It seems that one of the most common questions from people ordering their MINIs is should get the HK stereo. Part of the problem is that to my knowledge there haven’t been any professional reviews of the stereo not to mention that there is no operations manual that comes with the option.
So to address this issue I’m posting a couple excerpts of very well written review about the stereo. If you want to read the entire article with much more technical data you can find it here. The review was compiled by Bob and was sent my way via Scott from the Madison MINI Group. Here’s an excerpt:
Because there has been some controversy and apparent misunderstanding of the nature of the upgrade H/K audio system offered by MINI, I thought it might be useful to explain some of the features and the apparent design philosophy behind the system for users and prospective purchasers of the system
As a recording engineer by trade, I have worked for years with Harman Kardon and Harman Group professional equipment and have developed a respect, and a certain trust, for their products. Given that, I stuck out my neck and ordered the H/K stereo sight-unseen. I, for one, wasn’t disappointed. After listening to and analyzing the system, here are my observations. Please understand that all the information contained in this document was acquired through “reverse engineering”, meaning the information came from listening to and experimenting with the system, rather than from Harman Kardon. Where the heck is the manual that should have come with this thing?…
…If you are looking for an earth-shaking, modern, extremely high-powered system designed for hip-hop, and you plan to run it at 110db or above, maybe this isn’t the system for you. If you are looking for the type of system that can be heard from within your living room as a car passes out on in the street, this possibly isn’t the system for you. If you are looking for an “attack” system that can be leveled on the other motorists around you at stoplights, this probably isn’t the system for you. That isn’t exactly “Motoring”. Do I sense an attitude from the author here? Sorry. At any rate, those systems typically need a separate sub-woofer, which takes up extra space in the foot well or boot, space that is at a premium in our MINIs. If you are hoping to have a system with four similar-sounding speaker locations, this may not be the system for you.
If, on the other hand, you are looking for a reasonably powerful, musical, wide-range stereo, one which can be configured to optimize the front seat listening experience or provide music for all, this might just be the system for you. If you enjoy “audiophile” stereo systems at home, this may just be the system for you. If you don’t want to loose foot room or trunk space and want to keep the nondescript (though excellent) Boost front-end unit to deter theft, this might just be the system for you. Also remember, when installed at the time of purchase, this stereo is also covered for the duration of the MINI’s warranty.
As in most things audio, the final result is very subjective. Some will love this system, some will hate it. You’ll want to go down to a MINI dealer with your favorite disks in your hand and ask to spend an hour with a Harmon Kardon-equipped car to find out. You can listen with the car turned off, but the system will automatically shut down every twenty minutes. Just turn it back on. Bon appetite!
Again you can read the entire review here.
<p>I've had my Mini 2 weeks and have the HK system. I love it. When I'm alone I can crank it up and it's very clear. When others are in the car with me I can have the volume low and still hear it. I had the “best” stereo in my Porsche Boxster and it wasn't half as good as this. Highly recommended.</p>
<p>Great link, thanks!
For me this helped me solve the booming bass problem many have voiced: in Mini H/K mode, the rear speakers are used as (sub) woofers only, not as broadband. This means that if you move the sound stage backward with F/R fade, you are boosting bass. Great info in the link, thanks again!</p>
<p>I would have gone with the HK if it was available. I just replaced the speakers and was able to get <em>good</em> sound out of them, but not quite HK. IMHO the stock speakers did NOT handle any real music very well.</p>
<p>The MINI with H/K is the perfect environment for listening to classic British Rock! Try the Beatles 1 CD, Rolling Stones, or any other classic. Amazing this vehicle icon of all things English is detailed right down to the music balance!</p>
<p>i have an after market Sony MP80 on my mini cooper – can i still connect it to the harman kardon system?</p>
<p>Good question – someone with an H/K want to give us an answer?</p>
<p>Does anyone know the specs on the stereo system that comes standard with the car? Does HK make that one too? I can't find info anywhere. I didn't get the upgrade stereo because it seemed a little pricey, relative to other aftermarket products–I figured I'd wait a year or so and plop down the cash on something custom.</p>
<p>I had the HK in my MINI.
I replaced the HU with a Kenwood recently. The HK takes only the front speaker levels and processes them to all the speakers.
YOU HAVE TO HAVE THE STOCK HU CONNECTED or the HK amp will not power up!</p>
<p>If you removed the HK amp you would need to add crossovers since there are none for the midrange in the doors.</p>
<p>Also:
Recently had the rest of my upgrade done. New speakers and aftermarket amp.
