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      10-21-2013, 08:43 PM   #1
zcpierre
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2014 x5 standard sound system

Did anyone get the standard sound system in the new 2014 x5? Or has anyone heard it? If so, what are your thoughts? I wanted to upgrade, but apparently waited too late (1 day after my order) and now I'm stuck with the standard sound system. I've never heard it, so just wondering what to expect. I listen to radio, ipod, and satellite in my car now.
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      10-21-2013, 09:10 PM   #2
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Its not bad i got it and its ok wish i got the HK though.
2014 bmw x5 carbon black metalic.
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      10-21-2013, 09:25 PM   #3
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Not bad, better than standard Mercedes stereo. Didn't want to pay the extra $4,100 for the package just for HK on the 50i.
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      10-22-2013, 06:52 AM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by zcpierre View Post
Did anyone get the standard sound system in the new 2014 x5? Or has anyone heard it? If so, what are your thoughts? I wanted to upgrade, but apparently waited too late (1 day after my order) and now I'm stuck with the standard sound system. I've never heard it, so just wondering what to expect. I listen to radio, ipod, and satellite in my car now.
I was in same dilemma and searched forums for the feedback.
So, I went to dealer last week to test it myself. To recognize the difference, I have brought my own tracks. Luckily, one 2014 X5 got standard and other one got HK.

I am able to notice the difference between standard and HK. How much difference? Difference enough $875.
Seriously, the audio output is very solid on HK. The stock system doesn't perform well even at high volume.

If you are used to premium sound in your previous car or at Home, you will start complaining the base system. As simple as that.
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      10-22-2013, 07:41 AM   #5
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I didnt get to test the standard sound system in the 2014, but if its anything like the standard in the 2013, then I was disappointed. There seemed to be a distortion in the 2013 standard that I tested, which is why I opted for the bang & olufsen for the new car. I have heard the Harmon sound system, and agree that the clarity is overall better!
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      10-23-2013, 04:10 PM   #6
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I am curious if either of the "pay extra" upgraded sound systems offer any function(s) that the standard system doesn't. If all of the switches and buttons and options are the same and the extra money only goes to better speakers and/or amplifiers, then I'll pass because I just don't listen to music at loud volumes or have high expectations for bass or sound quality while driving in my (expensive) SUV.
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      10-23-2013, 07:46 PM   #7
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Quote:
Originally Posted by someguy View Post
I am curious if either of the "pay extra" upgraded sound systems offer any function(s) that the standard system doesn't. If all of the switches and buttons and options are the same and the extra money only goes to better speakers and/or amplifiers, then I'll pass because I just don't listen to music at loud volumes or have high expectations for bass or sound quality while driving in my (expensive) SUV.

Upgrades give you better speakers, better amplifier, and depending on upgrade, more speakers as well. Even if you aren't listening to loud volume or want the excessive base, the clarity gets better with upgrade package. For such an (expensive) suv, expectations should be high!
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      10-23-2013, 08:13 PM   #8
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It's actually kind of disappointing that a $60K SUV would come with a crappy standard sound system (or crappy anything for that matter). From what you guys are saying, the Harman Kardon sound system should really be standard.
No use crying over spilled milk at this point, but the consensus appears to be to upgrade to HK at the very minimum.
I'll post my final thoughts once my X5 arrives.
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      10-23-2013, 08:43 PM   #9
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Originally Posted by zcpierre View Post
It's actually kind of disappointing that a $60K SUV would come with a crappy standard sound system (or crappy anything for that matter). From what you guys are saying, the Harman Kardon sound system should really be standard.
No use crying over spilled milk at this point, but the consensus appears to be to upgrade to HK at the very minimum.
I'll post my final thoughts once my X5 arrives.
I agree, should be standard, but like you said no point in crying over spilled milk! I've got a few things on my build that im second guessing as well. That's the only problem once you start reading the blogs! Lol still going to be great cars though, enjoy it!
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      10-23-2013, 08:45 PM   #10
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$895 for sure is worth the upgrade but on the 50i, it's not a stand alone option.
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      10-23-2013, 08:56 PM   #11
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Originally Posted by Genechen22 View Post
$895 for sure is worth the upgrade but on the 50i, it's not a stand alone option.
And im hoping the $4k is worth it for the Bang & Olufsen! Lol
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      10-23-2013, 09:01 PM   #12
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Quote:
Originally Posted by zcpierre View Post
It's actually kind of disappointing that a $60K SUV would come with a crappy standard sound system (or crappy anything for that matter). From what you guys are saying, the Harman Kardon sound system should really be standard.
No use crying over spilled milk at this point, but the consensus appears to be to upgrade to HK at the very minimum.
I'll post my final thoughts once my X5 arrives.
Not just sound system. The list goes on.

