What Gives With This Survey ?
04-11-2002, 06:54 AM
#1
Senior Member
Thread Starter
Join Date: Feb 2002
Posts: 146
What Gives With This Survey ?
And Where's Maxima !!!!!!!????????
Top 10 Sound Systems in Cars Under $30,000 for 2002
By Scott Memmer ( Edmunds.com )
Last updated: 2002-04-09
The last 30 years have seen a revolution in car audio technology. Beginning in the '70s with four- and eight-track players, and continuing to the present day, innovations in cassette, CD and now even MP3 technology have given today's consumer many choices. And it's getting better every day.
With a growing number of manufacturers vying for your car-purchasing dollars, automakers have begun using entertainment systems as a way of differentiating themselves from the competition. Not only is this smart engineering, it's good for business. Who can imagine a Lexus LS 430, for example, without its niche-defining sound system? Or a Ford Focus, for that matter? Whether European, Japanese or American, automakers spend precious time and assets developing sound systems as "bait" to attract target customers.
We've assembled a top 10 list of the best factory sound systems your money can buy, in vehicles with an MSRP under $30,000.
This is by no means an exhaustive list. Not only does it mirror our personal preferences — which some readers have called elitist, and others have labeled "out of touch with reality" (we would argue that reality is highly overrated) — it also reflects, by definition, the vehicles we've had a chance to listen to. We evaluate more than 100 sound systems per year, but we can't get to every car in every segment. If we haven't heard a particular vehicle, we've attempted to extrapolate its merits based upon other offerings from that company. For instance, about a year ago, Toyota standardized a new head unit design that was a marked improvement over its previous layout. Even if we don't have access to a particular Toyota, we know it has the new radio.
There are a few notable omissions here, and this is by design. For instance, you won't find the Mazda Protegé MP3 system on our list. Why not? Simple: The Mazda MP3 was a 2001 model, with no replacement in the 2002 model year list. We'd rather deal in current models that you can go out and purchase today.
Finally, understand that this list is a snapshot in time. No sooner have these pixels flashed on your computer screen than the list will be outdated. Realize, though, that many of these automakers have ongoing relationships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs, for short) such as Bose, JBL and Infinity, so what's true today will likely hold true tomorrow. Wherever possible, we've attempted to identify the OEM and indicate a familial relationship between the automaker and the stereo manufacturer.
With that rather long-winded introduction out of the way, here's the list.
1. 2002 Ford Mustang GT Premium 2dr Convertible
A Ford is the best? You better believe it. Although we had only limited seat time in this pony two-door, it was long enough for this sound system to part our hair without a comb. It's that good. And loud — we mean, really loud. The GT Premium comes standard with this system, known as the Mach 460, which includes an in-dash six-disc CD changer, eight speakers, three amplifiers and 460 watts of total system power. If your ears aren't bleeding from the Mach 460, you can order the Mach 1000 (MSRP $1,295), which has six amplifiers and 1,140 watts of total peak power. But be forewarned: The neighbors will be ticked if you play this thing in your driveway.
2. 2002 Nissan Altima (Bose)
We were pretty amazed when we finally got to listen to this system, and yet not totally surprised. The week before this car came into our offices, we were walking down the street and heard a loud thumping noise. Looking up, we found a 20-something commuter in a sparkling new Altima bobbing his head in time to the music. We couldn't agree more. Considering the price of this vehicle, the stereo is a real steal. Be sure to order the optional Bose system (MSRP $899), which comes standard on higher-priced trim levels but costs extra on the base models. The system comes with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, eight speakers and 100 watts of power that sounds like double that. (Fans of our long-term program will note that we've had some trouble with our long-term Nissan Altima's stereo quality, however, the stereos of all other Altimas we've tested have been great. This leads us to believe that our long-term vehicle's situation is an anomaly.)
3. 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (Bose)
Although we found the head unit in this system overly busy, the sound quality is so darn good we couldn't leave it off the list. Be sure to order the Bose package (MSRP $495), which boasts six speakers, 275 watts of total system power and digital signal processing (DSP). The piece de resistance here are the dash-mounted tweeters, which fire upward into the windshield. You can also order an optional DVD entertainment system that routes through the audio setup, although this would put the vehicle over $30K.
4. 2002 Nissan Pathfinder (Bose)
No, we're not a shill for Nissan or Bose, and no, they're not slipping us something on the side. We just think they do a great job in the audio area. In our recent SUV comparison test, this one tied with the Chevy TrailBlazer for top stereo honors. The system boasts 150 beefy watts, an in-dash six-disc CD changer and six speakers.
5. 2002 Audi A4 (Bose)
Although this system has some glaring inadequacies, such as a lack of steering wheel controls, it more than makes up for this with its superb sound quality. Setting your teeth on edge with a generous 200 watts of system power, plus a total of 10 loudspeakers (including a subwoofer in back and a centerfill speaker in front), you'll think you're on the audio autobahn with this one. Be sure to order the Bose Premium Sound System (MSRP $650).
