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» BSW Stage I Audio Upgrade for BMW 3 Series / M3 Convertible 00-06 (E46)

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BSW Stage I Audio Upgrade for BMW 3 Series / M3 Convertible 00-06 (E46)
SKU: BSW.STG1.E46.CV-v2

$599.99
Availability: BACKORDER, Estimated Ship Date August 1


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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 Updgrade 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.

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 n'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.
100% Complete Package
Replaces every speaker 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.

BMW 3 Series E46 '99-'06 (Convertible)
BMW M Series M3 E46 '01-'06 (Convertible)

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.


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This guide walks you step by step through the installation process of the Stage 1 BMW Speaker Upgrade Kit for 00-06 BMW 3 Series / M3 Convertibles.



BMW E46 Speakers Upgrade by BSW Install Guide, E46 3 Series

Covers removal and reinstallation of your BMW's speakers in an E46 3 Series or M3 for BSW's Stage 1 Audio Upgrade, a complete speaker replacement upgrade. This process includes: - Front and rear door panel removal - Speaker removal and reinstallation - Rear seat, deck, and speaker removal and reinstallation.

BMW E46 Speakers Upgrade by BSW Install Guide, E46 3 Series - Convertible Supplement

This video guide will supplement the above installation videos and cover rear speaker installation.


the BSW stage 1 audio upgrade replaces every* speaker in your BMW and includes absolutely everything you need

What's Included:
- Front Speakers: Rainbow Audio IQ Line 6.25" Midbass, BSW 2.5" Midrange, Rainbow Audio IQ Line 1" Silk Dome Tweeter
- Rear Speakers: Rainbow Audio Dream Line 4" Midbass, .75" Silk Dome Tweeter
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BSW 4.25" to 4" Polyethylene Adapter Plates for Rear Component Speakers

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Bavarian Soundwerks Speaker Installation Hardware Kit: Butt connectors, speaker connectors, washers, etc. - applicable for your specific vehicle

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Extremely Detailed Installation Instructions: Provides a guideline for the DIY'ers or professional installers. Step-by-step with photos!

*Except factory subwoofer present on Harman Kardon vehicles.

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 Harman-Kardon 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 the "premium" Harman Hardon 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.

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

Included in our Stage 1 Audio Upgrade are Rainbow Audio IQ Line speakers (front) and Rainbow Audio's Dream Line (rear), highly respected and revered, made in Germany, just like your BMW. Both lines are very, very high quality speakers, but are also very efficient, meaning they'll run very well using your stock amplifier.

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 Harman Kardon sound system, much of the bass response is generated by factory subwoofers which are unaffected by the Stage 1 Audio Upgrade in this regard. A subwoofer upgrade is required to improve the bass response of this component.

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 3 Series / M3 Cabrio has a 10 speaker system consisting of a 3 way set in the front of the vehicle (tweeter, 2" midrange, and 6.25" midbass driver) and a 2 way set in the rear of the vehicle (tweeter and 4.25" midbass driver). If your vehicle has the upgraded Harman Kardon stereo, you'll also find a 7" subwoofer between your rear seats. Our Stage 1 Audio Upgrade replaces every interior speaker in the vehicle. The factory subwoofer, if present, will also stay. 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 warranty is a 1 year warranty with Rainbow brand speakers. 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?

The e46 Stage 1 is 100% plug and play for this application

My standard/HK vehicle only has 8 speakers. Where are the other 2?

In the e46 coupe and convertible there is a small cloth grill by the door pull. Behind this grill there is a bracket that houses the midrange/tweeter assembly. It appears there is just one speaker but BMW hid 2 behind there.

Can I get a Stage 1 for standard audio?

Yes you can. The difference between the Harmon Kardon and standard audio systems does not affect the ability to add a Stage 1 speaker package. We have taken the time to asses both the HK vehicles and the standard vehicles to find the best fitment of speakers to work in each vehicle.

You will receive a specially designed stage 1 based on your vehicles audio system whether it is standard on Harmon Kardon.

Any other questions? Just contact us!

Customer Reviews

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Author: JoshR
Last week, I added the BSW Stage One audio kit and dual-10" deck mounted subwoofer system to my 2005 330i E46. In addition, I replaced the factory amp with a better one to power the front speakers. And, holy s**t, is this system amazing...super clean with outstanding highs and bass you can feel - accurate and powerful. The guys at BSW were very helpful. All together, I'm super pleased.


