MikeDC

I just purchased a 2015 GLK350 (wonderful vehicle!). It has the standard audio setup with COMAND, not the Harmon/Kardon upgrade (I have that in my 2013 E550 Cab). I want to take a very conservative approach to upgrading the audio system. Not looking for a overhaul of thousands of dollars. Not adding a sub.

My intention is to replace either the speakers OR add an outboard amplifier (or DSP/amp). So my questions are:

1) which do you believe is the weaker link in the standard package, the speakers or the amp? Which upgrade would give the biggest bang for the buck?
2) how many watts is the standard head unit (my understanding is that there is no separate amp)?
3) does the standard head unit have a pre-amp out or do you need to use line-level outputs to a new amp? Is a fiber interface required?

THANK YOU!

Wheatridger

Did you find a good upgrade? I'd be interested. The standard system in my 2014 is good, but it lacks finesse and air in the trebles. The bass is string, but boomy and poorly defined. Definitely not as good as the Sony OEM system in my Ford, which has tweeters in the rear door and a center dash speaker...but not bad. I've read that the COMAND stereo has 100 watts.

Wheatridger

Funny story- the little old Korean-American lady who sold me my GLK complained about its stereo system. "The speakers rattle. Not enough boom-boom!" She's 93! She was a trip. I listened at my loudest volume and heard no rattles.

MikeDC

I did not end up doing any upgrades. However, I believe that the weak link is the speakers. If I were to do anything, I would replace those first.

Wheatridger

The thing about audio quality is that you get used to what you've got, which is a blessing. If you want more audio quantity, that's more measurable! I won't do anything right away, and I'll probably get used to it.

BlackML550

During your investigations was it apparent if there's a differnece between the non-HK speakers and the standard ones? Thanks