Mazda and Bose tout their stereo systemin the 2021 CX-5, but it is lacking in high end definition and bottom end clarity. Has anyone replaced the speakers in their cars? Did you add an additional amplifier? What issues did you run into? I'm investigating options now and will report back my findings, but wanted to know if anyone else had made the same mods.

 

I, too, am less than impressed with the stereo in a 2016.5 CX-5 GT. Though, I have yet to look into alternatives for speakers, let alone the rest of the sound system.

Very interested to hear what you find in your evals.

 

Agreed on this one. I expected much better output from the Bose speakers, a little bit of let down.

 

reading the description complaint about the BOSE system I imagine maybe the OP sets equalizer setting in other vehicle's with stereo system in the traditional V-pattern... ??

The BOSE system in Mazda was design for the best sound reproduction's over the complete normal human hearing for primarily music . The computer also changes some sound levels to compensate for road noise.

The big problem is adding speakers or changing speakers you must be very careful what you choose to match the output of the Bose amp.
If bottom end is not as dramatic as you want you may consider a powered sub-woofer to add to the system and only use out signal and a Audio Control LC2i Pro. Adding a pair of pillar tweeters will dramatically brighten up the high frequencies and you should be able to get away with tapping them existing speaker leads. Although I would still advise a separate amplifier even with those.

The best overall investment to improve the sound quality would be to install sound deadening material in all the doors and panels.

 

After a few Miata's with BOSE, I'm firmly convinced that "no highs, no lows, must be BOSE" has more than a little ring of truth to it.

 

Your first post on this forum not even an introduction thread and say howdy but just pop right in with your opinion LOL
Hmm ok?

I would recommend to play pink noise in any vehicle with a BOSE design sound system as well measure the volume of air in the complete passenger compartment and post the results.


Sorry you guys...... BOSE has a reputation world wide with reproducing systems that are close as possible in the restriction presented to produce what real music sounds like.
However I do truly understand that personal listening tastes vary but is not what real music is suppose to sound like.
Every time I start to help a customer with their sound system the bass is turned almost all the way to max as well the treble or high frequencies. LOL. We call that TONE DEAF ! LOL Honestly go look what you all have your manual settings at that will tell you a little about your musical ear.

It took me well over $5000 (wholesale or dealer cost) dollars to improve my BOSE sound system in my MAZDA I seriously doubt to many will come close to doing the same? ROLMAO
LOL I run Focal Tweeters in my front pillars..... LOL That is more that I can guess anyone on this thread will spend to try to replace all of the BOSE speakers what they think will be an upgrade thinking to improve what BOSE designed. LOL


Maybe try to go back and re-read my last post and recommendation

 

Defensive much? Sorry about not introducing myself. Been on Miata.net probably before you were born and just got a CX-5. Just making a joke. Sorry if it offended you.

 

Welcome to the forum.

Not sure how the length of being on a forum has anything to do with what a member responses with. But how about this...I have been designing and installing custom automotive stereo system since around 1981.(maybe before you were born )
As for Miata.net I would guess that if you have any true Trackers in the forum and located in California it is very likely we have talked ? If they ever attended Sears point, Laguna, Thunder Hill, or Button Willow for open track days.

I was not personally offended by your response only entertained.

 

I'm old and not used to the rules of this site. However, Focal tweeters are on my short list. I have no problem spending money in good audio.
My 2012 Mazda 3 had an Alpine 970, JL sub, tweeter and mid bass upgrades and coaxed rear speakers sitting in the $3500 installed. Once I've configured my system I'll update you on the specifics. Best wishes. :-)

 

Good luck at least you are familiar with some good component's.

Speaker choice is a trail and error task.
Not sure why Focals would be on anyone "short list" more of a bucket list I could understand!

I also run complete Focal speakers 3 in the all 4 doors.
I tested tried several very high end speakers and they all met with less then my expectation of quality sound preproduction.









Here is my Mazda thread and has more details of the BOSE upgrade I did if anyone is interested?
https://www.mazdaforum.com/forum/maz...like-do-44018/