PREORDER SALE: X5 Specific Subwoofer System
 

All the info is on our site, so I won't try to squeeze it all on this page. It's FAR easier to send you to our website, so here's a link to the product:

http://www.bavariansoundwerks.com/pr...I=509/_cid=196

Hi Micah,

I was wondering if the amp is part of the box or separate and if it has a bass knob. Also, what's the frequency response of the sub you're using? Thanks.

Amplifier will be separate. (But this enclosure can only be purchased WITH amplifier and sub as a complete package). In most vehicles it can be mounted in the same panel on the opposite side of the trunk on an included mount. For select vehicles equipped with nav AND cd changer, you'll have to give up your CD changer for an iPod integration kit or similar if you want the amp hidden or you can mount it on the outside of the panel. Amp is very small, though, so trunk space is not impacted in any measurable way if external mounting is required.

It doesn't have a bass knob, but bass is very well blended and needs little adjustment from one recording or source to another.

Fs = 35Hz -- and the woofer plays accurately well below that. Here's a link to the specifications of the woofer we're using so you can see a frequency response curve:

http://www.alumapro.com/docs/alusonic_ex_8.pdf

Note that the prototype we built used an off the shelf woofer. Final version will likely have a subwoofer optimized specifically for this enclosure (although I'm not sure how it could sound any damn better! :))

I think I may have the distinction of having been the first to order this! Johnny, tell him what he has won!

Oops, need to do a revision of content. It is an 8."

EDIT: Fixed!

Thanks for the order, John! :)

As i mentioned in another post, my X5 was fitted with this setup by BSW and all i can say is that i am very pleased with the sound and setup. I wasn't sure what to expect when i dropped off my car, but i was amazingly surprised with the sound and solid bass levels, stealth installation, and amp setup when i picked it up. The 8" sub unit fit neatly into the compartment with the X5 specific custom-built enclosure.

Its been two weeks since i've had the unit and have had no rattling or unexpected vibrations while driving. Unfortunately I dont have DSP, but can make some slight adjustments to the bass and treble when needed and that works just fine. I'm no audio expert but the sound is incredible compared to my stock unit with no sub.

When i came to pick up the X5, Jason of BSW played a cd of The Crystal Method's Vegas and I was blown away with the bass levels in the tracks. Both Jason and Micah of Bavarian Soundwerks have been great to work with and I highly recommend this system and for the price it can' be beat.

Let me know if you have any question and i would be happy to answer them.

TONY G.

The way the wiring is done, is the sub input signal independent of the headunit's bass level control? Obviously some way to cross-over the lower frequencies to just the sub would free up the existing speakers to better reproduce the mid frequencies. Usually this means the sub signal must be "preamp", but BMW audio is known to be a bit quirky...so how did you guys get it to work in this particular case?

Also, how long is this sale expected to last?

You can pull the signal off of the "woofer" speakers and adjust your crossover for the sub using the aftermarket amp that's driving the sub.

Micah, is the sub designed to play through the panel covering (just like the OEM DSP system) without requiring a grill or any other opening? Hmmm...I'm still trying to figured out a way to hide my tiny amp if I decide to go this route since I DON'T want to lose my MP3 CD changer; plus the fact that I am ANTI-iPOD...can't you tell from my avatar? :D

digitaljok: The signal we use is as follows:

In a non-DSP car, we tap the pre-amp audio signal from the factory tuner. This is a full range signal which is crossed over at our amp so that the subwoofer is playing only the bass frequencies. Note that the full range of audio is still being played to the rest of the system; the sub bass is not "crossed out" unfortunately.

In a DSP car, we tap the the factory subwoofer audio signals and crossover as necessary again.

In a car with aftermarket audio equipment, you feed it whatever signal you want and cross it over however you want! :)

dkl: The sub is designed to play through the factory cover without any grille or other opening. In blind comparison tests here, we weren't able to detect a difference with or without the cover in place.

As far as the amp, if you don't want to give up your CD changer, you are going to be VERY hard pressed to find a spot other than on the outside of the cover.

It looks very nice, but at that price:wow:, I dunno.
Will there be a sale on the sub only, w/no amp?

