I will be ordering my Mini soon, and would like opinions as to weather I should by the stock system and possibly upgrade the amp and/or speakers, or just get the HK system. I don't necessarily want thumping base, just clean sound. I want an OEM head unit to retain the original equipment look. I do not plan on getting the CD changer, but will probably use an IPod (Ice-Link) adaptor.

 

I'd probably say go with the HK instead of aftermarket. You could get the stock stereo and just upgrade speakers, but the stock head unit is fairly underpowered. You'd probably want an amp to go along with it. By that point you'll be spending more than $500 plus whatever labor costs. But it might sound better, depending on the components and your opinion.

I've been wondering this exact same thing myself, and today went and auditioned the H/K system at the dealer. I highly recommend this as the sound and DSP system is quite unique. You may like it, you may not.