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Any thoughts on upgrading base stereo?

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Old 11-04-2012 | 09:20 PM
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Default Any thoughts on upgrading base stereo?

I now wish I got the Bose stereo system in my 991. My previous Porsches were so loud that I couldn't really appreciate the upgraded stereo in the 911.

The current base system has 9 speakers and 235 watts. In such a small car, that should sound ok but it really doesn't. It sounds to me like a cheap AM radio and best suited to talk radio.

Do you think that just replacing the speakers with better quality speakers would help? Do I really need an extra amp (easily fits under the passenger side seat)? How about a separate subwoofer, and where to put it?

We have a high end audio place in town that I've used before but they've never done a 991 (lots of 997's). Any thoughts?
Old 11-05-2012 | 08:41 AM
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Not sure I agree. I think the Base radio in the 991 is BETTER than the Bose radio in my 997.2. The base sounds fine and after using the Bose in the 997.2, not worth it. Listening to XM, CDs and radio sound fine.

Just change out the speakers if you want but I think retrofitting could become expensive.
Old 11-05-2012 | 12:53 PM
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Interested to hear others thoughts. I'm not a fan of Bose. My plan, if / when I get a 991 is to get the base stereo, then do what you said - swap the speakers. I would add an amp. Good speakers need power to give them some kick. It's not about volume, it's about definition, quality and pop. I wouldn't think 9 speakers are necessary. In fact, in my Corvette (avatar), I had only 2 speakers - very high quality JL audio speakers - in the door (2 way), an amp for those speakers, and a subwoofer (stealthbox - my car was the model, but that's another story), with it's own dedicated amp. It sounded astonishingly good. Far better than any system I ever heard before.

Good luck!
Old 11-05-2012 | 02:56 PM
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I think I'll try changing speakers first and maybe that's enough. Thanks
Old 11-05-2012 | 03:10 PM
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If i remember correctly the base system does not come with a sub so even if you swap out the speakers you won't be able to replicate the lows of the Bose system...hence the sound of a clock radio.
Old 11-05-2012 | 09:18 PM
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Happy with the Bose. Can imagine that base is less satisfying and berm is better.

All are strange to audiophiles give that most hardware is in front.
Old 11-05-2012 | 09:33 PM
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Where is the subwoofer in the Bose and Berm system? It probably does need a sub but where to put it...
Old 11-05-2012 | 11:19 PM
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I have been looking into this as well. I got my car off of the dealer lot for a good percentage off, the only thing it was really missing that I would of liked was the upgraded stereo. Generally not into Bose anyway so putting the money into some nice speakers is probably the better route. Found a great link to the breakdown of the different speakers in the 3 systems here:
http://www.rennteam.com/forum/page1....5mlesl6gp?vs=0

I am trying to put together a package from a higher end brand like Focal or Dynaudio based on the specs in that link. Specifically something that is a bit on the efficient to make use of the minimal wattage.
Old 11-06-2012 | 02:53 PM
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Justin- I can't find the stereo info on that link. Any tips?
Old 11-06-2012 | 03:14 PM
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I am coming from a BMW 750iL and the Bose system is not great in my opinion. It is tinny and it gives me a headache if I turn it up loud at all. I don't know what the Burmiester (sp?) system cost but knowing what I know I would consider it. Spending any money to "upgrade" to the Bose is flawed in my opinion.
Old 11-06-2012 | 05:00 PM
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Not sure if Bose spec is different in UK versus US but I am very happy with Bose in my car. I am no audiophile but this is probably the best car stereo I have ever listened to. You need to set it up for each audio source - base, treble, surround sound etc. The base response is excellent. I have not heard the base stereo system nor the Burm but I am fairly certain that the extra £2000 for the Burm would not have been justifiable.
Old 11-06-2012 | 05:46 PM
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I'm half deaf from years of loud music and motorcycles, but I'm satisfied with the Bose too. I did go through each music source and adjust the individual levels. I mostly listen to Ipod and FM in that order and I have them sounding pretty good, Sat radio is less so but I think the signal is weaker to begin with on that.
Old 11-06-2012 | 07:29 PM
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Justin- I can't find the stereo info on that link. Any tips?
hmm, lets try that again.

http://www.rennteam.com/forum/thread...son/page1.html

As mentioned I am trying to put together a package that fits easily and is mostly plug and play. I have access to a machine shop so I can make adapter plates if necessary. With two efficient 8" woofers in the doors this should provide some nice clear bass if it doesn't vibrate the doors.
Old 11-06-2012 | 08:37 PM
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Just read the rennteam thread. Not too much useful info in there. I still vote base system with replacing speakers and adding a couple of amps.
Old 11-06-2012 | 10:33 PM
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Justin, the link works fine now. Thanks. I'll post when I get the speakers changed, possible amp.


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