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Help How to upgrade Bose audio

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Old Aug 15, 2025 | 08:07 AM
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How to upgrade Bose audio

Hey all, I have a uniquely not unique request for assistance:

I want to upgrade my speakers in my 2011 sedan, but I don't want to lose functionality of the driver audio stage. I like how it shifts audio to my seat when I'm driving alone and use it all the time.

I also do want to utilize one of those wireless Android auto apple Carplay units like from nifty city, but don't know if changing anything would mess with that.

My guess is I'd have to keep factory amp, but would I be able to tie in another amp to that to get better audio with better speakers?

I don't want to fill my trunk up with a sub as I use my trunk a lot, so if there's been any good subs that can fit in the rear shelf behind the seats an upgrade for that would be awesome, but if not the stock one does give good levels of bass I'm comfortable with. I just want the car louder because with the windows down and sunroof open, it's a extremely difficult to hear music with all of the wind.

Thank you in advance!!!
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Old Aug 15, 2025 | 02:54 PM
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Changing the HUD is easy, start with Nifty City and Grom, and then make a judgement call on the others that exist at a lower cost with no support.

Unfortunately, the answer for changes to the remainder of the system lie somewhere between "tear everything out and put in an aftermarket system" and "tap off the low levels using an OWC connector and add amp/sub with a DSP for bass re-creation on certain types of music" (I choose the latter).
https://www.myg37.com/forums/audio-v...-analysis.html

There is unfortunately not an easy answer to this problem and the thread above will get you started understanding why...

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Old Aug 27, 2025 | 01:03 PM
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If all I wanna do is add a sub to everything else factory.......are you saying that even with the OWC harness, I still have to add some sort of additional processor? And even after all that, it still won't sound right with all types of music?

:-(
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Old Aug 27, 2025 | 01:56 PM
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Originally Posted by Toydeluxe
If all I wanna do is add a sub to everything else factory.......are you saying that even with the OWC harness, I still have to add some sort of additional processor? And even after all that, it still won't sound right with all types of music?

:-(


I added a 10in subwoofer + 500W amp to the system in my 2013 coupe.

I detail it here: https://www.myg37.com/forums/build-t...ml#post4052591

Read the whole thread for all info. Everything I read said to use a LOC but I did not need one.

Good Luck!

Last edited by dwb993; Aug 27, 2025 at 02:01 PM. Reason: I own a coupe
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Old Aug 28, 2025 | 10:24 AM
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Originally Posted by Toydeluxe
If all I wanna do is add a sub to everything else factory.......are you saying that even with the OWC harness, I still have to add some sort of additional processor? And even after all that, it still won't sound right with all types of music?
:-(
No.

The OWC harness provided a low level balanced feed from the OEM Bose amp to the new sub amp you install. Nothing more.

I bought this one to replace my DIY version (which worked ok):
G35 / G37 (2007-2013): Audio Interface Harness Adapters, PLATINUM SERIES SKU: G3537SDSUB
Your Vehicle: Sedan AUDIO UPGRADE: Add a Subwoofer Amp Price: $149.95

I choose to ALSO add an Audio Control Epicenter (DSP) in front of the sub amp because it recreates bass that never existed in some of the older Rock and Soul music I listen to most of the time. If you are only listening to music from the 2000s, you do not need to recreate bass as the industry recording equipment vastly improved from that used in the 60s-90s. When I listen to newer music, I can turn the Audio Control unit down so it is essentially bypassed.

Make sense?
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Old Aug 28, 2025 | 10:27 AM
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Originally Posted by socketz67
No.

The OWC harness provided a low level balanced feed from the OEM Bose amp to the new sub amp you install. Nothing more.

I choose to ALSO add an Audio Control Epicenter (DSP) in front of the sub amp because it recreates bass that never existed in some of the older Rock and Soul music I listen to most of the time. If you are only listening to music from the 2000s, you do not need to recreate bass as the industry recording equipment vastly improved from that used in the 60s-90s.
What if I don't want to add a sub, but want to swap the interior front and rear door speakers to better ones, add a better amp and keep the Bose amp to keep the driver sound stage feature so that it centers around the driver seat?
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Old Aug 28, 2025 | 10:31 AM
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Originally Posted by dwb993
I added a 10in subwoofer + 500W amp to the system in my 2013 coupe.

I detail it here: https://www.myg37.com/forums/build-t...ml#post4052591

Read the whole thread for all info. Everything I read said to use a LOC but I did not need one.

Good Luck!
I think the LOC is only needed when you go between balanced (differential signals) and unbalanced. Stereo shops always recommend those LOCs as it leaves little to chance. Chris at OWC (owner) has a list of amps and can tell you which ones work with a simple OWC cable upgrade.

He also has a day job, so don't get upset if he takes a day or two to get back to you. Good dude.
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