[gmaker]

I currently own a TT 3.2 DSG and am thinking about changing to the GTi.

Just wondering what you guys thought about the sound quality of the stereo that comes as standard. I have read some reports that it is pretty bad - is that fair comment?

I've got bose in the TT and wondered how much difference there would be?

Also, is there much difference between the ride quality with 17" or 18" alloys. I prefer the look of the 18's.

Thanks

 

[VW R32]

Sound quality IMO is pretty good. Theres quite alot of bass at low volume, which really depends whether you like that or not.

But in the end, I didnt opt for any of the extra ICE offered by VW. Instead I've swapped my head unit for a Alpine (Alpine CDA-9853R to be exact). The low end bass isnt that intrusive now, which im pretty glad about, but the overall SQ, is much better. Just my opinion

As for the 18's just go for them. On looks alone i would go for the 18's. TBH i can't see the inch difference being so major, if any. I mean if VW are doing 18's from the factory, it can only mean theres room for going bigger!!!

 

[SteveTDCi]

I find the bass quite good on the 300, but the mid and treble are all over the shop. Mines on the to do list R32 have you just swapped the headunit or have you changed the speakers as well ?

 

[kenl]

I'm happy with the sound of my standard unit as long as you don't turn the bass up. I keep mine in the middle with treble a couple of notches up - it is certainly better than the one in my MINI which was a ?210 option[:O]

Probably not as good as BOSE system in the TT though which no doubt was a pricey optional extra.

 

[Mark V]

People say the MFD2 sat-nav unit sounds better, but the improvement with the sound pack option does not seem to justify the extra cost.

 

[monsta mo]

Hi Ken

I'm with you on this one.

I too had a MINI which had the AUDIO Boost option and for my money the base RCD300 VW system is just as good if not better. For in car audio, it's always puzzled me - what is the point in worrying about tiny flaws in sound quality anyway when there's the low rumble of road constantly in the background - more so with the 18" wheels.

 

[kenl]

Are you Monsta Mo MINI who runs NewMINIScotland?

Have you got a Golf now too? Tell us about it.

 

[col.mc]

I've got a sound on top amp with my RCD300 which improves the sound no end. Gives you more filters and parameters to play with to get thesound you like

The pain is the difference in sound between the radio and the CD, not only volume but the bass and treble level.

I've got mine set up so its decent on CDs and on radio its only listeanble on low volumes.

Parts needed are the amp XM-423SL (now out of production, but available on ebay from time to time), and an Autoleads SOT-076

HTH

 

[sugar_W]

If only the RCD300 had a 'mid' adjustment.... A chap at my work has an A6 with the Bose system in it, the 300 sounds pap in comparison unfortunately.[]

 

[Milkfloat]

The Bose system will rip the standard one to shreds.  I thik the MKV RCD300 is worse than the Gamma unit found in the MKIV.  The stereo is my wifes Micra is also better than both the Gamma and the RCS300.

 

[monsta mo]

That's me! GTI arriving on the 23rd July

 

[kenl]

That's me! GTI arriving on the 23rd July

Excellent, way better than a heap of junk MINI [][][]

Have you sold your MINI already or are you trading it in?

What dealer you getting the Golf from?

What's the colour/spec, has it got CHILLI pack[:$]

Welcome to the forum BTW.

 

[sugar_W]

The stereo is my wifes Micra is also better than both the Gamma and the RCS300.

I feel your pain bro...

 

[silentandy]

For me the standard head unit is just plain pants. The CD audio is ok, not exactly brilliant but the radio performance is just rubbish for a car this expensive! The radio in my girlfriends Honda Jazz sounds 10 times better - that's comparing using Radio1 which has a strong reception and generally good sound quality. You will really miss the BOSE!

Once I'm sure there are no warranty issues (had my GTI 2 weeks now) I will be changing the head unit and speakers.

 

[monsta mo]

Ken - sent you an email - best keep on topic

 

[VW R32]

I find the bass quite good on the 300, but the mid and treble are all over the shop. Mines on the to do list R32 have you just swapped the headunit or have you changed the speakers as well ?

No just swapped the head unit. Have no intention of changing the speakers, as the new head unit is enough for my liking, and seeing as the car won't be kept for too long, theres no point IMO.

 

[SteveTDCi]

Thanks[]