What to do with a basic 2006 X3
 

Facts: 2006 X3. No options – BASIC factory radio system (single CD player).

Challenge: Radio sucks.

What would members suggest to improve the sound system in general. I’m not necessarily looking for the boom of a sub but I’d just like to be able to hear the radio when I have the sunroof open and the windows down. Thinking new speakers and amp. I’m a rookie when it comes to car sound systems. Also entertaining possible iPod hookup.

Budget: $500-750 USD (to include installation)

Suggestions?

Contact BavAuto.com and ask them if they plan on releasing a Infinity sub package for the 06 X3, I checked and they don't have one listed yet.

Also try out www.crutchfield.com, they should be able to give you ideas of speaker upgrades.

I was at crutchfield and they didn't have any "direct fit" speakers for me - at least they said they hadn't researched the vehicle (even tried 2005 X3 search, nothing).

I don't know anything about my X3 system... :dunno:

I know that the speakers in the door (I think they are 4") are almost impossible to replace because most speakers won't fit. The stockers are very shallow. I've been told that you can upgrade the tweeter and add new/better crossovers to the existing mids, and have all of that powered with a new amp.

I'm still on the fence with upgrading my system. But good luck with yours :thumbup:

I'll be able to help on that iPod hookup! :thumbup:

The US head of MB Quart visited our store today. He wants us to pick up the ine, and as many know, I am not a big Quart fan of late - but they have some new prodduct, and the one that interests me the most is a 4" mid less than 2" deep that has the neo magnet in the FRONT.

It will go into the X3.

I am getting pricing and such and plan on making a kit.

So basically I have no options at this point.

Well, that sucks... :(

Cool! Let us know what you come up with.

Anyone else? :dunno:

Okay, what about buying OEM premium speakers and an aftermarket amp?

I guess that MTX Jackhammer is out of the question?

http://www.mtxaudio.com/caraudio/pro...jackHammer.cfm

Huh? That thing weighs 369lbs? :wow:

We are doing a front-sub system in a 2006 X3 next week. Pics to follow :)

Any further info and price on this?

Thanks.

In process...: ) typing a big old post right now but wanting to keep it non-blog-like.

OK, I will post in more detail in a new thread with pics, but here's my specifics:

1) The MB Quart RUA210 will fit beautifully, mid and tweet both. The avincar silk dome tweeters are better sounding, and I think are worth it, but are a hard DIY install due to required modification of the plastic snap-in tweeter mounting ring on the back of the door, and no depth to spare. Lots more work, that I wouldn't want to walk DIY'ers through. The passives need to go behind the door panel, NOT in the back like in the X5 and other BMW's.

2) There is a spot for an amp forward of the battery compartment, aft of the rear seat, exposed when you pull the load floor. There are some studs for mounting something factory, don't know what it would be, check that spot early in system planning to see if you can use it. MIGHT be rear SRS controller as this car lacked rear side air bags.

Zapco Ref 360 and DR 360, DLS Reference 2,3 or 4 channel, DLS Classic 2,3,4 channel, many Audison would fit. JL slash MIGHT fit. JL "e" should fit. Alpine, Rockford, Kicker, MTX, I don't think so - long and narrow is the deal. If you need 5/6 channels in a single amp, it will be tough. The JL "e" amp might fit, the Audison 6-channel amp might fit, but most, no. Better off using a 4 and putting a mono amp...

3) If you have nav or a CD-C, your sub has to go on the passenger side. An 8" is indicated without lots of mod. On the drivers' side, if you DON'T have nav or a rear CD-C, you can get a 10" on the driver's side in a molded box and make it look OEM. You could instead hide an amp back there IF you order the nav version of the rear trim piece for your color (see realoem.com for the BMW part).

Thanks. Looking forward to the pix and write-up.

http://kward1.homestead.com/2006BMWx3.html

Not for 56k!