This is the list of replacements from Crutchfield

Factory replacement info:

In-dash stereo
7-3/4" depth; Size code DD,E

Front speakers
Front Door: 6x8"

Rear speakers
Rear Door: 6x8" [/align]

 

I WAS thinking about changing the head unit but not any more....thats 100+ just for adapters and dash kit and what not to do a good job and still use my volume control on the steering wheel. I will most likely get a good 4 channel amp where i do not need to blast the stereo that way its loud and clear and prob put 1 10" sub in the trunk....only other prob will be if some dum *** sits in the car and decides to blast it to see how loud it can go and blows my speakers.

 

This is why I wanted the Bose sound with my M3, i'm impressed with it. And yes, in the past, i've had good aftermarket stuff (still have it in the closet) like JL audio subs and amps and a Kenwood excelon headunit. I've thought about changing but need to keep what hearing I have left...WHAT DID YOU SAY??

 

dam ...is there i way i can do the same conversion...where would i be able to get the bose OEM system for it

 

That's a question for Mr.Spots who's awaythis w/e.
I think I remember reading his answer to that question before and there's something about converting thatmakes it not worthwhile... but he should get in on this for a complete answer. He's Da' Man!!

 

i would change the stock radio, you can get a much higher voltage unless you use some sort of signal amplifier to the amps, but that can be more difficult to install. I think the double din screens look really nice with the metra dash kit. It is well worth the money to install those if you want some nice sounding speakers.

 

The only problem w/that idea is you'd lose the steering wheel controls and the display of the stock system. I would miss those features.
Again, I bow to Mr. Spots much greater knowledge of this subject than my own. He may know of someone that has come up w/a way of keeping the controls and display when using an AM HU. It's bound to happen sooner or later.

 

there is a kit available to keep the steeringwheel controlls i just cant remember where to get it from maybe peripheral but not sureand as for changing the cdplayer do it its really easy.. and can look good to and imhoyou would really get into to much money and time trying to switch to the bose system i promise its a lot harder than just doing all aftermarket speakers and amps

http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p...cdsetup018.jpg

http://i124.photobucket.com/albums/p...cdsetup006.jpg

 

I forgot what its called....i deal with car stereo alot....too much money to dump out just for audio i'd rather put that money to the engine (performance) i'll keep the stock unit and will just get a amp and change the 4 speakers in the doors and add 1 10" sub in the back nothing serious just want better sound ...and deffenetly don't want to add weight.

 

you will regret not getting a new headunit i have always had trouble installing those (i am mecp certified installer) and have been doing this for the past 6 years and almost every one has some sort of engine noise that will annoy the hell out of you with just the adapter but with a new head unit you will eliminate that risk... and fyi the speakers come stock 5x7 but 5x7 and 6x8 is the same and will fit i have jbl in all 4 of my doors and they sound really good..