Navigation & Audio HK stereo??
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 4,831
Likes: 1
From: Phoenix, AZ
Originally Posted by boognish
It was 94 F today, probably 110 F inside the car where the amp sits in the rear fender well. Does the HK amp clip when it gets too hot out?
Banned
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 7,756
Likes: 0
To each their own. I personally enjoy my H/K stereo and still think after 9.5K miles and nearly 10 months of ownership, that the $550 for the stereo upgrade was money well spent. I don't like cutting/splicing cables, removing door trim panels and adding weight (thus losing valuable cargo space) on a new car when installing an aftermarket system. If an aftermarket stereo floats your boat, then GOOD FOR YOU!
The HK systems gives you crisp sound quality that is well tuned to the MINI interior acoustics, without adding weight, taking away space in the boot and still fully backed by the factory warranty. haven't had any problems with the HK to date.
If I ever want to spend money in audio equipment, I get much better results with home stereo systems. Cars are not the optimal environments for optimal sound distribution, so to me personally aftermarket car stereos are a blatant waste of money.
Show me an aftermarket car stereo system that costs $550 or less (including installation) that sounds as good or better than the Harmon Kardon option.
I am waiting.
The HK systems gives you crisp sound quality that is well tuned to the MINI interior acoustics, without adding weight, taking away space in the boot and still fully backed by the factory warranty. haven't had any problems with the HK to date.
If I ever want to spend money in audio equipment, I get much better results with home stereo systems. Cars are not the optimal environments for optimal sound distribution, so to me personally aftermarket car stereos are a blatant waste of money.
Show me an aftermarket car stereo system that costs $550 or less (including installation) that sounds as good or better than the Harmon Kardon option.
I am waiting.
Neutral
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
if you like your car so much come and follow this link and look at some propper cars www.fabmoc.co.uk
4th Gear
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 599
Likes: 0
New Head Unit?
I am under the impression that there will be a new head unit in the 2005's that will play MP3 as well as regular audio disks. Since this requires quite a change in the laser and electronics in order to play CD-RW disks, I assume it will be a totally new unit, so a lot of these criticisms may be moot. I am sure that if they bothered to create a new unit, they have dealt with the poor connection and any other chronic problems as well. The HK "system" has been described to me as only a change in the speakers and the addition of a stand-alone amplifier, using the same head unit as the regular system.
6th Gear
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 3,433
Likes: 1
From: Gloucester, MA, USA
Originally Posted by JoeDentist
... they have dealt with the poor connection and any other chronic problems as well
I have read of two people with issues?
Originally Posted by JoeDentist
only a change in the speakers and the addition of a stand-alone amplifier, using the same head unit as the regular system.
Significantly increased power to more and better quality speakers, and effective tuning of the sound profile to the car.
I have certainly heard better sounding MINIs. But not for "only" $550 and not without sacrificing trunk space, etc.
4th Gear
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 382
Likes: 0
From: Central Jersey Shore
HK Stereo fixed
A month ago, my HK stereo just went dead...no sound from speakers, but the radio display worked fine and all buttons worked. Even the amp functions (Spatial, Electronic, Mini HK, etc) "worked" but there was no sound. Then it went on for a few minutes out of the blue...then no sound.
Took it to dealer this morning. They said they replaced the amplifier with a new one, but didn't say what was wrong with it...It was communicating fine with the head unit, but I guess it wasn't communicating with the speakers. so now i have sound again. yippee.
While they had the car apart, I asked them to install the iPod connector... which they did. Then I come home and read on the Internet about the new MFSW iPod connector available soon from Apple. Aaaarrghhhh! I can't win. Heheheh whatever...
Anyway, radio works for now...hopefully won't go "dead" again...ever!
Took it to dealer this morning. They said they replaced the amplifier with a new one, but didn't say what was wrong with it...It was communicating fine with the head unit, but I guess it wasn't communicating with the speakers. so now i have sound again. yippee.
