I've finally had it with my 2007 997 audio system (non-Bose, base stereo with CD changer in frunk). I'm sure there are already a number of threads on this, I just haven't found them. Here are my basic wants:

-New head unit with Nav, Bluetooth, HD radio, sat radio compatible, USB connection, iPod connection. I've seen some Alpine and Kenwood units that fit the bill.

-Moderately powerful amp - I really don't listen to the audio that much, and I don't need a monster amp, something that is roughly the same size as the stock unit. Either a built in processor or a separate processor is fine.

-I've got the factory CD changer in the frunk ahead of the battery box, and would like to be able to easily connect it to the head unit without having to earn an EE degree first.

-I'd like to find a complete high quality installation kit with bezel, brackets, mounts, wiring, etc. I've installed dozens of car stereos in my various cars over the years but the last time I tackled this type of project was over 10 years ago, and never with a Porsche. I'm not interested in cobbling together everything I need to do this. If I sound old and lazy, well, yeah I guess I am.

-I'm keeping the factory speakers - I'm too damned lazy to deal with the door panels. Maybe later I will change them out too.

There is a company in Santa Rosa, CA named Car Audio Innovations that seems to have what I need - anyone dealt with them before? Good/bad experiences? Is there someplace as good near my location (Washington DC area)? Thanks in advance.

 

Do the non-Bose systems use M.O.S.T connections, if not your plans got a lot cheaper as an adaptor is $500 alone. I've been looking at this too but I have the Bose system, likely I'll use the M.O.S.T adaptor but I understand having it re-wired costs about as much as the adaptor but you can't go back.

My research says the Alpine is the best choice and for the same physical size you can get a far better amp. While you're at it, think about a small, quality sub and as you said the other speakers can wait. Still, you'll end up with a far better sounding system even with stock speakers.

 

total waste of money if you do not change the speakers...that is a lot of the sound problem.

 

+1 on changing speakers. IMO, you're wasting time/money by not changing speakers.

 

Upgraded head unit, but not the speakers. Experience:

I have an Alpine system. Rocking with features. System is great. The connection options are superb. My kids were in the car and were streaming, via Bluetooth, their iPad tunes within two minutes of seeing the Alpine system Bluetooth symbol.

I am going back to the installer because...

The speakers in the car are completely incapable of putting out what the head unit can deliver. And I drive my 997s for fun and performance, leaving tunes out of it 3/4 of the time. But damn... when a driving song from the gods is on... it'd be nice to enjoy it.

Do it right or don't do it.
.

 

If i were of a mind to do this, I would change the speakers first and leave the rest of the system alone. In a car, with the high level of background noise, the speakers account for most of the sound.

 

When you guys say upgrade the speakers does this entail cutting the door panels or door metal work? Or are there good quality direct fit speakers available?

 

Depends on the speakers you want to install.

 

Your local stereo shop (not best buy) will be able to get you some good drop in speakers. Your car can retain the stock appearance.
Focal has some great options, as do many other brands.

 

Problem is that it's almost impossible to find speakers that fit into Porsche doors, all good speakers are either larger in diameter or depth. I am not aware of one that could fit plug-and-play, although I haven't looked at it for a few years.

 

Look and see what Focal has...they had a lot of lightweight thin speakers when I re-did the stereo in a Mini Cooper a few years back. I'm sure there are many other now and I'm sure there are bolt in speakers for a 997 car by now.

 

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