I have spent 2 days searching threads on replacing Bose stereo, please help.

[urban]

I don't have the Bose option, but I'm replacing my head unit too. But I'll help from what I've been reading and from what I'm doing too.

First you should say why you're replacing the stereo. Ist it because you don't like the sound, or you want bluetooth and ipod connectivity? What are you aiming for? Is it sound quality (SQ) or loudness (SPL)?

1 - Depends on the questions above. You can replace the head unit and the amp (or ditch the amp) , or just the speakers. I think you can't replace the amp without replacing the headunit, or vice-versa.

2 - in dash 4" speakers, you have to modify the brackets and glue the new ones to the existing top bracket. There's a world of speaker brands beyond Alpine or Focal. (Focal are a lot better than Alpine, btw) There's a lot of how-tos on that.

3 - They're subs, but probably only producing higher frequencies than the rear one.

4 - You can replace the door speakers with 5 1/4".

5 - You can put a new amp under a seat, behind a seat or in the trunk. Just have to wire it.

6 - I bought the Pioneer DEH - 80 PRS. Single din size the better I've seen is the Pioneer DEX-P99PRS. Don't know about double din.

Have you read this? link

Hope I've helped a bit.

[Parker986]

Urban,
Thanks so much for replying and sending the link on replacing a 2003 Boxster with Bose.

Here are the reasons I want to replace the system:
1 - Sound quality is awful IMO. I would rather hear clean speakers than loud speakers.
2 - I would like to be able to connect an iPod and it would be helpful to have Bluetooth.
3 - I am torn between wanting an updated look with a double din and keeping the Boxster as close to stock looking as possible. The double din would have all the bells and whistles, but lots of work. I installed a Dension iPod connection and replaced all OEM Logic 7 speakers in my BMW 550, what a PITA.

I assumed I would have to modify and bracket/housing to replace the in-dash speakers, which I am fine doing.

I just do not understand the whole MOST fiber thing and how and if it effects what equipment I install. To me, it would be optimal to be able to use all existing wires and not have to run anything new.

My plan would be to install a new head unit and speakers at the same time. Just not sure if I need an amp too.

Since I am having the LN IMS bearing installed, new water pump, likely new clutch and maybe flywheel, and all new tires, I was hoping that this project wasn't going to cost me $2,500. A replacement kit from that commonly recommended stereo place in CA is $2,500. Ugh

I was hoping forum members owners of '03-'04 986 Boxsters that replaced their Bose / MOST system would share their experiences and specific details on what and how they replaced. I understand there were far more '00-'02 986 models produced, which is why stereo replacement info is more available.

[Nimbus117]

I replaced mine. I had the CDR23, amplifier, CD changer, dash speakers and door subwoofers so not the Bose option. I replaced the headunit with a Pioneer 940bt satnav unit and a Alpine amplifier as you cannot keep the Porsche amp as it's fibreoptic only. I found a replacement that fitted in the frunk on the bracket where the OEM amp used to be.

First thing I did was add rear speakers, shortly after the headunit and amplifier, last thing were the dash speakers. The only wiring I replaced was for the dash speakers and I used the head unit to power the front and rear speakers off the head unit and the door subwoofers from the Alpine head unit which works really well. The problem you have is the subwoofers in the rear shelf, these are 1 ohm but there are others can help you with this.

Here's mine. As I said, I dont have Bose but can help with anything else:

[Parker986]

Still really having a difficult time getting all the answers I was hoping for on replacing my '03 Bose MOST CDR23 system with rear Bose subwoofer deck. I am having a heck of a time trying to find that had this exact system and replaced it.

Heck, I even struck out with Crutchfield. Here's their response on my current setup.

"Hello,
Our info is a little limited on the vehicle as the research we have only shows speakers in the dash and doors and no info on the rear speakers, but it sounds like you are willing to do the custom install and fabricate and modify the openings as needed. We don’t list anything about fiber optic wiring in the vehicle, but if you replace the speakers and want to add an amp you will need to rewire the speakers. Sorry we didn’t have better news on that.

For the receiver I would start with something like the Kenwood DPX500BT. It sounds very good, has Bluetooth, aux and USB inputs, and plenty of flexibility on adding amps. You can check it out here: ....."

So, if anyone knows of anyone that had this system and replaced it, could you please provide info? Thanks