I've spent the last four days researching different stereo upgrades for my 2001 Bose equipped C5. Unfortunately, it has led to alot of conflicting information. I'm more confused now then ever, since my options are limited due to budget. I don't want to buy cheap stuff but would instead rather get some nice stuff that I can integrate into the system one or two pieces at a time. Anyway, here's what I want to do initially... Is it possible?

Keep existing HU. Buy a PAC Audio AOEM-Vet1 harness, and a 4 channel amp that I would only use two channels on initally since I would bridge the two remaining channels later on to install a sub. Use the stock Bose amps to power the front speakers, but replace the 3.5 Bose tweeter with something else (Polk 3.5). Use the aftermarket amp to power two new 6.5 or possibly component rear speakers.

I was in the car today testing the radio and the front speakers overpower the rears by a mile, though both lack definition. I figure a high power amp and better speakers in the rear would balance the system out, as well as add highs. The new 3.5's in the front would add highs and definition. The new stuff would also function as great building blocks down the road. I know the PAC harness is meant to enable adding aftermarket amps, but I'm not sure I could use half Bose/half after market with it. I'm really not into the idea of upgrading the HU at the present time, so I would like to avoid that for now.

Any opinions would be appreciated. I know these questions get asked over and over, but I've been searching for quite a few days and as I said before, have ended up with alot of conflicting answers.

 

what i would do is get the 4 channel. put a 6.5 coax or component in front and ditch the whole bose assembly. you will lose some bass but gain a ton of sound quality. then use the remaining 2 channels bridged to a sub.

i would ditch the rears all together or just do a coax upgrade ran off stock radio

 

Start with the amp (~$200) and a modest set of components (~$150), then as funds permit make a DIY box for the center tub (<$50) and add the sub (<$100).

 

I notice most people suggest upgrading the front and basically ignoring the rear. Is it due to the Bose system being impossible to integrate with aftermarket amps or is it because the most bang for the buck would be had doing so? In all honesty, I think the front speakers sound pretty decent and have pretty good bass response. The only issue IMO is the lack of definition and high end... well all speakers have a problem with this. Also, I need more power because my Borla exhaust is pretty loud!

 

its because in a small car like this money is better spent on fronts. you could add/amp rears etc.

its a very easy car to interface with the bose