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Re: DSP (archive)
[ Follow Ups ] [ 5-series (E39) Message Board ] [ Msg. Board FAQ ]
Posted by Bob Hazelwood on July 13, 2000 at 09:36:00:

In Reply to: Some estimates and opinions posted by BillP on July 12, 2000 at 20:15:59:

The advice to go aftermarket is a good one from the perspective of cost-effectiveness. However, in weak defense of the BMW system, the DSP amplifier uses a series of Philips chip amplifiers which are actually pretty good . There are four woofer channels feeding the two dual voice coil woofers. Each of these channels can produce 40W RMS into 8-Ohms at low distortion. (Philips rates it at 55W, but this is @ 10% THD.)So you get 160 Watts on the woofers alone. I don't have the information at hand, but working from memory, I think the front and rear 5-1/4" speakers used the same 40W amp chip, and the mids and tweeters use a 15W/ch (into 4-Ohms) I.C. The non-optimized sound from the BMW system is more a matter of system engineering choices made by the designers than it is of mediocre quality. Somebody evidently chose that sound. The parts quality and technology used to create the DSP system are capable of much better sound than you get from it as supplied from the factory.

Best regards,
Bob Hazelwood
Product Manager, Cambridge SoundWorks
BMW CCA (Boston)

: The DSP amplifier is rather low quality. The number of *clean* watts/channel (i.e. circa 0.05% THD, not 5% THD) is probably on the order of 5-10, maybe less.

: If you already have the stock system and want to upgrade, there are many choices. Check www.adst.com and look for the BMW upgrades, scan the archives, or just go down to the local car stereo shop.

: You can spend $1K-$2K and get a rather kick-ass system. Just make sure the installer is experienced in E39 installs - all cars are not equal, each has its quirks.

: Let us know area you're in, other board members may have good installer recommendations.

:
: Bill

: : Is the DSP "amplifier" worth purchasing? What are the stat's on the DSP amp. any way...how many watts/channels/etc.? I cannot STAND the stock system, and would like to upgrade my speakers, and amp. If I purchase the DSP amp, I would be purchasing different speakers & subwoofers.

: : Should I purchase the DSP amp. and hook some good speakers up to it, or should I purchase another amp. all together, and leave it alone???

: : Thanx,

: : SS



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