Guys,
Just picked up a 1 year old, love it to bits, except for the fact that it has the std audio package, which is 2 speakers and 1 sub. I have rang AM, and they reckon it is not possible to upgrade (read buy the parts) to the premium audio, even though all the wiring looms should be there, and both packages are Alpine.
Would have thought just buy the better speakers, the bigger amp(s) and the DSP to plug into the head unit and off we go. Been an audiophile for many years and this stereo just doesn't cut it. I know the engine/exhaust note makes up for it 1 million times over, but would be nice to have a good stereo.
Any of you manage to resolve this?

 

I think the only parts missing are the fiber optic cables for the amplifier. I don't believe they are there.

 

Guys the dealer is telling me it can't be done, and my audio guy is saying that I wouldn't be able to replicate the premium audio sound, as the package is specially selected and tuned for that car from the factory. Can anyone shed some light here as to:

a. whether an upgrate is actually possible by bolting in the different hardware (Alpine aftermarket or factory spare parts); or
b. what the actual specifications of the premium package are (ie. ohms, sensitivity, equivalent Alpine speaker/amplifier model numbers), so I could try buy the similar ones to get a close enough sound to the premium package.

Cheers

 

dunno where to get more in-depth specs, but here's what's in the owner's manual:

standard audio system:
two door-mounted 40W speakers, each with mid-range and tweeter units, as well as an 80W subwoofer housed under the rear parcel shelf. total output 160W.

premium audio:
two door mounted speakers upgraded to 100W each
two *additional* rear environment 100W speakers, each with mid-range and tweeter units
*additional* 100W center speaker
subwoofer upgraded to 200W
Dolby Pro-Logic II
total output 700W

so basically, to get to the premium audio from standard, you're looking at not only upgrading the two door speakers and sub, but you also have to add three more speakers and Pro-Logic II. plus the premium audio has more adjustability in the settings (fader, sub, equalizer, center speaker, and surround sound are only adjustable with the premium audio, not standard).

this is all based on an '07, dunno if it was changed for your year. premium audio was one of those "must haves" on my checklist when i was looking for a V8V. i heard it was pretty much impossible (or at least, entirely impractical) to upgrade to premium from standard.

 

I'd recommend skipping trying to upgrade to the Aston Martin premium stereo. But, you can always find a reputable car stereo shop and have a system that will meet your needs installed. It will be costly since quality work usually comes at a premium, but the right shop can make a replacement panel that will integrate beautifully with the center stack of your car.

 

U listen to the radio in this car?

 

yes, to most of you suprised, this is my daily driver, and I like to mix it up

Where is the sub located? I can't find it (or hear it)

 

under the rear parcel shelf

 

I would describe myself as an audiophile as well and have an 08 with the Premium setup. The sound is very good but not superb. To be frank, the loaded version of the Sienna I have to cart the family around actually sounds a bit better . That said, I'm satisfied with it and have no reason to seek a change.

Bottomline, I would not stress over chasing after the Aston product. I'm sure you could do better and would be happier with an aftermarket product where you could work with a quality installer who actually understood and could tweak the system to your needs.

 

does anyone have a photo of the sub insitu? I lifted the parcel shelf (shelf covering the battery etc) and can't see the sub, maybe mines missing :S

 

On mine, I lifted up the parcel shelf and there's a big, bright greenish-yellow sticker that says "Premium sub enclosure" inside the cubby behind the driver's seat. That plastic bit is screwed down, but I'm guessing that unscrewing the plastic and pulling it out will reveal the sub.