at the dealership pulled the radio in front of me. The tech stated that my radio was not an Alpine. This techs only job is to travel to this Dealerships local dealers, about 10 and fix radio's all day for 8 hours. He seemed very knowlagable.

He had alpines in his service vehicle and showed them to me and the service manger. They were all labled Alpine, some even with the same cover, with and without the DSP button. If it was not for this tech, I would have went away just knowing that the manual was wrong.

[LincMercLover]

I'd be currious to see before and after pics...

[jefferson-mo]

Hey Dlorean...was the part #3W3T-18C868-AA?
I just ran your VIN and mine and that's the # that what is shows should be in there............otherwise I'm checkin' on it. The Radios are not like regular parts so I'll have to make some calls(I'm curious now)
I'll pull mine out later today and investigate.......I'm also diggin' out that windo sticker and lookin' at it.........

what's discouraging to me(I hesitate to mention here) is the radio in my GF's 10 yr old Mitsubishi sound better than mine...........maybe I can do the speaker upgrade and get Ford to pay for it(ha ha ha)

[SouLRioT]

If he gets a better one in his i'm driving the 15 min to his dealership. I doubt he'll get a better one tho.

[jefferson-mo]

Well I found this on OASIS..........SSM #15886

15886 2003 TOWN CAR AUDIOPHILE ALPINE RADIO DSP (DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING)
FOR 2003 MERCURY MARAUDER AND TOWN CAR EQUIPPED WITH THE AUDIOPHILE ALPINE RADIO AND THE DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING (DSP) FEATURE, THE OWNER'S GUIDE INCORRECTLY DESCRIBES THE DSP FEATURE. THE DSP FEATURE NO LONGER ALLOWS THE OPERATOR TO CHANGE THE SIGNAL LISTENING MODE TO (HALL, NEWS, CONCERT, ETC.), AS IN PREVIOUS MODELS. THE DSP SIGNAL LISTENING MODE FEATURE HAS BEEN DELETED IN THE AUDIOPHILE ALPINE RADIO AND IS NO LONGER SUPPORTED. THE DSP FUNCTION NOW ONLY ALLOWS THE CHANGE OF SPEAKER EQUALIZATION TO 'ALL SEATS MODE' TO 'DRIVER SEAT' AND 'REAR SEATS'.

[DLoreanMARAUDER]

Originally posted by jefferson-mo
Hey Dlorean...was the part #3W3T-18C868-AA?


Jerfferson, Yup thats the part#, just checked!
so i guess this means ford isnt going to buy me a new radio:( . Dang it maybe I should take the CD-RW out then:D

[joflewbyu2]

someone post the pic from the old photo gallery that shows the back of the OEM radio and circle the words "alpine"

[Blue Marauder]

Originally posted by jefferson-mo
Well I found this on OASIS..........SSM #15886

15886 2003 TOWN CAR AUDIOPHILE ALPINE RADIO DSP (DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING)
FOR 2003 MERCURY MARAUDER AND TOWN CAR EQUIPPED WITH THE AUDIOPHILE ALPINE RADIO AND THE DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING (DSP) FEATURE, THE OWNER'S GUIDE INCORRECTLY DESCRIBES THE DSP FEATURE. THE DSP FEATURE NO LONGER ALLOWS THE OPERATOR TO CHANGE THE SIGNAL LISTENING MODE TO (HALL, NEWS, CONCERT, ETC.), AS IN PREVIOUS MODELS. THE DSP SIGNAL LISTENING MODE FEATURE HAS BEEN DELETED IN THE AUDIOPHILE ALPINE RADIO AND IS NO LONGER SUPPORTED. THE DSP FUNCTION NOW ONLY ALLOWS THE CHANGE OF SPEAKER EQUALIZATION TO 'ALL SEATS MODE' TO 'DRIVER SEAT' AND 'REAR SEATS'.

I and others have been saying this since the beginning. Maybe now this thread will die.

[DLoreanMARAUDER]

^^^I was looking for that pic^^^
I wanted to see if it did indeed say alpine, cause mine sure as heck don't! i can go out and snap a pic and prove it, but i dont want to waste the time or the webspace to post it

[Blue Marauder]

Originally posted by DLoreanMARAUDER
^^^I was looking for that pic^^^
I wanted to see if it did indeed say alpine, cause mine sure as heck don't! i can go out and snap a pic and prove it, but i dont want to waste the time or the webspace to post it

Not doubting what you say, but what would it prove? Alpine is a subcontractor to Ford. Ford can put any name or no name on the radio.

[Bigdogjim]

I hope not it is much better than the stuff I get to read each night at work.........

What do you figure the "better" radio is worth?? HP wise that is???

Hell I remember when cars only had AM radio's

Gotta go take a nap now before some needs me for something important ..........

