Hifi 10 Speaker System Worth it?

BMW86 · 09-01-2008, 10:33 PM

Hi I'm looking to order my 135i soon and was wondering whether it was worthwhile to upgrade the sound system.

Here in Australia we get 2 x subwoofers and 6 x speakers standard. The factory options to upgrade the sound sytem are either:

Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System $1113
Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System Professional $2065

I am trying to keep the costs down but I am considering the $1113 option which I think is standard on the US spec.

Anybody out there have any opinions on what I should do? I'm not after the best sound system out there but something which is adequate and clear. I'm also keen on bass as well.

Citizen Z · 09-01-2008, 10:39 PM

The 6 speaker 2 sub is also standard in the US spec and it rocks. I dumped US$1300 upgrading my Mazda 3 because it's stock setup was so bad but I don't feel any need to upgrade with the OEM 1er stuff. The stock setup really rocks but if you MUST have better audio, go for the upgraded system. However, you might as well plan on swapping the RFT's out at the same time because they detract as much from music as the upgraded stereo might add.

BMW86 · 09-01-2008, 10:49 PM

Haha I've heard nothing but bad news about those Run-flats but I can't see myself replacing them until I get a blow out.

As for the upgraded sound system I'm still a bit unsure. If I do decide that I want it upgraded I want it as a factory upgrade because I like the stock look. So far I've heard 50/50 about upgrading. Thanks for your input though.

lannypoffo · 09-01-2008, 10:58 PM

i have done extensive system upgrades in a couple of my cars ($3000-$5000) and minor ones in others for the last 15 years. The last new amp I bought was $1200, and I had multiple sets of $400+ front components I tried in my last car.

I am growing to like this stock BMW system. I am pretty sure I have the 6 speakers and 2 tiny subs under seat. I know I have tweeters in the mirror plates. At first I really thought it sucked, but as I tried CDs and various music I started liking it a lot more. It is a very well blended system as far as subs. You can hardly hear them, but thats how real sound balance is supposed to be. I was surprised how much sub there was when I played music like The Beastie Boys. It has a nice high stage speaker placement uneffected by legs and knees, and overall is good enough for me never to touch it. But that is also because I'm growing tired of building "systems" not to mention ruining perfectly good panels and fitments.

Bottom line, buy the best stereo you can afford in the car if you don't want to have to mess with it. The base system is good for me, and I'm pretty picky.

AussieRacer · 09-02-2008, 06:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by BMW86

Here in Australia we get 2 x subwoofers and 6 x speakers standard. The factory options to upgrade the sound sytem are either:

Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System $1113
Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System Professional $2065

Not quite correct. Basic/standard Aust system has 6 speakers in total. Out of those 6 speakers, two are subs. The other 4 are in the door panel and parcel shelf. Basic system has no tweeters, just 4 mids, with double cone I think.

US base/standard system is the hi-fi option in Aust.

Standard system is fine for radio.

I've got the Pro system in my current car. Sounds good, but I couldn't justify the extra $1k this time, when my sister got just the Hi-fi in her 1er and I think it sounds good enough for the volume levels I normally listen to. Sure I'll miss it, but only around 0.1% of my listening time.

morgie2 · 09-02-2008, 07:05 AM

I have a 330Ci convertible (MY2002) at the moment. I got the upgraded stereo (Harman Kardon) and I can tell you it was NOT worth it. This time I'm getting the standard system and if it is inadequate, I'll upgrade in the aftermarket world.

123D-M · 09-02-2008, 07:23 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AussieRacer

Not quite correct. Basic/standard Aust system has 6 speakers in total. Out of those 6 speakers, two are subs. The other 4 are in the door panel and parcel shelf. Basic system has no tweeters, just 4 mids, with double cone I think.

US base/standard system is the hi-fi option in Aust.

Standard system is fine for radio.

I've got the Pro system in my current car. Sounds good, but I couldn't justify the extra $1k this time, when my sister got just the Hi-fi in her 1er and I think it sounds good enough for the volume levels I normally listen to. Sure I'll miss it, but only around 0.1% of my listening time.

This is what we get standard as well. 4 mids plus the 2 subs. No tweeters in the mirror. You have to upgrade for them

I went with standard. 90% of the time I listen to the radio anyway. Although with my fancy new HDD idrive ipod navi system maybe I'll listen to my ipod more.... :smile:

AussieRacer · 09-02-2008, 07:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by morgie2

I have a 330Ci convertible (MY2002) at the moment. I got the upgraded stereo (Harman Kardon) and I can tell you it was NOT worth it. This time I'm getting the standard system and if it is inadequate, I'll upgrade in the aftermarket world.