MUCH WORSE than HK at the moment – hoping they will get it better :(</p>
<p>Contact me for more info.</p>
<p>Personally going the aftermarket route. I am a firm believer that the factory systems just don't give you the same quality speakers or amps….</p>
<p>The reason the HK system still sounds great and sometimes better than aftermarket set ups is that the HK was probably EQ'd for the interior of the MINI. Same as any other premium factory system (bose, HK, ML)</p>
<p>That's something to consider when you go aftermarket. Get a quality listener to properly adjust the sounds for the car.</p>
<p>I have a rattle in the passenger door speaker – I believe it just the ring cover – do they just pry off- so I may check the speaker. I also find that w/ the sunroof open – the noise is so loud -its difficult to hear the CD/radio.</p>
<p>I got HK stereo in my Mini I have alerady a problem on it the speed volume doesnt work the dealer said they do not have it but read the manual this include telephome muting,is any body have a fix for this?</p>
<p>I got the HK system because it was in the car I wanted. I've never believed in “factory” systems even upgrades. That said; The HK system is SUPER. Much better than even most of the aftermarket systems I've had installed. Muddled bass is a problem though. It seems to resonate through the door handle tubes. I've been thinking about adding a bass port to clean it up. Has anyone done this?</p>
<p>I ordered my ONE with H/K and it is the best sounding system I've had in my car so far. Outclasses the Bose factory fitted system in my Alfa Romeo 147! Speed volume is missing though so have to get my dealer fix that. Read the manual posted at the top: very useful!</p>
<p>Dear Every Body,
Seems to be that I went to all 3 dealers here at southern cal. and brought my mini in regards to the stereo (volume speed). As per the manual said they have this features Check your CD goes along with the car (unwrap) said that you can adjust the volume of HK depended at speed of the car, this feature is not in the system.BMW have a standard stereo that have this feature and work’s, also a regular c230 Mbz have this.Mini advertise this and should work. Is any body knows telephone number of North America bmw mini that I will address this issue to solve the problem?
Thanks, Gilbert</p>
<p>Give MINI customer relations a call at 888.ASK.MINI</p>
<p>Best of luck!</p>
<p>I'm a little concerned now about replacing the stock radio with something else after reading Ian's post. I am satisfied with the quality of sound with my HK system, but it is not loud enough. I can have the radio full blast and still talk to the person beside me without really raising my voice. We are going to have it checked out by the dealer to see if something is not programed right. I've tried every setting possible though. Has anyone replaced their stock radio with another one that sounds better and still looks good with the style and lights in the MINI? I'm afraid that the only way to get the “system” that I want, I am going have to add additional equipment…and I don't want to take up any space. </p>
<p>Dee</p>
<p>To all Mini Rider’s and lover,
Re: Speed Volume</p>
<p>Finally I spoke to Mini NA specially the Tech for the H/K mini, that we discuss the issue of the speed volume. Here are the answer of the person(I will not say the name to protect the privacy) that the design of the stereo if you have the regular H/K unit that doesn’t have the boom box the SPEED VOLUME will appear at the panel. Now if you have the Extra amplifier the speed volume will disappear but, the speed volume still there. This unit will make the deference if you run the car at 50miles pr hour, then if you are slowing and drop your speed 50miles the volume will be back as you pre-seated.
Now as he said that if the speed volume doesn’t work you should go to the dealer says that they should run the car at the speed i.e. 50 miles to activate the speed volume, if doesn’t work they need to change the unit or some wire are not connected at the back of the unit.
By the way guy’s if you need to confirm this discussion by MINI USA Na you may call at this No. 1 866 ASK MINI they will answer promptly.</p>
<p>Again,
After Talking to Mini NA They are totally trying to ignore the problem. The Amount you pay for Harmon Kardon Stereo to make your mouth shut, this is me, and I will never stop bugging them every day.
Dec. 5 at Around 9:00 am. A have Sched. To drop the car at IRVINE BMW, to fix the SPEED CONTROL, as the MINI NA that the problem solution will be at the program of the software of the car, they did, but the program they are looking is option stereo. They are not there, finally I again call BMW mini NA talk to TODD saying that still a problem, and guess what?, he told me that should work ,”GEEE ” Both me and Irvine tech saying it doesn’t work .So finally I said to Miguel the Irvine rep. I will deal with them in my office so that I have the area of pounding the table.
