I recently purchased a '99 C4 with the CR220 head unit, 6 CD changer, hi-fi option and the DSP system. I would like to upgrade the audio system to include modern technologies such as iPod, SIRIUS, Bluetooth and GPS navigation.

I've tried searching various sites, but can't seem to find much about the factory system and its components. Most posts jump immediately to "I ripped everything out and started over..."

My question is whether there is any merit to keeping the DSP system. Also, will the factory amplifier work without the DSP control panel or do they have to be used together?

 

You won't be able to use the cd changer, amp, or dsp panel with an aftermarket head unit. The factory amp is no better than the built-in power of a decent head unit. It sounds like you want to put in a double din unit which is very easy to do- you just have to move the climate control to the lower spot where the dsp is now. If you want to do a single din unit you can get a factory storage cubby to go where the dsp panel is.

 

I'm running a double din after-market unit (Pioneer Avic Z-1) through my factory amp and speakers with the "DSP". Very do-able and improved sound. Great way to start out before adding amps and speakers later to defer costs! True that you won't be able to use the CD changer though.

 

Yeah, I knew I wouldn't be able to use the changer. Not a big deal since 95% of my recent listening habits has been SIRIUS or iPod.

I would really like to avoid cutting any wires if at all possible. If that means giving up a little sound quality, I'm okay with that since this is a pretty loud car.

I've seen lots of pics of the climate control in the lowest slot of the console, but that's where my DSP controls reside. I haven't been able to find any information about moving the climate control to the upper slot of the lower console (where the casssette storage boxes are currently).

 

Mean like this?

http://good-times.webshots.com/photo...06434683wLYoNH

And use these for connecting wires without cutting ...

http://good-times.webshots.com/photo...06434683XSfLUN

 

What is the reason so many people say you cannot use the stock (Nokia) amp with aftermarket head units? Does it not have the same standard inputs as other amps?

 

If by "standard inputs" you mean RCA inputs, I don't think I've ever seen a factory amp (VW, BMW, Mercedes, Volvo) with those. I have not dug into my car yet to look at the factory amp, so I can't tell you about that one.

 

How do I add an aftermarket headunit and remove the DSP?? With the DSP unplugged and the aftermarket unit plugged in I get nothing. Plug the DSP back in and I get sound. What gives?

 

I'm fairly certain the DSP is a pass through device. If so, you have to bypass the DSP by disconnecting the unit from both the radio and the amplifier and make your connection directly from your aftermarket head unit to the factory amplifier.

 

Would that require a hard wire installation?

 

I'm not sure what you mean. All car stereos are hard wired.

 

One exception to this are Blaupunkt stereos, they use the same connectors as the factory Porsche radio which includes the CD Changer controls. FYI

 

Correct. This is an old thread; since I started it I had installed a Blaupunkt head unit and kept the DSP operational. Of course, I have since sold the car too...

If I'm understanding Matthew's question, he has to make a connection from the aftermarket head unit to the plug that would normally lead OUT from the DSP unit TO the amplifier. Since I never removed my DSP unit, I can only speculate about the connections. I'd suggest it's time to remove the DSP unit and see what's back there.

 

you better of to have your car stereo upgrade done by pro who knows porsches.
Also if you once hear 996 with decent upgraded speakers and amp you understand why people post ("I ripped everything out and started over...")
Do your self favor and take those terrible speakers and amp out!!!!