I’m sharing my recent experience in upgrading the existing Harmon Kardon system in my 2022 MCS. While the HK system wasn’t offensive, my weekly commute is about 600 miles and I enjoy my music. 2 of my previous MINI’s both both had the same HK speakers and I always felt they lacked clarity.

First I upgraded the amp with the BT Alpha One. I installed it myself. It was very straight forward and manageable for a guy that hasn’t played around with car stereo since I added Jensen coaxial speakers to my Pinto in 1976. Pleased with the simplicity of the install, the improved sound was immediately noticeable. A big improvement. This made me curious as to how much better it could be.

Last week I added all the speakers, including the 2 sub woofers under the front seats. I should clarify; I bought everything and being in Florida, elected to let them install them at their Orlando showroom. That was a very good decision. Yes, it’s a “plug and play” package, but you need to get to the speakers. It took their experienced installer all of 5 hours to complete. His work was excellent, you’d never know any thing was removed and replaced. Very factory in appearance.

Having the full system upgrade really took the listening experience to the next level. I’m delighted with the results. The amp may be enough for many, but if you can make the investment you won’t be disappointed. They are passionate about sound, and really deliver with a superior product.

2 other random thoughts.
1. their package includes plugging in something that disables the engine sounds being pumped into the cabin through your speakers. I immediately noticed how much quieter it was in terms of engine sounds. I never could tell for sure how much is real versus synthetic noises, very much improved, unless that’s your thing. Fake engine sounds weren’t mine, even if well executed.
2. I have a complete HK system available, 12 speakers including subs plus the amp if anyone is interested. The amp alone through the dealer is +/-$1200. Let me know if you’re interested. It’s all or nothing, and I cannot speak to any fitment or compatibility.

I’m not an audiophile, but have always appreciated quality sound at home and in the car. To me, the clarity, highs and lows are all really improved. I’m calling it my rolling sound studio. May be a slight exaggeration, but I’m very pleased with the Bimmer-Tech solution, despite being a bit costly. Those Jensen’s were a lot better deal in 1976. Still, I feel like I got my $$$$ worth.

 

Thanks, I appreciate the review. I generally like the HK system in my F60, but I feel like it needs a little bit more. I’ll have to look into the Alpha amp.