BMW Speakers Upgrade for BMW Z3, MZ3, M Roadster

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Unfortunately, Your BMW is NOT the Ultimate Sound Machine...

One of the first things most BMW owners notice about their vehicles is the poor performance of the BMW audio system. There is no clear definition at any volume level. The high frequency range is muffled and distant, and bass response is extremely muddy.

Want to Improve Sound Quality Simply and Effectively? Replace Your BMW's Speakers!

To address these problems, BSW developed the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade. Designed as a 100% complete, plug and play BMW speaker upgrade kit, our Stage 1 Audio Upgrade provides a simple, easy way to replace your speakers and dramatically improve sound quality without having to change any other components in your BMW -- because our Stage 1 Audio Upgrade is engineered specifically for your exact BMW.

The Stage 1 Audio Upgrade delivers striking clarity and definition, more musical detail and life, and improved bass dynamics simply and affordably.

Read the Roundel review of the E60 Stage 1 Audio Upgrade! (Components used & speakers replaced vary by application).

When we designed our Stage 1 Audio Upgrade, we made sure the system met several key requirements and features:

100% Stealth
Your interior will appear unchanged, and only you and your passengers will know you've upgraded your audio system.

Greatly improved musical detail & presence
Uses coated natural fiber drivers and silk tweeters that remain distortion free at higher volumes and provides accurate, natural sound.

Plug and Play!
Features plug and play connectors on each speaker, so all you have to do is remove your original speakers then mount and plug the new ones in.

More highs, more lows
Produces higher quality sound and a wider range of the bass and treble you're currently missing. (For more bass response, we recommend a BSW subwoofer system).

Engineered for your BMW
It's direct fit speaker replacement -- and each speaker's efficiency and impedance are tuned for perfect harmony with the factory amplifier and head unit.

Reasonable cost, incredible results
Truly enjoy your BMW's stereo without breaking the bank. Even though it's affordable, the Stage one provides real, significant improvements in sound quality.

Everything you need*
Replaces 6 of 8* speakers in the car and includes everything you need except basic tools. All you have to do is buy, install, and enjoy.

Do-It-Yourself Installation
Includes step-by-step instructions with photos. An afternoon with your BMW and basic tools is all you'll need.

Performance Guaranteed
Unconditionally guaranteed to exceed all your expectations or your money back. No catches, no restocking fees, no funny stuff: you get 30 days to try our products, and if you're not totally happy, send them back for a refund. Click here for more details.

How and Why the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade Works

The BSW Stage 1 Audio Upgrade was designed for you if you want to enhance and improve your BMW's sound system simply, effectively, and affordably - all through the simple replacement of your factory speakers!

(We should mention that the speakers we use are meticulously engineered and manufactured in Germany - just like your BMW! Using warm, natural sounding silk tweeters and high-resolution midbass drivers, these components have redefined our expectations of exactly how beautiful an entry level, OEM upgrade type of speaker should sound!)

By carefully selecting not only the highest quality speakers, but also very efficient speakers, we replace the weakest link in your vehicle's audio system, the speakers, without necessitating amplifier or head unit replacement. As a result, you get the biggest possible improvement in your BMW's audio system for the least amount of money, time, and effort.

*In '96-'02 Z3 / M Roadster & Coupe vehicles, for the front sound stage, in addition to the tweeter and midbass driver, BMW also utilizes a unique 60mm midrange driver. BSW does not replace this speaker as part of the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade. Why not? Because of the unique size and high quality of this midrange, BSW has been unable to develop or source a speaker that outperforms the original and meets a reasonable price point. Instead, we keep what works! All other speakers, except factory subwoofers, if present, are replaced.

BMW M Series M Roadster '98-'02 (Convertible)
BMW Z Series Z3 '96-'02 Roadster (E36/7)

Installation Instructions

Simply click the link(s) below to download installation instructions. Instructions are in PDF format. To view them, you'll need to download Adobe's Acrobat Reader (available at www.adobe.com) if it isn't already installed on your computer.

Estimated Install Time: 2.5 Hour(s)

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BMW Speakers Install, BSW Stage 1 - Z3 Roadster

This guide walks you step by step through the installation process of the Stage 1 BMW Speaker Upgrade Kit for 96-02 BMW Z3 / MZ3 Roadsters.

absolutely everything you need is included!

The BSW Stage 1 Audio Upgrade replaces 6 of 8 speakers* and includes everything you need except tools! (See "Install Info")

Front Door Tweeters: (2) BSW 25mm Silk Dome Tweeters

Behind-seat speakers (varies with vehicle model): (2) BSW 2.5" Midranges, (2) BSW 4" Midbasses, or no replacement

Front Door Midranges: NOT REPLACED

Pre-installed Plug and Play Connections

Front Kick Panel Midbasses: (2) BSW 5.25" Midbasses

Detailed step-by-step instructions with photos available for download

Performance Guaranteed
Unconditionally guaranteed to exceed all your expectations or your money back.

