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I had recently obtained a black 2005 Ferrari F430 that was a big investment for me as it was my 1st exotic, and as you know when you make this type of investment will not settle for anything other than the best. I live in a rural area so there was no one within 80 miles or so that would touch a Ferrari due to the complexity of the interior work, wiring, or even understanding the wiring diagrams and the owners desire to keep these things as original as possible and even reversible to OEM status in the event of a sale should a purist wish to buy the car.
As I was getting used to this automobile, I realized that there were some some serious shortcomings on the car in today's technology. Number 1 was a backup camera as the rear visibility is nonexistent in a Ferrari F430. Also it's about 3 1/2 inches off the ground in front and any type of the scratch on the bottom detracts from the resale value and it is easily hit on some steep driveways. I also have a very narrow garage that gives me 1/2 inch clearance on each side of the mirrors and so they are easily banged, especially since I have only one good eye. A front viewing camera was therefore an absolute necessity also. The original Becker radio was a real "piece" that was seriously old technology did not work and needed a radio code that you had to leave the car ignition on for an hour to get it to activate with the code. All speakers were shot, garbled, rotted and flaking foam edges were everywhere. There was a center rear enclosure for a subwoofer and a port. I really didn't want a huge amplifier with the banging subwoofers, but I did want a radio that I could work with including receiving phone calls, satellite radio, navigation, Bluetooth capabilities etc. the amplifiers are in the original locations of the previous equipment. Mounting rings and adapters were all fabricated for all of the speakers and including the leather covered subwoofer container. No alterations were made to the trunk of the car for larger amplifiers etc.
I had my 1st consultation with Josh and we agreed on a plan which actually extended far beyond my original desires and included a front and side PPF film wrap, tinted side windows medium grade, bottom skid plates for the front bumper, sound deadening in the doors, front and rear cameras, all new amplifiers and speakers. I left the car with him for about 4 weeks while I was on vacation. Make no mistake, this is a very major investment to undertake for your automobile but the workmanship has been far beyond anything I have ever seen. The front camera is totally hidden rear camera is totally hidden, all wiring is hidden and the interior is at original as it comes. All new speakers two midrange two tweeters two new amplifiers and a new head unit. Josh decided on Stinger electronics ELEV8 unit head unit with a 8 inch screen that does not block the air conditioning vents and has extremely good color rendition and resolution. The the rear camera comes on automatically in reverse the front has a hot button and has 3 separate views, each side and a center. All front camera controls are completely hidden in the console. The amazing thing is I put a center stripe on my garage floor, and activate that forward-looking camera upon arrival and with a small pinstripe in the mouth of the bumper simply align the stripe in my garage with the pinstripe on the bumper and I have perfect guidance and clearance when garaging the car.
The audio is perfect to my ear and for what I need. Josh computer aligns it, balances it, matches it to the car interior and he built a 8 inch subwoofer mounting box covered in leather that matched the original perfectly and did not interfere with seat movement. The Bluetooth handles phone calls and texts automatically, the navigation system works excellent with my phone and the sound is amazing from Apple Play for the iPhone and it has 2 auxiliary USB ports for both input and output and can charge your phone and it is inconspicuously mounted on the center console. The speakers are completely OEM appearing in their respective locations in the doors. The microphone is not conspicuous on the left upper corner of the A-frame pillar. You don't even notice it and it a noise canceling type which is very important in a very loud sports car. I believe he used two Audison amplifiers to drive the speakers. The sound is clear very well balanced with excellent range and as loud as I want it. The only problem we had, which was minor, was the location of the XM satellite radio antenna. I did not want a external antenna mounted on the roof of the car he tried various places and we settled on a inside location just behind the rearview mirror glass mount which is inconspicuous. I found that I can increase the satellite reception with a copper strip that is Velcroed to the antenna body, painted black and looks like it's part of the antenna and is completely hidden behind the mirror. Everything is totally reversible back to OEM and all parts are available for any purist buyer that would want this, but in my opinion, I think they would be nuts to do this as this has increased the value of the car, the functionality, enjoyment, usability, technology, safety and durability. What more could you ask?
