I am debating between the Bose/CD package or just the standard? I love music, and thought I had a good ear, however do not feel the Bose Pkg is so exceptional. Thoughts?

I'm continually amazed at how much people will pay for mediocre "high end" OEM systems. These systems typically use cheapo [wiz cone] speakers and amps. Save the money and invest it in a decent aftermarket system. My dads Lexus ES300 has a very good [for OEM] system but it just lacks that ummph I demand. Go with MB quart or Boston Acoustic Pro speakers and a decent sub, with amps of course, and you'll have an awsome sounding system.

I feel if you really care about the sound of your stereo, you don't want to go with the bose. It's a scam, it's just a name. For the price you pay you could get aftermarket equipment such as MB quart speakers, and they will sound much better.<p>don't get the bose...

you think he'll get the bose??<p>I found it kinda cool that you and I told him the same thing at the same time...

For half the cost of the sub-par Bose, you could install an amp, a sub-woofer on the rear deck, and replace one set of the speakers (take your pick; most would replace the front but I think the rear are worse), and you'll have a system that already sounds better than the Bose. Of course, if you're willing to spend the full $1200 or slightly more, you can get a truly excellent system that's far superior to the Bose.<br>

I like the Bose okay. The sound is pretty good if you do nothave the inclination to hassle with an after-market installation or have leased your vehicle.<p>The subqoofer can be a bit boomy on some selections at low volumes.<p>While I am not really a true Audiophile, I did spend close to 10K on a home theatre system so I do appreciate clarity, imaging, and a smooth midrange. I have had high end car systems but they too generally lack the sophistication of a nice home unit. IMHO, the Bose is very adequate for a car stereo. But if you are not pleased with the Bose and the stereo is a primary concern of yours, get the concert and upgrade.

I opted to go with the factory "concert" instead of the Bose to save the money. I know mine sounds horrible, but I doubt the Bose is that much better. Aftermarket seems like the only way to go for quality sound. For cars that cost around $30K, these stereos are pretty sad.<br>

Give it a pass - with the money you save, you can install something much nicer.<br>

only you can make that kind of a decision. Sounds to me like you didn't like the Bose...some do, some don't.<p>3 options: Concert, Bose, Aftermarket.<p>You can spend $1200 in the aftermarket & sound better than Bose IN MY OPINION. You can spend a heck of a lot more & sound much better.<p>How much money ya got? Like I said, it sounds like you didn't think much of the BOSE system...so remember, you can keep your extra money & options open by going Concert & then deciding about aftermarket later...<p>don't let us tell you what sounds good...it's your money & your car<br>steve

Anyhow, can't say that I don't agree with you more. I am the he! However, the situation is that I have an opportunity to buy one of the last 1998 avant quattro, sport package, Bose/CD with leather in blue santorin blue. (My third choice color.)for (32.2K.) I was not impressed with the Bose AT ALL. Alternatively, I could wait until Jan and receive, 1999 Avant quattro, sport package, leather in my top color choice Silver for 33.5 without the Bose or CD player.<br>The blue 1998 has 300 miles, and a dirty mat in the back and a tinnnny scratch on the side door, eh...2mm. What should I do? Save the 1300 and have the car now with CD, or wait the 2 months and get the '99 silver with the standard stereo, and upgrade it. I could upgrade the Bose also (with the saved $$) But it is santorin blue with 300 miles and a tiny nic!

Thank you all for your help. I feel comfortable forgoing the BOSE for the concert with potential for upgrade. However, should I add the CD player if I opt for this? I believe it would be an additional $680.

I just got out of an 84' Saab 900 w/an upgraded Blaupunkt stereo(still nothing great!) w/stock front speakers and Infinity rear speakers(still nothing great). No CD player in Saab, either. What I'm saying is...I'm no audio guru, but I'm pleased w/my Bose system. I didn't want to be bothered w/bringing my car somewhere to have an aftermarket system installed and worrying about who drives/handles my car and if the system will blend in as good as the stock one, etc.! Anyway, just my .02 cents! <p>JT 99' 1.8Tqms

When I was shopping for my A4, I listened to both the Concert and the Bose system. Personally I did not find the Bose sytem to be that much better. The Bass is vvveeerrryyy sloppy and not firm at all. However I could not find another car at the dealerships that did not have the Bose Package. I made a big stink over it and the dealer gave it to me for free. An aftermarket radio would sound better, but not neccesarily look good in the console. An Alpine eadunit with the infinity set with the satelite tweeters and subwoffer sounds awsome... It all depends on the music you like too...<p>My 2 cents...

Wait for the new one. You will be so glad you did... You are already looking for everything that is wrong with the blue one, you don't even own it yet. Imagine what you will find after you buy it. Even if you don't, you will always be looking. Thats no way to own an Audi...

I got my factory OEM CD player from Clair for under $300 and installed it myself. Check out their web page. They are under the Product Guide section. Clair has excellent OEM prices. There is also a FAQ section on installing the CD player.<p>Mark (98.5 2.8 QMS)