JaCe88

After trying to find reviews online both through Google and on this site I thought I'd just ask what people here think of the HK upgrade in the W204 C Class.

So far I've found: http://www.letsgomobile.org/en/2127/...-benz-c-class/ and http://www.benzworld.org/forums/w204...an-kardon.html

I haven't got mine yet but am anxiously awaiting it. Both of my previous cars were fitted out with aftermarket Rockford Fosgate setups (with my Evo X being a custom fab job) so I'm curious how a factory upgraded stereo sounds in comparison. Also curious to see if anyone here upgraded theirs.

Can't wait!

Norm01

You'll get two types of response. Those that have it think it's great and those that don't think it's not necessary. I have the HK and love it, simply put no after market system will replace a properly purpose built surround sound system. The only issue is lack of bass, get a JL Audio 10W6 Prowedge which fits perfectly in the truck with a JL 500/1 amp and your good to go.

Sanjit

I got lucky as mine had it when I had bought it,as it has been stated it's the best sounding car system i've ever had,bass has been fine for me!

jimmythegreek

HK is worth it, had it in my last one and just added an amp and box. My new one I had to do a full install w 2 amps, DSP front rears and subs. Its not worth the hassle, the HK is the way to go

JaCe88

I'm looking forward to it Thanks guys.

My previous car (the Evo X MR) had a Rockford Fosgate stereo standard (compared to the base model non-Rockford stereo) but it was a huge let down unfortunately and hence I resorted to modifying it.

Fingers crossed this'll be epic in terms of SQ.

Gregg11_C300

I don't have the HK system, but I have the multi-media package with 8 speakers.

I used to install competition stereos in cars when i was in college, back in the early 90's...

The 8 speaker system has incredible sound, with deep bass and rich mids.

Unless you are a SERIOUS audiophile, I personally would spend the money on something else.

It is by far the best sounding stock stereo I think I have ever heard. In fact, I think it is superior to some upgraded factory stereos, including the bose system in Vettes and Cadillacs.

jimmythegreek

the non HK systems are all the same, whether u have MM or not in the newer cars its still the same speakers, and they suck. I dont know anyone that is happy with the stock non HK system if they even slightly play their music above normal. Theres a huge thread just about speaker replacement they are so poor for a MB

Vanilla Gorilla

It was equipped on the c350 when I bought it. I thought it sounded great but didn't think it would be a big upgrade over the standard issue sound system. Then I got a c300 loaner when my car was in the shop and it had the standard system. Wow. The HK system is a definite improvement. Whenever I get rid of the c350 and buy my next Benz, I will definitely get the HK option if it's not standard by then.

Ben'sBenz

+1 Vanilla. I too had a loaner without the HK system and it was a HUGE difference in sound quality.

JaCe88

Thanks for the insights guys.

When I tested the C class I used BT streaming for connecting my iPhone/iPod music... does it make a huge difference if I use the iPod cable which it comes with?

(I've read articles on the net that it does but they weren't MB specific)

hotcorner216

how can i get the system installed now? i got mine with the stock system and i want the H/K but dealer said they cant do it...where can i get it?

Gregg11_C300

I'd go to a stereo shop... better sound for less money than paying for the dealer to do it. You can probably buy FAR superior speakers and an amp for half of what the dealer would charge you.

I am Jeff

It's really simple. There are 2 sides of the argument.

1) those that don't have it will say there's no difference or it's not worth it.

2) those that have it will love it, especially if they have heard the stock 8 speaker setup. I've have the HK system in both my c350 and c63 and will definitely not go with a stock setup.

dcjwlee

IIRC, the HK option was only about $800..... My friend just retrofitted her S2K and spent well over $1000.

Have you been in any of the benzes with the HK sound system to base your opinion on? I have both the E350 coupe and C300 with the HK sound system in them and they are WORLDS away from the stock set up...

Every time I get in a loaner with the stock set up, the music sounds like it is coming through a doctor's mask and is WAY too bass heavy.

I know Acapulco Bill gave his opinion on the HK sound system and he said that they are custom built to each model and easily surpasses the Bang & Olufsen system that Audi offers for ten times the price of ours.

I will note that the bass seems stronger in our '10 E coupe, maybe it is updated software/hardware or just the acoustics of the cabin.

JaCe88

I am so glad that I got the HK system. It sounds so balanced and whilst the bass is nowhere near as "hectic" as my custom Rockford setups in both of my previous cars, it sounds great when listening to music for enjoyment. Also sounds epic when watching DVD movies (e.g. Transformers!).

xolinlevh

I was lucky also in that mine came with the HK, had a loaner for a day while they clear braed mine, and the loaner had the stock sound and it does make a huge difference, could not wait to get mine back! Only thing better is a B&O system and the day they offer that in the C class im buying it!