I'm starting a new project on my MINI, tackling the sound system.

First, my original set-up:
1)2006 R53 with the Harman/Kardon system.
2) JL stealthbox with a Rockford Fosgate 10" R2D4 Dual voice coil sub
3) Rockford Fosgate PBR300X1 amp

Motivation:

I've got a nice Klipsch 2.1 system for my home computer which has me wanting more clarity from the boomy H/K system. My Rockford Fosgate amp had an issue and was still under warranty. While it was away for warranty I decided to scrap my entire system and start over fresh. I ended up receiving a newly refurbished PBR300X1 amp in return from the warranty dept.

So the goal:
Professional grade sound system focused on Sound Clarity with less road noise, along with tight, accurate bass without spending more than $250.

Purchases thus far:
1) Arc Audio mini 125.4 4 channel amp $413.61
2) Hybrid Audio Technology Imagine I61-2V2 $268.30
3) 2- JL Audio 6W3v3 8ohm 6.5" Subwoofers $319.98 (total for 2)

Total $1001.89


So I know what you're thinking. Way to stick with the budget right? Well here's how it boils down:

I sold my H/K amplifier along with the 6 factory speakers while everything still worked great. = $425

I am also going to sell my Stealthbox, along with my PBR300x1 amp and R2D4 sub. This combo should attract roughly another $400 or so.

New total $1001.89
- $425
- ~$400
= $176.89


So, what's left?
I've made 1" spacers/brackets to mount the front components to the
front door locations.
1) I need to install the front components.
2) I need to form fiberglass 0.15cu ft. enclosures from rear 6X9 locations
3) I need to sell my stealthbox set-up
4) I need to install my free 9sq ft of GT Sound deadener and then buy more.
5) Install new amp in factory h/k amp location
6) Install subs into their fiberglass enclosures in rear 6X9 locations

I'll use almost all original wiring except tweeter wiring and I will need to run new wires for the rear subs and from the headunit to the amp for the rear Left and Right speaker signals which will serve as my speaker level inputs for the sub.

I'll keep everyone posted on how it sounds/turns out, along with picture and install updates along the way.

 

I'm thinking about getting the Hybrid 5.25" components for my r56. I'd combine it with an Arc 10" sub and the Arc xdi 80.3 amp. So, I'm quite curious what you think about your gear now that it's all installed.

 

This is similar to what my setup will be.

Right now, I am running that same Imagine set with an aftermarket Alpine HU, and it sounds pretty amazing with that little power. I do have vibration dampening material in the doors and all wheel wells.

I would recommend putting the vibration dampening material on the doors. That will be the most efficient application. You should add noise barrier materials to the list too.

Good luck.

 

Ive got the speakers in but my amp bracket didnt fit plus Im still building the rear sub enclosures, so I cant tell you how the final result sounds yet.. will post an update when Im finished with plenty of pics.