The PPF job was perfect and is actually as glossy than the original paint which has been detailed and ceramic coated.
Joss is a professional. He even helped me open up my membership in the Ferrari club of America, the St. Louis and southern Illinois chapter, has called on several occasions for follow-up and made a video of my car which has had over 100 views demonstrating his work. I only wish he would do the mechanical end such as engine maintenance etc. and if that were done with the precision and technical ability that his company has demonstrated, I think you could rest assured and would have a perfect car. I agree it was expensive but it is a long-term investment that was well overdue and I believe commensurate with the amount of work expended on the car to obtain the perfection that he has. I am one satisfied customer.
I have called on several occasions with questions regarding operation etc. and he has always gotten back to me and clarified my questions.
If you were to have the opportunity to have your car worked on by him and you value your car as much as the owners that entrust their vehicles to JML audio, you will be in good company and I think St. Louis area is fortunate to have such a company with this ability here in the Midwest. People ship their automobiles to Josh from all over the country for his work. That speaks for itself. Thanks for the work you've done for me.
It's been 3 months since the pros at jml put my new stereo and cameras in my SL. I waited this long because I believe a long term evaluation is what many of you want to see. Make no mistake, this is a very expensive modification. With that said this has totally transformed Germanys idea of a GT car into what I believe is Americas idea of a GT car.
The install is every bit as good as anything that came out of Germany. This looks like it came out of the factory like this. I can tell you First hand this does'nt ever happen . I've gone to Barrett Jackson and looked at the SLs before they go up on the block. many have an aftermarket radio. some are Kenwood, none of them that I've seen so far looked good. Here you truly get what you you pay for! From the hidden cameras that look factory ( if you can find them) to the hidden Sirrius antenna (that you won't find ) .
I'm only sorry now that I didn't have them put the hidden radar detector in as well. ( the turn indicators flash when you get a hit).
These guys made my once 100,000+ car look like it again. There's nothing coming out of Germany today that looks like this!
I was impressed with JML Audio right from the start when I came to the showroom and Josh gave me the shop tour and explained their entire process in great detail. I definitely came away understanding that his company provides the highest quality components and installation available.
I also was impressed with his methodical approach to audio system design. On that first visit, Josh interviewed me to determine all of my needs and preferences. With that knowledge he was able to quickly propose a system design that provided exactly what I wanted for my Porsche 911 Turbo!
The Kenwood Excelon head unit includes HD Radio, Navigation, CD Player, iPod and iPhone connectivity, and hands-free calling from my iPhone through a separate Bluetooth microphone.
The installation included three-layer reinforcement of the door panels to provide the most solid environment for the Hertz Mille Legend mid-range speakers. The matching tweeters were installed in the top of the dashboard, under the original speaker grills. JML also built a custom enclosure for two 8-inch Hertz Mille Legend subwoofers behind the back seats that matches the Porsche interior design perfectly.
A four-channel Audison Thesis Quattro amplifier installed in the front trunk well drives the tweeters and mid-range speakers, while a single-channel Thesis Uno drives the two subwoofers. The Quattro delivers 160 watts per channel at 4 ohms, and the Uno drives the subs with 850 watts of power. The amplifiers are underneath a custom-designed cover with cooling vents and red lighting that looks really hot, especially at night.
Also installed in the well with the amplifiers is the Audison Bit One Digital Processor. With this unit, JML programmed the output from the amps and speakers to precisely optimize the sound for my car's environment. In fact, unlike other systems I have had previously, I never have to adjust the sound using the graphic equalizer in the Excelon unit !
The Bit One comes with a Digital Remote Control installed beneath the head unit where I can quickly and easily tweak the subwoofers, the balance, and the fade controls.
The bottom line is that the system has the smoothest, clearest and most dynamic sound available in car audio, even with the volume turned way up. It is like listening to a live concert in the car!
In addition to the audio system, JML installed window films for UV protection and privacy, keeping the car cooler in the heat of the summer and enhancing the car's aesthetics. They also installed paint protective films on the front of the car, the hood and both fenders using a wrap-around technique that makes the films completely invisible.
