I'm considering aftermarket audio for the first time (yes, the stock A4 head is responsible). If I had to do it in segments, $500 at a time, what order would you upgrade in?

For example, would you put the first $500 into adding an amp? Then the next $500 into 5.25" fronts? Or maybe the first $500 into a cheaper amp and a cheaper new head unit?

I wouldn't require the very top-end equipment, but would like a head that is esthetically pleasing.<p>Francis
'98.5 Cactus Green A4 1.8TQTipSX/APR

The most dramatic change will be changing the speakers - use high quality drivers (I always go to OEM suppliers like Madisound in WI). Buy drivers suitable for auto use (cone material that is immune to moisture) & use ony 2 or 4 ohm drivers to effect the maximum power transfer. Next will be the power amps - increasing the power may be necessary if you elect to use low efficiency drivers as replacements. Plus the additional power will be appreciated once you really want some SPL's.
The head unit change will have the least impact

Speakers are very important, but excellent speakers without quality source and amplification will be less enjoyable then lesser quality speakers with good source and power. Nobody has asked what you are starting with. Bose, no Bose? Cd changer already installed?

If you already have a cd changer, then adding a subwoofer and an amp to the current system will make the biggest difference for your first $500. Next would be speakers and finally a better head unit. If you do not currently have cd as a source, then the head unit will make a larger difference -- change to one that has amplification AND preouts (I recommend the Kenwood 815 Excelon). Then add speakers/sub and a powerful amp as finances permit.

Paul
barrow@usa.net

in the form of pins on the Concert's wiring harness.<ul><li><a href="http://www.audiworld.com/forum/m/tt/33903.phtml">http://www.audiworld.com/forum/m/tt/33903.phtml</a></li></ul>

For the current stock setup, this is the way to go... unless you just want volume. Mark's method will give the best sound quality the quickest.

Jimmy