Confused about 2004 stereo / radio options

[Dr Feelgood]

I have a 2004 boxster WITHOUT the Bose option. My question is what is exactly the difference? I know that the Bose system is a problem when replacing the headunit but I thought it was easier with a non-Bose system. Apparently I still have that annoying ass fiber optic MOST connection and an amplifier in the frunk. So what exactly is easier about the non-Bose system or does every 03-04 stereo suck to work with?

[JayG]

Yup

If you go aftermarket, you need to run wires to a new amp in the frunk

IIRC, there is a MOST to analog converter made, but it a lot of $$ and not worth it

Frankly, add the rear speakers, replace the dash speakers and just use the factory head unit. It actually sounds pretty good.

Do a search, plenty of threads on this subject

[Dr Feelgood]

Originally Posted by JayG

Yup

If you go aftermarket, you need to run wires to a new amp in the frunk

IIRC, there is a MOST to analog converter made, but it a lot of $$ and not worth it

Frankly, add the rear speakers, replace the dash speakers and just use the factory head unit. It actually sounds pretty good.

Do a search, plenty of threads on this subject

So what is the difference? I've searched but everything I've read is on the Bose system. Also some things have said that the non-Bose system is easier to work with but no real details other than that. Does anyone know what the actual differences between the systems are? I know that the Bose system had really low impedance speakers and that was another issue. Is my system the same?

[Dr Feelgood]

Just for future searches since there was no information on this... both the Bose and non-Bose system after 2003 uses their bull**************** MOST wiring to communicate from the head unit to the amplifier. So the only difference appears to be that a different amplifier is used with different connectors and there is no rear deck speaker enclosure.