[Tarekith]

Ah ok, that makes more sense. I'm an audio mastering engineer and I had never heard of that before. Thought I was on to something new

[//TMT]

Originally Posted by seaton463

I just did the full Bavsound upgrade (Amp+subs+speakers). I did the amp first ...

Is the Bavsound amp actually plug and play? The Focal amp looks to be a huge pain of splicing, looking at the so-called instructions anyway.

[Tarekith]

I was considering the Bavsound too, but I won't have any way to edit the profile since I'm Mac only. Anyone use the built in X2 profile you can get installed with it? Can you run it just flat with no profile at all?

[seaton463]

Amp is completely plug and play. You pull 1 panel in the back, remove an 8mm machine screw and unhook the harness. The new one goes in using the reverse procedure. No splicing at all.

Bavsound includes two profiles with the amp. The first (green led) is for the stock speakers and was a very noticeable change for me. (much clearer and flatter response.). The second is for the Bavsound speakers (orange led). You can change between them my pressing a small button on the fron for 2 seconds. I can reach mine without removing the amp.

I am not an audio engineer but I am happy so far while still needing to break in the speakers before I push them. I did turn the bass down in the idrive headunit 2 notches as the new ghost subwoofers have more power now.

[Tarekith]

Great, thanks for the info!

[vstolpner]

Hi Guys,

Wondering how everyone's upgrades are doing? Hoping everyone's experiences can help guide my decision.

(I know there'll be a lot of questions throughout my post, hopefully not overwhelming please answer what you know)

I recently upgraded from a '13 E84 with HiFi to a '19 F39 with HiFi, and I gotta say the F39 audio quality leaves a lot to be desired. Now looking at upgrade options that are as plug and play as possible, but that won't break the bank either (I'd like to get good quality, but I know I can't afford both speaker and amp upgrade).

What I've seen so far:
1. Focal co-axial set at around $1050 for the 5 speakers
2. Matchup co-axial at $440 for 4 speakers (do they also fit the center??)
3. Bavsound set at $650 for 5 speakers (either coaxial or separate)
4. HK speakers at $300 or so for the set

My E84 had tweeters in the A-pillar and I'm wondering if that's one of the reasons it sounded so good... Has anyone retrofitted the tweeters in the A-pillar and can comment if it's worth it?


I've only started looking into the amps, but seems like the plug-and-play ones are all well north of $1000. Does it make sense to just focus on speakers now, or will the amp give a better improvement in quality?


PS: I'm not looking for head-banging sub-base or anything like that, just want the speakers to have a richer sound, with better quality focals, more clarity, and better mid-base. Mostly listening to classic rock, pop, etc.

Many thanks in advance for everyone's responses!!!

[ace00741]

Bought the Alpha One amp from Bimmertech. Big difference in sound but I still fill the need to change out speakers and sub.

[allwheelsdriven]

The amp/dsp and front Focal co-axials are a huge improvement but if you want a real treat, add hi res streaming from qobuz

[Bimmerme007]

Hello, I am new to this forum and wasn't sure how to start a new thread. Could anyone assist with providing the BMW X2 Part Number. I would like to install the door speaker tweeter harman kardon door panels. Appreciate your assistance.

[ace00741]

I did the bimmertech alpha one amp, bavsound sub, and I purchase the harman Kardon speakers from the M3 and M4 forum. there is a lot of them on the classified section. all plug and play.

[jon_swimer]

i would like to install focal speakers is it wort to get hk trims to install separate tweeter or just install coaxial speakers in front and back. is there an improvement in separate speakers because coaxial have that advantage that hey are made to have smoothest response to each other
because there position is known, and in separate there is not possible to take account placement and how sound waves will emerge to etch other
and obstacles, baffle steps and all other variables. i think the only advantage is that in separate the tweeter is faceing you directly

[matt@bavsound]

Hey everyone,

Just jumping in to share some thoughts on the Focal and Bavsound options. Both brands offer fantastic upgrades, and you're definitely in good hands with either choice.

Bavsound was the pioneer in direct-fit speaker upgrades for BMWs, and we’ve seen Focal incorporating some similar design features and materials in their lineup. We’re flattered by that! It’s a testament to how well our design principles align. Focal is a premium brand with a premium price tag, and while their in-house production might offer slightly better build quality, the difference in sound quality between Focal and Bavsound is pretty minimal. Both provide incredibly detailed and vibrant sound that’s clear and warm.

One key advantage of Bavsound is that our speakers are designed to work seamlessly with the factory amplifier, which simplifies the installation process and keeps things straightforward. If you’re considering Focal, you’ll likely need to pair them with an aftermarket amp, which adds complexity and extra cost.