While they had the car apart, I asked them to install the iPod connector... which they did. Then I come home and read on the Internet about the new MFSW iPod connector available soon from Apple. Aaaarrghhhh! I can't win. Heheheh whatever...
Anyway, radio works for now...hopefully won't go "dead" again...ever!
4th Gear
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 599
Likes: 0
looks?
I am in the process of finalizing my order for a 2005 MCS, and have a "stupid audio question."
Does the HK stereo option look any different in the car than the stock system? I have been told that the head unit is the same. Is the added amplifier visible or hidden? Are the speaker grilles different, or are the speakers just better. In short, can you just look at the interior and tell that it has the HK upgrade?
Does the HK stereo option look any different in the car than the stock system? I have been told that the head unit is the same. Is the added amplifier visible or hidden? Are the speaker grilles different, or are the speakers just better. In short, can you just look at the interior and tell that it has the HK upgrade?
5th Gear
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 853
Likes: 0
From: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Originally Posted by Cooper4us
Show me an aftermarket car stereo system that costs $550 or less (including installation) that sounds as good or better than the Harmon Kardon option.
I am waiting.
I am waiting.
Either do it at a shop:
$199 Clarion Head Unit: DXZ54MP
$50 Dash kit & Wire harness
$0 Install Most placed do free install
$159 Kenwood KFC-P605ie Door component speakers
$50
Sirius Tuner box and antenna$50 Install Speakers
$70 Install Sirius
-------
$578 Total ($458 without Sirius)
-OR-
Buy it from Crutchfield and you get to do it yourself. They give you all the parts to do the install…Dash kits…wire harness!
$199 Clarion Head Unit: DXZ54MP
$159 Kenwood KFC-P605ie Door component speakers
$50
Sirius Tuner box and antenna -------
$408 Total including Sirius
This includes Sirius Satellite Radio which is a $600 option from Mini. SQ will beat the HK head unit hands down. The Clarion has a button/display color to match the dash perfectly. Note that if you go to a retail store to have it done its almost the same $$ as the HK. If you do Crutchfield and install it yr self then you got $$ left over for rear speakers as well. Or even better an amp for those fronts. Disconnect those rears anyway. You wont need them with this set up. Most audio guys don’t use rears anyway.
Last edited by ninjamini; Jun 24, 2004 at 04:10 PM.
Banned
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 7,756
Likes: 0
The HK stereo head unit looks exactly the same to the "stock" CD Boost stereo. The speaker grille enclosures on the doors and rear quarter panel are different. They are of metallic finish and the covers for the main speakers in the front doors say "Harmon Kardon" on them. The DSP signal processor is hidden under a plastic trim door inside the boot on the right side.
Banned
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 7,756
Likes: 0
Originally Posted by ninjamini
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Easy to do![/size][/font]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$199 Clarion Head Unit: DXZ54MP [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$50 Dash kit & Wire harness[/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$0 Install Most placed do free install [/size][/font]
[size=4][font=Arial]$159 Kenwood KFC-P605ie Door component speakers[/font][/size]
[size=4][font=Arial]$50Sirius Tuner box and antenna[/font][/size]
[size=4][font=Arial]$50 Install Speakers[/font][/size]
[size=4][font=Arial]$70 Install Sirius[/font][/size]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]-------[/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$578 Total ($458 without Sirius)[/size][/font]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Buy it from Crutchfield and you get to do it your self. They give you all the parts to do the install…Dash kits…wire harness![/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$199 Clarion Head Unit: DXZ54MP[/size][/font]
[size=4][font=Arial]$159 Kenwood KFC-P605ie Door component speakers[/font][/size]
[size=4][font=Arial]$50 Sirius Tuner box and antenna[/font][/size]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]-------[/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$408 Total including Sirius[/size][/font]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[font='Times New Roman']This includes Sirius Satellite Radio which is a $600 option from Mini. SQ will beat the HK head unit hands down. The Clarion has a button/display color to match the dash perfectly. Note that if you go to a retail store to have it done its almost the same $$ as the HK. If you do Crutchfield and install it yr self then you got $$ left over for rear speakers as well. Or even better an amp for those fronts. Disconnect those rears anyway. You wont need them with this set up. Most audio guys don’t use rears anyway.[/font]