Nope; we will not be offering this outside of a complete package.

Sorry you think the price is high, but if you compare this to the cost of a custom solution in this location on the vehicle at any local audio shop, you'll find ours is far less expensive.

Micah, I live in Italy and have not been able to find a place here that sells this brand. Strange. Can you lend some help? I live far north in Trento.

I believe you, nice things cost money, these toys are expensive, I gotta save up.

Which other subs are your comparable too? And do you think we can add other woofers in that box aswell? Maybe an 8W3v2?

Very few woofers are in the same league as the BSW by Alumapro 8" subwoofer we're using, not only because the subwoofer is super, but also because it will be re-engineered specifically for the enclosure and amplifier. Also, I haven't done side by side comparisons in this application and configurations, so I am hesitant to make comparisons.

We have not tested an 8w3v2 and cannot say if it will fit; we have taken no depth measurements since we do not intend to sell the enclosure outside of a package, so I can't say if it will fit.

Hoopie: BSW is a small, U.S. based company and we do not have an established international distribution network at this time. We are, however, happy to ship internationally to you.

This is unfortunate since I already have a sub/amp installed and was hoping that I will only need to swap out my sub/box with yours to get back some trunk space. I guessed if you're not considering offering the sub/enclosure separately, I would just have to turn to JL audio for their sub/enclosure or just leave my current set-up as is :(

We understand. If we see enough demand, we MAY offer the enclosure pre-loaded with subwoofer, but we don't have specific plans to do so at this time.

I would like to see the box sold un-loaded with all the box mounts. I have an aftermarket eclipse head unit and have the amp and JL 8w3v2 from my last car. I have been waiting for someone to offer up a box for that compartment to install into.

Thanks, Jeff

I can tell you for sure that we will not be offering the enclosure unloaded; it will always come with a subwoofer. Possibly without amp / wiring, but never without the subwoofer.

EDIT: It's worth noting that part of the reason for this is that we are having the subwoofer tuned specifically for the enclosure / amplifier we're using.

I pre-ordered my Sub the day it was announced here. I can't wait for it to arrive! Micah, keep us posted as ship dates near. Think this will round out the BSW Stage 1 nicely. Then I don't have to listen to that stupid hatch rattle. :o)

Thanks for your order!

Gore - I contacted BSW to be the "test vehicle" but was too late - funny someone else from Buford got it. Where are you located - I would like to meet up with you sometime and hear this thing.

how does the sub compare to a JL Audio, also how simple is it to install. No previous experience.
2006 x5 w 6 cd and nav

I'm not sure what you mean by "how does this sub compare to JL Audio?" JL makes a number of different products and subwoofer types, so I'm just not sure what you're asking. Can you be a bit more specific?

Installation is very straightforward. You'll need to make several wire connections and connect a power and ground wire to the battery and chassis respectively. Detailed installation instructions will be included, and all work is done in the trunk. Even a novice should have no problems with the installation process.

i was talking about the quality and performance, also how about the amp where would i mount it b/c i have nav and 6cd changer. Are all the connections needed when tapped safe.

Because there are so many different JL products, it's hard to compare performance with no point of reference. I can tell you, however, than the BSW by Alumapro subwoofer is significantly cleaner and more accurate than any JL woofer I've heard. For an output comparison I would need to know the specifics of the setup including subwoofer type, amplifier type, enclosure type and location, etc., so I really can't compare there.

Yes, all connections used are perfectly safe to tap.

if i do go ahead and add the sub in the back panel would i void the BMW warranty.

also what would u recommend its a lease, 3yr.

Would you be willing to sell the box as is with no sub or wiring?

cubanbeer: No, you shouldn't. According to the Magnusson-Moss Act, BMW is obligated to prove that the subwoofer system is causing any issues that arise. We've never seen any problems with any subwoofer systems we've integrated previously, and they all use the same connections / wiring as this one, so I sincerely doubt you should have any problems. But if you do, BMW should NOT be able to void your warranty.

cpatzer: Unfortunately, no. We are considering sale of the enclosure w/ woofer only, but we will not be selling the enclosure alone at any time for any reason.