Author: Jay
Speaker install just completed. I was unlucky as almost nothing went right for me. Coby and BSW were great, helpful and went beyond their job to assist. Products are great, service better and good better sound now. Cant wait until theyre broken in and I tune the system. Recommended without reservation.


Author: Patrick
I just got done installing the BSW Stage 1 upgrade into my 2003 BMW 330Ci. I cant say enough about the improved quality in sound this upgrade provided me!

Overall, install was very easy! It took me a total of about 4 hours to get everything done! Instructions were very thorough and easy to follow, I think my wife could have even done this. I think the hardest part was installing the tweets, being that you had to hot glue them into place. But even that rates a 2 in difficulty on a scale of 1-10!

My music now sounds incredible. Everything from rap/R&B to Hard Rock to Classical sounds amazing! I would definately do business with these folks again, and plan to upgrade to their sub package in the near future!

FYI: I had the HK system. You can see the difference in quality by just looking at the speakers. The HKs are nothing but paper, no wonder they sounded like they did!

Thanks BSW! You guys have a wonderful product and I will be calling soon to get that sub package!


Author: Mike
Installed the Stage 1 kit about 5 weeks ago in my 2001 325CiC and the only regret I have about this purchase is that I didnt do this earlier.

Shortly after I bought the car, I was not happy with the sound system compared to other high-end cars. This left me with buyers remorse for not ordering the car with the HK system. After reading the reviews of the HK here, Im glad I didnt spend the money on that.

This upgrade was very easy to install and the directions were great. There were minor differences in the install from the directions, but nothing a little common sense couldnt work around.

After 5 years of listening to the stock system, I immediately noticed the difference. For the highs & the mids, the clarity was MUCH better.

I am so happy with the results that Ive just purchased the hide-away sub kit (ib110) and am looking forward to adding great bass to a now much improved stock system.

BSW, youve created a happy customer and I will recommend your company and products to any BMW owner who is looking to improve their stock system.


Author: David
This weekend I installed the BSW Stage One audio kit and BSW ib110 Subwoofer System in my 2005 330ci Convertible.

I always knew that the Harman / Kardon system was not all that great. However, I must have gotten used to it over time because I was completely blown away by the difference the BSW upgrades made. The music is crystal clear. There are sounds in songs that I never even noticed before with the old system. I thought that the upgrades would be good but I didn know that they would be beyond GREAT!

Another great thing about these upgrades was that the instructions were excellent! The steps were very clear and the illustrations were great in providing visuals that helped you to see what you were supposed to be doing.

At first I thougt I was going to have this installed by someone professionally for fear that I would mess up my car. But, after reviewing the instructions I decided to do it myself. The job took a while... probably about 4 hours... but overall there was nothing difficult about it. The time it took was mostly because there are a lot of interior pieces to disassemble / reassemble but again, it wasn complicated. BMW made the trim pieces easy to remove and replace.

BSW has done an excellent job putting together the right components to make this an easy job and one in which there is no apparent change to the look of your car... one aspect I REALLY like about these upgrades.

THANK YOU BSW!!!


Author: William McDowell
Very nice setup. I debated over getting this speaker set and going to a shop for a custom install and I must say I am VERY glad i bought these speakers. This is what a BMW should sound like from the factory! Sounds amazingly clear even with the top down! Install took me some time about 6 hours together total with the stage1 sub install and the xm direct unit i also purchased. I have a tiny bit of install experience on some previous cars of mine but with the detailed instructions provided and the numerous pictures I believe i could have installed without any experience at all. As a side note, add the panel tools to your order, EXTREMELY usefull and well worth the money.


Author: Greg Meyer
The speaker upgrade stage 1 for my 01 M3 is incredible. The sound quality is improved dramatically. Everything worked and fit as promised. I had a friend install the speakers for me since he is a BMW tech. He made the process look easy. I would recommend this for anyone looking for a clean upgrade.


Author: Steve C
I recently installed the speaker replacement kit plus the 10” sub in my 2002 M3 convertible. I almost didn’t buy the subwoofer upgrade but decided that I if I was going to replace the 10 stock speakers that I might as well go all the way and replace the sub as well, and I am so glad that I did. The “premium” Harmon/Kardon speakers that came with the car crackled at medium volume levels and the bass was weak. In fact, our Nissan minivan’s system sounded much better than my car. Now all I can say is “Wow!” This upgrade is worth every penny! I will be purchasing another upgrade for my 2001 330i in the very near future. Thanks, BSW!


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