2008 X5 3.0is & 4.8i Ordering Guides

[proveg]

Thats not a fair comparison.
there is a huge difference in the amount of space you are filling with sound. It also makes a difference on how the sound is absorbed, so if you were to compare apples to apples, you need to compare standard and premium sound in the same car.
I would assume that premium (ZPS) would sound much nicer, but to me it would not be worth extra $1500-$1800 even with the changer.

Originally Posted by kustjag

I will assume that the sound systems (premium and standard) are the same across most of the bmw models, so I can tell you that the premium sound in my 645cic is considerably better and fuller than what I've heard in the standard sound package in my friends 5 series and x5's.

The only place I listen to music is in my car, so the premium sound is worth it for me.

[brian5]

Originally Posted by SuperGreg

If it's worth it to you yes. Personally, I wouldn't pay $1,000 for it That's a lot of money for a few extra speakers and a few hundred extra watts.

Had to tell you that I ordered the Premium Sound Package even though I was previously "against" it because of the cost. I figure that there must be more to the package that just to 2 more speakers, another 395 watts of power and the DVD changer

[SuperGreg]

Originally Posted by brian5

Had to tell you that I ordered the Premium Sound Package even though I was previously "against" it because of the cost. I figure that there must be more to the package that just to 2 more speakers, another 395 watts of power and the DVD changer

Enjoy
You are obgligated to do a full write up on the sound differences between the standard system and yours once you get it now .

[oredart]

...and may I suggest Dark Side of the Moon.

[brian5]

Originally Posted by SuperGreg

Enjoy
You are obgligated to do a full write up on the sound differences between the standard system and yours once you get it now .

Originally Posted by oredart

...and may I suggest Dark Side of the Moon.

Well, I'll be more than happy enough to give you feedback on the Premium Sound system when it arrives.
The problem will be comparing it the standard system! I've only ordered one 4.8i...

[jamesboags]

Originally Posted by brian5

Had to tell you that I ordered the Premium Sound Package even though I was previously "against" it because of the cost. I figure that there must be more to the package that just to 2 more speakers, another 395 watts of power and the DVD changer

The premium speakers are higher power rated (except subwoofers) .. you get DSP and a digital MOST feed form the Head unit to the amp rather than the analogue on the standard US system..that with the extra power, and 2 extra speakers at the rear and DVD changer is what is included.. nothing more nothing less..The speakers are also Philips which isn't exactly audiophile quality either...

[brian5]

Originally Posted by jamesboags

The premium speakers are higher power rated (except subwoofers) .. you get DSP and a digital MOST feed form the Head unit to the amp rather than the analogue on the standard US system..that with the extra power, and 2 extra speakers at the rear and DVD changer is what is included.. nothing more nothing less..The speakers are also Philips which isn't exactly audiophile quality either...

Thanks for the info. Sounds fine to me though

[Shumdit]

Originally Posted by brian5

Had to tell you that I ordered the Premium Sound Package even though I was previously "against" it because of the cost. I figure that there must be more to the package that just to 2 more speakers, another 395 watts of power and the DVD changer

You give BMW too much credit. While I think the sound is better than the standard US Hi-Fi, I think the casual user will find the standard system acceptable, but the audiophile will not really be happy with either option.

[mkar]

BMW's problem is probably that for $1800, average consumers will consider the option, but for more than that you are probably getting into a smaller niche market. However, I imagine aftermarket stereo upgrade to be around $3500 though for a very good system and that includes a lot of work, so for $1800 extra installed at the factory I would expect quite a good system.

[Shumdit]

Originally Posted by mkar

BMW's problem is probably that for $1800, average consumers will consider the option, but for more than that you are probably getting into a smaller niche market. However, I imagine aftermarket stereo upgrade to be around $3500 though for a very good system and that includes a lot of work, so for $1800 extra installed at the factory I would expect quite a good system.

You might expect it, but depending on how discerning your ears are, you might be unrealistic with those expectations.