TXTiger

What brand/model speakers would you recommend to replace the factory speakers in a 2002 C240 sedan non-bose? Considerations would be improved bass and midrange response, fit into existing speaker locations with minimal modification. Thanks in advance for your opinions.

Buellwinkle

Replacing the speakers won't make the radio sound better, I've tried and failed. You need to replace the radio. The only one that will fit in it's place is the Becker BE-6021 (aka MB Audio 10) and it has way better bass and treble than even the Bose and an in-dash CD player. It also displays the station call letters on the front.

You can get it at autoclass.net for about $600 or used on ebay.de for about $275 (between purchase price, shipping, insurance, exchange rates and international wire transfer fees). If you go with ebay.de be prepared to learn a little German. Make sure you get one for the W203 C-Class and not the rectangular ones used in other MBs. Check previous posts for more info. Alternatively you can buy a aftermarket receiver and they now have install kits for them for the C-class. Of course you will lose the steering wheel controls and factory look.

Harris

You will not be getting anywhere if you just change the speakers without changing the headunit and perhaps adding an amplifier. Also, you have to have a budget first. It varies from $500-$5000.

E_Corleone

You really do need a new head unit and an amp to make any difference. Get something rated like 50x4, then new Clarions are nice, and a high quality amp. Then add like a single high end 12" or 10" bass speaker in a custom quality built housing and see how it sounds. If you don't like it then, then replace the other speakers.

Mr. Xristo

after you replace the head, you may want to consider MB Quarts. I have them in my Jaguar.

20FHK02

i've been reading so many posts regarding the Audio 10

i currently have the stock non Bose system with the MB CD changer installed. when i replace the HU with the Audio 10 will i still be able to connect the cd changer to it?? that means does the Audio 10 have the fiber optic input for the CD changer?

Buellwinkle

I was told yes but I had a problem with mine and couldn't prove it as the CD was jammed and got an error code. It's being fixed by Becker. You press the CD button twice to switch to the CD changer. I went to the MB Italy site and you can order the Audio 10 with the CD changer as a package. It has the fiber optics connector on the back. It has all the same connections as the cassette radio. If you wait a week or two I should have it installed and I'll let you know. Personally I would rather have the Audio 10 than the cassette with the CD changer anyway but both will be the best.

BrabusCClass

So far I have retained my factory head unit but have changed all my speakers. They are amped and sound much better. I would recommend mid to high end Polk Audio, MB Quart, or Boston Acoustics for interiors. Your car take 6.5 components in the front, 6.5 coaxles in the rear.

20FHK02

i like to get the Audio 10 but i've already have the cd changer in place so i want to keep it instead of trash it
wonder if the Audio 10 has the fiber optic connecter as the cassette does such that i can plug the cd changer to it.

Buellwinkle

As I've said before, it has the same identical connectors as the cassette radio.

20FHK02

oh really??!!! please do let me know if you get the changer works with the Audio 10
thanks!

lhoang

yo txtiger, i can recommend you to a friend (manager of tweeter) to help you. he has been in the business for about 10 yrs. drop me an e-mail linhhoang1001@yahoo.com, in th houston area.

alankang3

Ultimate Audiophile System for New C Classes. Infiniti Kappa Speakers: 5.25' Separates, 6' rear speakers, 10' Perfect 10 Subwoofer. 700 Watt 5-Channel Orion Amplifier. Kenwood Excelon 5V Preout Head Unit. All Pieces are top of the line. I also have a custom ported box that fits factory flush into the new C Classes, replacing the old Bose Subwoofer. I also have a mounting kit for the head unit. This system is only 1 week old, literally. If you are in the LA area, I am willing to demo the system. The sound is really incomparable to the Bose system. All parts come with a 1 year warranty from the manufacturer. I am willing to e-mail pics of the subwoofer box and head unit. Serious Buyers only. Contact Info: Alankang3000@aol.com

SOC320

Depends on what you need in terms of sound. For highs, you can simply just install a good set of tweeters w/ crossovers. Very quick and in expensive. For bass, a subwoofer will do you well.

Amps, component speaker sets, subwoofers, etc if you want to spend bigger bucks and get bigger sound.

Its just a car... I would just go for the tweeters or sub. Save the cash for other things.