Guys, Where do you think the weak link is in the 550 stereo system? Even for the year 2000 it is very weak. What would just make is as decent sounding as the stereo in my GM suburban? Does the whole thing need to go? How about just better speakers? Or is the source of the problem the headunit?
The 550 audio sytem suffers from #1 speaker locations (behind non transparent carpet and leather) #2 low quality speakers #3 amplification or lack there of... Ferrari though all they needed for a good audio system was a cd changer. The stock becker can easily be replaced but it is not the major problem. There is a 4 ch line output availiable on the becker for adding an amplifier. There are many options on fixing the poor audio system depending on what you want to do. Scott la jolla audio Image Unavailable, Please Login
I ripped it all out. Replaced it with McIntosh head unit, changer, amps, speakers. Stock was junk all the way around.
I REALLY helped the sound of my 1991 TR back in '92 by replacing the stock speakers with JBL's down at foot level and using the grills that came with them, so carpet has to be cut. Installed ADS tweeters in the doors and put 4x11's (i think- been a long time) behind the seats. The 4x11's were box speakers, so virtually no mods were required. A Kenwood deck made this sound awesome. That was MANY years ago, but the basic concept is the same. Get the carpet and what not off the speakers and let them breathe! Ford really raised the bar with the GT's McIntosh Labs system. My dad's wife gave him a GT & I love it. All the best- SBF
My last car was a MB SL500 and the <stock> sound system was truly amazing! When I was buying the SA, I told the guy at the Ferrari Dealership that my last car had a great sound system and I hoped this one would have too. He said "This car has an even better sound system....it's got 12 cylinders". Quite right that the Becker audio is crap, but who cares. I only drive with the top down. Love the "sound system"
I just count myself lucky that my stereo doesn't have a (battery draining) life of its own anymore. It's all about lowered expectations.