Thanks, I guess I will just finish building my own fiberglass enclosure.

Thanks anyways.

No problem! :)

I'd be interested in a box alone since I have a 5 channal amp already with a 250 watt sub channal. PLEASE!!!

Enclosure will not be available alone, but it will be available pre-loaded with subwoofer (amp not included).

That's what I'm looking for. Will this option be on the website? Thanks.

Yes, we will eventually add this as an option on our website.

Is a 2 ohm verion possible?

It is possible, but certainly not planned. We will only offer a 2 Ohm version if we need it for our amplifiers.

The system here looks great! That's not a bad price for everything, however, not having a bass adjustment on the fly bums me out. Bass level does vary from track to track. Now that I have a bass level knob mounted within reach, I can't imagine not having one. I would consider scrapping my basslink 2 setup for this but I'm not giving up my remote bass level control!

You're certainly right, but with this system and its excellent mesh with the rest of the audio system, constant adjustment of the sub isn't required. Since we'll be tying into the rear audio signal in the car, you'll be able to make the subtle adjustments you need using fader control on your head unit.

OK Micah I really like your system AND THE PRICE IS VERY GOOD! I was recently quoted from another vendor:

Enclosure $1000
Sub $ 800
Alpine m450 $230
Brackets $120
Panel/Grill $300

Total: $1880

I have already purchased the BSW speaker upgrade and MY SYSTEMS SOUNDS GREAT. When do you think the enclosure by itself will be sold on the website?

We will only be selling the enclosure pre-loaded with woofer. It will be available for purchase once these systems are in stock and will probably be available in the $550 range. If you don't already have an amp, it makes a lot of sense to pre-order this system w/ amp.

I already have an MTX TC31001 here awaiting application. I selected that amp because of its size, speaker level inputs, smart turn-on and remote level control (you know I'm hooked on that! lol)

No problem - that works!

Micah, any word yet on shipping date?

We are VERY close. I expect we will be slightly behind target by around 1 week.

Does this system disconnect the factory subs or bypass the bass to the factory system or something? I don't see how it will be an improvement if the other parts of the system aren't changed or altered to remove certain frequencies.

Thanks
Curtis

10/14 + ~1 week = ~10/21? Anybody who has 'bought' (pre-paid for) one of these received an update?

I noticed on the BSW website that the pre-order sale is still active, and the AVAILABILITY text now reads "Shipping late October, 2006."

There are exactly 2.5 business days in this late stage of October, and I want my bass!

-Dave

I was going to hop into the thread a little later in the day when I had more information, but here's where we're at.

About 6 weeks ago we received the final production prototype from our manufacturer. It couldn't have been more perfect. It was EXACTLY what we gave them. So, we gave them the green light to move forward with production.

Yesterday, we received a sample unit of the first production run from our manufacturer (with the full batch scheduled to arrive Monday). The long and short is that it doesn't perfectly match the production prototype. It works, but not as flawlessly as we wanted. We are not going to deliver a product that's 95% there -- it needs to be 100% right. As a result, we have to push the shipping timeframe back once again.

At this point, I don't have an exact revised timeframe. However, the expectation is that it shouldn't take long to rebuild the units as needed. I will be posting more information as the day progresses and e-mailing everyone who has purchased one of these systems with an update.

We will also be upgrading shipping to FedEx Express Saver for everyone who has purchased one of these kits at no additional expense to make up for these delays.

For the record, I hate that BSW has become yet another cliche with delays associated with new product releases. I want to let everyone know that we are VERY, VERY close, and if we weren't perfectionists could release the product to you as-is. Please hang in there; it's worth the wait!

I will be back a bit later in the day.

Update: we are shpping direct from our build house later this week. Exact date is unspecified as far as a ship date; enclosures are currently curing from painting. When that's complete, we'll ship!

what does that mean?
that means....if i install that 8' subwoofer, should i give up using CD changer? (oh sorry, by the way i have nav + 6disk cd changer without dsp).
where would i put the amp.??