[font='Times New Roman'][/font]
[font='Times New Roman'][/font]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$199 Clarion Head Unit: DXZ54MP [/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$50 Dash kit & Wire harness[/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$0 Install Most placed do free install [/size][/font]
[size=4][font=Arial]$159 Kenwood KFC-P605ie Door component speakers[/font][/size]
[size=4][font=Arial]$50
Sirius Tuner box and antenna[/font][/size][size=4][font=Arial]$50 Install Speakers[/font][/size]
[size=4][font=Arial]$70 Install Sirius[/font][/size]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]-------[/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$578 Total ($458 without Sirius)[/size][/font]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]Buy it from Crutchfield and you get to do it your self. They give you all the parts to do the install…Dash kits…wire harness![/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$199 Clarion Head Unit: DXZ54MP[/size][/font]
[size=4][font=Arial]$159 Kenwood KFC-P605ie Door component speakers[/font][/size]
[size=4][font=Arial]$50
Sirius Tuner box and antenna[/font][/size][font=Times New Roman][size=3]-------[/size][/font]
[font=Times New Roman][size=3]$408 Total including Sirius[/size][/font]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[size=3][font=Times New Roman] [/font][/size]
[font='Times New Roman']This includes Sirius Satellite Radio which is a $600 option from Mini. SQ will beat the HK head unit hands down. The Clarion has a button/display color to match the dash perfectly. Note that if you go to a retail store to have it done its almost the same $$ as the HK. If you do Crutchfield and install it yr self then you got $$ left over for rear speakers as well. Or even better an amp for those fronts. Disconnect those rears anyway. You wont need them with this set up. Most audio guys don’t use rears anyway.[/font]
[font='Times New Roman'][/font]
[font='Times New Roman'][/font]
Still if I were to have someone install all of that equipment it will surely cost much more than $500.
MINI is about choices.....you are clearly happy with an aftermarket setup, I am plenty satisfied with my factory HK with money left over to spend on REAL audio equipment for the house.
5th Gear
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 853
Likes: 0
From: Fort Lauderdale, FL
Originally Posted by Cooper4us
Still if I were to have someone install all of that equipment it will surely cost much more than $500.
MINI is about choices.....you are clearly happy with an aftermarket setup, I am plenty satisfied with my factory HK with money left over to spend on REAL audio equipment for the house.
MINI is about choices.....you are clearly happy with an aftermarket setup, I am plenty satisfied with my factory HK with money left over to spend on REAL audio equipment for the house.
OVERDRIVE - Racing Champion
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 15,262
Likes: 72
From: Mililani, Hawaii
Originally Posted by JoeDentist
I am in the process of finalizing my order for a 2005 MCS, and have a "stupid audio question."
Does the HK stereo option look any different in the car than the stock system? I have been told that the head unit is the same. Is the added amplifier visible or hidden? Are the speaker grilles different, or are the speakers just better. In short, can you just look at the interior and tell that it has the HK upgrade?
Does the HK stereo option look any different in the car than the stock system? I have been told that the head unit is the same. Is the added amplifier visible or hidden? Are the speaker grilles different, or are the speakers just better. In short, can you just look at the interior and tell that it has the HK upgrade?
The in dash radio and CD player looks the same but the controls are a little different.
The door speaker grilles for the tweeter and mid range are more fancy and the rear speaker cover is fancy. The HK speaker grilles are always bright silver while the stock speaker covers vary in color with silver and anthracite being common.
The amp is in the rear wheel fender area behind an access door and the CD changer if ordered is in the rear right boot.
Neutral
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: La Crescenta, CA
hi everyone,
This is my 1st post.
Coming from a manufacture side, I'd like to point one thing out that we are over looking.
For Car Manufactures, it takes approx. 3 years to develop electrical system.