So, I start calling again the BMW Mini NA (1866 ASK MINI) and goes to another person and start talking that they never understand what I am talking, he said slow down because I don’t understand what you are saying (pay back).then start calling them “F” “S” “D” words that if you hang up that’s it, you got it. (It’s a game to play)Because they don’t understand what I am saying and call them ‘D’ words finally it goes to the Manager of their department, then I start talking professionally, saying that problems I have in my car should be solve or I drop the car on in any dealer until it’s solve the problem or I will file a LEMON LAW.
“Now he is cooking gas” as he said he will send the Engineer at BMW Irvine to investigate the case of my car, as he scheduled on December 11, 2003. this problem is a unique one, and it should work. I even said that, why it is only on US model that have this problem, in UK they are using SONY but it works. As he said they will check it with the engineer, from there we will see the next chapter.</p>
<p>I can't understand any of your posts Gilbert. Do they teach english and grammar at UCLA?</p>
<p>Sorry to hear about your problem though, I'd love to understand it better.</p>
<p>Good luck.</p>
<p>Thanks for your Response Callaway at least somebody read my tread in regards to this issue of h/k speed volume.
The first story runs this way; thanks Gabe, the number you gave me helps me a lot and I call immediately. Two story what I’m getting from BMW NA from customer relation (the person is TODD) and the BMW field Engineer.</p>
<p>BMW NA relation customer says that:
1) Regular stereo H/K no Booster amp, YOU CAN SEE THE SPEED VOLUME AT THE HEAD UNIT AND ADJUSTABLE.
2) Upgraded booster amp. You don't see the adjustment at the head unit BUT it is built in at the booster amp.
Again he says that it will work if the car runs at 50 m/h that’s the time you can hear the deference.
The BMW engineer says that:
1) Your car doesn't have that feature; it is not design to US cars.
2) Doesn't have the house wiring design. (Electrical wiring of the car)
3) And he will, and says that all cars sold here in US don’t have the feature SPEED CONTROL.
4) The manual is a MISSED PRINT and He can technically say that.</p>
<p>Now tell me who among of this people are telling the truth, the engineer, in witch I belong or the customer relation that rely on engineer say.
This is what I did:
•At the back of the car right side there is a side opening were the booster amp and un-bolt the amp.
•I un-plug the wire and lay down the amp on the floor
•I turn the head unit olala there is your SPEED Volume.
•I install two speaker outside and run the car at 50 mile </p>
<p>Now, the volume adjusts by it self from 50miles and 70 miles max volume according to preset you placed.<br />
The tread that I wrote is purposely made that way, the reason why, if any body have the same issue will answer diligent and a please. I put a lot of time for fighting this issue even in U.K. I send a letter asking how I can fix this problem due to NA can’t do it, U K relation says that the issue were never encounter there; even SONY will work according with the manual.
I talk to the Field Engineer of NA at BMW Irvine, as he says that most tread are monitored by MINI NA sometimes they see a legal action at held and almost the NA Attorney will take an action on it, but they found out the writer is a 10 year old kid.
I hope you are not one of the attorneys of NA (joke only) and this will answer you question.</p>
<p>Gillbert, maybe I can be of some help to you. Email me sometime (you have my email in this post). Maybe you are not a native English speaker – if not, possibly I will know your native tongue (languages are my hobby!) Possibly, I can help you to draft letters to send out, this might make it easier for your thoughts to be read <em>and</em> understood by MINI NA. Good luck!</p>
<p>David,
Thanks anyway you are not a help to this issue.
The only what I want to know is any body have the same issue or they are happy what they got.</p>
<p>These issues sound interesting. I have the stock system because the option was not available when I bought Mine, But I had the H/K in my 2001 BMW 330 and loved it. I want the H/K in the MINI.</p>
<p>Gilbert! take a hint, stop posting because no one here understands your attempted english and you dont want help so do us a favor and STOP POSTING!</p>
<p>Thanks Fozzy, I got the answers anyway, H/k of uk send me a letter of correction now its working.
By the way this web is a public posting no one can stop it unless the owner will block.</p>
<p>Has anyone figured out what the actual specs are for the HK system? Watts and such, it does not seem to be printed anywhere.</p>
<p>I am pretty disapointed with my HK system and have had better stock systems in other cars. It happened to be part of the MCS that was available.</p>
<p>Brett, With booster amp 302Watts, without 35 Watts
Disadvantages of adding booster you loss some feature like speed volume and others, it cost me harrast emotion and money, so I do it my self to fix mine. I would like to see all mini to come forward to to fix thier system payed, that they don't get what they pay for according to the manual.</p>
<p>Note: My English is not good it was meant that way.Gabe if i post wrong please remove my posting.</p>
<p>Gilbert – don't worry about your English. You may want to try to use Google language tools from time to time though. I use them to read German all the time.</p>
<p>Thanks, Gabe I'll do that.</p>
<p>I'm in the process of buying a MINI, and I'm considering buying the HK upgrade option. However, I also want to know that this the best buy for my money. Anyway, I'd like to compare prices to other alternatives but the specs don't tell me what size speakers or anything. Can any of you guys help me? I need to know the # of speakers and their watts/size etc…</p>
<p>Thanks,</p>
<p>did any body installed in their mini a cd changer and replaced them with hard drive mp3? check this out.
