Is DSP sound worth the price ?

[tomwac]

I'm just wondering, as I maybe might buy a new X5 3.0d, if the price for my old one is right.
What do you guys think about these options ?
- Carbonblack
- Individual leather Walknappa zimt (dark brown)
- steptronic
- servotronic
- auto airco
- clear lights
- running boards
- pano roof
- auto dimming in and outside mirrors
- cup holders front and rear
- heated seats
- bi-xenons
- adaptive xenons
- PDC
- rain en light sensor
- navi pro
- cd changer
- darkend windows in the back
- bluetooth
- sport package
- lumbar support

I'm just not sure if the DSP is worth 1400 euro. Any input from the ones that have this option and compared it to "normal" sound ?

[Chris F.]

Tom, I would reccomend skipping the DSP profressional system and getting the one right below that -- the 10 speaker system. The speakers used in the 10 system are almost exactly the same. I've had the DSP system in other cars and I don't even use it -- I can't stand fake signal processing in my music (which is basically what the DSP does -- it adds echos).

I would save your money and save it for other toys.

As I understand it you guys have the 10 speaker system as an option, correct? Otherwise if that is the one that comes standard just leave it as is.

[Curious Joel]

I don't think it's necessary. I thought it sounded good, but I dont know if it's worth what they charge for it. It was a heck of a lot better than the crappy harmon/kardon system in the 330xi.

[rdatta]

I have the DSP and find it to be OK at best. Definitely not worth the money and as stated, its artificial sounding.
Raj

[LeMansX5]

Originally Posted by Chris F.

Tom, I would reccomend skipping the DSP profressional system and getting the one right below that -- the 10 speaker system. The speakers used in the 10 system are almost exactly the same. I've had the DSP system in other cars and I don't even use it -- I can't stand fake signal processing in my music (which is basically what the DSP does -- it adds echos).

I would save your money and save it for other toys.

As I understand it you guys have the 10 speaker system as an option, correct? Otherwise if that is the one that comes standard just leave it as is.

Not worth it. I had DSP in my first X5 4.4 and in my current 4.8(came with it - not an option) and I think BMW could have done better. I have listened to audio in the new 2005 Acura RL and it makes the X5 audio sound average.

[Echoi17]

I think the DSP is nice b/c it does allow you to fine tune your music. I listen to a wide variety of music and the flexibility of the Digital Sound Processor allows me to cator towards each type. In addition, the echo is not a problem b/c the DSP allows you to change the level from some to none. I think it's essential if you plan on upgrading your system in the future...in terms of speakers or amps that is. Besides, if you are planning on leasing or financing your car, $1,400 shouldn't effect the price too much in terms of payment...actually wait....it's Euros huh...hmm...what's the price difference between that and the normal 10 speaker upgrade? If there isn't too much of a difference and you are planning on upgrading the sound anyways then it is worth it. I have it on mine and I like it. Especially my girlfriend...since she can have her presets as well for her music.

[Steved]

For the price, I would say it's worth it. How DSP sounds depends very much on the settings you use (see my recommending settings on the front page of X5 World). I've owned two X5s with just the 10 speaker system and now I'm on my second X5 with the 14 speaker DSP set-up and it's so much better. I'm not saying you couldn't do better with an aftermarket system but it would likely cost you more, especially if you started to choose better quality amps and speakers.

The DSP option provides a much better soundscape with a wider range of frequencies and (obviously) a lot more bass. I'm a Hi-Fi buff at home and bad set-ups annoy me, but I find the DSP set-up acceptable. It could probably be improved with better quality speakers, particularly mid and high frequencies.

I replaced my 4.8is recently and thought long and hard about getting DSP again, then I drove a 10 speaker system and I was convinced. For the UK price of £600 that would barely cover the cost of four new component speakers, far less the additional amp and sub.

[tomwac]

Ok, thanks everybody for the input. The 10 speaker setup is a 600 euro option as opposed to 1400 euro for the DSP...I'm not a big music fan, I only occasionally play loud when cruiseing on the motorway on my own and have no plan as for upgrading the system with aftermarket stuff. I currently have the basic setup (6 speakers ??) and have no real complaints, except for the bass maybe. But I figure, for the same amount I can take rear seat heating, rear elect. seats and rear airco controls and have money left for a few beers ...decisions.....

[Thunder22]

I had DSP in my '01 4.4i, and i skipped it in my '04 and I don't miss it at all... unless you listen to music very loudly or want the concert/hall/etc etc settings, I would recommend skipping it and spending the $$$ on other options.

[briandwlee]

I would say it's not worth it. But, you are buying a BMW spending almost $50K. It's ridiculous if you do not buy what you like which costs about $1000 or so, only if you like it. Go to a dealer and listen to with/without DSP side by side. Audio system in X5s is already good enough, I think. DSP is not necessary in my very personal opinion.

Trust your ears!!!

Brian