Hi all,

I've just recently placed my order for a 2009 JCW Hardtop. I owned a 2002 MCS and I'm currently driving a 2002 Mini ONE in the UK (but I'll be returning to the US this summer). My father has worked in the car stereo business for about 15 years, so I have access to stereo components for good prices and I've had a number of GREAT systems in cars over the years.

My question is: should I go for the HIFI in my 09 MINI (my current order doesn't include it) with plans to upgrade the front speakers and leave it at that, or is that not going to be a high quality enough system for me?

I don't want to waste $500 on the HIFI upgrade if I'm going to end up replacing the head unit and adding a real subwoofer. But I'd also rather avoid any supposed warranty issues, and I get the sense that dealers are growing more annoying about aftermarket stereos. Or is that a false impression?

Any advice on the quality of the HIFI plus front components, options for a full aftermarket setup, or issues/concerns about warranty - all MUCH appreciated!

 

is it even possible to replace the head unit?

 

Yes, sorry, I was writing hastily and not really thinking that through. But, in any case, there's still the question of whether to replace ONLY the front speakers and keep the amp from the HIFI system, or whether to put in a real subwoofer, bigger amp, replace all speakers, etc.

 

You could always install a DIN head unit in the "secret compartment" above the glovebox.

 

Check out this link. Japan only tho.... Hopefully we will see something like it over here for us.

http://www.naviokun.com/text/techniq...56mini_01.html

 

Great link!

Here's the (loose) translation from Google:

http://translate.google.com/translat...hl=en&ie=UTF-8