<a href="http://www.phatnoise.com/products/digitalmediaplayers/mini.php" rel="nofollow ugc">http://www.phatnoise.com/products/digitalmediaplayers/mini.php</a></p>
<p>Does the HK sound much better than the standard stereo? I'm considering the extra $550 only if it's worth it. Opinions?</p>
<p>Can anybody tell me if you can purchase the HK system for a used car? Heard one in my friends Range Rover and was very impressed.</p>
<p>I am purchasing a 2005 MINI Convertible soon. Could anyone confer as to whether or not one can use the “Official BMW/Mini Ipod adapter” with the Harman Kardon system?
(listed here: <a href="https://www.motoringfile.com/2004/07/19/the" rel="ugc">https://www.motoringfile.com/2004/07/19/the</a><em>ipodmini</em>connector_reviewed )</p>
<p>gz,it is worth to pay 550$$$ just ask the dealer to program it properly</p>
<p>gil</p>
<p>Kathy,
If you are buying the used car stereo from a used car 1) no warranty,2) migth not fit right, 3) the wiring got something to do with your speedometer also migth damage some of your electonic component.But somebody did it already I think IAN Cull have more info.</p>
<p>i have a 2004 mini cooper s with harman kardon stereo, i also have a dvd player installed in my car. are there aux audio in jacks( red and black type) in the back of the head unit so i can hear sound from my player through the car speakers?</p>
<p>A little too late to ask… my MINI (S) with the H/K upgrade is at the dealer undergoing all the dealer installed prep. I will pick it up in a couple of days. But, does the CD play MP3s? Anybody? I do have a 20 Gig MP3 Player that I will take with the car to play through the auxilory input, but it would really rock if the CD player can handle MP3s on my own audio CDs. Does anyone have an answer? Thanks in advance.</p>
<p>I have a 2003 cooper s with the hk system. I added the cd changer when i bought the car. I have had three speakers replaced over the last year. Both tweeters in the doors, and one of the other speakers in the door. Today I heard the familiar buzz again of a blown speaker. Is anyone else having this problem? Most of the time I listen to npr and when i listen to cds it's older stuff, like the band, dylan, or blues; the point is I am not blasting. Also, how do you remove the lower speaker cover panel (I know how to remove the tweeter speaker cover)? Thanks.</p>
<p>I have a 2005 S on order and am having a devil of a time getting the right info on the Sirius install. The dealer want a cool $625.00 for the install and that won't allow me to move the unit to my home or office. There are several systems on the market for as little as $99.00 (I don't want XM)</p>
<p>I got it from AskMini that the factory installed antenna is satellite ready and you can also hook the sirius up through the optional AUX port and have it interface with the HK Head unit. What I can't figure out is how to get the factory antenna to the Sirius device…</p>
<p>Any thoughts?</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>hi there mini fans. first time inquiry from a soon-2-B proud owner of 2005 mini cooper – I am still on the waiting list at longbeach mini; but I just got a call today from them telling me that my peppaa-wht mini will be part of the end-of-nov.04 order raster! jahoo.
after reading lotsa posts from all of you, I am glad to have 'instinctively' picked the anthracite headliner [$200 option] after choosing the anthracite dashboard color [$0]!!
but here my real question: I considered ordering the 'sport exhaust' option [$675 plus install]. can anybody tell me what I will get? is it any good and worth the expense? what company makes it? borla? remus? what should I expect to get charged for the install?