The Multi contour seats should have been standard. The base seats doesn't look premium car seats at all. Haven't they seem BENZ OR RRS OR INFINITI seats.

The leather should have been standard. I have not heard a luxury car with a standard vinyl seating. Sucks

Standard Stereo system is not par with luxury standards at all. Nissan comes with Bose for a car under 25k

The standard trim of X5 doesn't look like a luxury car. Unless you go with a line.
Look at the steering wheel of base. Sucks

Nissan Rogue comes with standard Xenon lights. Led could be standard.


BMW cashing the brand value and reputation on extreme side.
My build with xLine came at $69K with no seating package or Nappa.
I still can't say my car is loaded despite paying $15K on the base price.

That said, this will be my first BMW and may be the last one.

I am still thinking of RRS. Anything can happen until I complete my paperwork
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      10-23-2013, 09:19 PM   #13
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Quote:
Originally Posted by newbimmerx5 View Post
Not just sound system. The list goes on.

The Multi contour seats should have been standard. The base seats doesn't look premium car seats at all. Haven't they seem BENZ OR RRS OR INFINITI seats.

The leather should have been standard. I have not heard a luxury car with a standard vinyl seating. Sucks

Standard Stereo system is not par with luxury standards at all. Nissan comes with Bose for a car under 25k

The standard trim of X5 doesn't look like a luxury car. Unless you go with a line.
Look at the steering wheel of base. Sucks

Nissan Rogue comes with standard Xenon lights. Led could be standard.


BMW cashing the brand value and reputation on extreme side.
My build with xLine came at $69K with no seating package or Nappa.
I still can't say my car is loaded despite paying $15K on the base price.

That said, this will be my first BMW and may be the last one.

I am still thinking of RRS. Anything can happen until I complete my paperwork


Wow, you are going off on BMW. Hahahaha

I completely agree with you. This is going to be my first bmw as well, and it is frustrating what they charge you for the additional upgrades. I guess this is the perfect example of paying for the name! Lol

Everything you mentioned should be included.

I did look at RRS before going with bmw though, and both fell around the same price. I did not like the unreliability of the rr though.
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      10-23-2013, 09:36 PM   #14
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bug Rx View Post
Wow, you are going off on BMW. Hahahaha

I completely agree with you. This is going to be my first bmw as well, and it is frustrating what they charge you for the additional upgrades. I guess this is the perfect example of paying for the name! Lol

Everything you mentioned should be included.

I did look at RRS before going with bmw though, and both fell around the same price. I did not like the unreliability of the rr though.
I have told a million people that I am buying F15. I must buy this at least for them

Reliability issues -- no more. This is 2014 RRS.
There is a 6 month wait for RRS and I can't wait that long. Also, they are not even giving penny off on MSRP.
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      10-23-2013, 10:00 PM   #15
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2014 RRS is very nice, but I actually think our X5 interior has their interior beat!
Plus, like you said they are not giving any discounts, there's a wait to get them, there's always the question of reliability, and the customer service at my local Rover dealership left much to be desired...
Overall, I am very happy with my X5 purchase experience, but I agree with you 100% that many of the "options" should have been standard in a luxury vehicle!
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      10-23-2013, 11:19 PM   #16
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My first BMW as well. My Brother-in-law has(d) few and driven them quite a bit. I've had the Cayenne and currently drive an Audi. My in-laws and cousins have MB. I've yet to see a German automaker that doesn't nickel and dime you.

My rationale is that people with money buy luxury cars. Because they do, the luxury automaker nickel and dimes you, while baiting you with a (relative) low price. Is this right? That's another discussion and point of view. The way I look at it, if I wanted an all inclusive car, I'll buy a Hyundai or a Kia.

