B&O Retrofit or new car... :(

[PaddyMcpadington]

Hey Everyone!

Probably going to hate me for asking this or even thinking it lol

I currently have an Audi A3 with just the standard 8 speaker sound system which I really dislike. I've had my car for a year now and just want a bit more tech and a better sound system.

I've got the options of either investing £3k for B&O retrofit and MIB2 Upgrade via Audi Retrofits, On my current A3, 2013 plate, So Quite an investment compared to the value of the car now

Or....the bit everyone could hate, I just switch up and get a vehicle with these things already added. Now finding an Audi with b&o for a reasonable price is rare and generally costs quite a bit more than I'm prepared to spend at the moment. However, Ford offers these in their car for cheap, with Ecoboom engines.

Does anyone know if the systems in the ford are comparable to Audi in quality?? both B&o.

Would I likely get any investment back in the future when I sell my Audi if I were to retrofit b&o or is it dead money??

Any advice, peoples opinions. Please feel free to suggest alternatives
I'll try and reply as quickly as I can.

 

[Deleted member 117185]

Hey Everyone!

Probably going to hate me for asking this or even thinking it lol

I currently have an Audi A3 with just the standard 8 speaker sound system which I really dislike. I've had my car for a year now and just want a bit more tech and a better sound system.

I've got the options of either investing £3k for B&O retrofit and MIB2 Upgrade via Audi Retrofits, On my current A3, 2013 plate, So Quite an investment compared to the value of the car now

Or....the bit everyone could hate, I just switch up and get a vehicle with these things already added. Now finding an Audi with b&o for a reasonable price is rare and generally costs quite a bit more than I'm prepared to spend at the moment. However, Ford offers these in their car for cheap, with Ecoboom engines.

Does anyone know if the systems in the ford are comparable to Audi in quality?? both B&o.

Would I likely get any investment back in the future when I sell my Audi if I were to retrofit b&o or is it dead money??

Any advice, peoples opinions. Please feel free to suggest alternatives
I'll try and reply as quickly as I can.

I’d say it’s dead money. Find one with it and see if you can swap. Or, just add an aftermarket system?

 

[Sean6211]

The money invested to install B&O into your car will never be recovered when selling or trading in. If you are planning to keep your car for many years, it may bring you some personal satisfaction during your ownership.

If you want better sound without dropping 3000 quid in, investigate installing an aftermarket system with a decent amplifier and speakers with crossovers etc. A sub will also greatly improve the low end response.

If sound quality is that important to you, then when shopping in the future for your next car you should test drive models which have premium sound installed. Even then, sound quality in premium system differs greatly across the marques, so make sure you are completely happy during your test drives.

 

[JM13]

I have the B&O on my S3. Although the quality of the sound is good, the quality of the actual product itself is poor. Mine is going in for its third speaker replacement after blowing again. Passenger side, same place. I listen to my music loud at times, but well within/below what max volume is on the car itself. If i had to get another i wouldn't waste £3000 on its personally.

 

[PaddyMcpadington]

I have the B&O on my S3. Although the quality of the sound is good, the quality of the actual product itself is poor. Mine is going in for its third speaker replacement after blowing again. Passenger side, same place. I listen to my music loud at times, but well within/below what max volume is on the car itself. If i had to get another i wouldn't waste £3000 on its personally.

Oh no! That must be a pain in the ****. The last thing I want to be worrying about is whether or not they'll blow especially when I'm paying aftermarket installation prices



Audio isn't something I was thinking about when I was getting a newer car, I was more distracted with the idea of getting a newer car lol. Oh I wish I could go back and change it

I have tried looking at other audis with these systems, which sadly, I then have to make compromises elsewhere if I want the sound system and the lower price tag

Does anyone know what the Audi A1 Bose system is like??



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[TheFiftheElement]

Does it need to be the B&O. I had the Audi sound system in my S3 (the one up from basic) and it was pretty good.

Would that be a cheaper alternative?

The 3K outlay is definitely dead money, I'd look at a cheaper upgrade or change your car - life's too short

 

[DJAlix]

Pop over to me in north London and have the Audi sound system or Audi sound system plus (+ upgraded OEM Audi front door speakers) retrofitted for a fraction of the cost you have stated above

 

[PaddyMcpadington]

Pop over to me in north London and have the Audi sound system or Audi sound system plus (+ upgraded OEM Audi front door speakers) retrofitted for a fraction of the cost you have stated above

What would the Audi sound system plus cost?


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[DJAlix]

What would the Audi sound system plus cost?