which after market cat-back exhaust do ya'll recommend? thanx for your insights.</p>
<p>I am awaiting a 2005 mini cooper s without the hk sound system upgrade. I was thinking of adding an after market alpine cd changer (which I already have sitting around) to the stock head unit. Does anyone know if the stock mini radio has cd shuttle control capability? The adapter is only (according crutchfield.com) compatible with factory head units with cd shuttle control function.</p>
<p>Check <a href="http://www.blitzsafe.com/blitz_catalog/blitz_interfaces/blitz_interface_list/blitz_cooper/blitz_cooper.html">Blitzsafe</a> for one example of an interface that will convert the MINI factory CD changer to your aftermarket one.</p>
<p>In Australia, the Mini has HK speakers as an option – no difference in the head unit and no additional amps. The standard head unit is 4x 15 watts. Sure the HK speakers might sound a bit better than standard, but 15 watts is miserable. I am currently running a Pioneer unit 4x50watts with Cerwin Vega speakers and this isn't satisfying me in me hard top car. I tested an MX5 and with the roof down, the standard stereo was terrible. Perhaps Mini should offer a more suitable head unit upgrade in conjunction with the speakers.</p>
<p>Matt,
I am surprised by what you say – I don't believe the stock HU could drive the HK speakers (especially the rears which are 2 ohm dual voice coils)!</p>
<p>i have a bmw325i/2003 and think the HK is great…but i was thinking of adding alittil more Bass(like a Self-Amplifier Subwoofer System)any help out there on ideas..oh yeah my car came with the operations manual for the HK.</p>
<p>Food for thought. For the secomd time in so many years the main amp for my HK system has blown. Annoying. This second time I went shopping for aftermarket fixes to this problem which HK apparently has gone to great lengths to prevent. American systems tend to use 4ohm electrical systems…HK was kind enough to us 8ohm. This causes several problems. To replace the amp only the installer must completely bypass the original amp and run new wires and capacitors to each speaker, keeping in mind there are 8 of them. A very difficult install for even professionals. If you replace the amp and speakers, the head unit must be replaced also. Therefore…it would be wise for anyone considering an aftermarket system to save the several hundred dollars for the HK and just invest that into your aftermarket bliss. BTW, when it works, the system sounds very nice, however it is not very loud.</p>
<p>Javier…JBL makes a very tight little sub designed for the mini boot and HK system. You may want more for a beemer however ti is pretty cool anyway.</p>
<p>Anyone has the JLAudio Stealthbox installed in the mini cooper S?</p>
<p>Is it a non-intrusive installation which is compatible with the HK option?</p>
<p>Pardon me, but I don’t know much about such set ups?</p>
<p><a href="http://www.jlaudio.com/stealthbox/minicooperD.html" rel="nofollow ugc">http://www.jlaudio.com/stealthbox/minicooperD.html</a></p>
<p>Tim said: ‘JBL makes a very tight little sub designed for the mini boot and HK system.’</p>
<p>I can’t find any info on this on JBL’s website, or even by Googling it. Can you provide a model # or any more info? </p>
<p>Getting an MCS due in end of April…opted out of the HK because of $550 price tag! What’s an acceptable upgrade to standard system? Replace only the speakers or receiver too? Difficult to replace? Does Crutchfield have anything worthwhile?
Hugh</p>
<p>What’s with the speed-volume fixation, folks? I personally dislike the “feature” – some of the rentals I’ve driven had the function and it was annoying. I guess being a drummer I prefer my music to remain at a constant level – regardless of speed. I’m perfectly capable of multitasking, i.e., reaching that steering wheel volume control to adjust it up or down, lol.
I went with the H/K upgrade after the test drive convinced me the system sounds amazing for one installed at a factory.
Thanks MINI!
