I'm one of those that isn't too much into the stock radio system. The system that comes with your Cooper puts out a measly 15w per channel and all the speakers are cheap paper cones. The HK system doesn't do much for you. It ads some new features to the deck and powers the speakers through a separate amp... a major rip-off for $550.

So, here's what I'm doing... (I will post many pictures when the work is all finished)

Already done:

-Replaced deck with Alpine CDA-7894
-XM radio
-JL Audio 300/4 amp bought, but not installed

Next weekend:

-Install JL Audio 300/4 amp under false floor in boot
-Replace stock front speakers with JL Audio 5 1/4 and tweeters (XR525-CSi)
-Replace stock 6x9's speakers with JL Audio 6.5 (XR650-CXi)

Weekend after:

-Install under false floor where 300/4 already resides... another amp, the JL Audio 500/1 to power subwoofer
-Install custom boxed subwoofer JL Audio 10W7-3

After that, not sure what I'm going to do next.... probably turn to the engine of the car.




_________________
Cooper MINI S Chili Red/ White roof, Xenon lights, Sport Package, Premium Package, Cold Weather Package, Leather from SLC dealer. With Passport 8500 radar detector, Alpine CDA-7894 deck, JL Audio 300/4 amp, and XM Radio.

 

Hey, High!

Question: do you have the multi-function steering wheel? Will your new audio rig work with the MFSW? I'm not too impressed with the radio, at all. The AM reception is buzzy on some stations and I think the whole thing could be so much better. But I really like the MFSW...and hope your suggestions function with it...

Cheers!
Clover

 

Hello Clover

I do have the multi-function steering wheel. The audio guys found a device that allows it to still work with aftermarket decks. So all set there.

In regards to poor AM reception. I think that has more to do with the antenna than the deck itself. But not completely sure on that one.

 

If I ever change the stock head unit, I would want the same orange display to match rest of car - does your Alpine display orange?

[PS: should this topic not be in Audio?]

 

High Anx

How much will this system set you back? I was looking at just going with with a single amp to power a small sunwoofer for some deeper bass, but I like the idea of replacing the entire set-up. In conjunction with the MFSW will the speed sensitive volume control still work with your aftermarket system?

 

>>If I ever change the stock head unit, I would want the same orange display to match rest of car - does your Alpine display orange?
>>
>>[PS: should this topic not be in Audio?]
>>
>>

Hey, the Alpine unit I have can be set to be amber or green.


MY BAD... I should have put this in "Audio" ... I don't know how to move it?

 

>>High Anx
>>
>>How much will this system set you back? I was looking at just going with with a single amp to power a small sunwoofer for some deeper bass, but I like the idea of replacing the entire set-up. In conjunction with the MFSW will the speed sensitive volume control still work with your aftermarket system?

The complete system I'm doing is setting me back a whole lot. Around $3000.

You can do a system upgrade for much less though and still have one that is much better than the HK upgrade. You could do so by using a cheaper brand of speakers and amps than JL Audio.

I don't think the speed sensitive volume will work upon upgrading. I find that feature to be highly annoying... some must like it however. You can upgrade your deck though and still be able to use your steering controls in conjunction with your deck.

 

Good afternoon High,

I work for JL Audio, so am a little biased in my view on product, but sounds like you have the makings of an awesome system. I'm working on a Stealthbox design for the Cooper S right now ( my own car). The enclosure will probably be sold with a W3 woofer in it, but I've designed it to fit the new 10W6V2. This is a totally redesigned woofer that takes many of the design features of the 10W7 and incorporates them into a less expensive package. It also requires a much shallower mounting depth. I should have some pictures of the first prototype enclosure soon if you're interested. In addition to this forum, you can reach me at dvertrees@jlaudio.com. I'd be very interested in you ideas for more audio related products for the Mini.

Sincerely,
Don Vertrees