For those looking to upgrade their audio system further, you might want to check out Match up amplifiers. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from customers using our Bavsound speakers with Match up amps. It’s a solid option if you decide to add an amp later on and want a high-quality upgrade without the hassle of major modifications.

If you’re looking for a high-quality upgrade, I’d definitely recommend trying out the Bavsound speakers and subs first. They come with a 100-day return period and a 4-year warranty, so you have the flexibility to see how they fit your needs, all without cutting any wires. Plus, you can always consider an amp upgrade down the line for a truly top-tier system.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further insights!

[mrpingu]

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

Hey everyone,

Just jumping in to share some thoughts on the Focal and Bavsound options. Both brands offer fantastic upgrades, and you're definitely in good hands with either choice.

Bavsound was the pioneer in direct-fit speaker upgrades for BMWs, and we’ve seen Focal incorporating some similar design features and materials in their lineup. We’re flattered by that! It’s a testament to how well our design principles align. Focal is a premium brand with a premium price tag, and while their in-house production might offer slightly better build quality, the difference in sound quality between Focal and Bavsound is pretty minimal. Both provide incredibly detailed and vibrant sound that’s clear and warm.

One key advantage of Bavsound is that our speakers are designed to work seamlessly with the factory amplifier, which simplifies the installation process and keeps things straightforward. If you’re considering Focal, you’ll likely need to pair them with an aftermarket amp, which adds complexity and extra cost.

For those looking to upgrade their audio system further, you might want to check out Match up amplifiers. We’ve received a lot of positive feedback from customers using our Bavsound speakers with Match up amps. It’s a solid option if you decide to add an amp later on and want a high-quality upgrade without the hassle of major modifications.

If you’re looking for a high-quality upgrade, I’d definitely recommend trying out the Bavsound speakers and subs first. They come with a 100-day return period and a 4-year warranty, so you have the flexibility to see how they fit your needs, all without cutting any wires. Plus, you can always consider an amp upgrade down the line for a truly top-tier system.

Feel free to reach out if you have more questions or need further insights!

While Bavsound may be intended to work with the default amplifier but anyone looking for upgrading the sound should start by upgrading the amplifier. If still not satisfied then go shopping for better/speakers.

Also it looks like bavsound is just a china-sourced speaker with a nice marketing around it
Looks familiar?:
Subwoofer: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805613339730.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.3 .52c5318dv0aiCi&algo_pvid=0f7441d4-cc14-4f20-bfdc-d4b01d98e60d&algo_exp_id=0f7441d4-cc14-4f20-bfdc-d4b01d98e60d-1&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21USD%21410.00%21270.60%21%21%21 410.00%21270.60%21%4021038dfc17244100350104183e2cb 3%2112000034394157462%21sea%21US%210%21ABX&curPage LogUid=juG4Z88KvSr9&utparam-url=scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3A
Midrange: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/32568...av-description
Tweeter: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/32568...Cquery_from%3A

As sound being very subjective for many and people are susceptible to the placebo effect. "If I have paid much money for it, it must sound better". So then it does... But probably the specs are more or less the same. The default HiFi & HK speakers are by no means bad quality. It's just the amplifier that brings down the whole system.

Unfortunately Bavsound doesn't provide the Thiele/small parameters either and/or give any insights about frequency response. It may be even less quality than the original speaker. Not willing to buy one and test it but it would be good if someone actually did. In comparison to Focal they do list these technical parameters along with a nice impendance and frequency response graph. This makes at least a way more transparant product. If you know what these parameters mean you exactly know what you are getting and can expect. Heck, you can even model the frequency response. With bavsound is just a big guess what you get.

If I would have to choose, would definitely go for the focals as they transparantly list all the specs and doesn't seem to be a rebranded version of some china sourced speaker.

Anyway, before you start replacing your speakers, do the amplifier first even if bavsound themselves say otherwise. They just try to sell their product I went from BMW HiFi S676A to BMW HK S674A and then I bought the Match UP7BMW. While did notice a sound improvement by adding tweeters on the HiFi system, I didn't really noticed any improved going from the HiFi amp to HK amp. Then I bought the Match UP7BMW amplifier (bimmertech is same rebranded amp btw), this made by far the biggest difference.

[matt@bavsound]

Originally Posted by mrpingu

While Bavsound may be intended to work with the default amplifier but anyone looking for upgrading the sound should start by upgrading the amplifier. If still not satisfied then go shopping for better/speakers.

