Alpine Hifi upgrade

ERIK430i · 03-18-2011, 01:25 PM

Hi there - I'm planning on installing Retrofit HiFi System Alpine (Part No. 65412163268) into my 2010 E90 LCI. I currently have $663 Radio BMW Professional coded into my VO. Once I am finished with the install I will need to code the car per the instructions.

As far as coding goes, the install instructions for a post 3/09 says to go to ISTA/P vehicle programming and select "HiFi System Apline" via the - Conversion - path.

What would this entail as far as using NCS Expert? Thanks in advance.

I attached the pdf for Part No. 65412163268 for those that are interested.

Bimmer-Bob · 03-19-2011, 05:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ERIK335i

Hi there - I'm planning on installing Retrofit HiFi System Alpine (Part No. 65412163268) into my 2010 E90 LCI. I currently have $663 Radio BMW Professional coded into my VO. Once I am finished with the install I will need to code the car per the instructions.

As far as coding goes, the install instructions for a post 3/09 says to go to ISTA/P vehicle programming and select "HiFi System Apline" via the - Conversion - path.

What would this entail as far as using NCS Expert? Thanks in advance.

I attached the pdf for Part No. 65412163268 for those that are interested.

I think I'm following you, but I don't understand some of your acronyms - are you a BMW tech or something?

I've been trying to determine exactly what this coding is all about, and why it should be needed. What is it telling the car to do? And can the dealer see that it's there in the VO or whatever (not totally sure what VO even is)?

I'm getting the install done on Monday in Europe but m taking my car to the US later this year - is there any danger of US dealers "erasing" this coding while doing a software update or something? I know this kit is not really available in the US so I'm not sure if BMWNA's service network supports the upgrade.

JSH3 · 03-19-2011, 05:46 PM

Where can you buy these upgrade kit for E90 2007?

(there's a kit on eBay for E90's up to production month 03/2009, but would rather purchase from a "real" store)

kaishang · 03-19-2011, 08:28 PM

The purpose of the coding is to change the headunit output from an amplified signal from the inboard headunit amp to an unamplified lineout to be sent to your new amp.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bimmer-Bob

Quote:

Originally Posted by ERIK335i

Hi there - I'm planning on installing Retrofit HiFi System Alpine (Part No. 65412163268) into my 2010 E90 LCI. I currently have $663 Radio BMW Professional coded into my VO. Once I am finished with the install I will need to code the car per the instructions.

As far as coding goes, the install instructions for a post 3/09 says to go to ISTA/P vehicle programming and select "HiFi System Apline" via the - Conversion - path.

What would this entail as far as using NCS Expert? Thanks in advance.

I attached the pdf for Part No. 65412163268 for those that are interested.

I think I'm following you, but I don't understand some of your acronyms - are you a BMW tech or something?

I've been trying to determine exactly what this coding is all about, and why it should be needed. What is it telling the car to do? And can the dealer see that it's there in the VO or whatever (not totally sure what VO even is)?

I'm getting the install done on Monday in Europe but m taking my car to the US later this year - is there any danger of US dealers "erasing" this coding while doing a software update or something? I know this kit is not really available in the US so I'm not sure if BMWNA's service network supports the upgrade.

Bimmer-Bob · 03-20-2011, 01:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kaishang

The purpose of the coding is to change the headunit output from an amplified signal from the inboard headunit amp to an unamplified lineout to be sent to your new amp.

That's what I was hoping, but are you sure of this?

I mean, it's a sensible answer, but I just don't understand why the old kit (pre-3/09) did not require recoding after install. The only thing that appears to have changed between the two kits is the replacement of the original cut-and-splice wiring harness with a plug-and-play harness, and the switch setting on the amp.

gIzzE · 03-20-2011, 08:03 AM

I reckon it just flattens the head units EQ, it is bumped up a lot towards the highs on the standard system to get round there are no tweeters, many people complained the top end was too bright once the Alpine was installed.

paba · 03-29-2011, 04:01 AM

Have been following this thread for some time and last week took the plunge and bought the Alpine Upgrade - €480 including window panels. With some trepidation set too installing in my e92 Coupe (2008). Passenger side went fine and test showed sound from all three units. Then the driver's side and installation went perfectly until the test. No sound from the front and red light flashing on the amp. Checked the wiring a number of times against Robbie's super diagram but still no success. Now frustrated. Could the amp be faulty?Any guidance welcome. Unfortunately main dealer has never fitted the upgrade so I won't get much help from there.

Em135eye · 03-29-2011, 04:19 AM

Could I order this through a decent car ICE installer seeing as they don't seem to do them in BMW dealers down here?

I really don't want to try it myself (!) but I'm pretty keen.

I guess I'd need all the part numbers and then get them to order it from somewhere?!

mv57 · 03-29-2011, 04:39 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 335diesel

Could I order this through a decent car ICE installer seeing as they don't seem to do them in BMW dealers down here?

I really don't want to try it myself (!) but I'm pretty keen.