So, by the time a new car rolls out, you can almost bet the HU design's about 3 years old.
That is one of the reason why they are now starting to bring MP3 for 2005.
On the other hand, Aftermarket HU are Current and upto date with Design/Technology.
Plus, you can always remove your HU when selling the car. Meaning, you've lost almost nothing on your investment. A rarety in car.
This is my 1st post.
Coming from a manufacture side, I'd like to point one thing out that we are over looking.
For Car Manufactures, it takes approx. 3 years to develop electrical system.
So, by the time a new car rolls out, you can almost bet the HU design's about 3 years old.
That is one of the reason why they are now starting to bring MP3 for 2005.
On the other hand, Aftermarket HU are Current and upto date with Design/Technology.
Plus, you can always remove your HU when selling the car. Meaning, you've lost almost nothing on your investment. A rarety in car.
4th Gear
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 599
Likes: 0
Don't forget insurance....
If we are going to compute "total cost" on stereos, don't forget insurance. Most companies do not cover aftermarket stereo equipment for theft or damage without a rider, which can cost a lot. Installing stereo equipment in a location other than stock invalidates your insurance too. So if you, lets say, moved the DSP unit from its location to another, in order to make room for something else, it is no longer covered by your basic auto insurance policy, even if it is part of the original car.
Having had stereo equipment stolen from my car before, Ive decided to stick with th HK system for now - I like the idea of the 4 year warranty and free insurance.
Having had stereo equipment stolen from my car before, Ive decided to stick with th HK system for now - I like the idea of the 4 year warranty and free insurance.
Neutral
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
From: La Crescenta, CA
you have a valid point in regards to insurance.
However, all insurance do have a "Cap" for audio theft. As long as you have taken pictures, serial# and receipt, the insurance will cover equal amout to the factory replacement.
As matter a fact, it's actually cheaper to replace aftermarket HU than Factory.
The warrant is IMO a "sales tactic". I don't see my TV breaking after (1) year warranty.
In 1996, Best Buy introduced "Performance add on Warranty". That year alone, after paying all the lagistical charges, their "net profit" was $1.6Million
For the most part, if your product makes it through the forst 30 days, it's going to work.
Really, how often do people complain about their product breaking after the warranty?
$550.00? Too much IMO for a 3+ year old design/technology.
FYI, Car manufactures will purposely design systems so that it will be hard to "swap" or "incorporate" aftermarket. Why? because there products will fall below the performance level of aftermarket and the fact that they wish to add a bigger profit margin.
On Audio, NAV, Security, there's approx. 300% mark-up. They get away with it because they purposely "removed" the competition.
On the other hand, aftermarket, there's only 50~75% mark-up. Due to stiff competition.
I've been involved in many OEM projects in the past.
Peterbuilt Truck Company
Freightliner Truck Company
Harley Davidson Company
Motor Coach International (MCI)
Disney Corp.
My ex-manager worked for Infinity and Alpine and I was able to gather most of its info as well.
So, if one'shappy to spend $$$ for the fact that it's OEM HU? more power to them
Reality is that they are paying 3x more than what the units actually worth if it had to compete in the Aftermarket Arena
.
However, all insurance do have a "Cap" for audio theft. As long as you have taken pictures, serial# and receipt, the insurance will cover equal amout to the factory replacement.
As matter a fact, it's actually cheaper to replace aftermarket HU than Factory.
The warrant is IMO a "sales tactic". I don't see my TV breaking after (1) year warranty.
In 1996, Best Buy introduced "Performance add on Warranty". That year alone, after paying all the lagistical charges, their "net profit" was $1.6Million
For the most part, if your product makes it through the forst 30 days, it's going to work.
Really, how often do people complain about their product breaking after the warranty?
$550.00? Too much IMO for a 3+ year old design/technology.
FYI, Car manufactures will purposely design systems so that it will be hard to "swap" or "incorporate" aftermarket. Why? because there products will fall below the performance level of aftermarket and the fact that they wish to add a bigger profit margin.