Yes the HK upgrade on the E46 coupe wasn't worth it, but the 1er sound options are quite a bit different. Not really comparing apples with apples, E46 vs E8x sound options..

morgie2 · 09-02-2008, 08:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AussieRacer

Yes the HK upgrade on the E46 coupe wasn't worth it, but the 1er sound options are quite a bit different. Not really comparing apples with apples, E46 vs E8x sound options..

Thanks for the feedback. By your other post, though, the stock system was ok for you? I really was trying to get away without that upgrade, but if it's that much better, I'd do it.

pit1 · 09-02-2008, 08:38 AM

I have the stock system, and I'm completely satisfied with it. It has its weaknesses, but it's more than I expected. I've always gone for the upgrades in the past, and a year or two down the road I was pissed for wasting the money as the factory upgraded speakers showed their wear. Bose in A4 and HK in E46. I decided to save my money and give stock a shot, the money for the upgrade can be much better spent on custom work later. IMHO

moff · 09-02-2008, 09:18 AM

I have the Pro setup and think it's very good, but I never listen to the radio and only CD/Ipod.

I am however curious to listen to the HiFi option to make sure that my setup is worth it.

aarong_m3 · 09-02-2008, 11:24 AM

I have the std stereo with the 2 subs under the seat....i like it alot over the std radio when we had our 2002 M3 and 325i. I was going to install a qty 1-12in JL Audio, but is not needed any longer. Spend the money elsewhere like wheels, suspension or something. Good luck.

WhiteOne · 09-02-2008, 01:25 PM

I have a Lexus LS400 and it has an excellent stereo. The 10 speaker 300 watt system in my 135i didn't sound as good to me. It is "tighter", very "crisp". But not as natural as the Lexus. The BMW Hi Fi system is growing on me though. I have found myself listening to it more than I ever did the other.

aitsu · 09-02-2008, 03:25 PM

so the difference between the hifi system and the standard system is just 4 tweeters? or is there something else? I thought the hifi head unit was logic 7 as well.

pit1 · 09-02-2008, 03:32 PM

Grey135i Sent me this link a while back. Very helpful

http://www.babybmw.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=6354

pit1 · 09-02-2008, 03:34 PM

The last two listed, I believe, are the US spec options.

BMW86 · 09-05-2008, 05:39 PM

Thanks alot for you input everyone.

At the moment I'm swaying towards keeping the standard system. I have no plans to ever custom build or upgrade my stereo but from what I've heard the standard system is more than adequate for everyday listening. Only thing is that everyone saying that they are happy with their system has a US spec car and mine will be Aust spec meaning that my standard sound system will be no where near as good as yours.

I have opted for the Prof Nav unit which will cost me $4500 alone. I wanted to get an opinion as to whether it was worth upgrading the sound system (to the same as the U.S. spec) as I'll mainly be listening to MP3's. Also, it would be a waste of money to invest in a Pro Nav system which gives me full control over my audio setup without the adequate sound system to back it up. Furthermore, this is another reason why I had opted for the Pro Nav in the first place.

At this stage I'm leaning towards keeping the standard system (Aust spec) and saving the money but any more opinions would be great. I would love to hear from other Aussie's about their standard sound system. Also hearing feedback from anyone else will give me an opinion on what it is like to own the 'upgraded Hi-fi' option in Australia.

BMW86 · 09-05-2008, 06:00 PM

In short:

Anyone giving opinion from Australia is giving opinion on the "Standard Sound System" here in Australia.

Anyone outside of Australia giving their opinion on their "standard sound system" is giving an opinion on our "Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System" which is a $1113 upgrade for us.

Thanks everyone.

Alext · 09-05-2008, 06:10 PM

Dont forget you pay stamp duty and LCT on top of your options in Australia!

BMW86 · 09-05-2008, 10:18 PM

Yeah I heard the LCT rise was blocked?

1Ronnie · 09-05-2008, 11:17 PM

I would strongly recommend at least going to the 10 speaker system. While you are getting better speakers the other part is you get a dedicated Amp rather than an amp in the HU.

I had an '06 323i with the standard 6 speaker system, it was OK, but the day I got in a 1er with the 10 speaker system I was quite stunned at the significant improvement.

However, I do like my music in the car, so went for the Premium Audio options, which upgrades the external Amp from 150Watts to 300Watts, and gave me the Harmon Kardon speakers ... needless to say, I had a HUGE smile on my face today with my Windows down, Sunroof back, and Stereo pumping !!!

Noize · 09-05-2008, 11:28 PM

I kick myself everyday for not getting premium hifi in the US. Its only a $8xx option.

