R36 Model Differences

[MrWolf]

For those with the standard system, what is the best plan of attack for improving it? Do the speakers cut it? Would an upgraded amp suffice?

There was another thread on here, where someone installed just the Dynaudio amp itself (plug is apparently the same), and it made a pretty decent improvement.

The amp however is something like $800.

Installing the full Dynaudio/aftermarket system would require you to take off the door cards, replace the connectors in the door jambs (no thanks Jeff), rewire the quadlock and do a bit of VCDS coding. I imagine you'd also have to run a new cable through the centre console to the amp.

Plus, chances are you'll have 30 new rattles once you're done.

Personally, I came from a car with an aftermarket system (including a 12" subwoofer) and the R36 speakers still kick ass. Wouldn't bother wasting my money.

My 2c anyhow.

[snerlo]

Yeah, I have the standard system and it is ok. I am considering installing A sub but I'm not sure yet. I wanna get a touch screen and a reversing camera on the beast first.

[Timlin]

Hey there

I had the standard R36 speakers replaced with the Dynaudio versions and the change in quality was huge... I didn't bother with the amp upgrade as the existing amp has enough power to drive the newly fitted speakers.

I got them all from a VW supplier in the UK - eBay. It cost about $750.00 for the front 2 x woofer/mid units and about $200.00 for the front tweeters. The rear speakers I picked up from JKU in QLD for a very cheap price... he was keen to get rid of them as they were an over order from ages ago. The rear tweeters I got from eBay again at about $200.00.

I also have a spare set of front Dynaudio tweeters... if you want them drop me a PM.

Overall, I'd say at least a 50% improvement over stock for the whole system. I'm sure the Dynaudio amp would also mack a huge difference, but its a massive job to install and I'm not too keen on getting that done.

The stock speakers are really quite crappy Chinese made speakers that are OK, but when you hold one of them in one hand and the Dynaudio version in the other hand, you can see exactly where the money has gone... magnet weights are way different, the quality of the materials used is completely different, and just the overall feel of them is very, very noticeable.

Having said that, the stock system still does sound quite good for what it is...

Good luck with your decisions!


Rgd's


Andrew

For those with the standard system, what is the best plan of attack for improving it? Do the speakers cut it? Would an upgraded amp suffice?

[RRR036]

Thanks Andrew, that is very helpful.

[RRR036]

Well looks like I'm buying one. MY09, manufactured in Sep 2008, sold early 2009, white sunroof, satnav, electric tailgate, extended warranty.

No Dynaudio but I'll do what I can to improve it if it's not satisfactory.

[snerlo]

Sounds nice mate. Welcome to the R club! Make sure the photos are coming as well. Which reminds me, i have to upload some of mine. Might try tomorrow when i get home.