S4 (B8 Platform) Discussion Discussion forum for the B8 Audi S4 produced from 2009-2016

Fixes for poor quality sound system??

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Old 02-19-2013, 06:25 AM
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Default Fixes for poor quality sound system??

I didn't purchase the B&O sound system option on my custom ordered 2013 S4. I got the standard sound system, and now I'm regretting it due to poor sound quality. I'd rather not go to an aftermarket car stereo place for a fix. Can all or parts of the B&O sound system be purchased and installed from Audi as a retrofit? Any other suggestions that doesn't require a major tear down of the car to install?

I don't have the need or budget for fantastic audio, but I'm surprised how much better the standard audio setup on my previous 2007 E90 BMW was than what I have now. Other than that, the S4 is superior to 335i.
Old 02-19-2013, 07:41 AM
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The B&O is a completely different, digitally processed system utilizing the MOST configuration in the car than found in the non-B&O B8 models. I suspect that retrofitting the B&O would be a much more expensive proposition than having a quality auto sound dealer upgrade your system. Probably a better sounding option as well. Others can chime in on their experiences.
Old 02-19-2013, 08:02 AM
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The B&O system sounds GREAT. Worth every penny.
Old 02-19-2013, 08:15 AM
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Did you get the MMI/Navi? Supposedly the sound quality is greatly improved if you have that option, even with the base sound. If not, it's supposed to be pretty bad.
Old 02-19-2013, 08:21 AM
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I would just bite the bullet and go to a car audio place. At this point that is your only option. Change out the speakers and get a small amp and sub. It will sound a lot better and only cost you about a grand. Good luck!
Old 02-19-2013, 08:24 AM
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Default The car does have MMI/Nav

The car does have MMI/Nav
Old 02-19-2013, 12:05 PM
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Do you know if Audi would even retrofit your car for B&O? I would think an aftermarket system would sound better and be less expensive than retrofitting the B&O system. I kind of know how you feel about aftermarket vs. factory installed though. The integration just seems nicer when done by the factory.
Old 02-19-2013, 01:10 PM
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Originally Posted by BoostLE
Do you know if Audi would even retrofit your car for B&O? I would think an aftermarket system would sound better and be less expensive than retrofitting the B&O system. I kind of know how you feel about aftermarket vs. factory installed though. The integration just seems nicer when done by the factory.
An Audi dealer might not want to deal with it but one could order all the parts and have some installer do the work. All you would need is money. Lots of it. The parts alone would be a hefty price tag.

A professional auto sound installer who has the experience and proper skills can make aftermarket audio look as if it came from the factory. Speakers and subwoofers can be professionally integrated in place of the stock units and amps can be hidden. The stock head unit/radio should still be able to be used so the MMI will operate normally. To be done right it won't be cheap but should still be a lot less than adding all the B&O components, wiring, etc.
Old 02-20-2013, 06:28 AM
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Originally Posted by Dave335i
The B&O system sounds GREAT. Worth every penny.
Definitely one of the better S4 values for only $850. But You should hear it in the A8. Whenever I get back into my S4, the B&O now sounds just "ok" - lol
Old 02-20-2013, 06:50 AM
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Originally Posted by mark_nimda
Definitely one of the better S4 values for only $850. But You should hear it in the A8. Whenever I get back into my S4, the B&O now sounds just "ok" - lol
I'm sure it sounds AWESOME...it had better for $6,300.
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