Hi there,
I'm looking to tune my Harmon Kardon upgrade's audio specs. The only option the Mini Connected menu gives me is Treble, Base, and Fader. Is there a way to access more advanced settings?

 

Sorry, there are no additional settings.

 

Shoot, that sucks. The HK system sounds pretty good, but its missing a little oomph that I had in my previous Kia Rio5. A few little tweaks and I could get it just right. Major car upgrade, but downgrade on the stereo and the Kia's stereo was their premium upgradeable Clarion stereo. (Can you believe that, Clarion > Harmon Kardon?)

 

YES i can believe that IMHO H/K has been very behind the times when working with MINI.

The HiFi amp in the 2nd Gen MINI's is made by another division of H/K and sucks totally.

H/K is not what it used to be at all.

 

I've read some pretty good things about Integral Audio's subwoofer system. I'm waiting on a reponse regarding shipment to Canada. Depending on what that is, and if I'll incur a ton of duty or not, I think I'll fork out the money.

 

FWIW. I actually was pleasantly surprised by the H/K system. I'm usually someone who ditches my factory setup and goes straight to the aftermarket.

I found that the H/K sounds best when dialing the treble up (almost max) and dialing the base to -2 to -4. The system sounds pretty balanced like this but only really sounds great when you crank the volume quite a bit. Once you crank the volume the system really does come to life.

All that said, I still ended up adding a 10" sub. Now I feel like I have a lot more flexibility in the system. The H/K speakers will really handle quite a bit of volume with little distortion. IMO. I'm no audiophile but I do consider myself to have a critical ear.

In the end it's all about the pros/cons/alternatives. For me the H/K + a sub made most sense.

I agree with everyone else, though. Some extra EQ options would really make a big difference.

 

Good to know. I'll try those settings. I purchased a Integral Audio subwoofer/amp system so that should add the sounds I'm really looking for. Thanks

 

I agree with Biggripper, the system sounds best with the treble up (i use +2 or +3 depending on source), and with the base turned down (i use -2). I just installed the Integral Audio sub and it makes a world of difference. Even at low volumes the system sounds great. The system is very adjustable with different crossover points and gain controls so you can get the sound just right. Its been said before, but this subwoofer really makes the HK system shine. It feels like the entire system has been upgraded.
The price for the kit may seem high to some but this is more than just a subwoofer in a box. It is a highly integrated system built just for the Mini with all the parts and quality components. It has a really hefty 8 inch speaker, that is more than enough to balance the sound-or if you really crank the bass, you might be able to lift the hatch with it It also makes the boot look stock afterwards- the floor is just a little higher.

 

Great little review there. Thanks. I can't wait to get it put in my system. I have a guy that has installed a few of these in MINI's before apparently so I should expect a perfect job. :D