Sound System - BMW Forum

JWK · 01-03-2005, 09:46 PM

I just bought a 1999 328I (nice car). As a first time BMW owner I am very happy with the fine craftmanship that has gone into this car. I wish I could say the same for the sound system. I am looking to upgrade the system as it sounds horrible, combined with the fact that it does not have a CD player (it has a cassette player).

I don't want to spend a ton of money, however, I don't want junk either. I would like a decent head unit, perhaps an amp and maybe a (small) sub woofer. I don't want to sacrifice alot of my trunk space.

Any advice is appreciated.

YoungExec728 · 01-04-2005, 01:27 PM

How much are you looking to spend? what do you consider decent?

JWK · 01-04-2005, 07:06 PM

Not looking for major thumping bass, but enough to give some body to the music. Would like to try to stay under 1,000 if possible. I realize for that amount I won't get the absolute top of the line, but hoping I can get better than what is in the car now.

Thanks

YoungExec728 · 01-05-2005, 12:35 AM

Go to an audio shop and listen to the speakers and find the ones that you like. Then find them online for cheaper. MB Quart and Infinity are nice drop in speakers for BMWs so in many cases you won't have to cut or drill. Might be a good idea if this is your first install. Once you find the speakers you like, find a sub that you like. If you like quick tight bass, most rock music, go with a 10" For deeper, punchy bass, rap and hip-hop, then go with a 12" or 15" Then find an amp to power it all.

Because $$ is an issue I would go with top notch speakers in front and ditch the rears. A good sub, (i like JL), and a 4 channel amp. 2 channels to the front and bridge the 3rd and 4th to power the sub. You should be able to get something sounding really good for $1000 if you go with that setup.

El Presidente · 01-05-2005, 12:07 PM

Id go with a good Alpine HU (300-500) and Infinity Components upfront (175-200ish). For maxium bass with minimal space, look into JL stealth boxes or Infinity basslinks. I think both are in the 200-300 rnage. I would not get an amp for the cabin speakers because you couldn't find one good enough cheaply. If not installing yourself add another 200 or so for install.