Also it looks like bavsound is just a china-sourced speaker with a nice marketing around it
Looks familiar?:
Subwoofer: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/3256805613339730.html?spm=a2g0o.productlist.main.3 .52c5318dv0aiCi&algo_pvid=0f7441d4-cc14-4f20-bfdc-d4b01d98e60d&algo_exp_id=0f7441d4-cc14-4f20-bfdc-d4b01d98e60d-1&pdp_npi=4%40dis%21USD%21410.00%21270.60%21%21%21 410.00%21270.60%21%4021038dfc17244100350104183e2cb 3%2112000034394157462%21sea%21US%210%21ABX&curPage LogUid=juG4Z88KvSr9&utparam-url=scene%3Asearch%7Cquery_from%3A
Midrange: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/32568...av-description
Tweeter: https://www.aliexpress.us/item/32568...Cquery_from%3A

As sound being very subjective for many and people are susceptible to the placebo effect. "If I have paid much money for it, it must sound better". So then it does... But probably the specs are more or less the same. The default HiFi & HK speakers are by no means bad quality. It's just the amplifier that brings down the whole system.

Unfortunately Bavsound doesn't provide the Thiele/small parameters either and/or give any insights about frequency response. It may be even less quality than the original speaker. Not willing to buy one and test it but it would be good if someone actually did. In comparison to Focal they do list these technical parameters along with a nice impendance and frequency response graph. This makes at least a way more transparant product. If you know what these parameters mean you exactly know what you are getting and can expect. Heck, you can even model the frequency response. With bavsound is just a big guess what you get.

If I would have to choose, would definitely go for the focals as they transparantly list all the specs and doesn't seem to be a rebranded version of some china sourced speaker.

Anyway, before you start replacing your speakers, do the amplifier first even if bavsound themselves say otherwise. They just try to sell their product I went from BMW HiFi S676A to BMW HK S674A and then I bought the Match UP7BMW. While did notice a sound improvement by adding tweeters on the HiFi system, I didn't really noticed any improved going from the HiFi amp to HK amp. Then I bought the Match UP7BMW amplifier (bimmertech is same rebranded amp btw), this made by far the biggest difference.

Thanks for your detailed insights!

You’ve hit the nail on the head. Upgrading your amp will definitely boost your sound, but adding a subwoofer is a game-changer for impact and volume. A subwoofer handles the low frequencies that most factory speakers, like HiFi and HK, just aren’t built to manage. I think many will agree that these stock speakers aren't really designed to handle the full power of aftermarket amps. They’re great for short dealership demos, but they’re built with budget compromises and often can’t deliver high-quality sound at higher volumes.

We’ve also had to deal with knock-offs of our subwoofers from Alibaba, which is why we released our V3 subwoofers—to distinguish ourselves and uphold our high standards. Those knock-offs used our images but fell short on quality.

The listening experience is subjective, but if you’re after sheer volume, an amp upgrade might give you that “wow” factor. Our speakers are all about delivering clarity and distortion-free sound, even at higher volumes—something factory speakers with an aftermarket amp can struggle with. Upgrading the amp down the line is always an option.

Regarding our specs, Bavsound speakers are crafted to closely match factory components to ensure seamless compatibility with the factory amplifier. The notable improvements include upgraded materials, such as silk tweeter domes and woven fiberglass cones, which offer smoother, more detailed sound reproduction compared to the plastic and paper used in factory speakers. Additionally, our speakers feature a refined mechanical design with an enhanced suspension and motor structure, leading to more linear performance with significantly less distortion. It’s essentially an OEM++ upgrade!Feel free to reach out on our website if you’d like more details on our specs. We’re also big fans of Focal and agree they’re a great choice—hard to go wrong with them!

Thanks again for the feedback and recommendations! The Match UP7BMW is a solid choice, and we support that too. These points apply to aftermarket speakers in general, not just ours.

[mrpingu]

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

Thanks for your detailed insights!

You’ve hit the nail on the head. Upgrading your amp will definitely boost your sound, but adding a subwoofer is a game-changer for impact and volume. A subwoofer handles the low frequencies that most factory speakers, like HiFi and HK, just aren’t built to manage. I think many will agree that these stock speakers aren't really designed to handle the full power of aftermarket amps. They’re great for short dealership demos, but they’re built with budget compromises and often can’t deliver high-quality sound at higher volumes.

We’ve also had to deal with knock-offs of our subwoofers from Alibaba, which is why we released our V3 subwoofers—to distinguish ourselves and uphold our high standards. Those knock-offs used our images but fell short on quality.

The listening experience is subjective, but if you’re after sheer volume, an amp upgrade might give you that “wow” factor. Our speakers are all about delivering clarity and distortion-free sound, even at higher volumes—something factory speakers with an aftermarket amp can struggle with. Upgrading the amp down the line is always an option.