I recommend JML Audio for the highest quality equipment, design and installation. Their knowledge, expertise and dedication to excellence is second to none!
It is a pleasure to give the wonderful folks at JML--Dan Castro, Rob Miller, and Josh Landau--my highest recommendation for their craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customer responsiveness. I commissioned JML Audio to do a fairly broad range of "enhancements" on my BRZ that were pretty transformational in their impact. These enhancements included (1) full frontal/hood/quarter panel stone protection, (2) full heat/UV rejection film (including windshield), (3) a new Kenwood navigation system head unit, (4) a back-up camera, (5) comprehensive, level 3 sound treatment in the doors, (6) interior CRT lighting in the footwells, and (7) assistance with installation of interior/exterior LED lighting, and (8) installation of ESCORT radar protection.
CRAFTSMANSHIP ==> All work was performed quickly and absolutely flawlessly is every respect. The installations that were supposed to be invisible (film applications) truly were, while the visible work (head unit, backup camera) was integrated with better-than-OEM levels of fit and finish. This craftsmanship has stood the test of time after six months. I am about as picky as customers come, and the folks at JML exceeded my every expectation, quite significantly in some cases.
ATTENTION TO DETAIL ==> Flawless corner trimming, fully hidden wiring and switching, and seamless integration were inherent in the work they did.
CUSTOMER RESPONSIVENESS ==> Not only was the work completed promptly, but when I dropped by with questions about accessories, in some cases JML installed the for me while I waited if the JML guys had a free moment. Not only that, but Josh, Rob, and Dan spent a great deal of time with me explaining how they do what they do. Their pride, enthusiasm, and core friendliness shone through. I have stopped by when in the neighborhood just to say "hi," and I can truly say now that I have "friends in the business." I have even received invitations to various events and phone calls from them when a customer's car was in the shop and they thought I might be interested in seeing the work.. The folks at JML are not just good at what they do, but they are great people to spend time with.
It has been a pleasure to learn about JML, and I plan to stay in touch. On three or four occasions, people approached me when they saw my JML sticker in the Kirkwood area to tell me stories about what JML had done to their vehicles and to express how pleased they were with the experience. I can't think of a higher recommendation than that.
First things first, Thank You JML audio. As you know, testimonials, by nature, are pretty biased. I mean, can the reader trust the build quality, sound perfection, full functionality of all the amazing things that JML Audio can do for your car based upon what I or others write? I mean really...but then again, yes, you can believe. Believe it all. In spades.
JML Audio finished off the complete transformation of my Lexus IS300 into my dream machine. No easy task, for sure, because I wanted it all. A trackable, showable, daily driveable car. With the performance aspects completed, I looked to Josh and JML Audio to finish the job. While knowing they were up to the task, I am still amazed by how far above my expectations they were able to go.
Not only was every option we picked out installed for perfect sound and function, but JML Audio tackled other under-hood work, wiring, lighting and other aspects of the car that were left unpolished in some places, and downright out of whack in others. We are not talking adding a couple easy things, but completing aspects of the car that were heavily (I mean HEAVILY) modified: from dash lighting, turbo wiring, custom gauge pod fabrication, battery housing, and even addition of Recaro racing seats. Basically, there is almost no part of this car that isn't modified in some way. It was incredible to see parts of this work in progress -- the car was basically shelled out. It was amazing how it was put back together so seamlessly. You guys are quite a team. But, special thanks goes to Josh. He put it all together.
Josh sets the tone at JML Audio and his team's work really shines because of it. From picking components, to answering all my questions, he really was top notch. I felt so comfortable knowing where we stood throughout the build process (projects like this just don't happen over night, you know). But here is the important part...the really important part. JML Audio treats your car as their own. From every last detail, the car isn't done until JML Audio has perfected it. In the modified car world, you have to know how rare and precious this is.