I guess I'd need all the part numbers and then get them to order it from somewhere?!

Hey 335,

Anneka is trying to set up a group buy

http://www.e90post.com/forums/showthread.php?t=389064

HAlf way down the list is also parts prices only.

Try giving Annela a shout.

Em135eye · 03-29-2011, 04:50 AM

Cheers MV - am I being a spanner or is this not available for an E91?!

larry_bml · 03-29-2011, 05:14 AM

I have a question. I have the HIFI Alpine retrofit on my E90 2007, but I want to make SWS 8x upgrade too. It is worthing or not? Because someone say the SWS are very good, but others are selling them after they buy them. What do you think? The Alpine amplifier from retrofit will sound good on SWS's or I will need another amp for them?

mv57 · 03-29-2011, 05:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 335diesel

Cheers MV - am I being a spanner or is this not available for an E91?!

No i dont think so. I should really look at peoples details as in E91. This will be for someone else to cover. I do not have experience in this.

Sorry if i got your hopes up. But it may still be possible

mv57 · 03-29-2011, 05:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by larry_bml

I have a question. I have the HIFI Alpine retrofit on my E90 2007, but I want to make SWS 8x upgrade too. It is worthing or not? Because someone say the SWS are very good, but others are selling them after they buy them. What do you think? The Alpine amplifier from retrofit will sound good on SWS's or I will need another amp for them?

I think some people bought the 2 ohms sws and some bought the 4 ohms. A bit of research on this may help you.

gIzzE · 03-29-2011, 06:07 AM

I personally wouldn't bother, the subs are around 4db lower sensitivity wise, and -3db is half the volume, with no way to adjust that then they are never going to be perfect.

I have heard a car with the 2ohm version running off the Alpine amp and didn't think it sounded much better than stock, with an amp driving them properly they are amazing.
So either install a different amp or leave the stock subs if sticking with the Alpine imho.

larry_bml · 03-29-2011, 07:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mv57

I think some people bought the 2 ohms sws and some bought the 4 ohms. A bit of research on this may help you.

I did a lot of research, I saw the 2 and 4 version on sale, I ordered 4 ohm version for my car but I don't know witch amp to use for them. Alpine from retrofit, or another separated amp? Which one do you think is good for SWS and is good in price?

gIzzE · 03-29-2011, 07:52 AM

You can't use the Alpine with 4ohm subs really, they will be far to quiet.

Get something else.

I would look at something like the Vibe Litebox Stereo 4.

Run the mids and tweeters off the front channels and then wire your subs stereo of the rear channels.

mv57 · 03-29-2011, 09:21 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by gIzzE

You can't use the Alpine with 4ohm subs really, they will be far to quiet.

Get something else.

I would look at something like the Vibe Litebox Stereo 4.

Run the mids and tweeters off the front channels and then wire your subs stereo of the rear channels.

Ebay price about £150. Seem ok? if you have already bought the sws's. Then sell of the alpine amp to repair the financial damage.

Em135eye · 03-29-2011, 09:23 AM

Anneka has just posted offering the kit only option for the E91 for a rather tasty price.

Now working on the missus to convince her it's a good idea...!

mv57 · 03-29-2011, 10:15 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 335diesel

Anneka has just posted offering the kit only option for the E91 for a rather tasty price.

Now working on the missus to convince her it's a good idea...!

All you gotta say is it is cheaper and cleaner than getting the surround sound at home. Worked for me.

Nice to hear that its not the end for you guys. How many speakers in the set? The base system on the E91 has 6?

Em135eye · 03-29-2011, 10:20 AM

Looks like two mid range and two tweeters.

Current system is the Professional head unit, subs under the seats, 2 x front speakers (no tweeters), 2 x rear speakers. The upgrade would add an amp, crossover and two tweeters and replace the current front ones - I think.

Oh where does the amp go BTW?!

mv57 · 03-29-2011, 11:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 335diesel

Looks like two mid range and two tweeters.

Current system is the Professional head unit, subs under the seats, 2 x front speakers (no tweeters), 2 x rear speakers. The upgrade would add an amp, crossover and two tweeters and replace the current front ones - I think.

Oh where does the amp go BTW?!

Ah ok so it is the same kit. I am guessing the loom may be slightly longer for the touring if the amp goes in the boot still.

The amp on the E92 (will clarify this time) goes in the boot. It should be on the left hand side at the back. In the photo the back left is filled with the dab radio (whitish unit) i think and therefore the alpine amp has been mounted further away from the seats.

Would I be right or wrong in thinking the layout may be the same?

larry_bml · 03-29-2011, 12:08 PM

First I will wait to arrive the SWS's and the spacers , I will try them with the Alpine and if the results will be unsatisfied I will try to drive them with another AMP, maybe also an Alpine, but not the retrofit one, because the Vibe Litebox Stereo 4 is very good at price, but shipping is more then it cost. I will write here the final results. Thank you for help.