*Does not include front midranges (adjacent to tweeters behind upper door grille) or factory subwoofer in center console for vehicles equipped with Premium sound system. (A separate BSW Z3 subwoofer upgrade is available).

Can I install the Stage I Audio Upgrade in my BMW myself?

Yes, you can! We ship every Bavarian Soundwerks Stage I Audio upgrade with extremely detailed installation instructions with photos and provide telephone support for the process as well. Because it's a simple installation (you're replacing speakers only) with only the most basic of skills required, you can probably do it.

If you're unsure about installing the Stage 1, we always recommend professional installation. Fortunately, because the installation instructions are so detailed and everything you need is included, if you don't feel comfortable with the installation process, any decent car audio shop can perform the installation for you without any difficulty whatsoever - probably for about $200 or less.

Will this work with my Standard or Premium Sound equipped BMW? Will it make a big difference?

Yes, absolutely! In your BMW's audio system, the factory speakers are the weakest link. Even in most "premium" sound systems, the speakers are nothing more than compressed paper and plastic tweeters. Because our Stage I Audio Upgrade replaces that weak link, the speakers, you'll see a VERY nice improvement in sound quality in your BMW, regardless of whether you have the most basic BMW audio system or the nicest.

Does the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade improve bass response?

The answer to this question is somewhat complex. Bass response is limited by amplifier output and the range of music that a smaller speaker can play, so overall bass output (loudness) will not be increased in a significant way with the Stage 1. However, because of the higher quality components used in the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade, bass dynamics are improved, meaning you'll be able to enjoy bass notes more.

However, please note that on vehicles equipped with the Premium sound system, much of the bass response is generated by factory subwoofers which are unaffected by the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade in this regard.

In general, for a significant upgrade in bass response or to replace a blown subwoofer, we recommend a subwoofer system.

What type of speakers are included in your Stage I Audio Package?

Included in our Stage 1 Audio Upgrade are BSW's proprietary speakers, designed and optimized right here in the USA for use in your exact model BMW. These are very, very high quality speakers, but are also very efficient, meaning they'll run very well using your stock amplifier and maximize the performance of your audio system without complicated overhauls or installations.

Do I need to replace my factory amplifier or head unit?

No, you don't. Because we've carefully selected the speakers used in our Stage I Audio Upgrade, they're efficient enough to run off of your stock amplifier and head unit. However, we've designed the Stage I Audio Upgrade with a path for future growth of your system, so if you'd like upgrade your head unit or amplifier down the road, you can.

Will the Stage I Audio Upgrade be visible from within the car or require any permanent modifications?

No, our Stage I Audio Upgrade is completely invisible within the car. Only you and your fellow listeners will know that you've upgraded your stereo since your car will maintain a 100% factory appearance within the vehicle. And, because the Stage I Audio Upgrade requires no permanent modifications to your vehicle, it's completely reversible, meaning you can take your speakers with you if or when you sell your car.

Which speakers are replaced in my BMW?

Your BMW Z3 / M Coupe / M Roadster has an 8 speaker system consisting of:

Front Speakers: 3 way (tweeter, 2" midrange, and 5.25" midbass driver)
Rear Speakers: Varies with model, but can be one of the following:
- 2.5" Midrange
- 4" Midbass
- 2.5" Midrange on 5.25" mounting area
- None

In Harman Kardon sound systems, a factory subwoofer is present. Our Stage 1 Audio Upgrade replaces 6 of the 8 interior component speakers - everything except the front midrange drivers since the cost/benefit ratio means they just aren't really worth replacing. The factory subwoofer, if present, will also stay. (We do offer a replacement for that unit here).This setup allows for the simplest installation and biggest improvement in sound quality for the least amount of money.

Will my BMW audio system be louder with the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade?

While the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade provides crisper highs and richer lows as well as significantly more midrange detail, you won't see any benefits in terms of increased volume from your BMW audio system, though you may find yourself listening at lower volumes due to the improved sound quality. This is because your factory amplifier, which is key in determining the upper volume limits of your BMW audio system, is not replaced.

If you're unsure if you'll need more volume from your BMW's audio system after installing the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade, our recommendation is always to purchase the Stage 1 first to improve sound quality, then add an amplifier later if needed. Contact us for more details on amplifier upgrades.

Does the Stage I Audio Upgrade come with a warranty?

Yes, it sure does! The Stage 1 carries a 1 year warranty. If you ever have any issues, we're just a phone call away. Please note that this warranty does not cover speakers blown due to excessive volumes or abuse.

What part of the Stage 1 is Plug and Play?

Installation of the Z3 / M Coupe / M Roadster Stage 1 is 100% plug and play.