[DLoreanMARAUDER]

Blue Marauder, aren't you the leaset bit curious to find out the out come? heck I am, and if and i mean IF I can get a better stereo out of it, Its worth following up on IMHO! Well now that the expert Jefferson is here, maybe he can clear some of this up.

Bigdog, WHATS AM RADIO?????? :D

[Blue Marauder]

Originally posted by DLoreanMARAUDER
Blue Marauder, aren't you the leaset bit curious to find out the out come? heck I am, and if and i mean IF I can get a better stereo out of it, Its worth following up on IMHO! Well now that the expert Jefferson is here, maybe he can clear some of this up.

Bigdog, WHATS AM RADIO?????? :D

I think Jefferson's post should make it clear to everyone: bryanknie's radio is working as designed and there is no other or better radio for the Marauder.

[deerejoe]

J. C. Whitney sells a pretty good radio for approx. $50.00
With some 'ghetto-blaster' speakers spliced in; the whole system is real close to an Alpine/Blaupunkt/Gerstenburg set up.

Hyundai uses this system as their premium sound and offers it at additional cost.
Could be just the unit we all are looking for...

[RCSignals]

It says Ford on it because it is a Ford part, made by Alpine or not.
If it says "made in Japan" it's an Alpine. If it says "made in Mexico" or "made in Brazil" etc, it's a regular Ford probably by Visteon or Altec

[vegasmarauder]

Well my problem is when I turn on the radio I can no longer hear the exhaust!!! What should I do???

By the way, on my 300B with the traction control OFF it is a lot more crisp acceleration and better throttle response at low speeds. I wish I could find a way to default it to off on startup instead of having to do it manually.

I also put the Explorer AM/FM/CD/Cassette player in my commuter 99 C/V P/I. All I had to do was take a heat gun and soften the A/C ducting directly behind the radio. I used a small block of wood the same height as the new radio until I could slide the big one it. No noticable loss of air flow from the registers. Great sound, and it has the ports on back for the 6-CD changer in the trunk if I ever decide to try it. Sounds pretty good to me, but then again everyone tells me I'm tone deaf...

[RF Overlord]

Originally posted by vegasmarauder
By the way, on my 300B with the traction control OFF it is a lot more crisp acceleration and better throttle response at low speeds. I wish I could find a way to default it to off on startup instead of having to do it manually.

Interestingly enough, this question was asked at the FordChip tuning session in Boston last Saturday...Pete said, unfortunately, that was not possible through firmware...

[bryanknie]

I went to the dealer last night on my way home. The General Manger now agrees that my radio is not a Alpine. He asked me to bear with him another day, I think he wants to make sure he does not eat the cost. Also he wants to make sure with the engineers at Ford that the "Audiphile" technology is not some how built in. He does have confirmation that my radio is not an Alpine. I will post an update next time I hear.

I agreee with the SSM 15880 above, if you have a Alpine radio.

My next question is; Do Alpine equiped cars have different speakers?

Bryan

[Grasshopper]

I don't care what everyone else says about this thread, I'm fascinated by it. I want to see what they're going to put in his car! This whole discussion got me thinking...I just picked up my MM last week. I was getting the car overview speech by the sales manager ("To increase the volume of the radio, turn this round knob clockwise, like so. To decrease the volume of the radio, reverse the process, and turn this round knob COUNTER clockwise. Any questions?, etc.etc.). He got to the DSP buttons, and seemed to encounter a problem in his well-oiled speech. After trying for a few minutes, he said "That's odd, I thought I could switch between different listening modes like hall, news and concert. Oh well, that must only be on the Lincolns." I didn't think anything of it at the time (I just wanted the keys! :coolman: ), but now? My wife has the Mach Audio system in her 2002 Escape, and I think it sounds way better than the system in my MM. Just my $0.02.

[bryanknie]

Grasshop,

My wife has the Mach Audio in her Escape too with he 6 CD changer in the Dash, it is an awesome sounding set up. Sounds better than any other ford product I have heard to date. The Escape XLT with leather, loaded and sunroof was only 22,000 out the door, go figure. I bet the Escapes 210 hp V6 will beat the MM's 0 - 60 ft time, at least it feels that way. I need to get her at a light.

[mensrea]

Well I think Mercury screwed up this whole radio thing from the begining, if you do a search for marauder and radio, you still see some reviews that say it is a 100 watt system with a sub woofer , and others say a system, with a 100 watt subwoofer amp. In my experience (from Fords website) , Ford's audiphile systems pumps out between 140 and 280 watts.

The question is what exactly do we have in our cars, and what exactly is out there in terms of available radios ( I know that we only have one radio offered)

[Blue Marauder]

From sales brochure dated June 2002:

"Radio - Alpine Audiophile Sound System with AM/FM stereo/cassette and single CD player with clock, 100-watt amplifier and subwoofer."