Dave in New York</p>
<p>On the “speed volume” feature: We just took delivery of our ’05 MCS convertible two weeks ago. It has the premium h/k system with boost CD. The manual says it has a speed volume feature, but it does not show up in the settings menu (just as Gilbert described). Sometimes it kind of seems to increase the volume, but in general I’m not really sure if it’s working.</p>
<p>For most people with hard-tops this features is surely not a big deal (and to some perhaps annoying, as DaveTinNY mentioned). But when the top is down you have all the wind noise and having the volume follow your speed is quite handy.</p>
<p>I noticed that Gilbert’s original post was in Nov. 2003, so is this still an ongoing issue even in the 2005 models??</p>
<ul>
<li><p>John</p></li>
<li><p>John</p></li>
</ul>
<p>John … not exactly “an ongoing issue”; the H/K system has a non-adjustable speed compensation system which is enough to compensate for road noise / etc in a hardtop MINI but only just enough so many people think it is not working.</p>
<p>I don’t know if the convertibles have an updated system but I doubt it.</p>
<p>Come’n Guy’s… it’s an issue sense then.</p>
<p>If you stay with regular HK system the speed volume will work and I tryed with other mini’s have it.. but if you up grade to premium sytem this will not work even the manual say so….therefor the book is a lier…</p>
<p>We just got a mbz compressor c230 2005 that has the same system HK premium it works…….the way we want and how come this system with mini doesn’t work..</p>
<p>i ordered mine with a harmon kardon speaker system and i really hope it will satisfy me because i read a lot of peoples comments it other site about there problems with the system i hope there just braging because what i see is that ur all satisfied with the system</p>
<p>Hi</p>
<p>I recently brought a mini one, with the H/K upgrade, but i want to put an alpine headunit, in the car, now the people installing the alpine are having troubke doing i, because they dont know how, thay have a few ideas, they have rang round all there contacts in the uk and apparently no one knows how? does anyone know how, could you email or post back suggestions that i can show the audio shop! </p>
<p>Cheers</p>
<p>You can’t harman kardon have a digital system works with booster amplifier they call them dsp alpine have analog unless you install conversion kit…</p>
<p>Where could i get this conversion kit from, how much is it ruffly going to cost? how easy is it to install? Are somthing to do with BMW gilbert?</p>
<p>Well I don’t know the cost but, I see this on the web on germany page… to start with you may look at BMW site or Alpine… BMW’s uses alpine before 2000 I know this co’z I break them and repair…
Also the way I understand is you will cut some wiring to do it this I don’t like it, so I’ve never bother doing it..
Now, in UK sure they use SONY Crucified.. this sure they have it’s own Booster and wire harness….</p>
<p>I bought a Mini Cooper in September 2004 with factory fitted radio/CD player and Harmon Kardon speakers. Now I want to replace the radio/CD player with a digital radio receiver. However, Mini dealer and their contract fitter say this is impossible because HK system fitted to the Mini cannot be used with anything other than factory fitted radio. Has anyone found a way round this problem?</p>
<blockquote>…Now I want to replace the radio/CD player with a digital radio receiver. However, Mini dealer and their contract fitter say this is impossible because HK system fitted to the Mini cannot be used with anything other than factory fitted radio. Has anyone found a way round this problem?</blockquote>
<p>Try this cool little gadget from Ian Cull and MikeyTheMini over at NewMiniStuff.com:</p>
<p><a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.newministuff.com/new/shop.php?action=productshow&id=116">HK Enabler</a></p>
<p>Sounds like ian found it
Now robert you enjoy it….</p>
Guys,
I was in the car stereo business for 10 yrs. Anything can be integrated into any factory system with the proper know-how. You can install an aftermarket head unit with the HK system. You also can install an aftermarket amp with the HK system. It’s just a matter of knowing what goes where and how. I have an ’05 Cooper S with the HK. As a previous sound quality judge for car audio competitions, I have a very critical ear. Is the HK system perfect? No. But neither is any aftermarket system costing thousands of dollars more. For the money, the HK is the best option for anyone considering a new Mini.
Siruis radio:
Many people have asked how to integrate Sirius. There is now an adapter plug available to integrate the direct digital sound from your satelite, Ipod, or whatever other audio device you may have. You can get it from outmotoring.com for about $40. It simply plugs into the back of the factory unit and works through the auxilary button on the radio (you cannot use this feature if you already have something connected to this input, ie cd chager). It’s about a 30 min install and gets you a direct digital sound instead of the inferior FM modulator used by both satelite radio companies.
If I can be of further assistance, please let me know.
I’ve got a 2006 Mini S inbound.
With NAVI & HK, no CD Changer.
Can I get a XM or Sirius integrated vrs. an extra unit exposed in the cockpit? Info. has been hard to find as it seems most people don’t get the NAVI option.
If so, does it display Artist, song etc?
Do the steering wheel controls work with the SAT unit?
Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!
RD
Rich,
Check out Blitzsafe. I’ve been looking into it as well though I don’t have NAVI. They make a gizmo that allows the XM Direct box interface with the factory HK unit. There are two models: one for a single aux unit, and another that allows connection of a CD changer in addition to the aux unit (XM, MP3 player, etc.)
I ordered one from logjamelectronics.com though there are other dealers that sell it as well.
But after reading something else after my order, I just might call tomorrow morning and cancel that order cuz I found out about a new unit from Terk (the same folks that make XM Direct). The XMDRDS100 supposedly interfaces with any RDS radio – head units that can display station data. The HK system is RDS capable at least since the ’05 MCS which I have. This unit was just announced at CES this past week and, as far as I can tell, does the same thing and maybe even more as the Blitzsafe unit at half the price.