03-19-2011, 05:46 PM	#531
JSH3 First Lieutenant 54 Rep 313 Posts Drives: 2010 328i E92 and 2011 X3 Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Boca Raton, FL iTrader: (2)	Where to buy? Where can you buy these upgrade kit for E90 2007? (there's a kit on eBay for E90's up to production month 03/2009, but would rather purchase from a "real" store)
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-20-2011, 08:03 AM	#534
gIzzE Major General 363 Rep 5,984 Posts Drives: F11 + 911 C4 Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Norfolk, UK. iTrader: (2)	I reckon it just flattens the head units EQ, it is bumped up a lot towards the highs on the standard system to get round there are no tweeters, many people complained the top end was too bright once the Alpine was installed.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-29-2011, 04:01 AM	#535
paba paba 2 Rep 11 Posts Drives: BMW 320 Sport Join Date: May 2008 Location: Greystones, Wicklow, Ireland iTrader: (0)	Problems Have been following this thread for some time and last week took the plunge and bought the Alpine Upgrade - €480 including window panels. With some trepidation set too installing in my e92 Coupe (2008). Passenger side went fine and test showed sound from all three units. Then the driver's side and installation went perfectly until the test. No sound from the front and red light flashing on the amp. Checked the wiring a number of times against Robbie's super diagram but still no success. Now frustrated. Could the amp be faulty?Any guidance welcome. Unfortunately main dealer has never fitted the upgrade so I won't get much help from there.
	Appreciate 1 Quote

03-29-2011, 04:19 AM	#536
Em135eye Banned 175 Rep 4,302 Posts Drives: M135i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: South West iTrader: (0) Garage List 2014 BMW M135i 5 door [0.00]	Could I order this through a decent car ICE installer seeing as they don't seem to do them in BMW dealers down here? I really don't want to try it myself (!) but I'm pretty keen. I guess I'd need all the part numbers and then get them to order it from somewhere?!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-29-2011, 04:50 AM	#538
Em135eye Banned 175 Rep 4,302 Posts Drives: M135i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: South West iTrader: (0) Garage List 2014 BMW M135i 5 door [0.00]	Cheers MV - am I being a spanner or is this not available for an E91?!
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03-29-2011, 05:14 AM	#539
larry_bml First Lieutenant 194 Rep 325 Posts Drives: BMW F30 Sport Line 320ded Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Romania - Pitesti iTrader: (0)	I have a question. I have the HIFI Alpine retrofit on my E90 2007, but I want to make SWS 8x upgrade too. It is worthing or not? Because someone say the SWS are very good, but others are selling them after they buy them. What do you think? The Alpine amplifier from retrofit will sound good on SWS's or I will need another amp for them?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-29-2011, 06:07 AM	#542
gIzzE Major General 363 Rep 5,984 Posts Drives: F11 + 911 C4 Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Norfolk, UK. iTrader: (2)	I personally wouldn't bother, the subs are around 4db lower sensitivity wise, and -3db is half the volume, with no way to adjust that then they are never going to be perfect. I have heard a car with the 2ohm version running off the Alpine amp and didn't think it sounded much better than stock, with an amp driving them properly they are amazing. So either install a different amp or leave the stock subs if sticking with the Alpine imho.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-29-2011, 07:52 AM	#544
gIzzE Major General 363 Rep 5,984 Posts Drives: F11 + 911 C4 Join Date: Apr 2006 Location: Norfolk, UK. iTrader: (2)	You can't use the Alpine with 4ohm subs really, they will be far to quiet. Get something else. I would look at something like the Vibe Litebox Stereo 4. Run the mids and tweeters off the front channels and then wire your subs stereo of the rear channels.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-29-2011, 09:23 AM	#546
Em135eye Banned 175 Rep 4,302 Posts Drives: M135i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: South West iTrader: (0) Garage List 2014 BMW M135i 5 door [0.00]	Anneka has just posted offering the kit only option for the E91 for a rather tasty price. Now working on the missus to convince her it's a good idea...!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-29-2011, 10:20 AM	#548
Em135eye Banned 175 Rep 4,302 Posts Drives: M135i Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: South West iTrader: (0) Garage List 2014 BMW M135i 5 door [0.00]	Looks like two mid range and two tweeters. Current system is the Professional head unit, subs under the seats, 2 x front speakers (no tweeters), 2 x rear speakers. The upgrade would add an amp, crossover and two tweeters and replace the current front ones - I think. Oh where does the amp go BTW?!
	Appreciate 0 Quote

03-29-2011, 12:08 PM	#550
larry_bml First Lieutenant 194 Rep 325 Posts Drives: BMW F30 Sport Line 320ded Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Romania - Pitesti iTrader: (0)	First I will wait to arrive the SWS's and the spacers , I will try them with the Alpine and if the results will be unsatisfied I will try to drive them with another AMP, maybe also an Alpine, but not the retrofit one, because the Vibe Litebox Stereo 4 is very good at price, but shipping is more then it cost. I will write here the final results. Thank you for help.
	Appreciate 0 Quote