Update 2: We are shipping amplifier + wiring to all U.S. customers today. The subwoofer enclosure + sub should be shipped later this week. International customers will have to wait until middle of next week for shipment.

awesomejun: Sorry if I wasn't clearer. The subwoofer system does not require that you remove your CD changer. However, if you want a totally stealth install with the amplifier hidden from view, you must install the amplifier in the OEM CD changer location. If you want to keep your CD changer, then your only option will be to mount the amplifier to the outer surface of the CD changer cover panel.

the amp should also fit under the load floor on top
of the spare tire cover. that's just a guess though.

Micah,

If you don't have a cd changer (which I don't) and there is no mounting system (for lack of a better term) in the left rear compartment then where do I install the amp?

I looked this up on Realoem.com...
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...94&hg=65&fg=10

Looks like I would need this...

Is it possible that BMW doesn't install that on basic radio equipped X5's?

4MoJoe: If you don't have a bracket in the CD changer "area" that's not a problem -- there is surface area to simply screw the amplifier into the vehicle's sheetmetal in the same way the factory brackets attach to the chassis in that area. Yours is the simplest installation of all! :)

broknlgs24: We haven't tested this and can't confirm. Might be possible, though!

Got my amp via FedEx today. Waiting for the woofer, and then installation time!

Is the paint dry yet, Micah?

My Account on the BSW website claims 'SHIPPING COMPLETE,' and I received and email with my FedEx tracking numbers on Tuesday.

But when I go to FedEx Tracking, they tell me there's been no shipment?

(Initially, the sub shipment had an Estimated Delivery of yesterday, but that's since gone away).

Amps are out for delivery today, per FedEx...

Just got in the office - had to get a new computer for one of my partners this AM.

I spoke to our build house yesterday. The plan was to ship all remaining orders (except international customers) out today provided the paint finish is up to spec; yesterday was the last day they needed to cure. The enclosures are being picked up from painting right now, so I will know shortly from our build house if the paint is right, and if it is, everything is shipping today!

The reason why our site says "shipping complete" is because we sent the shipping labels for the enclosure/sub to our build house so they can ship direct to our customers, rather than to us. This gets you your product more quickly. But, it meant that we had to put the tracking numbers in our shipping system a little ahead of time.

If everything goes to plan, all customers should have their systems no later than Wednesday of next week depending on your location!

Paint is right! These enclosures/subs are shipping today!

Very Happy with Subwoofer
 

I got one of the subwoofers from BSW that was part of a small pre-production run. I am VERY happy with the sound quality, as well as the fit and finish. I think you guys will be very happy with the product.

Brad

Curtis:

If your vehicle does not have DSP (the premium sound system), the signal we use is are the head unit's OEM pre-amp signals before they reach the stock amplifier.

If you have DSP, the signal is the post-amp subwoofer signal. This signal is already equalized and adjusted, so it is not ideal, but good enough that it doesn't require adjustment for most users. The change in enclosure / subwoofer yield a dramatic benefit, as does the higher output amplifier included with this system.

With or without DSP, the improvement is not in the rest of the system, but in the amount and quality of bass response.

Glad you're enjoying it, Brad! Let me know if you need us to move the DICE connection or add a spec.dock.

For those of you with the sub installed already...
 

....or BSW, for that matter: anybody have photos they could post of the Amp install?

I hear generally about the CD changer spot or in around the spare tire well, but I'd like to see an image or two, if possible.

Expecting delivery from FedEx today!

Thanks for the help.
-Dave

Micah,
I just sent you an email, asking about installation instructions. There were none in my delivery. The sub and amp look great, but I don't know how to install them!

E-mail sent!

OK, I will spend some more time listening to this new setup tomorrow, but I just got done installing it, and it is FINE!!! Micah got me the installation instructions, which were very good. I think this will turn out to be a very worthwhile investment. Thanks, Micah!

Same situation here. My sub arrived yesterday, but no instrux. Micah, perhaps as a proactive measure, you could email instructions to each of the group buy customers?

I'll be sending an email directly.

-Dave

Statdoc, so tell us about your install? How much time? How many beers? Where'd you put the amp? Any lessons learned? Any pics?

