Stereo upgrade for a BOSE
#1
Stereo upgrade for a BOSE
My stereo guys said I could not add new speakers because I have the Bose system. They also said I would have to pull the unit out of the dash and start over. So what can I do? Thanks
#2
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From: SF Bay Area, California
Search would be a good idea :p
Seriously, saying that you can not replace speakers is plain dumb. Of course you can and many did already. You have to keep in mind though that the Bose speakers are quite non-standard as far as impedance goes so aftermarket speakers will not match them perfectly. This means that replacement speakers will likely sound a bit quieter unless their effectivity is pretty high.
In a way, the best method to upgrade the Bose system is to get rid of all components except for the head unit (because that's rather hard to replace, for obvious reasons). However, see on this forum how some people improved the sound of their Bose systems by adding tweeters in front and replacing rear speakers plus adding a subwoofer. Many are happy with the result so you might be too, without breaking the bank.
As I said, take some time and use the search - you'll find a lot of info.
Seriously, saying that you can not replace speakers is plain dumb. Of course you can and many did already. You have to keep in mind though that the Bose speakers are quite non-standard as far as impedance goes so aftermarket speakers will not match them perfectly. This means that replacement speakers will likely sound a bit quieter unless their effectivity is pretty high.
In a way, the best method to upgrade the Bose system is to get rid of all components except for the head unit (because that's rather hard to replace, for obvious reasons). However, see on this forum how some people improved the sound of their Bose systems by adding tweeters in front and replacing rear speakers plus adding a subwoofer. Many are happy with the result so you might be too, without breaking the bank.
As I said, take some time and use the search - you'll find a lot of info.
#3
The reason why you 'cannot' replace the speakers--as Tamas has said is because they are non standard. If you do run new speakers on the existing setup you may have horrible sound quality or the speakers or wires will not last long. It is best to pull the SOB and start over if you are not content with the SQ of the BOSE. You can add an amp/sub setup without problems though. I've had BOSE in 3 of my previous cars and ran into that problem--that is specifically why I did not want the GT package--BOSE is a pain to deal with, especially if you have a speaker blow out.
#4
Don't let them fool you into thinking that you need to replace your headunit...although it would be ideal to replace it...not much has been done in the way of replacing that center console piece and incorporating a solution to the PCB that must either remain or be fooled into thinking the factory radio unit is plugged in, as this controls your A/C as well as your LED panel...numerous discussion have been had regarding this...it's a plain ole PITA...the quickest way to revamp your setup is to follow what is stated above i.e. replacing the amps, x-overs, and speakers. You'll need Line convertors which PIE makes and i believe most here have used...RX8garage (Thew) sells them...even with ridding yourself of the BOSE amps the headunit still outputs at a unique to BOSE impedance...which the line convertors will help alleveate. You will still need some custom work done on the front...there is a 9" mid-range sub...so a little bit of fabrication is instore...i suggest you do a little searching around and review what some members have done, then decide which road you want to traverse down...either way you wanna go...there's plenty of help available here for you...sometimes you just need a little patience..
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