On Audio, NAV, Security, there's approx. 300% mark-up. They get away with it because they purposely "removed" the competition.
On the other hand, aftermarket, there's only 50~75% mark-up. Due to stiff competition.
I've been involved in many OEM projects in the past.
Peterbuilt Truck Company
Freightliner Truck Company
Harley Davidson Company
Motor Coach International (MCI)
Disney Corp.
My ex-manager worked for Infinity and Alpine and I was able to gather most of its info as well.
So, if one'shappy to spend $$$ for the fact that it's OEM HU? more power to them
Reality is that they are paying 3x more than what the units actually worth if it had to compete in the Aftermarket Arena
.
Last edited by TRU Tech; Jun 25, 2004 at 08:13 PM.
6th Gear
Joined: Jul 2003
Posts: 2,526
Likes: 1
Originally Posted by propper mini driver
Get a propper Mini they are much better and they stand out more.
Have a jolly good day.:smile:
R.E.
4th Gear
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 599
Likes: 0
I am not an expert on auto stereo, but I have done some research regarding the HK system because I ordered one on my 2005. As nearly as I can figure, there are more places for the system to fail than the stock one, but as a design, it is quite sound. The main problem seems to be the fact that the amplifier is not controlled directly by the head unit by modifying the signal strength. The information regarding volume and tone, etc is sent to the amp via the iBus, which is the general computer bus that links the ECU with the engine, lighting, DSC, ALB etc. I am assuming that most of the weird things that are happening to various people are a function of interference on the iBus, or loose connections, or software problems.
There may be sender/receiver problems in th HU or amp as well. From what I gather, there is not a high incidence of system failure, but if the HK system fails more often than the stock system, the iBus is the most likely place for this to happen.
Remember that with "speed sensitive volume control," there is an extra layer or two of signal control in the HK system, and thus more places to fail. The actual sound you hear is not what you set on the HU, but what the car's computer calculates as proper. If it calculates wrong - look out!
There may be sender/receiver problems in th HU or amp as well. From what I gather, there is not a high incidence of system failure, but if the HK system fails more often than the stock system, the iBus is the most likely place for this to happen.
Remember that with "speed sensitive volume control," there is an extra layer or two of signal control in the HK system, and thus more places to fail. The actual sound you hear is not what you set on the HU, but what the car's computer calculates as proper. If it calculates wrong - look out!
6th Gear
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 4,831
Likes: 1
From: Phoenix, AZ
Originally Posted by JoeDentist
If we are going to compute "total cost" on stereos, don't forget insurance. Most companies do not cover aftermarket stereo equipment for theft or damage without a rider, which can cost a lot. Installing stereo equipment in a location other than stock invalidates your insurance too. So if you, lets say, moved the DSP unit from its location to another, in order to make room for something else, it is no longer covered by your basic auto insurance policy, even if it is part of the original car.
Having had stereo equipment stolen from my car before, Ive decided to stick with th HK system for now - I like the idea of the 4 year warranty and free insurance.
Having had stereo equipment stolen from my car before, Ive decided to stick with th HK system for now - I like the idea of the 4 year warranty and free insurance.
6th Gear
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 2,068
Likes: 1
From: the great country of california
Originally Posted by TRU Tech
you have a valid point in regards to insurance.
However, all insurance do have a "Cap" for audio theft. As long as you have taken pictures, serial# and receipt, the insurance will cover equal amout to the factory replacement.
As matter a fact, it's actually cheaper to replace aftermarket HU than Factory.
The warrant is IMO a "sales tactic". I don't see my TV breaking after (1) year warranty.
In 1996, Best Buy introduced "Performance add on Warranty". That year alone, after paying all the lagistical charges, their "net profit" was $1.6Million
For the most part, if your product makes it through the forst 30 days, it's going to work.
Really, how often do people complain about their product breaking after the warranty?
$550.00? Too much IMO for a 3+ year old design/technology.