Do you sell the speaker rings/grills?

Unfortunately no, however the following locations are reputable BMW salvage yards that should have what you are looking for. They will sell you the whole speaker but it will be FAR less than the dealer. Unfortunately the dealer does not sell the grills/rings without the speaker.

BMR Parts

Autobahn Parts

Any other questions? Just contact us!

Customer Reviews
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Author: Eriks Zusmanis Not only am I pleased with the mid-bass and high-frequency clarity/power, but I was surprised by how much classical music especially voice, has improved.

Author: Mark Just wanted to thank you guys for the outstanding support and advice for my installs. I installed the m80 Subwoofer, replaced the front speakers and put in the Dice HD module. I love them. The new tweeters are very bright and the midrange sound great. The sub is very good. I still have my trunk space but a good bass kick. No it isnt what you would get with dual 12s, but get real its a convertible. I highly recommend buying the toolkit. I was worth its weight in gold. While I would have liked to have BSW do the install a cross country road trip was out of the question. The instructions provided and the customer support made it relativly easy for someone like myself who hasnt messed around with an install in 20 years. I especially want to thank Jason for all the time he spent on the phone talking me through some of the details. And all the staff were very helpful. If they didnt know the answer they found the specialist who did. BSW may not seem to be the cheapest upfront, but it saved in the end. They saved me over 1000 just by the recommendations they made. Turns outI did not need the new head unit or extra amp or extra wiring etc. thanks again mark 2001 z3

Author: Greg D I installed the speaker upgrade in my 97 Z3 Roadster. It has the Standard sound system, with no rear speakers. The Stage 1 kit includes a new tweeter, for install in the doors, and a 5 1/4 \Woofer\ for the kick panel. The Mid-range in the doors is not replaced in this kit. The instructions were clear. My tweeters were installed on a removeable adapter, fastened by small Torx screws. The instruction sound like they would have you remove the adapter, center the new tweeter in the cutout, and hot glue aroung the periphery of the tweeter. I removed othe old tweeter from the adapter, and mounted the new tweeter in the same adapter, and hot-glued it into the adapter, instead. I remounted the adapter. The old original speakers look and feel high-quality, but we all know the miserable sound in these BMWs. After installation, I revelled in the striking difference in sound! No longer is it an insult to listen to music! Truly, the weak point is in the highs and lows of music in these vehicles, and these speaker address that problem. The sensitivity of the speakers is matched properly, and Im most happy with the Bass and Treble in the default adjustment. Bass can now be heard and \felt.\ Highs are crisp and clear! I love it. The BSW kit gives me enough bass. Im not looking to compete with kids in Hondas at stoplights, just have a decent sound, and the Stage 1 does that. I had purchased a Basslink II from others at the same time, and now I wish I hadnt. I dont need it, and I dont need to loose all that trunk space! It is clear, the single most weak point in audio in these BMWs is the speakers. I dont believe you will be sorry spending the money on these speakers! I also ordered the toolkit...well worth the money, especially if you work on other cars from time to time!

Author: Chuck I received my speakers in December, 2007, for my 99 Z3 Coupe and had them professionally installed in January 08. The change in sound quality is astounding. Highest highs, deepest basses and a loudness and clearness that I was searching for as a car-audiophile. Im hearing things Ive never heard before in songs Ive listened to since the 80s. Fabulous. I also changed the OEM head unit for a Clarion USB MP3 compatible deck. This really brought out the richness in the BSW speakers that has to be heard to be believed. The Clarion deck enhances MP3s and it really comes through in deep basses and crisp highs with the BSWs. The car rumbles mildly with the deep bass, but not in an I-slammed-my-Honda-cuz-Im-a-moron way i.e. wipers dont vibrate, just great bass. I normally tend to listen to my car stereo on the loud side but with the new sound quality I rarely turn it up to more than 2 or 3 on the dial. I have two full high-end home stereos with top quality speakers and wanted that same audiophile experience in my BMW. Got it with the BSWs. Excellent speakers, highly recommended.Details: The set included everything except the mid-ranges in the doors. Since Im in Canada, its pretty hard to install them myself given the temperatures so I had an independent car audio shop of good repute install them for me. They took about an hour to do the work and told me the swap was easy. They actually installed the speakers that are supposed to go into the roof into the doors instead, replacing the mid-ranges there. BSW recommended keeping the OEM door mid-ranges so I didnt buy replacements for those. I considered this to be a minor mistake so didnt have the shop undo it plus they hot-glued them in. The good thing is that it serves to show the difference between the BSWs and the OEM speakers. The OEMs retained in the rear roof pop, buzz and crackle like crumpling paper when I turn the stereo up to any kind of reasonable volume while the BSWs just get better with power. Im planning to visit BSW in Atlanta a great 3-day drive in the summer to have the rear roof speakers replaced with another set of mid-ranges to complete the deal and to drop in to say hello. I would highly recommend BSW speakers to everyone, and recommend that if you drive a cool Z3 Coupe J that you buy two extra mid-ranges to replace those in the doors and change them all. Oh yeah and ditch the dated OEM head unit.Chuck in Ottawa, Canada

