How is the 1 Series Premium Sound?

[munich5]

I am considering an '09 135i Coupe, but I'm wondering how great the HiFi Premium Sound System really is. (and why no Logic7 Option?)

Keep in mind that I'm coming from an '08 550i w/ Logic 7 Sound.

Thanks! :thumbup:

[former]

I'm not that much of an audiophile, but I didn't find it much different and subsequently did not order it for my car. I pick it up in 9 days in Munich. (Not that I'm counting) and I'll let you know after a couple of weeks with it. :)

[munich5]

I'm not that much of an audiophile, but I didn't find it much different and subsequently did not order it for my car. I pick it up in 9 days in Munich. (Not that I'm counting) and I'll let you know after a couple of weeks with it. :)

You must be excited! I've done Euro Delivery on my last few cars; it's the only way to go! I also hope to do Euro in Jan on the 135i. I drove one today btw; what an amazing machine! Where in Europe do you plan on driving?

[bdardashti]

I'm hoping to get a 128i next year, so a couple of months ago I tested out the sound systems at one of my dealers. My dad's E46 330i had the L7 and his E300 also has the Harmon Kardon sound system - they both sounded fairly similar since essentially they are the same, but the 1er Premium audio doesn't really sound quite as rich. I personally think it's definitely a worthy improvement over the base audio, which gets somewhat (can't find the word - not distorted, but not so nice sounding) at high volumes especially if the base is above medium level. The Premium audio makes it sound much nicer, though I wouldn't really consider it "premium audio" like in other BMW models. I also considered an aftermarket unit, but keeping the stock dash/speaker look and the steering wheel controls working and the cost near the price of the upgrade doesn't seem like a solution. Also a lot of hassle.

As long as you're not an audiophile, you won't be disappointed with premium audio. If you enjoy music in your car, definitely worth the upgrade cost in my opinion.

Edit: I guess it may depend also on your music tastes. I listen to some light rock/pop, often hip-hop music all of which are somewhat bassy.. I'm not saying the bass response in the upper unit is stronger, but the music just sounds clearer.

[iwanna330cic]

As long as you're not an audiophile, you won't be disappointed with premium audio. If you enjoy music in your car, definitely worth the upgrade cost in my opinion.

Edit: I guess it may depend also on your music tastes. I listen to some light rock/pop, often hip-hop music all of which are somewhat bassy.. I'm not saying the bass response in the upper unit is stronger, but the music just sounds clearer.
I would agree. I frequently listen to (of all things) pipe organ recordings. Now THERE is a true test of any stereo system. Anyway - even in mezzo forte passages, the frequencies can sometimes get a tad distorted on lesser audio systems. With full organ and heavy bass, a really powerfully clear system is critical. Mine gives very clean and outstanding performance with this test --- but I have the Logic 7 system in my E93. Those who don't hear much difference between systems should probably save their money and get the stock choice. ;)

Doug