After market audio

[Henry A Harper III]

Once you decide to junk all of the Bose pieces parts you are halfway to
victory. Your main problem will be finding a receiver that matches the
orange/red Audi illumination since most aftermarket head units have
blue/green dancing lights. Most aftermarket units also will have the
detachable face that you do need to actually detach and take with you for
real security (if you don't take with you then someone can break a window
and take the whole thing like they did with my VW once). I found a Kenwood
10 years ago with a rotating faceplate and orange illumination but good luck
finding one of those today. Some installation details that may help are at
http://www.henryharper.com/~hah/audi/audio.htm

I have a 10-cd changer with it but of course today would want iPod or aux
audio input since my iPod FM transmitter solution is not optimal. I haven't
been looking much lately but imagine there is still a similarly poor
selection of head units with appropriate illumination.

> It is time to replace the original Bose system in the '91 20 valve 200
> because three of the speakers have bad amplifiers.  Several years ago,
> I had two speakers replaced, and I rather get an entirely new system
> this time.  Since '91, there must have been tremendous improvements
> with the receivers/speakers so I imagine that there are inexpensive
> components that perform better than the original Bose system.  Anyone
> have a recommendation for a receiver and speakers?  I was checking out
> the Crutchfield website and they had such a large selection for my
> Audi that it is difficult to choose.  I don't really need a CD player
> since I rely on the IPOD, so AM/FM is ok, and I don't have any plans
> to add satellite  radio.  Eventually I'll get a stand-alone GPS, but
> that will come later.  My goal is a good sounding system without
> breaking the bank.  I'd like to keep the component costs well under
> $800, preferably in the $500-$600 range if possible.  Everyone, have a
> wonderful holiday.