09-01-2008, 10:33 PM	#1
BMW86 Major General 398 Rep 9,156 Posts Drives: RS3 Sedan / Macan S Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	Hifi 10 Speaker System Worth it? Hi I'm looking to order my 135i soon and was wondering whether it was worthwhile to upgrade the sound system. Here in Australia we get 2 x subwoofers and 6 x speakers standard. The factory options to upgrade the sound sytem are either: Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System $1113 Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System Professional $2065 I am trying to keep the costs down but I am considering the $1113 option which I think is standard on the US spec. Anybody out there have any opinions on what I should do? I'm not after the best sound system out there but something which is adequate and clear. I'm also keen on bass as well.
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09-01-2008, 10:39 PM	#2
Citizen Z Alpine Master 111 Rep 1,310 Posts Drives: '08 135i AW Sport Join Date: May 2008 Location: Kansas iTrader: (1)	The 6 speaker 2 sub is also standard in the US spec and it rocks. I dumped US$1300 upgrading my Mazda 3 because it's stock setup was so bad but I don't feel any need to upgrade with the OEM 1er stuff. The stock setup really rocks but if you MUST have better audio, go for the upgraded system. However, you might as well plan on swapping the RFT's out at the same time because they detract as much from music as the upgraded stereo might add. __________________ Alpine White with Taupe Leather 135i, Sports Package, Heated Seats, Comfort Access, iPod Adapter Fastness: http://www.1addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=252727
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09-01-2008, 10:49 PM	#3
BMW86 Major General 398 Rep 9,156 Posts Drives: RS3 Sedan / Macan S Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	Haha I've heard nothing but bad news about those Run-flats but I can't see myself replacing them until I get a blow out. As for the upgraded sound system I'm still a bit unsure. If I do decide that I want it upgraded I want it as a factory upgrade because I like the stock look. So far I've heard 50/50 about upgrading. Thanks for your input though.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