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Audi Sound System £290.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre Speaker
• Rear Subwoofer Speaker

Audi Sound System Plus £410.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre
• Rear Subwoofer
• Left Front Door Speaker
• Right Front Door Speaker

The Audi Sound System Plus, which is a VAG Car Coding™ combination, would see the vehicles front door speakers upgraded from the existing 20watt speakers to 40watt speakers. All parts Genuine OEM Audi / VW Group. Wiring looms are custom made by VAG Car Coding™. OEM Coding Completed in order to allow MMI control. All retrofits have 2 years warranty.

Example images from a recent installation of the Audi Sound System Plus:

*this customer also had an OEM reversing camera installed at the same time, hence the images within the MMI screen collage.

 

[PaddyMcpadington]

Audi Sound System £290.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre Speaker
• Rear Subwoofer Speaker

Audi Sound System Plus £410.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre
• Rear Subwoofer
• Left Front Door Speaker
• Right Front Door Speaker

The Audi Sound System Plus, which is a VAG Car Coding combination, would see the vehicles front door speakers upgraded from the existing 20watt speakers to 40watt speakers. All parts Genuine OEM Audi / VW Group. Wiring looms are custom made by VAG Car Coding. OEM Coding Completed in order to allow MMI control. All retrofits have 2 years warranty.

Example images from a recent installation of the Audi Sound System Plus:

*this customer also had an OEM reversing camera installed at the same time, hence the images within the MMI screen collage.

View attachment 182154 View attachment 182155 View attachment 182156 View attachment 182157 View attachment 182158

That looks like a really good option over the others. What would you charge for supply and installation of MIB2 ??
Out of curiosity, would I need the full MIB2 if I just want the higher resolution screen and Android auto?

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[DJAlix]

That looks like a really good option over the others. What would you charge for supply and installation of MIB2 ??
Out of curiosity, would I need the full MIB2 if I just want the higher resolution screen and Android auto?

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Audi Smartphone Interface (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) is only officially available via the Audi MIB2 systems. If you are looking for a full MIB2 retrofit, screen + controls + USBs etc, you would be looking at around £2200.00. Genuine New Audi OEM parts, 2 years warranty.

 

[Goner]

Don’t spend 3K on B&O, it’s alright but that’s about it, certainly not worth 3K.

 

[JohnM100]

Like others have said - suggest you consider Audi Sound System but verify for yourself in a showroom/forecourt that it will be enough for you.

Having had both Audi Standard System and B&O, Audi Sound System is a bigger step up from standard than the step between Audi Sound System to B&O.

Don’t get me wrong, B&O is extremely good, but Audi Sound System is certainly no slouch and I was happy with it for years.


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[AudiNutta]

Audi Sound System £290.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre Speaker
• Rear Subwoofer Speaker

Audi Sound System Plus £410.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre
• Rear Subwoofer
• Left Front Door Speaker
• Right Front Door Speaker

The Audi Sound System Plus, which is a VAG Car Coding™ combination, would see the vehicles front door speakers upgraded from the existing 20watt speakers to 40watt speakers. All parts Genuine OEM Audi / VW Group. Wiring looms are custom made by VAG Car Coding™. OEM Coding Completed in order to allow MMI control. All retrofits have 2 years warranty.

Example images from a recent installation of the Audi Sound System Plus:

*this customer also had an OEM reversing camera installed at the same time, hence the images within the MMI screen collage.

View attachment 182154 View attachment 182155 View attachment 182156 View attachment 182157 View attachment 182158

That is a fantastic price for a lot of specialist work, if the OP wants to upgrade sound at low cost this has to be the way. The Audi Sound System especially when using an SD card or plugged in phone is great.

B&O is a very very difficult install from what I’ve read and even those most determined have given up on the idea?

@PaddyMcpadington if you are determined on getting B&O, change the car and go for a nice S alone with the options you want but B&O is generally a rare option in the A3 anyway.

 

[HertS3]

I went to @DJAlix for the Audi Sound System retrofit and it is a massive improvement, I'm no audiophile but I enjoy my music and it works well for me. I play my music from an SD card.

He's a great guy and can give you some freebie customisations whilst he's in there tinkering with the MIB to add the sub control Highly recommended!

 

[JohnM100]

I have the B&O on my S3. Although the quality of the sound is good, the quality of the actual product itself is poor. Mine is going in for its third speaker replacement after blowing again. Passenger side, same place. I listen to my music loud at times, but well within/below what max volume is on the car itself. If i had to get another i wouldn't waste £3000 on its personally.

Do you ‘run in’ your speakers especially when one is replaced?


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[Kayobong]

Audi Sound System £290.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre Speaker
• Rear Subwoofer Speaker

Audi Sound System Plus £410.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre
• Rear Subwoofer
• Left Front Door Speaker
• Right Front Door Speaker

The Audi Sound System Plus, which is a VAG Car Coding™ combination, would see the vehicles front door speakers upgraded from the existing 20watt speakers to 40watt speakers. All parts Genuine OEM Audi / VW Group. Wiring looms are custom made by VAG Car Coding™. OEM Coding Completed in order to allow MMI control. All retrofits have 2 years warranty.

