GBMINI#2

Got my MINI back from Tweeter today.
Very nice looking install … but not sounding good enough yet.

The main issue is a “whine” or “whistle”; a high pitched sound that follows engine revs. I would call it alternator whine, but I expect all new cars to be filtered. General web opinion is a grounding issue. So I have some experimenting ahead.
The other problem I had on the way home was a lack of bass – but the installer had turned on the low cutoff filter. Silly since I do not have any subs. So I defeated the filter, and we will see whether it sounds better tomorrow.
I have temporarily turned down the amp sensitivity, and turned up the HU volume, which should help to reduce the engine noise until I can do something better.

No GBMINI tonight 😦
Took it to Tweeter in Nashua this morning to have the stereo upgraded. I fitted a Kenwood 759 head unit and a 20GB Keg recently. I temporarily ran the new head unit through the Harmon Kardon amp and speakers – I had to re-connect the old head unit to get the amp to run (four wires linking the amp to the old HU).
Now the complete stock HK system is coming out. Instead I am having MB Quart reference 6.5″ speakers put in all four positions, and a Boston Acoustics GT42 amp installed to run them. If I find insufficient bass then I will consider a JL Audio stealthbox run from a small mono amp … but first I will see what it sounds like with no sub.
Greg, the installer at Tweeter, is taking photos as he works, so hopefully there will be pics soon.
It should be ready for everyone to check out this weekend on top of Mount Washington. Looking forward to meeting over 60 other MINIs and their owners!