FYI, Car manufactures will purposely design systems so that it will be hard to "swap" or "incorporate" aftermarket. Why? because there products will fall below the performance level of aftermarket and the fact that they wish to add a bigger profit margin.
On Audio, NAV, Security, there's approx. 300% mark-up. They get away with it because they purposely "removed" the competition.
On the other hand, aftermarket, there's only 50~75% mark-up. Due to stiff competition.
I've been involved in many OEM projects in the past.
Peterbuilt Truck Company
Freightliner Truck Company
Harley Davidson Company
Motor Coach International (MCI)
Disney Corp.
My ex-manager worked for Infinity and Alpine and I was able to gather most of its info as well.
So, if one'shappy to spend $$$ for the fact that it's OEM HU? more power to them
Reality is that they are paying 3x more than what the units actually worth if it had to compete in the Aftermarket Arena .
However, all insurance do have a "Cap" for audio theft. As long as you have taken pictures, serial# and receipt, the insurance will cover equal amout to the factory replacement.
As matter a fact, it's actually cheaper to replace aftermarket HU than Factory.
The warrant is IMO a "sales tactic". I don't see my TV breaking after (1) year warranty.
In 1996, Best Buy introduced "Performance add on Warranty". That year alone, after paying all the lagistical charges, their "net profit" was $1.6Million
For the most part, if your product makes it through the forst 30 days, it's going to work.
Really, how often do people complain about their product breaking after the warranty?
$550.00? Too much IMO for a 3+ year old design/technology.
FYI, Car manufactures will purposely design systems so that it will be hard to "swap" or "incorporate" aftermarket. Why? because there products will fall below the performance level of aftermarket and the fact that they wish to add a bigger profit margin.
On Audio, NAV, Security, there's approx. 300% mark-up. They get away with it because they purposely "removed" the competition.
On the other hand, aftermarket, there's only 50~75% mark-up. Due to stiff competition.
I've been involved in many OEM projects in the past.
Peterbuilt Truck Company
Freightliner Truck Company
Harley Davidson Company
Motor Coach International (MCI)
Disney Corp.
My ex-manager worked for Infinity and Alpine and I was able to gather most of its info as well.
So, if one'shappy to spend $$$ for the fact that it's OEM HU? more power to them
Reality is that they are paying 3x more than what the units actually worth if it had to compete in the Aftermarket Arena
.
1st Gear
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 47
Likes: 0
From: north carolina
Originally Posted by JoeDentist
I am not an expert on auto stereo, but I have done some research regarding the HK system because I ordered one on my 2005. As nearly as I can figure, there are more places for the system to fail than the stock one, but as a design, it is quite sound. The main problem seems to be the fact that the amplifier is not controlled directly by the head unit by modifying the signal strength. The information regarding volume and tone, etc is sent to the amp via the iBus, which is the general computer bus that links the ECU with the engine, lighting, DSC, ALB etc. I am assuming that most of the weird things that are happening to various people are a function of interference on the iBus, or loose connections, or software problems.
There may be sender/receiver problems in th HU or amp as well. From what I gather, there is not a high incidence of system failure, but if the HK system fails more often than the stock system, the iBus is the most likely place for this to happen.
Remember that with "speed sensitive volume control," there is an extra layer or two of signal control in the HK system, and thus more places to fail. The actual sound you hear is not what you set on the HU, but what the car's computer calculates as proper. If it calculates wrong - look out!
There may be sender/receiver problems in th HU or amp as well. From what I gather, there is not a high incidence of system failure, but if the HK system fails more often than the stock system, the iBus is the most likely place for this to happen.
Remember that with "speed sensitive volume control," there is an extra layer or two of signal control in the HK system, and thus more places to fail. The actual sound you hear is not what you set on the HU, but what the car's computer calculates as proper. If it calculates wrong - look out!
6th Gear
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 3,433
Likes: 1
From: Gloucester, MA, USA
I don't think this iBus "clash" is the problem.
When the car is turned on, the HK amp receives a voltage from the head unit telling it to run. It then sends a data request for the volume/tone/etc settings. If it gets these, it will turn on.
