Heuer21: Yes, you are correct! I am saving now to replace the AMP, the speakers and a sub -- starting with the speakers! I cannot get over the sound that it currently produces -- what's up with that! Buy now BMW should have better control!!!

AMEN! No way it sounds great at any level! Imagine me -- without DSP/Premium and how my eardrums hurt....LOL

I have the DSP on mine and it sounds good enough imo, i went to BSW and bought the ipod aux kit and i told them that i had DSP and they still didnt sent me the DSP kit so i returned that and went with the OEM AUX kit and i am generally pleased with it. IMO CD quality > Ipod AUX quality but its not a deal breaker to me

BSW Stage 1 Upgrade Installation Services in Maryland
 

Can anyone help me out with this one?:rofl:

I think the standard system in my 02 X5 sounds great compared to the one in my 98 M Roadster.

what are some good 6.5" component speakers that will fit in the e53 without any machining or crazy installation modifications?

i'm looking to keep the price on a pair of comps under $400...

I am not sure. I had an installation done in mine last month using BAVSOUND, including a sub and DICE installation for iphone intergration. Cost at $1200. With BAVSOUND -- it is just plug and play no mods needed. A pair of mids will cost around what you are trying to spend and about the easiest to install.

Also, you may check out Alpine, but I would do all four because when they did the install -- all four of my mids were all ripped up. They are poorly made.

Good luck!

Have had the BSW system installed for several years. I have DSP. The system I have upgraded all speakers, added an amp and subwoofer. As already mentioned it is all plug and play. I also added the Dice, then the Dice silver and now have the media bridge. The difference is huge. I am very pleased. I am not an expert on sound but based on the compliments the result seems to meet most standards.

Media Bridge
 

What's the Media Bridge? I want an amp, as I understand it -- still in development.

The media bridge by dice Provides USB connection and auxiliary connection Bluetooth connection and the option to add satellite radio, updating your system to current capability. Bsw offers amp with their systems.

The media bridge features are all controlled by existing buttons or dials.