What do you all think is the best brand of drivers (5.25") to use as replacements for the kickpanels? Right now, I'm just thinking about replacing these speakers to get a little better midbass response in the front. Thanks.

So, are you specifically looking for a mid-bass driver replacement, or are you possibly thinking to put a 2 or 3-way speaker into the kickpanel? I haven't heard any installations where folks have done this, but I can see the merits in putting a top-quality 2-way into the kick panel, then disabling the door speakers. I think it'll improve imaging somewhat... although, there' s nothing better than custom kick panels for imaging! Just curious...

I put in 2-way ADS speakers to replace my fronts.

They are nice speakers that do not have the problem some people have with MB Quart being to harsh.

They also produce alot of bass for a 5.25. I would use them again if I had the choice.

They also fit the stock locations perfectly...this includes the screw holes. I think they were the 235is models.

I would also check into the Boston Acoustic Proseries components...not harsh (like some say about the Quarts) smooth off axis response...bit pricey though...

Also check out the Diamond Audio HEX series...really nice sound...

how do the Bostons fit in the kick panels?

I used to have Boston is my Jeep, really nice sound.


Originally posted by eeeks
I would also check into the Boston Acoustic Proseries components...not harsh (like some say about the Quarts) smooth off axis response...bit pricey though...

Also check out the Diamond Audio HEX series...really nice sound...

The 5.25's fit into the stock locations...

The tweets took a little imagination...I used the mounts from the Quart set for the tweets

right now I guess what I'm trying to do is improve the sound with minimal modifications to the stock locations. Point is, I really do like the sound and imaging of the 3-way stock H/K speakers up front. I'm just afraid that if I go to a 2way component set (even with the higher quality) I will lose the "presence" that the stock midrange driver in the door provides. And upgrading to 3 way comps. from the likes of BA or MB Quart requires cutting the holes to fit the larger midrange drivers. Call me anal, but right now my priority is a stealth/stock look.

My next question to you guys with the 2 or 3 way comps.... How would you describe the change in sound/presence/imaging that you got with the aftermarket stuff compared to the stock H/K speakers? And I emphasize quality and not quantity....i.e., not just the fact that it can play louder.

HEY ANTHONY

I am running Boston ProSeries drivers in my front doors. 5.25s in the kicks, 3.5s in the mids with 1" tweets. No cutting. What my installer and I came up with is to use the mounting kit from a set of MB Quarts made for the E36s. No cutting and looks completely stock...

THe drivers are crossed over by the Proseries 6.5.3 passives crossover...great sound and no cutting (it was a pet peeve of mine too, anything I do to the car had to be "non-invasive"

Good luck

Like eeeks said, there are definitely ways to go with aftermarket three-ways and keep your stock look.

I have the Focal 3-way (but I went with custom kicks) and they are worth a listen. I know they are pretty trendy right now and very expensive for the top of the line, but the sound is heavenly.

Now, keep in mind that the stock locations are not going to give you the best sound, so some may say don't waste your money with top-notch speakers, but Focal has a mid range line as well.

The only other BMW speaker replacement I've heard was the ADS option. Sounded real nice too. Can't lose with either of these.

What are you going to do about amps? The Focals are power hungry....

Great info. Eeks, if your BA pros fit like you say they do, I definitely want to check into these....and get with the installer on mounting to look stock. May I ask how much you paid for speakers/install? I've heard the ADSs too and they sound great as well. Focals are also sweet but pricey. I've got a 5channel Soundstream running my system right now, and I love it for the money, but I may have to upgrade that as well to drive the new comps. Peace!

Hey anthony...

I got the Boston ProSeries 6.5.3 three passive x-over, Boston pro 5.25s,3.5s,and 1 inch tweets with the MB quart grills painted to match for 600...Keep in mind these are NYC prices and you may find much cheaper speakers by you.

Also, You may find these speakers on the net for sale...as well as the Diamonds...I've seen lows at around 350..and highs around 750....

I've run these Bostons on an older a/d/s PQ10 4 channel amp...35 watts x 4..and they sounded incredible..clean and good response...good low end extension...Currently, I'm running them on an Xtant 603x (75 watts x 2, 150 x 1). Musically speaking, the Xtant just doesn't have the finesse that the a/d/s did...*sigh* but it still is plenty clean and powerful...

You should be fine with the soundstream amp...I used to have a soundstream amp in my old car...very sweet.

Good luck and let me know if you need anymore help

Hey Eeeeeks,
where did you get the Quarts mounts? My cousins selling his quarts and i need to get the mounts for my car, did you call MB Quarts and ask them to send you some?

Hey


I got them from my installer...but you may be able to get them without buying the speakers....I think its part of the installation kit...I'll ask my installer tomorrow

Ive seen 6 1/2" (I think)
speakers fit in the 5 1/4" locations..

ELI

Originally posted by eeeks
Hey


I got them from my installer...but you may be able to get them without buying the speakers....I think its part of the installation kit...I'll ask my installer tomorrow

we are doing that today, we do have to trip hte metal tho.

Who's a good seller/installer in New York? I need help in a big way with my car. I run stock HK in my '97 328is. The BA stuff you're talking about is interesting, but how and where will I get the most bang for my buck?

Hey Russel

I actually got mine installed by Bruce Orr @ Sound Effects in Paramus, NJ. They have a satellite store in manhatten...excellent work...won't mess up the car...give them a call