RCCC

Hi all you experts out there,

I'm a complete NEWBIE in car audio as I was always using stock audio in all my previous cars.

I recently picked up a 07 mini cooper and was not pleased with the sound. Below are some points I consider:

- REALLY want to keep the stock look and controls and I already have the factory ipod connection installed
- Not looking for killer sound but something "better"
- From my research, seems like cleansweep and 3sixty are my options?
- Should I look to change all speakers and subs? Brand recommendation?
- Not looking to spend a whole lot? Hopefully under $1k (is this even realistic)
- I don't mind used parts as I don't see them? What should I look for?
- Any recommendation on shops or installer in Toronto / Markham area?

Any pointers / suggestions welcome, many many thanks!

cav2nv420

iTrader: (5)

I guess it all depends on which way you want to go, do you want to have nice crisp sound with minimal bass or crazy loud and lots of bass, either way there are a few choices and you can even check out our sponsors shops for audio, they have some really good deals and quality equiptment just check out the links to right of the page im sure you will find something you like but as for us giving opinions we need to know more about what type of sound you want

RCCC

Thanks cav2nv420 for the help and warm welcome!

I just want a nicer crisp sound with little bass improvement. I don't even know if a sub will fit in it without sacrificing the small trunk space?

I will definitely check out the sponsors shop eventually, but I just wanted to get some pointers here first because I've recently dropped by one of the local car audio shop and was told I'll need cleansweep for about $800+ and then change some speakers for a ball park around $3k+? I was overwhelm and not looking to spend that much so I just wanted some opinion of what I should look for and how much should I expect given the budget and need i have.

Once again, thanks everyone!

kutchdawg

I would not go back to that shop. Seems like they are trying to capitalize on the fact that you are new to audio.I'd talk to some of the site vendors like MR2NR or Smartass. They'll take good care of you.

AAAAAAA

iTrader: (7)

I don't think they are trying to capatilise, they are simply trying to get you a top notch system.

You can get what you are looking for without the processing unit, just get na amp with low level inputs that has a small foot print. For instance, the sony xm-4s. Watch for deals at best buy for 200$, next, not knowing what sise speakers you have, get some shallow mount components, or any size that will fit.

If you know the size of your current speakers, their location and mounting depth, might be able to lend a hand.

LOWTONEZ

iTrader: (3)

Agree witrh dawg, message one of the dealers on here. Theyll help you out good.

Tom.F.1

iTrader: (1)

i replaced all the speakers and factory amp with subs, 6x9's and components with crossovers and 6 amps.
Still wasn't satisfied, so then i replaced the factory HU, with the appropriate interfaces and 2 cd changers, now i'm happy.
I'd save the money for that fancy processor to make your factory deck sound good, and go directly to a good SQ aftermarket unit.
You'll be happier in the long run.
And yes, i spent over 3k on it, and did the install myself. I was quoted 650 for install, but he would have really upped that with all the extras i wanted.

Dukk

If you want a really nice LOC, look at the RE-Q. It has bass compensation for the head unit and retails for about $150. For a nice street system it is all you need - a Cleansweep or 3Sixty is overkill.

Replace the fronts with a some mid level components, pick up a 50x4 or so amp and a 10 in a half truck box and you'll have good sound for right around your budget.

young-richie

yup .

RCCC

In the US Mini forums, I found that:
http://www.northamericanmotoring.com/forums/showthread.php?t=95211

Front lowers (in doors) are 5.25" one ways with a 5.5" opening for the basket. The mounting depth is about 3.125". You can up to a 6.5" in the lower door as long as the basket opening is no bigger than 5.5"

Front uppers (in doors) are 3.5" one ways with a 3 -5/8 opening for the basket. Mounting depth is 2.25"

Rears are 6x9's. Totally a pain to get to but well worth it....I put in a 4 channel amp and ran 2 channels to the 6x9's and bridged the 3-4 channels to a 8" sub in a false floor...

ALL are 4 ohm speakers and are as cheap as can be. NO tweeters anywhere. All drivers appear to be treated paper and sound like they have screw drivers stuck in them....

Sorry, I don't have a full knowledge of what LOC is used for? Is it basically to get the signal out from stock deck? And then I can add an amp after? If so, then the RE-Q seems like it'll do the trick for me. Will it only add bass though?

I will contact some of the sponsors dealers here but I don't even know what I want yet, that's the problem :P Also, I checked the sponsors and they seem pretty far from where I'm at, so how do I get help for install? I would like to try to DIY so I can learn but i get scared every time I looked at those How-to that needs to rip apart everything! Ideally, I'd want to get some used part too as I checked the FS forum and there are plenty to pick from for good price? Like I said, i just wanted "some" improvements, I don't need a killer system

thanks guys for all the help!