328is Audio Questions

[matt_nemesis]

I just purchased a 1996 328is and I am really happy with the car except for one thing, the stock audio system. I only have standard HU with the cassette and radio, but I want a CD player. Also I think that the left rear speaker is blown as it makes a strange vibrating sound when any music is played.

I want to add in a CD changer with a Soundgate Interface
and also replace the rear speakers.

For the CD changer I was thinking of going with the Kenwood
or the Sony

For the rear speakers I am not sure about size and brand although I have read that they should be 4in right?

I have also thought that maybe it is easier and cheaper to just put in a Aftermarket HU but do they fit in the center console? It seems as though the standard HU is bigger than a regular one?
I also have a pretty limited budget in regard to all of this.
Thanks

[eloff19]

an aftermarket head unit will work just fine; you'll need a wiring harness (crutchfield ~$20); rear speakers are 4" yet if you're up to the job you can make other sizes fit - i'd also look into changing the kick panels up front to some good components; and adding a sub

since you mention you're on a budget don't bother adding a handshake for a cd changer just buy a new h/u with one in it (just my opinion anyway)

[jllphan]

If your limited on budget, replace your factory deck. Adding a cd changer (after buying the adaptor) is more expensive and wouldn't sound as good as a new deck.
---Buy Kenwood or Pioneer (if on a budget); Alpine, Nakamichi, Clarion, or Eclipse if you can spend a little more.

Speakers= Infinity,or polk audio (5.25" replacement size)

As far as install goes, no you don't need a dash kit. The BMW factory head unit is standard single din size (same as aftermarket).

[jllphan]

I hate it when someone posts while I'm typing a post!! LOL!

Just to avoid confusion, you should have 1" tweeter, 4" mid (both in door) and a 5.25" in the kick panel. I FEEL like it is more advantageous to disconnect the 4" all together and just get a 5.25" component set ( 5.25" mid and 1" tweet) if you asdd a new head unit

[eloff19]

haha i'm with you on that jllphan - there should be a feature of who's replying err somethin' weird like that (i don't know)

i post things and someone else posts seconds before me saying the same thing i did and it gets me sad

[matt_nemesis]

Thanks for the advice guys, I have wanted to change out the HU from the beggining and put in a new aftermarket HU. The only problem is that even though it is my car, my dad doesn't want me to change anything on the center console, I don't understand his logic though.
So I won't need a dash install kit, just a wiring harness?
BTW, where is the kick panel? (excuse my noob questions)
Thanks very much guys, I really appreciate it.

[El Presidente]

you'll need a small trim ring to make it look better.

[007ben]

alot of HUs do include that though. if it is the small piece that goes around the outside.

[jllphan]

The kick panel is the side panel underneath the dash, in front of the door (it is next to where your feet are). And every deck i have ever seen (or sold) comes with a trim ring that is large enough to cover the hole. Tell pops that (using an aftermarket wiring harnes) you can reinstall the factory deck with no drama when needs be.