I have choosen to replace the Harmon Karmon system with a aftermarket system. Due to the amp issues and finding one that is going to last. I found a kit the has the amp and head unit connectors for a aftermarket unit. I am not interested in blasting myself out of the car. So a simple and inexpensive system will do.
I have heard that it is a problem using the factory speakers. Some posts say 2 ohm and some say 4 ohm speakers are the factory. Which is it and I don't know if a standard amp will work.
I have the experience in installing AM/FM/CD decks in alot of cars, but have never installed a amp. Which is required I take it since the wiring in my 2003 Mini has an amp.
I figure by the time I get a Harman Karmon amp and spend over $350.00. I can put a simple and nice looking system in for under $250.00
Any help from you Mini Heads would be helpful. Remember I am not a techy person.

 

I am in the same boat, just haven't got around to posting anything yet (and yes I have done some searching on here).....

I have an 05 MCS JCW with HK and I really want to upgrade the stock head unit simply because I want Sirius Satellite radio which I have in our other cars and Bluetooth which is necessary due to the ridiculous laws that are coming out... I do not want to dump a ton into this project I just want the aforementioned items and it to all look CLEAN.... and although I decently mechanically inclined and capable, I am not "techie" either...

Like you, I am not interested in having a system that blows eardrums, rather I just want the noted upgrades and to retain the sound of the HK system. I was planning on simply going on crutchfield.com and ordering all the necessary item; Head unit with built in Bluetooth, Sirius Unit, and module to pair steering wheel controls.. All of which I am reasonably comfortable installing on a Saturday afternoon... I caught a glimpse of of a "note" on Crutchfield that stated: You may need to run new speaker wires which sent me searching through here for info... .It seems that in order to use the factory HK amp and wiring you need an item called an "HK Enabler" which it appears is very difficult to find...

So kinda frustrated I have shelved this project for a while... I am really not in the mood to run new speaker wires, then add to that the "do I need an amp or do I not need an amp" question is really putting me to the point of wanting to leave it alone... Of course I can easily take it to a reputable stereo shop which I do have access to, but I don't want this to get out of control $$ wise.. I would with out a doubt rather spend the $$ on performance mods if that is the case...

Again, thanks for asking the question... I hope responses help us out in some way...

Thanks in advance for everyones help!

 

I'm not an audiophile, but the issue is twofold:
1) HK system uses 2 ohm (non-standard) speakers
2) HK wiring goes from the HU to the amp, *then* to the speakers

In short, you don't need to get an amp, but you would need to get new speakers, and run the wiring to them, due to the unconventional wiring structure.

 

There MUST be a plug-in play option available. In one post from carlmuck, he stated that he installed a amp and deck with the factory speakers.
I am not interested in replacing the factory speakers.
I know my Deck is good, but my amp is not.
2 Ohm's speakers seem to be the problem using an aftermarket deck and amp. I have found a wiring kit with the deck and amp connectors.
It can't be that hard.
I guess I want a simple and quick fix.
Thanks and this is a great site for MINI-HEADS.

 

You might be interested in my solution I just completed.
I replaced MINI's HK amp with BMW E46 HK amp with small mod that involves 4 points solder with some connector pin rearrangement without any cutting wires.
It will cost you about $100 depending on the eBay seller.
This solution is seamless, no cutting or loose wires without any mechanical mounting issue as both of HK amp uses exactly same housing and connector.
I'm writing it on this forum but the site is extremely slow and I lost my posting! :(

 

I finally found a 2004 AMP on e-bay. Paid to much for it. Got it and installed the replacement amp and it works great. Great to hear a good stereo system in a small car.
Now I do have a good AM/FM/CD Factory radio. I tested it with the new amp and it works GREAT! I purchased it before I found the amp was bad. If anyone needs a good one I will sell it for what I paid for it. $62.00
If someone wants my old 2004 Harmon Karman AMP (IT DOES NOT WORK!), you can have it for free, just pay for the shipping. (After ALL I paid $250 US) for a working one. Someone can repair this unit.
Thanks for the reply!
Joe

 

I too, have the Harman Kardon system in my '06 R53, and wish to upgrade the head unit to a more modern HU with Bluetooth, USB, aux port - some better type of interface for my iPod. I don't want added modules (wired or remote) and I don't want to add Siruis, etc. I also want to use the MFSW function buttons to control the new HU. I already have an iPod connector (didn't install myself) and it's probably using the rear aux ISO plug hole, but I have to pull the HU to know for sure.

So far, the only thing I've found to accomplish this is: http://www.newministuff.com/new/shop...uctshow&id=116 (British). Apparently, "Mike" is pretty well appreciated in the Mini world and for making aftermarket stuff work with the Mini. Read through what they have and see for yourself. This adapter claims to utilize the H/K system (amp, speakers) with an aftermarket head unit. Plus, they can add the steering wheel functions to the adapter harness for a little more $. (Disclaimer: I have no affiliation with New Mini Stuff, nor have I ever contacted them - yet.) It all sounds pretty PnP. When you add up all the cost of adapters to make a new HU work, this seems to be a pretty inexpensive way to go. I'll be contacting them soon.