It might have to do with seating position too. I remember when I had my cluster bezel pod and FR500 wheel, I would need to move my head slightly to see the gauges. However, I think people make too big of a deal about all that stuff anyway. Everyone acts like they're driving an F1 car and that an instant-look heads up display is absolutely necessary or something.
Bottom line, if you like it - go ahead and get it.
I'd just buy a new CD player, and get the adapter for the Mach 460 harness. It's a simple install, and you can yank your factory head unit and CD player, and install the gauge plate. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
Paul.