[maurinan]

Hi everyone,

I just switched from my 2017 X5 to a newer 2022 X5.
The old one had the premium sound system, while this new one has the regular one. When I test-drove it, it seemed fine but now I am really noticing the difference and it does bother me.
I am exploring options to upgrade the current stock sound system to something at least on par with the premium system offered by BMW as optional. If you have any suggestions I am all ears, thank you so much in advance!

[maurinan]

I did a search and found BAV Sound, which sells upgrade kits. Any feedback on these?

[nZtiZia]

most who’ve gone with BAVsound are pleased. surprisingly, I just came across someone who actually didn’t like them, but it sounded like the installer didn’t calibrate or set up the system properly

[maurinan]

Thanks for your reply!

Interesting, I am looking for now at the stage 1 kit, which seems to be a DIY straightforward install. There is no calibration there, simply replace the speakers. And I feel that should do it for me, my main beef with the existing system is the very poor quality for high frequencies.

[DropTopKingM3]

I would recommend a plug n play Bimmertech amp first. It really woke up my hi-fi system. Shortly after I did a focal speaker upgrade and the audio sounds perfect.

[maurinan]

Thank you. I just put in the BAV 1-stage speakers, definitely a great improvement but from a very low starting point. I am wating for the Subs to arrive and I'll put that in too, but I am already thinking on what is next. I had a 2017 x5 with the premium system, I think one of the main issues of the Hifi system is that it just has less speakers. In the back is just a pair of middles on the door panels.
So my options are a new amplifier (BAV doesn't have one for the hifi system, not sure why) and then try to find a way to add speakers if even possible at all.

[lexttu]

I have HK and did the bav subs only and a code to activate the B&W equalizer, and am very happy with the sound. I had an F15 with B&O previously and I think it’s pretty comparable now. Considering an amp but am pretty happy with it.

[maurinan]

Quick update: I installed the stage 1 kit and the subs just last night. When driving around with only the stage 1 kit installed, the difference was massive compared to the stock HiFi system. Initial testing with the subs also looks very promising, but I am now going to wait for the 12 hours break in period to really get a fair assessment.
By the way, the install wasn't that bad as some said in other threads, I guess it all boils down to how handy one is. I would say though, especially for the speakers installs, I was nervous when all of a sudden I find myself ripping panels off a very expensive car There is a lot that can go wrong, but as long as you are patient and watch the videos many times before going at it, it is doable.

I am still debating if I also want to add the amplifier or not, I will give it a few weeks and then reassess.

Thanks everyone for the help here!

[maurinan]

Speaking of codes, is there anything that can be done for the standard Hifi system?

[mel4fun]

The upgrade is subjective to how you enjoy your music and the level of clarity which you are looking at.

I have a 2021 X5 i40 delivered with base HiFi setup. Like many, I researched and learned from others in this forum.

I first changed the speakers, but that did not give me the satisfaction in listening to my range of music - vocal acoustic, guitar and piano, soft rock and pop. The issue was the stock amp was not strong enough to boost the sound into the speakers.

I ended with a Helix DSP, DLS amps and Focal speakers running a 3 way active front, with passive on rear and a 10” sub in the back. Total a 10 speakers setup.

It totally changed the sound stage and all the unheard notes become much clearer with the 3-way active setup.

So it boils down to what you are looking for to suit your listening requirements

[vj77]

Originally Posted by maurinan

Hi everyone,

I just switched from my 2017 X5 to a newer 2022 X5.
The old one had the premium sound system, while this new one has the regular one. When I test-drove it, it seemed fine but now I am really noticing the difference and it does bother me.
I am exploring options to upgrade the current stock sound system to something at least on par with the premium system offered by BMW as optional. If you have any suggestions I am all ears, thank you so much in advance!

I have recently upgraded my standard stereo system.

You can check my setup here:

https://g05.bimmerpost.com/forums/sh....php?t=1900101