Sounds remarkably like what is installed in my car. I don't believe that there is a conspiracy on LM's part to screw us on the radios that are installed in the cars.

[mensrea]

What's the deal with some of you lately.... it used to be that we could discuss anything without reprimand from members. If we want to discuss our radios, whether or not we have a good radio, what we expected, or what is out there, why would anyone feel the need to challenge us? If you don't like it don't read the forum.

I still think we didn't get the best radio offered, and would have paid a couple hundred more for the 280 watt system. Obviously this is an area where there are questions, let's discuss and find out. I know that even before I bought the car I was trying to figure out what stereo I had in the car... if this thing only has 100 watts total, including the sub, then I think it's time to R&R the entire system.

In the last two months we have seen people get more and more opinionated, to the point of being offensive. Remember a couple of things, just because someone says something you may not agree with, you don't HAVE to confront them. If anyone has issues with my posts or me please feel free to PM me

[Constable]

I think the MACH systems sound great as well. I dont know for certain, but I believe all the speakers, head unit, amps, etc... are tuned together and specifically for each passenger compartment that they are used in. When I was first shopping for my MM I wondered why these systems weren't being offered.

I really think LM just slapped together our stereo systems. Only four speakers and an add-on sub/amp? I could care less about what badge the radio has on it. I want it to sound good. Ours do provide listening pleasure, but I've heard much better. I know that Lincoln offered 12-speaker stereo setups during the mid 90's but I'm not sure what they have recently. Those were some sweet sounds.

Anyway, I'm going to look toward Visteon, the company responsible for MACH systems, for some possible aftermarket items. I want to keep the "factory" look of everything. They offer an MP3 system and the popular "CD6" system (CD6 may be too big for MM).

http://www.evisteon.com/b2c/mach_mp3c.htm

[mdmarauder]

I have studied the sound system in the MM. Basically the four speakers are powered by the head unit. The amp in the trunk only powers the sub. I think that we got the standard issue G.M. radio and they added on an amp and small sub. I would have wished for a better stereo but that's what we got. I would have loved to have the Alpine Audiophile system that my LS had it was out of this world and had no distortion, by far the best factory system I've ever had. I'm still in the process of designing a better system for my MM but I'd like to keep the factory head unit if possible. Maybe new speakers and an amp.

Mensrea,
It seems we have more new members here everyday and some don't understand exactly how this site runs. Just me take on things.

[prchrman]

Originally posted by mensrea
What's the deal with some of you lately.... it used to be that we could discuss anything without reprimand from members. If we want to discuss our radios, whether or not we have a good radio, what we expected, or what is out there, why would anyone feel the need to challenge us? If you don't like it don't read the forum.


In the last two months we have seen people get more and more opinionated, to the point of being offensive. Remember a couple of things, just because someone says something you may not agree with, you don't HAVE to confront them. If anyone has issues with my posts or me please feel free to PM me


mensrea...I concur...I felt several members really hammered away at some on this thread and I for the life of me could not understand why...the thread will run it's course...just let it be and it will die if not of a noteworthy cause...if it does turn out we have been duped, then hey we may get a better system out of this...raud on...let live...

[RCSignals]

Originally posted by bryanknie


My next question is; Do Alpine equiped cars have different speakers?

Bryan

The answer is no for the Marauder.
There is a different speaker for the Town Car Premium system though

[WolfeBros]

I'll let my original comments stand. I am however dropping the hammer.......sorry if it came over too strong. No way I get sideways with a Prchrman . ;)

[RCSignals]

Originally posted by mdmarauder
I think that we got the standard issue G.M. radio and they added on an amp and small sub.

The Marauder does not have the same stereo as in the Grand Marquis. The Dual media stereo in the GM looks the same, but does not have the DSP function. It is also an Alpine.

[Blue Marauder]

Originally posted by RCSignals
The Marauder does not have the same stereo as in the Grand Marquis. The Dual media stereo in the GM looks the same, but does not have the DSP function. It is also an Alpine.

RC, some people will never get it and will continue to whine for something they can't have.

[prchrman]

wolfe...we :cool:

[mdmarauder]

Rc...I stand corrected it's similar to the GM head unit. I was not debating that we didn't get the correct radio. I was more trying to point out that Ford did not change alot in the GM system to get to the MM system.

[WolfeBros]

Originally posted by prchrman
wolfe...we :cool:

:up:

[Logan]

Can I shoot this poor, beaten horse yet?