6. 2002 Volkswagen Passat (Monsoon)
Believe it or not, the Monsoon stereo in the VW Passat is manufactured by Delphi, a division of Delco Electronics. Even more amazing: It sounds really good. Volkswagen takes a somewhat different approach to audio in all its vehicles, which is evident throughout the product line, from the Passat on down to the Golf. Rather than mounting large 6-by-9s on the back deck, the VW folks opt for 6.5-inch drivers in all four doors. The doors act as speaker enclosures, accentuating bass response and smoothing out the rough edges. Top this off with an elegant pair of front-mounted tweeters, and you have a recipe for good sound.
7. 2002 Nissan Sentra SE-R (Rockford-Fosgate)
With 300 watts of total system power, this one's a real cruncher. Designed in conjunction with Rockford-Fosgate, a major aftermarket player, the optional audio system (MSRP $549) is well worth the investment. Dubbed the Audio Fanatic Package by Nissan, it includes nine speakers (one of which is a trunk-mounted subwoofer) and a Vehicle Security System. But be forewarned: There is one glaring design error that could cost you — and Nissan — a boatload of warranty claims. When turned up, the system produces excessive distortion, a sure portent of blown speakers. Careful with the volume **** on this one.
8. 2002 Ford Focus
No top 10 list would be complete without the cool little system in the Ford Focus. Neither the loudest nor the flashiest, it makes up for this with the best ergonomics in its class, a pleasing blend of function and form. It also boasts AVC (automatic volume control), which automatically raises and lowers the volume to adjust for road and wind noise. And new for 2002, it comes standard with an in-dash six-disc CD changer.
9. 2002 Honda CR-V
We threw this one in as sort of a vote of confidence for Honda. For years, the Japanese automaker has lagged behind in the stereo wars, rolling vehicles out the factory door with mediocre sound systems. Why? Our take: With such a loyal brand following, the company didn't have to compete. Now, with the likes of Nissan, Toyota and others close on its heels, Honda has to respond to the competition. Thus the much improved system in the redesigned CR-V. This little six-speaker setup comes with an ergonomically pleasing head unit that includes an in-dash six-disc changer. The only catch: You have to spring for the EX model.
10. 2002 Dodge Neon
A Dodge Neon? Yup. While the car may not be anything to write home about, we like the audio system a lot. For an inexpensive econobox, it comes with an impressive little system. OK, it's not perfect (we still find the radio design annoying, and it could use more power), but the dash-mounted tweets sing like a bird.
Top 10 Sound Systems in Cars Under $30,000 for 2002
By Scott Memmer ( Edmunds.com )
Last updated: 2002-04-09
The last 30 years have seen a revolution in car audio technology. Beginning in the '70s with four- and eight-track players, and continuing to the present day, innovations in cassette, CD and now even MP3 technology have given today's consumer many choices. And it's getting better every day.
With a growing number of manufacturers vying for your car-purchasing dollars, automakers have begun using entertainment systems as a way of differentiating themselves from the competition. Not only is this smart engineering, it's good for business. Who can imagine a Lexus LS 430, for example, without its niche-defining sound system? Or a Ford Focus, for that matter? Whether European, Japanese or American, automakers spend precious time and assets developing sound systems as "bait" to attract target customers.
We've assembled a top 10 list of the best factory sound systems your money can buy, in vehicles with an MSRP under $30,000.
This is by no means an exhaustive list. Not only does it mirror our personal preferences — which some readers have called elitist, and others have labeled "out of touch with reality" (we would argue that reality is highly overrated) — it also reflects, by definition, the vehicles we've had a chance to listen to. We evaluate more than 100 sound systems per year, but we can't get to every car in every segment. If we haven't heard a particular vehicle, we've attempted to extrapolate its merits based upon other offerings from that company. For instance, about a year ago, Toyota standardized a new head unit design that was a marked improvement over its previous layout. Even if we don't have access to a particular Toyota, we know it has the new radio.
There are a few notable omissions here, and this is by design. For instance, you won't find the Mazda Protegé MP3 system on our list. Why not? Simple: The Mazda MP3 was a 2001 model, with no replacement in the 2002 model year list. We'd rather deal in current models that you can go out and purchase today.
Finally, understand that this list is a snapshot in time. No sooner have these pixels flashed on your computer screen than the list will be outdated. Realize, though, that many of these automakers have ongoing relationships with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs, for short) such as Bose, JBL and Infinity, so what's true today will likely hold true tomorrow. Wherever possible, we've attempted to identify the OEM and indicate a familial relationship between the automaker and the stereo manufacturer.
With that rather long-winded introduction out of the way, here's the list.
1. 2002 Ford Mustang GT Premium 2dr Convertible
A Ford is the best? You better believe it. Although we had only limited seat time in this pony two-door, it was long enough for this sound system to part our hair without a comb. It's that good. And loud — we mean, really loud. The GT Premium comes standard with this system, known as the Mach 460, which includes an in-dash six-disc CD changer, eight speakers, three amplifiers and 460 watts of total system power. If your ears aren't bleeding from the Mach 460, you can order the Mach 1000 (MSRP $1,295), which has six amplifiers and 1,140 watts of total peak power. But be forewarned: The neighbors will be ticked if you play this thing in your driveway.