09-01-2008, 10:58 PM	#4
lannypoffo Lieutenant 19 Rep 564 Posts Drives: 2013 Dodge Charger SRT8 Join Date: Aug 2008 Location: Cali iTrader: (1)	i have done extensive system upgrades in a couple of my cars ($3000-$5000) and minor ones in others for the last 15 years. The last new amp I bought was $1200, and I had multiple sets of $400+ front components I tried in my last car. I am growing to like this stock BMW system. I am pretty sure I have the 6 speakers and 2 tiny subs under seat. I know I have tweeters in the mirror plates. At first I really thought it sucked, but as I tried CDs and various music I started liking it a lot more. It is a very well blended system as far as subs. You can hardly hear them, but thats how real sound balance is supposed to be. I was surprised how much sub there was when I played music like The Beastie Boys. It has a nice high stage speaker placement uneffected by legs and knees, and overall is good enough for me never to touch it. But that is also because I'm growing tired of building "systems" not to mention ruining perfectly good panels and fitments. Bottom line, buy the best stereo you can afford in the car if you don't want to have to mess with it. The base system is good for me, and I'm pretty picky.
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09-02-2008, 07:05 AM	#6
morgie2 First Lieutenant 16 Rep 377 Posts Drives: 135i convertible Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Boston iTrader: (0)	I have a 330Ci convertible (MY2002) at the moment. I got the upgraded stereo (Harman Kardon) and I can tell you it was NOT worth it. This time I'm getting the standard system and if it is inadequate, I'll upgrade in the aftermarket world.
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09-02-2008, 08:38 AM	#10
pit1 Captain 239 Rep 790 Posts Drives: F87 M2 Join Date: May 2008 Location: It's always Sunny... iTrader: (1)	I have the stock system, and I'm completely satisfied with it. It has its weaknesses, but it's more than I expected. I've always gone for the upgrades in the past, and a year or two down the road I was pissed for wasting the money as the factory upgraded speakers showed their wear. Bose in A4 and HK in E46. I decided to save my money and give stock a shot, the money for the upgrade can be much better spent on custom work later. IMHO
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09-02-2008, 09:18 AM	#11
moff Colonel 1363 Rep 2,495 Posts Drives: X4M Competition Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: Nottingham GB iTrader: (0)	I have the Pro setup and think it's very good, but I never listen to the radio and only CD/Ipod. I am however curious to listen to the HiFi option to make sure that my setup is worth it. __________________ Arrived! 2022 X4M Competition, SPY + Black Merino Gone: 2019 X3M Competition, Toronto Red, Adelaide Grey.
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09-02-2008, 11:24 AM	#12
aarong_m3 First Lieutenant 20 Rep 338 Posts Drives: 2006 BMW M5 / 1974 BMW 2002 Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: Union City, CA - Norcal iTrader: (3)	I have the std stereo with the 2 subs under the seat....i like it alot over the std radio when we had our 2002 M3 and 325i. I was going to install a qty 1-12in JL Audio, but is not needed any longer. Spend the money elsewhere like wheels, suspension or something. Good luck. __________________ 2006 BMW M5 7spd SMG/SIlverstone : 2008 BMW 135i SGM/JB2/BMS(SOLD 1/2010) : 1974 BMW 2oo2(5spd w/ 3.91LSD) : 2002 BMW M3(AW/6spd) Sold 8/07 : 2002 BMW 325i(SGM) Sold 12/07 : 1993 BMW 325i Sold 8/04
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09-02-2008, 01:25 PM	#13
WhiteOne Major 28 Rep 1,000 Posts Drives: 2008 AW 135i Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Alabama iTrader: (0)	I have a Lexus LS400 and it has an excellent stereo. The 10 speaker 300 watt system in my 135i didn't sound as good to me. It is "tighter", very "crisp". But not as natural as the Lexus. The BMW Hi Fi system is growing on me though. I have found myself listening to it more than I ever did the other.
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09-02-2008, 03:25 PM	#14
aitsu Mmmmm.. torque.... 45 Rep 367 Posts Drives: Imola Red F80 M3 Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Dallas Area, TX iTrader: (0)	so the difference between the hifi system and the standard system is just 4 tweeters? or is there something else? I thought the hifi head unit was logic 7 as well.
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09-02-2008, 03:32 PM	#15
pit1 Captain 239 Rep 790 Posts Drives: F87 M2 Join Date: May 2008 Location: It's always Sunny... iTrader: (1)	Grey135i Sent me this link a while back. Very helpful http://www.babybmw.net/forum/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=6354
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09-02-2008, 03:34 PM	#16
pit1 Captain 239 Rep 790 Posts Drives: F87 M2 Join Date: May 2008 Location: It's always Sunny... iTrader: (1)	The last two listed, I believe, are the US spec options.
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09-05-2008, 05:39 PM	#17
BMW86 Major General 398 Rep 9,156 Posts Drives: RS3 Sedan / Macan S Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	Thanks alot for you input everyone. At the moment I'm swaying towards keeping the standard system. I have no plans to ever custom build or upgrade my stereo but from what I've heard the standard system is more than adequate for everyday listening. Only thing is that everyone saying that they are happy with their system has a US spec car and mine will be Aust spec meaning that my standard sound system will be no where near as good as yours. I have opted for the Prof Nav unit which will cost me $4500 alone. I wanted to get an opinion as to whether it was worth upgrading the sound system (to the same as the U.S. spec) as I'll mainly be listening to MP3's. Also, it would be a waste of money to invest in a Pro Nav system which gives me full control over my audio setup without the adequate sound system to back it up. Furthermore, this is another reason why I had opted for the Pro Nav in the first place. At this stage I'm leaning towards keeping the standard system (Aust spec) and saving the money but any more opinions would be great. I would love to hear from other Aussie's about their standard sound system. Also hearing feedback from anyone else will give me an opinion on what it is like to own the 'upgraded Hi-fi' option in Australia.
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09-05-2008, 06:00 PM	#18
BMW86 Major General 398 Rep 9,156 Posts Drives: RS3 Sedan / Macan S Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	In short: Anyone giving opinion from Australia is giving opinion on the "Standard Sound System" here in Australia. Anyone outside of Australia giving their opinion on their "standard sound system" is giving an opinion on our "Hi-Fi 10 Speaker System" which is a $1113 upgrade for us. Thanks everyone.
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09-05-2008, 06:10 PM	#19
Alext Banned 138 Rep 2,042 Posts Drives: B M W Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Everest iTrader: (2)	Dont forget you pay stamp duty and LCT on top of your options in Australia!
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09-05-2008, 10:18 PM	#20
BMW86 Major General 398 Rep 9,156 Posts Drives: RS3 Sedan / Macan S Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Australia iTrader: (0)	Yeah I heard the LCT rise was blocked?
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09-05-2008, 11:17 PM	#21
1Ronnie Ronnie 15 Rep 556 Posts Drives: '08 Sedona 128i Join Date: May 2008 Location: Vancouver, BC iTrader: (0)	I would strongly recommend at least going to the 10 speaker system. While you are getting better speakers the other part is you get a dedicated Amp rather than an amp in the HU. I had an '06 323i with the standard 6 speaker system, it was OK, but the day I got in a 1er with the 10 speaker system I was quite stunned at the significant improvement. However, I do like my music in the car, so went for the Premium Audio options, which upgrades the external Amp from 150Watts to 300Watts, and gave me the Harmon Kardon speakers ... needless to say, I had a HUGE smile on my face today with my Windows down, Sunroof back, and Stereo pumping !!! __________________ "Lucy" 128i / Sedona Red / Coral Red / Premium Package / Premium Sound
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09-05-2008, 11:28 PM	#22
Noize Under the radar 41 Rep 840 Posts Drives: FWD in reverse Join Date: Jan 2007 Location: In traffic at idle iTrader: (1)	I kick myself everyday for not getting premium hifi in the US. Its only a $8xx option.
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