Regarding our specs, Bavsound speakers are crafted to closely match factory components to ensure seamless compatibility with the factory amplifier. The notable improvements include upgraded materials, such as silk tweeter domes and woven fiberglass cones, which offer smoother, more detailed sound reproduction compared to the plastic and paper used in factory speakers. Additionally, our speakers feature a refined mechanical design with an enhanced suspension and motor structure, leading to more linear performance with significantly less distortion. It’s essentially an OEM++ upgrade!Feel free to reach out on our website if you’d like more details on our specs. We’re also big fans of Focal and agree they’re a great choice—hard to go wrong with them!

Thanks again for the feedback and recommendations! The Match UP7BMW is a solid choice, and we support that too. These points apply to aftermarket speakers in general, not just ours.

Do you have the T/S parameters on your new V3 speakers? That would definitely be interesting to see those and see how they compare to the focals.

[mrpingu]

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

Thanks for your detailed insights!

You’ve hit the nail on the head. Upgrading your amp will definitely boost your sound, but adding a subwoofer is a game-changer for impact and volume. A subwoofer handles the low frequencies that most factory speakers, like HiFi and HK, just aren’t built to manage. I think many will agree that these stock speakers aren't really designed to handle the full power of aftermarket amps.
They’re great for short dealership demos, but they’re built with budget compromises and often can’t deliver high-quality sound at higher volumes.

What is the RMS and Max power rating to all Bavsound speakers?
For BMW it is RMS depending on model but based on specs from TIS.
Sub underseat
Base: 20/40w
HiFi: 60/80w
HK: 80/150W
BW: 120/250W

Midrange
HiFi 15W/30W
HK 30/45W
B&W 45W

Tweeter:
hifi: 15W
HK: 25W
B&W: 25W

So actually the the HK speakers are capable of quite some power already. I think the OEM speakers are way underrated by people. That doesn’t mean there isn’t a reason an upgrade but most probably not worth the money if you looking at it objectively. Especially if you can manage to get hold on HK speakers they are rated to enough power in most cases. Heck, if you use the supplied harness and keep the 30A fuse in place you don’t reach those Numbers. At that point the UP 7BMW needs seperate cabling.

What the the original subwoofers are very efficient at is squezing quite some dB out of them for the given input watts. Lots of aftermarket subwoofers are actually less sensitive (db per watt) but often more clear.

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

We’ve also had to deal with knock-offs of our subwoofers from Alibaba, which is why we released our V3 subwoofers—to distinguish ourselves and uphold our high standards. Those knock-offs used our images but fell short on quality.

Interesting. So are your speakers designed in-house and produced after your design? Do you have exclusive rights or are the Bavsound white-label off the shelf-speakers sourced in China?

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

The listening experience is subjective, but if you’re after sheer volume, an amp upgrade might give you that “wow” factor. Our speakers are all about delivering clarity and distortion-free sound, even at higher volumes—something factory speakers with an aftermarket amp can struggle with. Upgrading the amp down the line is always an option.

To make it a little less subjective some numbers would help.
Regarding higher volumes, like I said above the default HiFi er quite capable, even more so the HK and BW speakers. Without some numbers it’s hard to compare

If you want a cheap upgrade I suggest to find HK speakers from the scrapyard, they are actually very high quality and unless you run the amp to it’s Max the whole time it’s probably the most economical upgrade. And as long we don’t know the RMS/Max numbers from the Bavsound we don’t even know if it is an upgrade.

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

Regarding our specs, Bavsound speakers are crafted to closely match factory components to ensure seamless compatibility with the factory amplifier. The notable improvements include upgraded materials, such as silk tweeter domes and woven fiberglass cones, which offer smoother, more detailed sound reproduction compared to the plastic and paper used in factory speakers

What are those specs? At this point it’s just words and materials but no Numbers yet.

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

. Additionally, our speakers feature a refined mechanical design with an enhanced suspension and motor structure, leading to more linear performance with significantly less distortion. It’s essentially an OEM++ upgrade!Feel free to reach out on our website if you’d like more details on our specs. We’re also big fans of Focal and agree they’re a great choice—hard to go wrong with them!

Again. Words without numbers. It’s like trying to sell a sports car and saying it is fast but not giving the 0-60 times.

Originally Posted by matt@bavsound

Thanks again for the feedback and recommendations! The Match UP7BMW is a solid choice, and we support that too. These points apply to aftermarket speakers in general, not just ours.

Correct and there are a lot of aftermarket speaker brands that use physiological / subjective descriptions without any specs hoping to make some easy money.
.

That’s why I take focals over most other brands, a lot of plug and play brands don’t even list the specs. Focal and Earthquake sound do list their specs so we can compare them fairly. Earthquake SWS-8xi is a great subwoofer pair.