Check it out:
<a href="http://www.audiovox.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10001&storeId=10001&productId=14946&langId=-1" rel="nofollow ugc">http://www.audiovox.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?catalogId=10001&storeId=10001&productId=14946&langId=-1</a>
All,
I have a 2005 Mini Cooper Convertible with the H/K sound system. For a factory installed sound system, I’m really pleased with it. However, I do have one problem that the dealer is unable to verify, and therefore unable to authorize the repair of. After I have been listening to something heavy like Korn, or Social Distortion – Live at the Roxy (excellent by the way) for 30-40 minutes, the volume begins to decrease by as much as 50%. My assumption is that the amp is overheating, but since the dealer can’t seem to duplicate it, they won’t fix it. Does anyone else have this problem?
Thanks,
Brody
Looking for assistance, just replaced factory stereo with Pioneer head unit and there is no sound, seems a known issue with the HK amp, can anyone provide help on how to fix this? Even tried putting factory ‘head’ back on but it is reading ‘disabled’ and won’t work now either. Please Help!
Adam Pruitt and others,
I recently purchased a 2002 Mini Cooper. Sadly, no HK. Do you have a recommendation for a quality after-market system that won’t break the bank (I’m looking to spend $750 or less, but will pay a little more for significant improved sound quality)?
thanks,
-Ben
Hello,
Got a new battery for my MINI and after installation no longer have AM rather I now have MW (Medium Wave) and LW (Long Wave). Tuning to my normal AM stations is more difficult.
Does anyone know how to toggle the HK system back to AM from MW???
Doug
With HK sysyem are back speakers connected?
Hey folks,
I have an MCS with the HK system installed. Problem is the previous owner took the HK amplifier! Does anybody input on where to look for a used HK amp so I can restore the system? Any help is greatly appreciated! Thanks in advance.
/Chris.
To the April ’06 post: I wouldn’t think that a dealer would be required to fix some kind of overload/clipping issue. That’s clearly an issue of misuse. That’s kinda like saying a dealer should be required to repair any damage caused by constantly running the car at 80mph in 2nd gear. Just because it goes to 11 (to paraphrase Spinal Tap), doesn’t mean it should be able to operate at 11 for an extended period of time. It’s common sense.
I have a Question? I purchased a Harman/Kardon Drive and Play iPod system. What exactly do i have to do to install into my 06 Mini Cooper. Is it difficult to install? Any Help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you
I just bought a 2007 MINI convertible with the iPod adapter.
Since it’s not the Harman/Kardon stereo, I can tune the Speed Volume Control.
My question is: what is the difference between “Speed Vol 1” through “Speed Vol 6”.
The manually doesn’t say what the difference is.
Also, does the Speed Volume Control work with the iPod or is it just radio and CDs?
Thank you so much!
OH MY GOD!! i managed to blow my HK front speakers. Someone please help me to locate some new onez! i’m desperate!!
Thanks
I have a 2006 mini cooper Park Lane with the harmon kardon system and it seems that the audio will cut in and out at times. Took it to the dealer to replace a new head unit a month ago but the problem has started again? Does anyone know or have had any problems like this? And where is the HK amplifier located?
Hi, please do anybody knows where I can find the manual the connections for the amplifier Harman Kardon HS3897 of my MINI Cooper S from 2003???
Big thanks, anthony
I just purchased a used 2005 Mini S Works with the H/K sound system. Surprisingly, the volume is not loud like I was expecting it to be. I have had other cars with Bose and H/K sound systems before, and they played nice and loud. Albeit the clarity of the sound, the volume is just not there, as it is not loud enough. Don’t get me wrong, I am not expecting it to make me deaf; all I am saying is that when I have it at MAX vol, I don’t need to “yell” for the person next to me to hear me. Maybe something’s wrong? Should I take it to a dalership for a check?
I’d appreciate any guidance!
Thank you!
here’s my dilemma. i bought an ’04 cooper used, and i love it, but it didn’t come with the HK stereo. i’m thinking about pulling out my boost stereo for the ’05/’06 boost stereo, so i can get MP3 CDs and skip-proof playback. while i have my dash ripped apart, is there any way i can buy the HK kit and have it installed alongside the MP3-compatible boost unit?
i mean, the stock stereo is plenty loud, and i don’t have any real problems with clarity, but everyone’s ranting and raving abut it, and my karman kardon desk speakers are an absolute joy to listen to music on, so i figured why not put a set in the car too.
oh, also, my ’04 boost manual comes with some pages marked with “if your vehicle is equipped with the optional H/K premium stereo” so harman kardon didnt include their own manual, but the regular boost manual does mention some of the HK features.