Thanks in advance! Sorry for the barrage.
-Dave

It took me ~3 hours. Several reasons for that.
1. I really took my time, so I wouldn't make a mistake.
2. I was doing a bit of "multi-tasking", and was interrupted a couple times (pick up the boy from soccer, etc.).
3. I had a devil of a time getting some of the electrical connections done.

Regarding the electrical. BSW includes some "butt connectors" to attach the wires. I have rarely found these to be very well designed (maybe I just don't use them properly). Anyway, I ended up using wire nuts, but really had to work to get enough slack in the wiring harness to use those. If I hadn't already cut the wires, connectors like I have pictured would have worked really well. (Suggestion to Micah: Switch to these)

I tried the amp installation in a couple different spots, but finally chose to drill a couple holes in the sheet metal inside the electronics cubbyhole. It seems fine with just two screws in it.

Anyway, it is a stealth installation, and sounds great.

Butt connectors are tricky, but are more secure when used properly than wire nuts. However, it's true that at BSW we have a bit more experience than the average guy, so it might make sense to use an alternative that's more consistent if less reliable. Thanks for the feedback!

Hi BSW,

two questions:

How is this sub compared to a Basslink II?

Can I keep the Basslink II and install this as well? Do you think that would be a bad idea to keep the Basslink as part of this system?

The two are not even in the same league. Our xh108 will significantly outperform the Basslink in every regard -- output, accuracy, transient response -- everything. Not even close. You can actually read a review one of our customers made that previously had the Basslink and upgraded to our system:

http://www.bavariansoundwerks.com/pr..._cid=196/#tabs

The review is under "Forbes."

I would definitely get rid of the Basslink II if you get our xh108 system. It will only muddy the bass response.

Subwoofer & Speakers upgrade - feedback
 

Three weeks ago I finally completed my enhancements to my 2004 x5 4.4i (with NAV and DSP) and want to share my experience with others who may be considering an upgrade. Here are the upgrades I made together with my comments on their performance:

1. Knocked out all 10 stock speakers and replaced them with Rainbow Audio speakers offered by BSW + midranges sourced and offered under BSW brand. For main drivers I went for a better version than ones listed under Stage 1 upgrade, for additional $30 per driver. Factory CD Changer and Amp were left intact.

At this stage the improvement from stock system was HUGE. I am a serious audio enthusiast and to me the stock system was simply unlistenable and a headache catalyst. The Rainbows removed the entire muddiness and gruff out of the system; improvement in highs were signficant, with crisp vocals and excellent rendering of strings. What was more surprising was the low end; I disconnected the junky factory subwoofer and found the bass quality of the drivers to be truly impressive. However I do think that the way the factory amp crossover is designed, you will not get optimal sound w/o a sub. Before I move on to the next upgrade details, I want to specifically commend the BSW guys for delivering an "excellent" midrange set. They excelin voice rendering. I think my installer screwed uo by bypassing the crossovers that were provided with the install kit, unless i am unclear abt the technicalities, but as is, they sound fantrastic - especially when I listen to jazz or new age vocals.

I have no experience with MB Quarts, but I can tell you that Rainbows will impress you. My higher end Rainbows were the most expensive option, but I am extremely pleased with my investment and think every penny was well spent. Caveat though, I still have to address the brightness issue with my midranges, which I think is an install issue.

2. Next step was the subwoofer upgrade from BSW. I will keep it short - if you change your speakers and do not change your sub, it makes no sense, as you dont get optimal results. But if you go all the way, you will be amazed with what you hear. BSW should be proud of creating this niche product that fits like a glove into your beloved BMW and sounds like heaven. This 8" sub is fantastic; expensive but, hey, try creating a stealth setup like this from scratch and see what you might spend...and what you get.

3. Last was DICE + Speckdock. In short, i will call it "DICEY". It's a disastrous product that insults and abuses the otherwise fantastic system in my X5. When I swapped my CD Changer with the DICE, all the muddiness and headache returned with a bang. Mind you, all my music in my iPod is in lossless format cut straight from my own CDs. After this dissapointment I switched back to my CD Changer. This convinced me that I would rather live with the limitations and inconveniences of my CDC than to destroy the potential of my otherwise great system. My personal belief is that DICE is a great concept that is executed very poorly, and is targeted at "interface" junkies who cant tell sound quality from a rat's ass. Probably just the kind of people who use stock headphones with their iPod? Jokes apart, I think the poor electronics and the really long run of cheap cable from front to back are to blame for the dismal performance. I am returning them.

