Ok, so I've noticed this since I bought the car; in order to really hear the radio or streaming music, I have to turn the volume to about 3/4 the way up before it really starts to be in a decent sound level. Anyone else notice this? I do not have the Harmon Kardon option, just base speakers and 6.5" screen.

Is there an option to make the sound louder when the volume is below the midway point, or do I just need to upgrade the speakers?

It just seems as if the level of sound in comparison to volume control level is off.

 

What source are you using for music? If it's your phone, make sure the volume on the phone is turned up all the way. Mine will blast you out of your seat if I crank it all the way but I have the HK system. I also used the bimmercode app and changed it so when I start the car the volume is at 50% rather than 25 0r 30 like it normally is.

 

I always make sure to check this first. The volume on my phone is all the way up (Samsung Galaxy S8). I downloaded the Bimmercode to my phone, but have no idea how to use it. Opened it up and there is nothing there. How does it connect to the car? I thought via Bluetooth, but dont think thats it.

 

You need an OBD2 adaptor for the app to work. You also have to purchase the app (~$25) to make changes. There is a section in FAQ about the app. I could tell you which adaptor I bought, but mine is for the iOS and I'm pretty sure you need a different one. I'm sure someone with a Samsung will chime in with the info. Sorry I can't be more help.

 

In my experience, MINI and BMW have put in under performing stereos in most of the cars. This dates back to my first BMW 1983.

Using Bimmercode to crank the volume up from start really doesn't solve any problems that your hand turning the know won't do.

In my F56 I have HK, awful. I replaced the speakers (BavSound) and put in a JL Audio 600 amp. Sounds great.

Our F55 with HK is a bit better than mine, but still if I drove that car every day I'd be pulling the Amp first thing.

The R60 HK is actually a bit better in 2011, but I'd still change out the amp and then consider speaker upgrades from that point.

Pumping more volume from an crappy amp will just get you loud distortion. Some people don't notice or care about this, some of us do.

MORE power Scotty!

 

Thank for that info. I just saw the thread on it and will read through it.





I figured this was the actual issue, but wasnt sure. I will look into some new speakers and an amp. Appreciate the info from you both.

 

I have the base audio system and while it's nothing to write home about, I don't find it as awful as many seem to. With regard to needing to turn it up, yes, that does seem top be the case, but it also seems to be fairly linear versus many other systems with which 50% is actually more like 90% output. Finally, for a given speaker to increase output 3 dB requires a doubling of amplifier power. To have a perceived doubling of volume takes a tenfold increase in power.

tl;dr - if you aren't satisfied with the audio quality, that is a good reason to change it, but if you just feel like the volume indicator is higher than it "should" be, don't worry about it. You'll get used to it.

 

Crap in crap out. My HK (FM radio) today, at 70%, drowned out my JCW tuned S (flap open) on down shifting and accelerating from a stop light. Had to look at tach to shift. Perhaps a hearing test or new phone is in order? I noticed that some songs on USB input are much lower on HK than others. Maybe its your recording download level.

 

I'm not sure about your F56, but my R56 I can adjust the overall loudness along with balance, fade, etc...I think my base audio system has a little music note to click. Sorry if not applicable to the F56. It really helps though!