Options for E46 sound system upgrade?

[Jboo]

Hi, I've just got an E46 330 convertible this weekend, but it has the standard audio setup, which sounds pretty awful I think (distant plus the treble and bass don't make a massive difference to the quality). I was just wondering what people's thoughts were on upgrading sound systems. Are there any that come highly recommended? I don't want to spend an absolute fortune but want something that's going to sound a lot better than the standard setup, plus it'd be good if they suit the car rather than sticking out like a sore thumb. I plan on buying the Dynavin sat nav (http://www.dynavin.com/products/product_dnv_e46.php), but don't know whether this would make any difference to the audio upgrade?

Thanks for any advice.

[DennisCooper]

Hi there,

You potentially have quite a few solutions and upgrades - depends on what kind of sound you're after and of course ho wmuch funding you are willing to use up!

have a look at E46 zone as a number of people UK based have put in the dynavin unit, theres quite a few more on the USA forums as well. As a good upgrade, and from a few e46 convertibles I've seen with audio systems, a small subwoofer box made specifically for the car is available into which I believe a single 10 inch sub can be fitted. You can then upgrade the components in the rear side panels and the fronts to 5.25 inch components from the likes of DLS, Hertz, Rainbow, Focal etc - perhaps select a set from their 'mid ranges' circa £120-180 per set range. These brands are amongst the very best in car audio brands and represent good value to sound quality in these ranges. If you are feeling flush, then go for their higher ranges. You could power the lot off one five channel amp such as the Alpine PDX5, Genesis Profile 5 etc. It'll set you back perhaps around £1000 for this lot and perhaps fitting as well from a reputable installer, you can of course shave that price by selecting cheaper components or possibly even going second hand for the speakers and amp etc.

Important out of it all is that it's fitted well, good fuse and circuit protection and securely installed and tested.

Cheers, Dennis!

[Jboo]

Thanks for the reply and suggestions Dennis. I'll take a look at the names you've suggested and see what looks like the best deal. Having been reading more about the UK seller of the Dynavin unit (TTints) I'm having second thoughts about going for that one as it's now had another increase in price to £750, especially since there's now an alternative which looks just as good for £400. Anyway, I'll take a look at the audio upgrade first.

Thanks again Dennis.