kenpo_350Z

iTrader: (15)

I have read many posts about how great the BOSE becomes once you ditch the stock HU.

Does the aftermarket HU have to have a certain Preamp output or will any decent HU make the BOSE come alive?

In my old car I had the Panasonic Strada NAV/DVD. I liked the unit but want to get something different.

16psibrick

iTrader: (10)

IMO, you dont notice much of an improvement just by ditching the HU, most of hte time, you get slightly clenaer sound but at less volume. this dependsing heavily on the headunit you are installing and the adapter you use, but you either gain volume but also noise and background hiss as well as distortion, or you gain clarity but suffers on overall volume.

b

kenpo_350Z

iTrader: (15)

So it may be more benificial and cheaper to upgrade the stock sub and amp?

16psibrick

iTrader: (10)

no, ithink the new HU will give you much more features and relability over the stock, i would sugggest doing that first, then upgrading hte rest if you desire more sound quality

b

kenpo_350Z

iTrader: (15)

Thanks just trying to get some opinions on this. I guess its not going to hurt anything upgrading the HU first. You can always upgrade the rest from there.

Spike100

I agree with Bing (and it appears that is the direction you are considering).

Depending upon your budget, you might want to install a better H/U with an adapter (even an intermediately priced H/U is considerably better than the OEM H/U). This gives you more features and improved reception (the aftermarket H/U will have a better receiver/tuner).This also gives you a slightly better sounding system at an intermediate volume level.

The problem will be at higher volume when the stock OEM front components, rear coaxial speakers, and the OEM SubW begin sounding poorly. If you notice this, you will probably want to replace the front components and add an aftermarket amp. This step requires research and planning (e.g., what components to buy, what amp is best for your CES build-plan, install a SubW or not, etc.), and this is where you begin spending $$’s.

--Spike

kenpo_350Z

iTrader: (15)

I just want a HU that will make the sub sound good without having to crank up the volume. Thanks for the advice. When it's time I will be doing the HU first and work around from there.

Spike100

Please update us on what you do and how you rate the results. I (as well as other readers) am interested in your project and how you rate the results. Bose “rebuilds/replacements” are always the most challenging. I’m sure others will benefit reading your “build strategy.”

Many owners do an incremental CES build (to match financial ability with desired results). Some replace the amp and speakers first, while others decide replacing the H/U is the best first step.

Subscribing to your thread…

--Spike