At MC Audio, we specialize in transforming high-end vehicles into audiophile-grade sound experiences while maintaining the original factory aesthetics.
One of our most remarkable projects involved upgrading the BMW M5 Competition—a car that already boasts an incredible driving experience but fell short when it came to audio performance.
Our client, Tom, had already invested over $8,000 in the Bowers & Wilkins factory audio package but still wasn’t satisfied. He wanted more depth, more clarity, and a truly immersive sound experience.
Why Upgrade an Already Premium System?
Although the Bowers & Wilkins system is a top-tier factory option, it has some limitations that prevent it from delivering a truly premium experience:
❌ Weak Bass – The factory subs lacked power and depth, making the bass feel thin and unrefined.
❌ Limited DSP Adjustments – The system did not allow for fine-tuned customization to optimize soundstage and balance.
A close friend of Tom’s, who owns a Lamborghini, had previously upgraded his sound system with us. After hearing the dramatic difference, Tom immediately booked his BMW M5 in for a full system transformation.
Our Solution: Precision Engineering for Ultimate Sound Quality
To achieve the highest level of performance while maintaining 100% factory integration, we designed a fully customized audio upgrade using top-tier components and advanced DSP tuning.
🔧 Installed Components & Custom Upgrades
🔹 Amplification:
- Match Up 10 DSP 11-Channel DSP Amplifier – Provides crystal-clear audio processing with advanced tuning.
- Match Mono Dedicated Mono Amplifier for Subwoofer – Ensuring precise control over deep, powerful bass.
🔹 Subwoofer Upgrade:
- JL Audio 10W6v3 – One of the best subwoofers available, delivering deep, clean, and tight bass.
🔹 Full Speaker Replacement:
- Front Stage: MATCH UP C42BMW-FRT.2 – Premium component speakers with separate tweeters for high-resolution sound.
- Rear Fill: MATCH UP C42BMW-RE.2 – Balanced to create a seamless soundscape throughout the cabin.
- Surround Channels: MATCH UP X42BMW-SUR – Enhances spatial depth and immersive surround sound.
- Center Speaker: MATCH UP C42BMW-CTR – Critical for precise vocal clarity and front-stage depth.
- Factory Underseat Subwoofers Replaced with: MATCH UP W8BMW – Engineered specifically for BMW, providing richer bass without altering OEM aesthetics.
🔹 Advanced DSP Processing & Tuning:
- Custom DSP Configuration: Adjusting time alignment, phase correction, and active crossovers for optimal sound clarity.
- Factory System Integration: Retaining OEM ambient lighting, original controls, and iDrive functionality.
The Installation Process – Precision and Attention to Detail
At MC Audio, we pride ourselves on clean, non-intrusive installations that enhance the sound without affecting the vehicle’s factory design.
Day 1 & 2: Sound Deadening for Acoustic Perfection
Before installing the new speakers, we applied high-quality STP sound deadening materials to eliminate unwanted vibrations and external noise. This step ensured that:
✅ Mid & high frequencies sound sharper and more detailed.
✅ Bass remains controlled and impactful, without rattling.
✅ The cabin becomes quieter, enhancing the overall listening experience.
Day 3: Custom Wiring & Harness Adaptation
BMW’s complex factory audio wiring made plug-and-play solutions impossible. Instead, our team designed a custom harness adaptation to seamlessly integrate the new DSP amplifier and speakers without cutting any factory wires.
Day 4 & 5: Speaker, Subwoofer, and Amplifier Installation
All new speakers were carefully mounted in the factory locations, preserving the OEM look and feel.
The JL Audio subwoofer was installed in a custom enclosure, allowing for deep bass response without taking up excess trunk space.
Day 6: DSP Tuning & Calibration
A premium sound system is only as good as its tuning. To ensure flawless performance, we used Audiotec Fischer DSP Tools and high-precision microphones to achieve:
🎛 Perfect phase alignment for optimal speaker performance.
🎛 Time delay calibration, centering the sound to Tom’s preferred listening position.
🎛 Custom EQ adjustments, ensuring deep bass, warm mids, and crystal-clear highs.
The Final Result – A High-Fidelity Soundstage in a BMW M5 Competition
After the full tuning and final adjustments, Tom’s BMW M5 Competition now sounds as incredible as it drives:
✅ Powerful, Deep Bass: Thanks to the JL Audio 10W6v3 subwoofer and dedicated amplifier, low frequencies are now tight, controlled, and punchy.
✅ Superior Clarity & Definition: The MATCH speakers provide detailed, dynamic sound with accurate highs and mids.
✅ Immersive Soundstage: The DSP processor optimizes sound distribution, creating a concert-like experienceinside the cabin.
✅ Seamless Factory Integration: Every OEM function remains fully operational—from ambient lighting to steering wheel controls.
When Tom picked up his car, his reaction was priceless. He immediately noticed the huge improvement in clarity, depth, and overall soundstage. Now, every drive in his BMW is an immersive, high-fidelity experience.
Upgrade Your BMW’s Sound System Without Losing Factory Aesthetics
If you own a BMW, Porsche, Audi, or Mercedes-Benz and want a custom sound system upgrade that integrates seamlessly without cutting factory wires, MC Audio is your go-to specialist.
🚀 Experience the best in high-performance car audio today!
📍 Visit us at: Unit 10 / 5-7 Bermill St, Rockdale, NSW, Australia
🌐 Website: www.mcaudio.com.au
📞 Call us: 0415 072 361