Finally, I went out and bought a Sony Cassette adapter for the iPod. Hear this; the cassette adapter delivers "far superior" output than the Dice. It hides neatly behind the Nav screen, the wire can be concealed (i havent had the time to figure that but surely will), and for $30 you are able to keep your CDC and date your iPOD. This combination rocks. Believe me and try it, you will NOT regret. Since I have no experience with FM transmitters, I cannot offer you an A/B comparison, but to my discerning ears the cassette adapter is a great solution.

I hope this helps you prospective buyers out there. Go deck up your beloved darling and enjoy the drive. Ciao.

I know we didn't sell the DICE directly to you, but respect your opinion.

Did you verify that the EQ settings on the iPod were set to OFF? If not, this would be the cause of distorted sound. Also, try with a different iPod if possible, if the sound is the same - this rules out the iPod.

Nice right up but I cant belive that the dice is worse than a cassette adapter as that is the lowest quaility I could imagine.There must be something wrong with the dice or the install I have a ice link and the sound is as good as cdc but without it jumping at all! It might be worth you getting a aux lead for your I pod. Although not as good quaility as Icelink/Dice will be better than cassette adapter. And for the record I dont use standard headphones with my I pod.

GET THE ICELINK PLUS FOR BMW - IT WORKS GREAT - UNLIKE ALL THAT I READ ABOUT DICE.

Been discontinued for quite some time. The ice>Link was replaced by the DICE which is much more stable and does not cause the problems the ice>Link was plagued with in the past.

OK - agreed discontinued but there are plenty NEW Icelink units on EBAY for a good price. I have had NO ISSUES with my ICELINK PLUS - reading this message board scares me away from DICE. Just my opinion.

I agree - when the ice>Link is working, it works great.

The ones on eBay are old v2.02 hardware and Best Buy returns w/ 2B1 firmware. They've been sitting in a box since 2005 or returned from customers and offers no product warranty.

I don't intend to turn this thread into an ice>Link vs DICE thread - I just wanted to state the facts. I'm sure the X5 has to sound great with the speaker upgrade. ;)

Ash, thanks for the wonderful review.

As some others have said, it doesn't make too much sense that the DICE unit has inferior sound quality to a tape interface. Something sounds fishy: EQ settings could be a culprit as has been suggested.

Also, DICE kits can be overwhelming in terms of their user interface for some, especially when you factor in an occaisional bug, etc. I'm sorry that you weren't happy with the product, and of course with our policy, you are welcome to return it for a full refund provided we shipped it to you less than 30 days ago.

Feel free to call if you'd like to go through a support session on the DICE. We've installed hundreds, so we've seen every problem and issue in the book and can probably resolve your issues quickly.

Happy Holidays!

Are there any sales coming up on this sub? ;)

Probably not -- we have a hard time keeping them in stock as it is (we just ran out).

That said, until April 30, we are able to offer a $100 discount if you purchase the any subwoofer system and Stage 1 at the same time -- which would include the xh108. To get the discount, just mention it when ordering OR enter discount code STG1SUB at checkout.

Oh, gosh...
I just ordered the sub and the Stage 1 seperately...
I feel like i'm so fool. Is there any chance that i can get that $100 discount?

Of course -- your orders were just a couple of days apart. I've credited your account $100. :)

Thank you, Micah~!!! I really appreciate it! :)

FYI,

This is Brad from evosport. We installed the complete BSW system in our 2002 X5 4.4 - all I can say is it ROCKS!

I have listened back to back with my $7500 show system in the M3, and the X5 is almost there. Sure, some staging issues compares, but SOOOOO much better then the stock and better then 99% of the 2500-5000K stereo shop systems that most have.

Well done BSW! Full review in a new thread when I can get some time.

Thanks
Brad

Thanks for the great review Brad!