I have been a hi-fi audio "nut" for over 18 years. Prior to this vehicle, I had a Lexus ES 300 that had a system installed by The Sound Room. To me, it was a fantastic system. When I upgraded to the LS 430 and called The Sound Room, they indicated that they no longer had a car audio department. I then asked, "who in St. Louis does high-end audio installations." They told me to call Josh at JML. Josh scheduled a meeting with me and allowed me to experience the demonstration room. He also listened to my old system to understand where I was coming from.
The finished product was nothing short of amazing. It went beyond my wildest expectations. The attention to detail was incredible, with unique design and space utilization. As for the sound, I have never heard, or felt, a component system sound this good. It's as if Josh and his team members shot me into a new dimension of audio nirvana. If anyone has told you they can't do anything with your vehicle for after-market installation, or, even if you think you already have a really good system, you owe it to the audiophile in you to take time to meet with Josh so that he can bring you the ultimate car audio experience.
Thanks for an incredible job guys. You are the best!
JML Audio installed a protective window film, navigation system and a back up camera. Both very high quality systems. Josh called after the service to check on things, that was unusual in itself. He offered some other services which I declined, after which he didn't pressure me to reconsider. Sometime later I discovered that the installation of the NAV system had somehow disabled the turn signal sound as well as the time and date appearing in a small screen above the NAV He quickly scheduled me to correct the errors. The service took some 2.5 hours during which time he also did a few other things that I was surprised he didn't charge me for which I can well imagine another business would have. Throughout he was highly professional, which included making sure that he explained all anticipated charges in advance. Before I gave the OK for his proposed services, I checked with others including online Authorized vendors and his prices were either in line with theirs or a little less. Josh appears to understand the literal meaning of customer service. I'm particularly impressed because it appears he serviced my modest $3600 job with the same courtesy, respect and professionalism that it would be easy for another business to offer only their well-heeled clients who have $50,000 services performed on their much more expensive cars.
Just wanted to thank you and the JML Team for the fantastic job you did on my baby. My car required a great deal of creativity to get around some of the integration issues such as the unique head unit placement, steering wheel control redirection, working around Bluetooth and Voice Activation, etc. Everything was tackled methodically and with great effectiveness. The end result looks spectacular, and given the wide range of music I listen to, the system is quite flexible, and will put a smile on any audiophile’s face. See you soon for the next stage!
It was a pleasure dealing with someone passionate about what they do. Congratulations on your recognition from Mobile Electronics (and naturally the great car photo in the magazine). You definitely earned it!
I stumbled upon JML Audio when I was looking at speakers for my Honda. I was interested in Dynaudio after hearing a friend’s VW. JML is the only retailer in the St. Louis area that carries Dynaudio. I gave JML a call and talked with Josh for about 30 minutes and setup an appointment. When I got to JML the first thing Josh did was offer me a bottle of water, and then he wanted to see my Honda Element. After Josh had heard enough of my Honda factory stereo, we headed back inside. Josh then took me to an Infiniti G35 coupe to listen to the system that JML had installed. This system was amazing to say the least, and it should be since it was a top of the line custom install. After listening to a few tunes in the G, we headed to a Miata. The Miata had its top down and the system that was installed sounded great.
After listening to two different systems that JML designed and installed, we headed to what would become JML's sound room. Josh took the time to go and get all of the different components that I had just heard and lay them out so that I could get an idea of the types of products they use. This included a top of the line set of component Dynaudio speakers that Josh handed to me to view. He also explained JML’s approach and philosophy to car audio. The entire appointment was about 2.5 hours. Why write such a diatribe? Because it illustrates the extreme passion that Josh and his team have about mobile audio. Josh takes the time to get to know you and what you want.