I have no problem with the <i>sound</i> of the MINI h/k system. My only issue is that the system has been designed to preclude the use of any after-market head. I’m irritated beyond <i>measure</i> that I have to rewire the car or spend a significant amount of additional money to buy the “HK Enabler.” It would have been perfectly easy to design the amp to be compatible with most after-market heads; there was no need to be exclusive.
Were I to advise someone who was thinking of buying a MINI, I’d suggest that they get the standard sound system, simply to leave open the option of an after-market head of their choice.
Hey!
So i’ve been having problems with my convertable Cooper 2007 speakers.. it seems that it’s been rattling alot, the bass is just beginning to suck!
and i was really concidering replacing my speakers with something else which i have No idea what,, but anything better than the harman kardon ones!
When i took it to the dealer they said that the “seatbelt was rattling so they clipped it” which isn’t true cuz i sat in the back of my car next to the bad speaker with my seatbelt on and it wasn’t the problem!!
Can anyone help me out with this?? anyone know better speaker? Or any ideas how to fix it or what i can do??
Please HELP i’m so desperate and tired of these speakers!
p.s. I listen to alota Trance music and alota base n i like my music loud anyway… i practically lost hope in ever finding someone that could explain this to me and help me out… but if someone here knows what im talkin about help plz!
Bayan,
I never had stock systems in cars, but tonight I’ve just bought a 2003 very well spec’d cooper with the HK system.
From experience, it can be various issues.
1. A clip has dropped down near the speaker and is causing resonance.
2. The speaker has blown
3. There is a scuff/tear in the excursion material
4. Your door card/rear card isn’t fixed properly
Now a question for anyone
I would like to add an aftermarket sub and amp but keep the fronts going thru the DSP and the front component and was wondering if I got an amp with Hi-level inputs is this do-able either
a. by bypassing/splicing the inputs to dsp to new amp
b. to run 2 sets of wire from head unit to dsp and new amp
Many Thanks
Dave
<p>I have a 2004 Mini with the HK system. The radio lights up but no sound out of the speakers. Do you think this is a problem with the amp? If so, can I fix the amp? Model HS 3897 Help!</p>
<p>Will,</p>
<p>I am so glad to hear you share my frustration that Mini and HK designed the amp so you can’t use an aftermarket head unit. I have an ’03 Mini S and do not share the enthusiasm of others on this board for the sound quality, and I really need an iPod jack so need a new head unit. The fact that I need to totally rewire the car to do this simple thing is incredibly irritating. I just convinced a neighbor not to buy a Mini for this reason and because the service quality at Manhattan Mini is criminally bad. I love the car otherwise but it’s been in the shop about ten times since I bought it and the stupid stereo thing is just the last straw. Bad for customer loyalty for sure.</p>
<p>Im losing my mind! I have a 2004 mini factor radio. It’s suppose to be Sirius ready. I went to XM to have it activated and subscribe but they need the SID#. Tech support told me where to find it in the MODE but its not there. I called two Mini dealers and they have no clue either. I don’t know if I don’t have a receiver or tuner or what I need. I can’t find any info on this and really want to hook up Sirius. I don’t want a portable device, I want it to run through my radio. I’m so annoyed that this info isn’t out there anywhere and that the dealers don’t even have a clue. I am wondering if 888-askmini would know.</p>
<p>Hi there i have a 2004 mini one d with the upgraded HK sound system and the amp has decided to break, does anyone know where i can get a new HK DSP amp?? and how much the cost? ive been quoted £700 from the main dealer!!:(</p>
<p>I saw a used HK DSP amp on EBay recently.</p>
<p>I would like to by one for my mini where do I by one from and how much are they thanks kaz</p>
<p>how much is the speaker system for BMW to fit too???</p>
<p>Can you help with this?</p>
<p>we are looking for a repair or replacement for A Mercedes R class amp we
have no sound coming out, we are in the uk.</p>
<p>Our part number is A251
820 9589, I am led to believe that the following part numbers will also fit and
work :</p>
<p>A251 820 4489</p>
<p>A251 820 7689</p>
<p>A251 870 6689 (this is
the newest revision, which should be more reliable)</p>
<p>Any ML/GL or R class with Harman kardon sound system should
have this amplifier fitted from 2006-2008. 2009 onwards is different.</p>
<p>David 07831 119047 <a href="mailto:david@mercman.net">david@mercman.net</a> please email or call if you can help or know someone who can.</p>