Speaker suggestions for 98 E39

[singram69]

I have finally hit the point where I can't stand my current speaker setup and have been searching the web and forums for quite awhile. I am hoping to get some valuable advice from you guys.

I initially started this project thinking I would get the Infinity Basslink box and that would be sufficient. That endeavor ended up with me installing a custom box, 12" Diamond Audio Sub and JL Amp. Bass is great, but now the rest of the system is even more annoying.

So I'm looking to upgrade the rest of the speakers.

I've been looking at three possible routes, but am open to other suggestions.

1) Bavarianautowerks is recommending their Stage I Audio upgrade which consists of Rainbow (never heard of them) or MB Quart component speakers and stock amp. This solution is in the 400+ range.
http://www.bavariansoundwerks.com/product.php?II=380

2) I've looked at speakers from a local installer and Tweeter and was impressed with the Focal 130KP speakers. Nice and clear. Of course the down side is expensive as heck. Their suggestion was to only do the fronts and leave out the rears. Installed with Audisson Amp. Aprox 1,300.

3) Upgrade front and rear with Focal's and Audisson Amps. Approx 2,400. (OUCH).

I've heard both the MB Quart speakers and the Focals. Unfortunately not side by side and every place I find to listen to the MB Quart's they have them hooked to an aftermarket Amp.

I also experiemented with the fader to remove the rear speakers and "hear" what a front only install might be like. I have to admit that the car is more full of sound with both front's and rear's running.

I am really tempted to pull the trigger on the Focals for the front only, but am really concerned that after dropping the cash that I'll still not be pleased until the rears are done as well.

So I'm looking for input from anyone that has done any of the above options, and/or might offer an alternate suggestion.

Note: I'm the type that likes my German Industrial loud and clear in my German car running hard and fast. Is there any other way to enjoy life?

Thanks in advance.

[da_bull]

I have a pair of Focal 11" subs in my E34. When I worked at the car audio shop, being a Focal dealer, I shoulda bought the 130V2's instead of my Infinity Kappas. I like them, but after I quit, I couldnt really trade in for the new model year anymore. So the Kappas are set. Focal makes 4 different lines. Check out the 130V1 or 130V2, they should have very different prices than the 130KP's.

The MB Quarts are very popular (we were a dealer for them also), but in my opinion, they are very tinny (very pronounced in the 6K and up range) and take a lot of GOOD EQing to make them sound good. The Focals are very natural sounding right out of the box.

I am sure the reason they have those running off an amp, is that most speakers sound better not running off the radio, especially with a sub. I havent dealt with the Audison amps, but I'm sure they are good. I run the Xtant for mids and a Phoenix Gold for the subs. Both make good mid amps, I prefer the Xtant just a little better for mids, just a little more real sounding.

Audio is definitely a personal selection, thats why I always recommend people REALLY listening to the equipment before purchasing, ESPECIALLY the products/price you are looking at. Bring your own music in, listen to about a minute of a song you are very familiar with, noting a specific cymbal noise, a particular guitar riff, or something that you know exactly whats its supposed to sound like. Listen to that same track/spot/etc. for every speaker you listen to, that way you will be able to pick out the differences/likes/dislikes, and make your decision there. Take your time, something will stand out.

Hope that helps...

[Kissner]

I custom fit Boston Acoustics Pro Series and I couldn't be happier. That's alot of money to drop for just front stage speakers. Unless u got that much just laying around there has to be a cheaper, better option for you. Another question to ask yourself is do you really need competition quality speakers? Do you really listen to your music that loud and care about hearing absolutely every note played to perfection? I'm sure it would sound amazing, but that much money seems ridiculous to me. Most people don't have that in their entire stereo. I'd say look around for something else, there are so many other options that Focal and MB Quart-maybe something that fits your style and budget a little better. Just my 2 cents