Author: Tony I finally decided it was time to change the speakers on my 2k Z3 roadster. After looking for hours on end and going from store to store looking for the perfect match to the OEM speakers and coming out empty handed I decided to give BSW a shoot. It was much easyer than I anticipated, the hardest part was removing the door panels and putting them back. Had a little trouble with the rear speakers fitting in my car but one call to BSW took care of that, Jason had me remove the rubber ring on the base of the speakers and that gave me the depth needed for them to slyde right in. Save yourself a lot of time and money and just get the BSW Stage I Audio Upgrade. I was very pleased with the whole transaction and the sound improvement is amazing.

Author: JEREMIAH R HUNDLEY I purchased your replacement speaker kit for my 1999 2.8 z3,the difference in the sound with the top down is great. My wife noticed it right away. Installation was quite easy., except for the door panels which were a real pain to get back on after getting off. If asked about this kit i would recommend it without question. For the money this is a good value.

Author: David I just wanted to drop you a line and tell you how much I like the new speakers and amp. They sound awesome! The subwoofer started acting up not long after I had it installed, and I was afraid I had blown the speaker. Im not a hip hopper or too much of a metal head - maybe a little, but I thought I may have blown the speaker. I took it back to the installer though, and he fixed it - said it was a piece of loose foam. Anyway, the whole system sounds all time. I like it very much. Thanks again, David

Author: Leslie Newell I ordered the speaker upgrade as a Christmas gift for my husband to put in his Z3. I didnt realize that he had the Harmon Kardon system so I ordered the wrong replacements. Your customer service was wonderful as you quickly sent out the correct speakers even before you recieved the returns. He absolutley loves the new system and is hearing parts on his cds that he claims he has never heard before. Also the installation instructions were well described and as easy as claimed. Thank you and I will be happy to do business again.

Author: Jeff Kramer I installed this speaker kit in my 2001 Z3. What a difference. Easy to install in under an hour. The speakers fit perfectly, no problems with fit or connection at all. The sound quality improvement is very evident. My bass is much cleaner and the high end has no loss of tone. If you love music then these speakers are a must for your Z3.

Author: Javier I needed to upgrade my speakers but I did not like the prices I was being quoted by the local stereo shops. Also, they could not guarantee the sound unless they replaced the amp and radio too. I wanted to keep the original look, so installing a new radio was not an option. I started shopping the electronic stores but I did not know what to buy. Then I found you guys on the internet. I purchased The BSW Stage 1 Audio Upgrade for my Z3. What a difference in sound! Furthermore, the instructions were clear, the tools came in handy, and I had no problems with the installation. Performance Guaranteed? These speakers most definitely exceeded my expectations and with the original radio and amplifier!

Author: G.Gagnon After visits to several local car audio establishments including 1 who had no clue, it became obvious that the BSW Stage 1 speaker replacement was the best choice for my 2000 M Roadster. I did the installation myself and can say this was a real nice improvement while keeping the stock head unit. However, not until I replaced the stock head unit was I pleasantly supprised just how good these speakers really sound with more power!!! The BSW Stage 1 is highly recommended.

Author: G.Gagnon After visits to several local car audio establishments including 1 who had no clue, it became obvious that the BSW Stage 1 speaker replacement was the best choice for my 2000 M Roadster. I did the installation myself and can say this was a real nice improvement while keeping the stock head unit. However, not until I replaced the stock head unit was I pleasantly supprised just how good these speakers really sound with more power!!! The BSW Stage 1 is highly recommended.

(click for fullsize image) Each driver is optimized acoustically, physically, and electronically just for your Z3.	(click for fullsize image) Perfect fit and finish, incredible sound.	(click for fullsize image) Sophisticated engineering paired with rugged build quality - a perfect match!

(click for fullsize image) 3.4" Silk dome tweeters provide exceptional clarity without harshness or fatigue.	(click for fullsize image) Rear view of your new silk-dome, billet aluminum frame tweeters.	(click for fullsize image) 5.25" Fiberglass composite woofers provide tight mid-bass response.

(click for fullsize image) Heavy-duty frame and magnet structure provide solid low frequency reproduction.

BSW Rear Midrange Upgrade Speakers for BMW Z3, M Roadster 96-02

BSW Rear Midrange Upgrade Speakers for BMW Z3, M Roadster 96-02
Replace your factory BMW midrange with these Plug and Play upgrades and improve sound quality, too!
$109.99 Per Pair \| Learn More