The above happened one year ago. When I went back to JML for a private event, Josh knew exactly who I was and I had met him only once, 12 months ago. During my visit, I was looking for speakers and a new source. Josh had reps from the product lines he carries available to talk to at the event and I got an audition from Clarion sources and Hertz speakers. I decided on a Clarion source (VX409) and a component set of Hertz Hi Energy speakers. Unfortunately the Clarion source had not been released so I had to wait to get my system installed. Fast forward a few weeks. I called Josh to check on the status of the Clarion and to get an idea of what it would cost to add an amp to my setup. I spent about a half hour on the phone with him, and he explained several options for amps. These ranged from entry level all the way to competition level amps. Since I still had some budget left, I decided to add a Zapco Reference DC350.2 amplifier
Josh called several days later to let me know that the Clarion had come in. He told me he had a slot open the following Tuesday. To make things easier for me, Josh provided me with a car to use while the install was happening. He took the time while I was there to review everything that the JML team was going to do. He laid out all of the components for me to review and also outlined a few of the design approaches he had in mind for the speakers, aux mp3 / ipod input and amp locations. After talking things through, I decided to have JML do stage 1 sound damping on the front doors, add deflex pads behind the mid bass drivers, and add the audio steering wheel controls. Josh told me he would call me in the morning once the team reviewed everything.
Josh called to ask about the possibility of putting the amp in the spare tire well. The original thought was to put it under one of the rear seats, but as his designer pointed out to him, there are two car seats in the back. While the amp could go under one of the seats, it would not be the best place since kids tend to have drinks / snacks and they do not mix well with electronics. I decided that the space tire well would be the best place. Josh and team designed and built a custom steel amp rank that will allow me to add an additional amp later.
I spoke with Josh several times and he had hoped to have the build done in one day. Since the tweeters were mounted in the factory location, there were two break away clips that needed to purchased from Honda. None of the STL dealerships had them in stock so they had to be ordered and would not arrive for a day. Josh had me keep his car for another day since he did not want to delivery my car as it was not complete.
I got the call the next day that the install was complete and the team was ‘making my new equipment sing’. When I got to JML Josh came right out with a big smile on his face and said lets go listen first and then he would show me the different aspects of the install. I sat in the driver’s seat and Josh selected Michael Buble as the first artist to demo my new system. The sound was great; it is amazing to hear full range from just 2 tweeters and 2 mid bass drivers. If I did not know it I would have thought a sub woofer was also installed. The second pick was Metallica and my new system played it loudly and accurately. We listened to a few more songs and then it was time to see the amp install. All of the cabling is run through conduit and it is all very nice and neat. The custom amp rack looks like it was always a part of the car. It was amazing to see the level of detail that JML applied to my car.
Overall this was a great experience. From beginning to end, Josh kept me up to date on the progress. This included sending out an email to let all of the customers who had cars at JML know that there were severe storms in the St. Louis area and all of our cars were parked safely inside. It is this attention to detail that sets JML as the highest standard. You will never feel pressured to purchase anything. Josh will make suggestions all along the way, but he leaves the final say to you. It has been said in other reviews, and I am going to say it as well. The team at JML treats your car like it is one of theirs. I would highly recommend JML if you are looking for a company that will deliver a high quality, great sounding mobile audio system. I look forward to working with Josh and the team at JML again.
I am the proud owner of a 2003 Corvette convertible. Though I love the car, I was disappointed with the Stock Bose Sound System. Additionally, I wanted satellite radio, I-pod connection, and a stealth radar detection system installed. Most important, I wanted the integrity and clean design of my “Vette” cockpit preserved. Josh from JML Audio came with high recommendations so I made an appointment to visit his facilities. He took his time to get to know me, no high pressure sales or pressure to buy. He demonstrated the finest products on the market and after a few days sent me a design proposal. I remember him saying, “ More equipment does not mean better”. I gave Josh the go ahead and I placed my car in his talented hands. During that week he had completely gutted the interior of the car, sound proofed it throughout, installed a high fidelity sound system, and a stealth radar detector. THE TRANSFORMATION WAS AMAZING! The fit, attention to detail, and wiring are of the highest caliber. Most impressive . . . THE SOUND! This system is more than I ever dreamed of and sets my car apart from all others with great sound and interior looks as if it was designed by the finest of ergonomic engineers. Josh at JML Audio is the best; you are guaranteed to appreciate his work.
Personal Consultations are Available on Saturday By Appointment Only