2. 2002 Nissan Altima (Bose)
We were pretty amazed when we finally got to listen to this system, and yet not totally surprised. The week before this car came into our offices, we were walking down the street and heard a loud thumping noise. Looking up, we found a 20-something commuter in a sparkling new Altima bobbing his head in time to the music. We couldn't agree more. Considering the price of this vehicle, the stereo is a real steal. Be sure to order the optional Bose system (MSRP $899), which comes standard on higher-priced trim levels but costs extra on the base models. The system comes with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, eight speakers and 100 watts of power that sounds like double that. (Fans of our long-term program will note that we've had some trouble with our long-term Nissan Altima's stereo quality, however, the stereos of all other Altimas we've tested have been great. This leads us to believe that our long-term vehicle's situation is an anomaly.)
3. 2002 Chevrolet TrailBlazer (Bose)
Although we found the head unit in this system overly busy, the sound quality is so darn good we couldn't leave it off the list. Be sure to order the Bose package (MSRP $495), which boasts six speakers, 275 watts of total system power and digital signal processing (DSP). The piece de resistance here are the dash-mounted tweeters, which fire upward into the windshield. You can also order an optional DVD entertainment system that routes through the audio setup, although this would put the vehicle over $30K.
4. 2002 Nissan Pathfinder (Bose)
No, we're not a shill for Nissan or Bose, and no, they're not slipping us something on the side. We just think they do a great job in the audio area. In our recent SUV comparison test, this one tied with the Chevy TrailBlazer for top stereo honors. The system boasts 150 beefy watts, an in-dash six-disc CD changer and six speakers.
5. 2002 Audi A4 (Bose)
Although this system has some glaring inadequacies, such as a lack of steering wheel controls, it more than makes up for this with its superb sound quality. Setting your teeth on edge with a generous 200 watts of system power, plus a total of 10 loudspeakers (including a subwoofer in back and a centerfill speaker in front), you'll think you're on the audio autobahn with this one. Be sure to order the Bose Premium Sound System (MSRP $650).
6. 2002 Volkswagen Passat (Monsoon)
Believe it or not, the Monsoon stereo in the VW Passat is manufactured by Delphi, a division of Delco Electronics. Even more amazing: It sounds really good. Volkswagen takes a somewhat different approach to audio in all its vehicles, which is evident throughout the product line, from the Passat on down to the Golf. Rather than mounting large 6-by-9s on the back deck, the VW folks opt for 6.5-inch drivers in all four doors. The doors act as speaker enclosures, accentuating bass response and smoothing out the rough edges. Top this off with an elegant pair of front-mounted tweeters, and you have a recipe for good sound.
7. 2002 Nissan Sentra SE-R (Rockford-Fosgate)
With 300 watts of total system power, this one's a real cruncher. Designed in conjunction with Rockford-Fosgate, a major aftermarket player, the optional audio system (MSRP $549) is well worth the investment. Dubbed the Audio Fanatic Package by Nissan, it includes nine speakers (one of which is a trunk-mounted subwoofer) and a Vehicle Security System. But be forewarned: There is one glaring design error that could cost you — and Nissan — a boatload of warranty claims. When turned up, the system produces excessive distortion, a sure portent of blown speakers. Careful with the volume **** on this one.
8. 2002 Ford Focus
No top 10 list would be complete without the cool little system in the Ford Focus. Neither the loudest nor the flashiest, it makes up for this with the best ergonomics in its class, a pleasing blend of function and form. It also boasts AVC (automatic volume control), which automatically raises and lowers the volume to adjust for road and wind noise. And new for 2002, it comes standard with an in-dash six-disc CD changer.
9. 2002 Honda CR-V
We threw this one in as sort of a vote of confidence for Honda. For years, the Japanese automaker has lagged behind in the stereo wars, rolling vehicles out the factory door with mediocre sound systems. Why? Our take: With such a loyal brand following, the company didn't have to compete. Now, with the likes of Nissan, Toyota and others close on its heels, Honda has to respond to the competition. Thus the much improved system in the redesigned CR-V. This little six-speaker setup comes with an ergonomically pleasing head unit that includes an in-dash six-disc changer. The only catch: You have to spring for the EX model.
10. 2002 Dodge Neon
A Dodge Neon? Yup. While the car may not be anything to write home about, we like the audio system a lot. For an inexpensive econobox, it comes with an impressive little system. OK, it's not perfect (we still find the radio design annoying, and it could use more power), but the dash-mounted tweets sing like a bird.
04-11-2002, 11:22 AM
#3
Senior Member
Join Date: Sep 2001
Location: Detroit Metro Area
Posts: 1,617
I've heard the Monsoon system in the 02 Passat. It SUCKS! I have the Bose in my 02 Maxima and it's alright. I wouldn't say it's anything to write home about. My $1200 system I put in my Lumina was better.
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