Discussion
The best sound system I ever had in a car was the factory-fit (but optional) unit in my Alfa 166 V6. It had a swish multi-function "large screen" display, lots of adjustment options, including a graphic equaliser, and in-built sub speakers, mounted to the rear shelf.
I have no idea how much the first owner forked out for the upgrade when new, but I can't imagine it was cheap.
The only problem now is that everything I've had since the Alfa has sounded "thin" and rubbish.
I have no idea how much the first owner forked out for the upgrade when new, but I can't imagine it was cheap.
The only problem now is that everything I've had since the Alfa has sounded "thin" and rubbish.
kingston12 said:
Spending £4k on an aftermarket system should buy something very special indeed, and certainly something more than I would consider necessary in a car.
Not necessarily. Unless you are going to fit it yourself then the installation costs are quite significant plus decent wiring and cables etc.I recently had a quote for one of my cars for an Alpine double din carplay setup (so no onboard nav) with front and rear component speakers, sub and amps package (JL audio) which came to around £1500 but then to fit it because it wouldnt use standard factory mounts..... double that price.
ging84 said:
only place a lot of people listen to music is in thier car
and those who do choose to listen to music at home and can afford a new Porsche and to spec a £4k stereo upgrade, probably also have a fair nice sound system at home too.
This is certainly true for me.and those who do choose to listen to music at home and can afford a new Porsche and to spec a £4k stereo upgrade, probably also have a fair nice sound system at home too.
I do listen to some music at home but it's rare and usually when the Mrs is out and I use our crappy bluetooth speaker thing.
If I was buying a car for 80-90k I would test out the systems.
If the expensive system was worth it then I would certainly spec it - However if the upgraded system was mediocre I would save the money and then retro-respectively upgrade the Audio with quality aftermarket gear.
MorganP104 said:
The best sound system I ever had in a car was the factory-fit (but optional) unit in my Alfa 166 V6. It had a swish multi-function "large screen" display, lots of adjustment options, including a graphic equaliser, and in-built sub speakers, mounted to the rear shelf.
I have no idea how much the first owner forked out for the upgrade when new, but I can't imagine it was cheap.
The only problem now is that everything I've had since the Alfa has sounded "thin" and rubbish.
As a standard fit the Volvo pro logic in the S/V70 was fairly decent. I have no idea how much the first owner forked out for the upgrade when new, but I can't imagine it was cheap.
The only problem now is that everything I've had since the Alfa has sounded "thin" and rubbish.
thebraketester said:
Shame they don't do a "noise cancelling" type system that mutes the road noise. Or do they?
It is being developed, but is actually really hard to do. Engine order cancellation is quite popular in the US market and does make a noticable difference, but is at a much lower frequency than roadnoise, so it much easier to cancel.
These high-end options are terrific value and I always base my choice on whether it's fitted...
...but then, I'm always buying used so well done anyone buying new and ticking the option. They rarely make any meaningful difference to the used value so effectively come free a couple of years in.
However, my initial point it true. I spend a lot of time in the car and its where I mostly listen to music so when looking used, I'm indifferent to lots of stuff, but really look out for the hifi and nav upgrade. Its a decision maker for me on choosing the car. If someone's had the resources to tick those boxes, there's usually lots of other toys in there too.
I'd never pay for it new mind. You'd get a pretty great home system for £4,000 and keep it for an awful lot longer than most people hand onto a premium car.
...but then, I'm always buying used so well done anyone buying new and ticking the option. They rarely make any meaningful difference to the used value so effectively come free a couple of years in.
However, my initial point it true. I spend a lot of time in the car and its where I mostly listen to music so when looking used, I'm indifferent to lots of stuff, but really look out for the hifi and nav upgrade. Its a decision maker for me on choosing the car. If someone's had the resources to tick those boxes, there's usually lots of other toys in there too.
I'd never pay for it new mind. You'd get a pretty great home system for £4,000 and keep it for an awful lot longer than most people hand onto a premium car.
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