[Billatpro]

Pull that trigger:shot:

[DLoreanMARAUDER]

No wait!
Im still waiting for the outcome from bryanknie. I think it was the title that PO a few of you guys, but I think the thread itself is not somthing to get upset with (unless you designed the damn system). Those who think its a waste of time, read another thread. dont put a man down because of his opinion esspecially if hes got wheels in motion. Im sorry but this is not how us CIVILIZED GUYS act now is it? The sound sucks. I dont wanna open up a new can of worms but it seams like a lot was promised for the Marauder, and very little of them were actually delivered. DONT GET ME WRONG I LOVE THE CAR. but the most comon response from people was that they expected better. Let the thread go on. those who are happy with system, fine keep it but dont knock someone for trying to get what he paid for! if bryanknie succedes in his mission, I know I will be right after him to get my system changed, and who knows who will follow.

point is I thought this was a fourm were we could express our opinions, and find out new things about our cars. DONT DRIVE SOMEONE AWAY. I've been driven away by too many forms by peopls attitudes, and its not fun. I dont want to see it happen to someone here!

bryanknie, keep us (those who are interested) posted. I would like to see the outcome, and Even if it turns out you don't get a replacement, I congradulate you for trying, even with all the odds agains you!

Now, lets all get along and get back to what really important............... Cars & CHICKS! :beer:

[markee]

The display doesn't work! I took it in with your post about alpine audiophile radios! They said they had heard of the problem but didn't know much. The tec took out my radio and said the serial # was wrong!!!!!!! He ordered me the "good" radio!!!!! They said something weird is going on! I picked up my new car last saturday.

[jgc61sr2002]

markee - Welcome to the site. Enjoy your new ride. Keep us posted on the radio. Thanks John:up:

[LincMercLover]

I still say we need someone over there getting pics of new and old!

[TAF]

Originally posted by LincMercLover
I still say we need someone over there getting pics of new and old!

Peter Parker!!! Where are you!!!!!

[SergntMac]

Ummm...Read every post here one more time. Checked a few other details too.

If you put a gun to my head and told me to decide now, or die...I still say...Troll.

Sorry...It just adds up this way.

But, it did score an 1899 read and 83 post...

Must be as good as 270 HP/298 TQ numbers, at the rear wheels...

[WolfeBros]

Originally posted by SergntMac
Ummm...Read every post here one more time. Checked a few other details too.

If you put a gun to my head and told me to decide now, or die...I still say...Troll.

Sorry...It just adds up this way.

But, it did score an 1899 read and 83 post...

Must be as good as 270 HP/298 TQ numbers, at the rear wheels...


Me, I am waiting for the movie version to come out.
Boy gets car
Boy gets jilted
Boy gets new radio

Sniff sniff........you gotta love a happy ending

Ok Logan.....now where is that bullet you were promising ?;)

[Logan]

If folks want to continue discussing the radio, Fire up a new thread. This one's giving me a headache.

BANG.

[tomd]

Sorry Logan close the thread before I could say something and that his head hurt! :lol:

Sorry if someone already pointed this out but I don’t have time to read all the threads! LOL!

Back in June when I got my Marauder I was reading the manual and playing with the radio trying to get the DSP to work, I couldn’t! Went back to the Dealership and talk with my Salesman who told me they STOP putting the DSP in the radios because WAY to many OLD timers kept screwing up the radio sound and thought the radio was broken! The repair shops got feed up readjusting the radios for the OLD folks, that’s why you DON’T have DSP. LM/Alpine is trying to figure out an easier way to have the added sounds, maybe they do already? My Salesman showed me the LM Bulletin on the web about the radio, my Mothers 2002 or is it 2003 (?) Lincoln Town Car doesn’t even have the DSP (She has the button).


It is a shame we don’t have the “JBL” radios in our cars (my 1992 Marquis LS had it) that was the BEST radio I ever owned! It was so good that if the DJ would whisper or whistle over the radio you’d think someone was in the car with you! Scared the :censor: out of me the 1st time it happen thought someone was on the floor behind my seat!

The reason they DON’T put “JBL” radios in the Marquis is the older folks WON’T pay the big bucks for them! On my 1992 Grand Marquis a JBL system was an option and back then it cost $800 or $900 now it would be $1,300 to $1,500 plus! No takers no option!

That is all! My 2 cents is now added.:banana2: :beer: :bows: :eek:

[Blue Marauder]

This makes even less sense than the original thread.

Kill it now.

[MAD-3R]

Let it die a quite and natural death.

[RF Overlord]

Originally posted by tomd
my Salesman who told me they STOP putting the DSP in the radios because WAY to many OLD timers kept screwing up the radio sound and thought the radio was broken! The repair shops got feed up readjusting the radios for the OLD folks

Actually I believe that, for the simple reason that it's the SAME issue that caused Ford to start putting in fake oil pressure gauges...too many people didn't understand that it's SUPPOSED to go up and down...so they just put in one that reads the same all the time...problem solved... :rolleyes:

[WolfeBros]

RF.......I am with you on this one brother.

Maybe the new Alpine THX Dolby buster with screamin jeebie woofers gets only one station ??
:lol: