Is it just me or is the stock speaker system/headunit very lousy on the standard 08 Base Cooper? I think my little boombox that I have at home with "bass boost" has more thump

It's clear, but just doesn't sound too great..

Also, does anyone know what the "S-Vol" adjustment is on for the radio?

 

I have the base radio also in my MCSa and the base speakers are a bit on the weak side for quality sound but I did turn up the bass and treble to max for a deeper and higher sound which does sound better now.You can also switch out the factory speakers for better quality ones though as several here on NAM have already done.

As far as the S-Vol (which is adjustable) that is the speed volume control meaning the radio volume increases as the interior noise gets louder while driving and then goes back to the normal setting as you slow down or come to a stop.

 

I have the base system with NAV and found that what it is really lacking, that could have done wonders for the factory speakers, is an equalizer. My fix for a decent sound is selecting one of the equalizer settings on the iPod. The iPod will still apply this to the song when played over the stereo. So if you have the ipod adapter try that. I think I have it on R&B or Rock.

 

You can improve things a great deal by replacing the front 6.5 inch speakers and the rear 6x9 speakers -- I replaced mine with Polk DB651 and DB691 purchased on eBay; around $150 for all four.

Replacing the speakers will get you much better sound, and some bass definition, but if you want thumpa-thumpa bass, you're looking at subwoofers, an amplifier, and $600 or so (not counting installation).

Threads on this forum document what you need to do to swap out the speakers.

 

The larger the S number the more increase in volume.

Replace the speakers they are the largest problem in the sound quality.

I am very surprised that Mini went with such horrible stock speakers in this era.

 

Just finished replacing all of my speakers (HiFi though) and the difference is amazing. No more thwock thwock, just smooth clear bass lines.