[tomjonesrocks]

I have been reading many of the audio threads here and elsewhere regarding E90 upgrades for a HiFi system and am still a bit unclear on how much worse a system upgraded with the Alpine Upgrade Package would be compared to some of Technic's recommended combinations built around the XD600/6 amplifier.

If I go with an XD600/6 and speakers, even if I buy the amp used it seems difficult to stay within even $300 of the cost ($900-$1000 total) of the complete Alpine upgrade ordering from Schmiedmann (seemingly available for roughly $600US overseas total). Maybe I'm just not shopping in the right places. If that's correct, would a DIY setup around the XD600/6 that dramatically better than the Alpine upgrade?

Like others, I'm really just looking for a substantial improvement up front in the sound. I realize this topic may have been covered but most of the threads I'm finding refer to outdated/discontinued speakers and equipment, and at this point am not sure the best way to go at all.

Suggestions appreciated!

[Technic]

Again, the Alpine HiFi retrofit does not apply to the OEM HiFi system.

[bmw325i]

Audiosystems 3 way kit $440
http://www.ebay.com/itm/SPEAKERS-KIT...item3cd0eba4a8

JL XD600/6 + Technic's harness and speaker wiring adapter $400-$550


That is under $1000 and should sound much better than the Alpine kit. You also have some money left in the budget for a cheaper set of coaxials for the rear.

[tomjonesrocks]

Originally Posted by Technic

Again, the Alpine HiFi retrofit does not apply to the OEM HiFi system.

I really appreciate your reply--but am thoroughly confused

This product:
http://www.schmiedmann.com/en/produc...5-41-0-445-684
...will not work with the HiFi system?

If not I guess it's the XD600/6 + some set of speakers or bust...

[Technic]

It you really search you will see clearly that this Alpine kit is designed for the non-OEM amp system, called Stereo in BMW-speak.

It even says so in that link description (soundsystem = OEM amp).

Originally Posted by tomjonesrocks

I really appreciate your reply--but am thoroughly confused

This product:
http://www.schmiedmann.com/en/produc...5-41-0-445-684
...will not work with the HiFi system?

If not I guess it's the XD600/6 + some set of speakers or bust...

[bri1042]

...and it really is not worth what you'll pay for it. The tweets were terrible and it doesn't upgrade your underseat woofers. The mid drivers were ok, but that was the only good thing I could say about it. If your budget is less than 1k, you may just want to wait if you have the Hifi system. Listen to Technic and VP Electricity. Their advice will not waste your money.

[tomjonesrocks]

Thank you all for replies in this thread. While embarrassing, I'm certainly glad I did this as I very well may have ordered that Alpine kit expecting it to fit.

I just wish the amp and front speakers were less to upgrade--seems like that's $700+ in supplies before I even get to subs. The stock system in this car really is pretty shameful.

[bmw325i]

Originally Posted by tomjonesrocks

Thank you all for replies in this thread. While embarrassing, I'm certainly glad I did this as I very well may have ordered that Alpine kit expecting it to fit.

I just wish the amp and front speakers were less to upgrade--seems like that's $700+ in supplies before I even get to subs. The stock system in this car really is pretty shameful.

It's over your $1000 budget, but the Jehnert Flatline 3 way kit and an xd600/6 will give you good results. The only cheaper options I can think of are the MB Quart 3 way kit, and the Audio Systems 3 way that I linked to above.

If your interested in the Jehnert kit contact Musicar NW, or Unexpected Creations.

Here is a link for the MB Quart kit http://www.amazon.co.uk/MB-Quart-QM2.../dp/B00BGA00EO

[tomjonesrocks]

Originally Posted by bmw325i

Audiosystems 3 way kit $440
http://www.ebay.com/itm/SPEAKERS-KIT...item3cd0eba4a8

JL XD600/6 + Technic's harness and speaker wiring adapter $400-$550


That is under $1000 and should sound much better than the Alpine kit. You also have some money left in the budget for a cheaper set of coaxials for the rear.

I guess this indeed looks promising. Hmm. People seem to be liking this set from what I'm finding researching these...