Z.
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      10-23-2013, 11:40 PM   #17
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bug Rx View Post
I agree, should be standard, but like you said no point in crying over spilled milk! I've got a few things on my build that im second guessing as well. That's the only problem once you start reading the blogs! Lol still going to be great cars though, enjoy it!
Seems to be an obvious result of ordering a vehicle before they are available, before they can be seen in person, before all the questions can be answered. At least you seem to have a good attitude about it. It just seems like a no brainer to me to wait a little while before I order. I still have a lot of questions. Some will be answered when my dealer has some in stock. Some will be answered here on this forum, all in due time. Patience, I keep telling myself.
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      10-24-2013, 01:23 AM   #18
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Zipforia View Post
My first BMW as well. My Brother-in-law has(d) few and driven them quite a bit. I've had the Cayenne and currently drive an Audi. My in-laws and cousins have MB. I've yet to see a German automaker that doesn't nickel and dime you.

My rationale is that people with money buy luxury cars. Because they do, the luxury automaker nickel and dimes you, while baiting you with a (relative) low price. Is this right? That's another discussion and point of view. The way I look at it, if I wanted an all inclusive car, I'll buy a Hyundai or a Kia.

Z.
There is a market and other luxury car manufacturers follow certain trends.
Its like you paid $500 per night at a luxury hotel and still have to pay premium for using Gym, Pool, Room Service etc. it doesn't work like that because you expect certain things as included based on the star rating. The expectation is set by market and not you. Market as in other similar luxury hotels.
You can still say-- go to other car makers. Of course , we can. The point here is not about alternative but fairness to the premium paid.

My partially loaded F15 is $17K higher than fully loaded MDX. So, we have already paid 17K premium because its BMW and still not a fully loaded at least interms of comfort. I am not hoping or expecting certain mechanical upgrades of BMW to be standard.
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      10-24-2013, 02:48 AM   #19
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Quote:
Originally Posted by newbimmerx5 View Post
There is a market and other luxury car manufacturers follow certain trends.
Its like you paid $500 per night at a luxury hotel and still have to pay premium for using Gym, Pool, Room Service etc. it doesn't work like that because you expect certain things as included based on the star rating. The expectation is set by market and not you. Market as in other similar luxury hotels.
You can still say-- go to other car makers. Of course , we can. The point here is not about alternative but fairness to the premium paid.

My partially loaded F15 is $17K higher than fully loaded MDX. So, we have already paid 17K premium because its BMW and still not a fully loaded at least interms of comfort. I am not hoping or expecting certain mechanical upgrades of BMW to be standard.
I see what your point, but I think you're missing mine. Discussing hotel amenities are a different matter, so I'll stick to your car analogy. But one thing I want to clear up: When I said, "because they do," (thus, your statement of "The expectation is set by market and not you.") I wasn't referring to action of people with money buying luxury cars. I was referring to the fact that they have money (Because they do have money; not because they do buy luxury cars).

I understand you feel that you're money isn't buying you, in a sense, apples to apples. But here's the difference: even though you can argue that a car is a just a car, when you compare a base F15 to a base MDX (assuming that they are in a same class, similar cabin size, engine displacement, etc.) it is still not a fair comparison. This is because the base F15 still uses better materials (real wood vs. fake wood, higher grade nuts and bolts, better grade leather), research, engineering, craftsmanship and so on than a base MDX. This is reflective on their base price. F15 starts off $10k more than a base MDX. One luxury car of same class doesn't equal another luxury car. There is a sliding scale. Also, if you sit inside a BMW (as I'm sure you did) and an Acura of similar class, you know one feels "cheaper" compared to the other. Using this as the start point, when you add options, due to for mentioned reasons, BMW will have higher costs. Thus, by the time the MDX is fully loaded and your F15 is partially packed, your final cost will be $17k higher than the MDX.

I understand you don't think it's "fair," but know this: when your at a stop light in your partially packed F15 and a fully loaded MDX pulls up next to you, overall, you still drive a better car, and EVERYONE in this forum knows it.

Z.

Last edited by Zipforia; 10-24-2013 at 03:01 AM..
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