Hi

I have a 2007 MCS without the HiFi upgrade. Someone suggested that I put in an amp and a bass box and just leave the speakers as they are. Does anyone know if this would work? I'm just after a bit more power and bass, nothing huge.

Thanks Guys

 

I have the upgrade, but if you want improved sound, the first thing I'd change would be speakers, especially if you intend to put a bass box in.

 

Thanks! Think I might do the amp and the bass box first and then if the speakers still need changing I'll put my hand in my pocket again! Never thought I'd miss anything about my 2003 Cooper but boy do I miss the tunes

 

I'm planning on keeping my speakers and just add the amp, subs, and capacitor in the boot.

 

That's what I'd like to do too. I'm hoping it will yield better audio. I'd rather not change out all the speakers because of the cost, but I guess we'll see.

 

Indeed. Try the cheaper option first then throw some more money at it if it's still not right. Should be putting in the amp and bass box in the next week or so, so I'll let you know how it goes!

 

What does it cost to add an amp and bass box? What make/model are you using?

Are you happy with the sound of the system and just want more bass? I briefly listened to the HIFI system at the dealer and didn't like what I heard. However, it was rushed and with limited source material. Also this was a brand-new system and the speakers had not had not had any break-in time.

 

Also, what is involved in adding the amp? Where do you tie it in? Have you checked to see if it would void the warranty?

 

I've been quoted £300 fitted for a bass box and a 500watt 2 channel amp or £430 fitted for a bass box and a 4 channel amp (forgot to ask the wattage on that one!). I don't know what makes they are, that was just a quote for middle of the range equipment. I'll be having another chat with the specialist before I go ahead to decide exactly what I want put in. As for the warranty I guess it would invalidate it as far as audio equipment goes, I just rang my dealer to check but the people I need to speak with aren't there today so I have to call back after the weekend.

My dilemma now is whether to go for a 2 channel or a 4 channel amp. Don't know if having the power just in the back with a 2 channel will be good enough. Any suggestions anyone?

 

Oh, and I'm not sure exactly what is involved in fitting the equipment. I'm taking my life in my hands a bit as they admitted they haven't worked on one of these cars before! They have come recommended by another audio specilaist though and they didn't seem overly concerned about anything. Fair play to them though, they did say to me that as it's a brand new car they didn't want to mess about with it too much.

 

That's your cheaper alternative to replacing speakers?

In the USA, high quality replacement speakers would be less than £200.

Boston Acoustics S35
3-1/2" 2-way Speakers $69.99

Boston Acoustics S55
5-1/4" 2-way Speakers $99.99

Boston Acoustics SX95
6" x 9" 2-way Speakers $199.99

 

Your options for adding better sound to the stock audio system are the same as for the earlier models of MINIs.

For those that have not bought MINIs yet- be sure to try out the stock audio and see if that suits your needs or if the Hi Fi option is better.

Realize that adding things to the audio system will void your warranty for the stock stereo and risk affecting the very sensitive MINI/BMW wiring. If not done right you can damage your MINI electrical system. Seek help from someone that knows BMWs unless you have experience.

Adding speakers is possible but you are limited by the power of your in dash head unit which is not a standard unit. Makes sense to me to really think hard about the Hi Fi option and get the cost of it covered under warranty and in your car payments than to spend alot of extra money for aftermarket goods that are not covered under warranty or not in your car payments.

Chasing after good sound is a never ended quest. I started my audio with the stock system in 2003 when HK was not yet available and I would have had to wait 6 months for it.

I modded at first my speakers front and back, then added amp, new head unit, sound deadening, then extra amp and sub in the boot then added an amp for the sub only. $3500 later I can say there is still more to do but I've reached a point of not really wanting to do more. Next would be $1000 for front component speakers.

Adding infinity Basslink can be an option for powered subs in the boot. Take a look at that. Getting your own sub for under the passenger seat and sub for the boot is also possible.

 

I'm a bit stuck though as I like my bass. I don't think even the Hifi option would have given me what I wanted. That's why I think the amp and bass box would be better for me as if I just changed the speakers I'd still need to add an amp and bass box to get what I want.

I hear what you say about the warranty but to me I think it's worth the risk as the setup at the moment really doesn't do anything for me and is spoiling my enjoyment of the car. No point in spending £20k on a car and not enjoying it properly? I'll speak to the dealer on Monday when I'm there (car's going back for the 'front passenger speaker syndrome!) and see what they have to say.

Interesting point by the way from Robin about speakers breaking in. My dealer told me this when I moaned about them but when I spoke direct with Mini UK they literally laughed at the suggestion that speakers need breaking in!