Example images from a recent installation of the Audi Sound System Plus:

*this customer also had an OEM reversing camera installed at the same time, hence the images within the MMI screen collage.

View attachment 182154 View attachment 182155 View attachment 182156 View attachment 182157 View attachment 182158

How much would I be looking at if I wanted to upgrade to the Audi sound system plus if I already have the Audi sound system? Cheers.

 

[DJAlix]

How much would I be looking at if I wanted to upgrade to the Audi sound system plus if I already have the Audi sound system? Cheers.

£120.00 for supply and fit.

 

[Kayobong]

£120.00 for supply and fit.

Very reasonable price, I might shoot you a message in the near future, thanks mate.

 

[DanielF]

Audi Sound System £290.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre Speaker
• Rear Subwoofer Speaker

Audi Sound System Plus £410.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre
• Rear Subwoofer
• Left Front Door Speaker
• Right Front Door Speaker

The Audi Sound System Plus, which is a VAG Car Coding™ combination, would see the vehicles front door speakers upgraded from the existing 20watt speakers to 40watt speakers. All parts Genuine OEM Audi / VW Group. Wiring looms are custom made by VAG Car Coding™. OEM Coding Completed in order to allow MMI control. All retrofits have 2 years warranty.

Example images from a recent installation of the Audi Sound System Plus:

*this customer also had an OEM reversing camera installed at the same time, hence the images within the MMI screen collage.

View attachment 182154 View attachment 182155 View attachment 182156 View attachment 182157 View attachment 182158

How do I know what I have in my facelift s3 saloon? I know its not B&O

 

[DJAlix]

How do I know what I have in my facelift s3 saloon? I know its not B&O

Open the boot and look at the bottom of the parcel shelf. If there is a speaker bolted to the left side then you have the Audi Sound System, if none then you have the basic system.

 

[DanielF]

Ok I have the audi sound system then. How much of a difference is the plus or ok to splice in and attach an active sub?

 

[DJAlix]

Ok I have the audi sound system then. How much of a difference is the plus or ok to splice in and attach an active sub?

The "plus" see's your front door Bass/mid speakers upgraded. Makes for a nice boost in both quality and volume. If you have the Audi sound system and are looking to upgrade the sub then you can just connect straight to the loom, or connect an amp to the loom and to your aftermarket sub etc

 

[PhilsA3]

" if you are determined on getting B&O, change the car and go for a nice S alone with the options you want but B&O is generally a rare option in the A3 anyway."

 

[PaddyMcpadington]

The "plus" see's your front door Bass/mid speakers upgraded. Makes for a nice boost in both quality and volume. If you have the Audi sound system and are looking to upgrade the sub then you can just connect straight to the loom, or connect an amp to the loom and to your aftermarket sub etc

I've PM'd you


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[ivelliosy]

Hello gents. I have 8V FL Limo and want to upgrade to Audi Sound System from standard 8-speakers system. However local music shops offer in spare wheel sub as OEM solution, but i think it is only offered for sportbacks. And I have been told that It s an easy straight forward retrofit. Is it an easy retrofit for Limo as well? Should rear parcel to be modified for adding sub? Regards.

 

[carlos-1975]

Audi Sound System £290.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre Speaker
• Rear Subwoofer Speaker

Audi Sound System Plus £410.00 supplied and fitted

• Front Centre
• Rear Subwoofer
• Left Front Door Speaker
• Right Front Door Speaker

The Audi Sound System Plus, which is a VAG Car Coding™ combination, would see the vehicles front door speakers upgraded from the existing 20watt speakers to 40watt speakers. All parts Genuine OEM Audi / VW Group. Wiring looms are custom made by VAG Car Coding™. OEM Coding Completed in order to allow MMI control. All retrofits have 2 years warranty.

Example images from a recent installation of the Audi Sound System Plus:

*this customer also had an OEM reversing camera installed at the same time, hence the images within the MMI screen collage.

View attachment 182154 View attachment 182155 View attachment 182156 View attachment 182157 View attachment 182158

I have emailed to get a quote and book some retro fits but not got a reply mate can you pm me a contact number please

 

[DJAlix]

I have emailed to get a quote and book some retro fits but not got a reply mate can you pm me a contact number please

Works number is 07950 737 899.

 

[NevMan]

I have emailed to get a quote and book some retro fits but not got a reply mate can you pm me a contact number please

@DJAlix will sort you out mate, top pro. He coded and fitted dashcams and OEM camera

 

[carlos-1975]

Works number is 07950 737 899.

Wicked will call you monday

 

[DanielF]

Works number is 07950 737 899.

