OT - Quick X5 stereo question

[Just GSin']

Is replacing the factory AM/FM/CD in an '01 X5 feasible? Is it a standard DIN chassis radio? The X5 in question does not have Navigation.
I'm thinking about getting an '01 and have never been impressed with BMW audio. Thanks

[rvacha]

It's not DIN, and I personally rarely read of people attempting to replace them. Most people are ususally happy replacing the door speakers with nicer units (such as MB Quart) and adding a powered subwoofer - the head unit isn't all that bad. I personlly have yet to do anything in my X5, so I have no personal experience specific to the X5

Good luck!

[Chris Foote]

I agree. The head unit in the X5 is an essential component in the car. There are a few people that have removed the head unit in their 5 series, but they lose OBC (Onboard Computer) functionality and, to be honest, none of the aftermarket installation kits look right.

The head unit actually puts out a nice signal, just use some amplifiers and nice speakers and you'll be good to go.

-Chris

[Vigilant]

Just Gsin:

We just replaced our door speakers with Polk MM6 2-way component system (mid and tweeter). They are driven by dedicated MTX 8302 400 watt amp, 200 watts per channel. The rear door speakers were left alone to be driven by the factory BMW amp. We had a Polk Momo 10" subwoofer installed into the right rear enclosure in its own fiberglass chamber driven by a second MTX 400 watt amp. These MM6 speakers are an incredible value ($300pr) given their superb performance. We did nothing to the BMW head unit. I am not a big fan of spending a lot of money on automobile systems given the poor sonic characteristics of moving automobiles, but this system is so much better than I expected.