IMPORTANT: Once it gets the data, it will stay on unless either it gets data telling it to turn off, or the voltage disappears.
So if there was another computer on the bus causing the messages to be garbled, there would be a repeat until there was success.
Also, turning the head unit off & on again would re-initiate the data messages.
When everything is silent, are the HK options (like the mode) still available in the head unit menus? If they are, then the HK amp is communicating with the head unit. If not, the head unit does not know that the HK amp exists ...
When the car is turned on, the HK amp receives a voltage from the head unit telling it to run. It then sends a data request for the volume/tone/etc settings. If it gets these, it will turn on.
IMPORTANT: Once it gets the data, it will stay on unless either it gets data telling it to turn off, or the voltage disappears.
So if there was another computer on the bus causing the messages to be garbled, there would be a repeat until there was success.
Also, turning the head unit off & on again would re-initiate the data messages.
When everything is silent, are the HK options (like the mode) still available in the head unit menus? If they are, then the HK amp is communicating with the head unit. If not, the head unit does not know that the HK amp exists ...
4th Gear
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 599
Likes: 0
The settings for volume and tone have to be constantly monitored, or any changes made after turning on the unit would be fixed until reboot. On a computer bus, the system is constantly reaffirnming the volume level and fade, and balance, and tone or once the music starts, you could not change it. The DSP also is constantly monitoring the speed of the vehicle in order to alter the volume based on anticipated exhaust noise. This is anything but a static system. Any interference within the bus can screw things up. Since stereo problems are relatively rare, it will most probably be caused by electrical connections that are intermittant.
You can refer to the system as 3 years old, or antideluvian, but I doubt that any aftermarket system can duplicate its ability to change to sound stage within the confines of the specific vehicle, or the speed sensitive volume.
You can refer to the system as 3 years old, or antideluvian, but I doubt that any aftermarket system can duplicate its ability to change to sound stage within the confines of the specific vehicle, or the speed sensitive volume.
6th Gear
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 3,433
Likes: 1
From: Gloucester, MA, USA
JoeD,
You are correct that when the tone controls are adjusted, they must be responded to - this is done by the head unit sending a new data message to the HK amp, which then responds to it.
You are however wrong that "... the system is constantly reaffirnming the volume level ..."
Please review the work that I have done with my MINI and the iBus system:
http://www.gbmini.net/mtblog/archive/000405.shtml
I know from experience that once the HK amp is running, I can disconnect the iBus data to it and it will continue to run at the last set volume/tone/etc, until the power signal to it is turned off (which of course happens when the whole car is turned off).
You are correct that when the tone controls are adjusted, they must be responded to - this is done by the head unit sending a new data message to the HK amp, which then responds to it.
You are however wrong that "... the system is constantly reaffirnming the volume level ..."
Please review the work that I have done with my MINI and the iBus system:
http://www.gbmini.net/mtblog/archive/000405.shtml
I know from experience that once the HK amp is running, I can disconnect the iBus data to it and it will continue to run at the last set volume/tone/etc, until the power signal to it is turned off (which of course happens when the whole car is turned off).
4th Gear
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 599
Likes: 0
I assume that this is just a failsafe feature of the system. Any device on a bus system has to constantly be open to signals from the bus - an absence of a signal is simply that - no changes are to be made. But the bus has to constantly "listen" for signals so that when one addressed to it comes along, it recognizes it and acts accordingly. If a signal is sent to the turn signals, the radio amp reads it, and detemines that it is not addressed to it - so it ignores it. That is how a computer bus works. Every device hears every signal - it just ignores the ones not addressed to it. BUT IT WILL STILL READ AND EVALUATE EVERY SIGNAL TO SEE IF IT DOES APPLY. If the amp is not always reading the bus, it won't read the signals addressed to it when they are sent. It does not expect a constant flow of information, but it always must be alert to packets addressed to it. Disconnecting it from the bus just eliminates any signal that would change the current settings - the amp is still reading the bus - there are just no signals to read.