Have messaged you on here for information

 

[ivelliosy]

The "plus" see's your front door Bass/mid speakers upgraded. Makes for a nice boost in both quality and volume. If you have the Audi sound system and are looking to upgrade the sub then you can just connect straight to the loom, or connect an amp to the loom and to your aftermarket sub etc

Hi Alex, If you have an OEM Audi Sound System from factory, front door speakers are already 40 watts and you don't have to retrofit right?

 

[DJAlix]

Hi Alex, If you have an OEM Audi Sound System from factory, front door speakers are already 40 watts and you don't have to retrofit right?

Not always. Seems that Audi uses whatever it has in the parts bin at thew time as I have seen vehicles both with and without.

 

[ivelliosy]

Not always. Seems that Audi uses whatever it has in the parts bin at thew time as I have seen vehicles both with and without.

thanks for the prompt reply. Interesting info Btw, have you ever retrofitted an *** subwoofer to rear parcel shelf on a FL Saloon? Are you able to make a cut out on parcel shelf for subwoofer grill parts? Cheers.

 

[DJAlix]

thanks for the prompt reply. Interesting info Btw, have you ever retrofitted an *** subwoofer to rear parcel shelf on a FL Saloon? Are you able to make a cut out on parcel shelf for subwoofer grill parts? Cheers.

I have but the owner of the vehicle sourced an *** parcel shelf from eBay and I fitted it but as a rule I don't fit the subs in the parcel shelf as:

1) it would increase the time taken to complete the installation and thus increase the cost
2) it reduces the hight of items you can load in to your boot on the left hand side
3) Bass is non-directional so placement within a vehicle means almost nothing.

The speaker grills are basically just for show.

 

[ivelliosy]

I have but the owner of the vehicle sourced an *** parcel shelf from eBay and I fitted it but as a rule I don't fit the subs in the parcel shelf as:

1) it would increase the time taken to complete the installation and thus increase the cost
2) it reduces the hight of items you can load in to your boot on the left hand side
3) Bass is non-directional so placement within a vehicle means almost nothing.

The speaker grills are basically just for show.

Thanks for the valuable info Alex, appreciated it!

Unfortunately my vehicle came with 16" spare wheel and jack&tools inside it with a foam box. I have no other options than going for parcel shelf to keep OEM. But your comments regarding "non-directional bass" have encouraged me! To minimize cost and time, I will not cut rear parcel shelf or add grills. I will throw the sub under it and fix it with 3 bolts to deck, then assemble parcel shelf back. I assume there will be a touch condition between sub's upper side and shelf floor itself. Should I also fix sub to parcel with 4 little bolts like factory install? (Better choose black bolts due to no grill to hide them)

I also attached rear parcel shelf and sub photos for reference. Deadening foam material cuts of two parcels are different as well. It will physically block subwoofer face but not "sound" I assume.

I am really excited to hear your comments to decide whether it is feasible and makes sense or no go!

 

[DJAlix]

Thanks for the valuable info Alex, appreciated it!

Unfortunately my vehicle came with 16" spare wheel and jack&tools inside it with a foam box. I have no other options than going for parcel shelf to keep OEM. But your comments regarding "non-directional bass" have encouraged me! To minimize cost and time, I will not cut rear parcel shelf or add grills. I will throw the sub under it and fix it with 3 bolts to deck, then assemble parcel shelf back. I assume there will be a touch condition between sub's upper side and shelf floor itself. Should I also fix sub to parcel with 4 little bolts like factory install? (Better choose black bolts due to no grill to hide them)

I also attached rear parcel shelf and sub photos for reference. Deadening foam material cuts of two parcels are different as well. It will physically block subwoofer face but not "sound" I assume.

I am really excited to hear your comments to decide whether it is feasible and makes sense or no go!

I would just buy the needed size spare from eBay for like £30.00 to £50.00 No messing about and works out cheaper over all.

 

[Mikeso51]

I have the Audi Sound System. How can I tell whether I have the 20 watt or 40 watt front door speakers?

If I have the 20 watt speakers, can I just swap these for the 40 watt versions, or is some coding involved as well?

 

[DJAlix]

I have the Audi Sound System. How can I tell whether I have the 20 watt or 40 watt front door speakers?

If I have the 20 watt speakers, can I just swap these for the 40 watt versions, or is some coding involved as well?

Remove your door cards and look at the labels that are on the speakers

 

[ivelliosy]

I would just buy the needed size spare from eBay for like £30.00 to £50.00 No messing about and works out cheaper over all.

If I go for spare tire & wheel retrofit, I should also purchase related foam box to assemble tools under trunk floor like hatchbacks.

I know that you're an audiophile for some good years, read on somewhere else on forums .Will you share your thoughts If I'll be insistent on above idea?