Hey everyone. I have a 1999.5 A4, and recently replaced the front speakers with Infinity components because one of the stock speakers died. I'm underwhelmed with the improvement in sound, and am looking to go further -- either by using my stock head unit with an amp, or by replacing the head unit. I need help deciding.

Right now, I have a Concert II with an iceLink and also have it set up so I can power and play my Pioneer Inno portable XM radio through the stereo (it's a bit Rube Goldbergish, but works). If I stick with this setup, I could add a quality amp and have everything work as it does now, but with better sound.

Of course, I could also replace what I have with a quality head unit (the Alpines with iPod control intrigue me). It would simplify my setup, plus provide the higher-quality amplification I'm after. I would lose a CD player, though, but I'm not too concerned about that.

Any thoughts? I'm leaning toward going the amp route, but am open to suggestions and opinions. Thanks.

-Mike

low distortion rating will give you the best bang for the buck.

What about the rear speakers? You didn't mention replacing them. If you didn't or don't intend to for now, then my suggestion is to fade to the front as much as possible. You don't want them to interfere with the quality sound from the front.

When I did the fronts I also Dynamatted the doors, and plan on doing the same with the rears. I figure while I'm in there, I might as well replace the speakers, too.

For whatever reason, my Concert II won't let me fade -- it doesn't come up in the menu.

..per channel.