Everything you want to know about BMW audio systems

Base Sound System
Audio Option: N/A

Let’s kick things off with the Base sound system—also known as the “Let’s pretend we didn’t buy a BMW” system. This is the most basic option you can get. In the US and Canada, it was retired after 2012, replaced by the HiFi system. Even casual music lovers should probably steer clear of this one unless they enjoy the sweet sounds of silence.

With an equalizer that offers about as much flexibility as a wooden plank (seriously, you get bass/treble, front/back, and left/right), you won’t be crafting any audiophile masterpieces here. This system usually sports four mid-range speakers and two woofers under the seats, but don’t go looking for tweeters—they’ve clearly gone on vacation, leaving your music sounding flatter than a pancake.

There’s no dedicated amplifier either; the head unit takes on that task with its four output channels. This leads to a volume limit that feels like being told to “keep it down” at a party. If you crank it up too high, prepare for a distortion party that nobody wants to attend!

The woofers in this system are designed to be easy on the head unit, coming in at a cozy 4 Ohms. But don’t let that fool you—these “lightweight” woofers produce bass that’s more cardboard than concert hall. If you’re looking for a thump in your ride, you might end up disappointed.

BMW HiFi Sound System
Audio Option: S676A

Next up is the HiFi sound system (S676A), which is like the Base system's cooler, more popular sibling. In North America, it’s pretty much standard, while the rest of the world has to shell out extra for it.

This system adds a couple of tweeters, a midrange speaker in the dashboard, and an 8-channel amplifier in the trunk. That means each speaker gets its own personal bodyguard (a dedicated amplifier channel) to keep the distortion at bay. So, if you were longing for a little extra volume and clarity, this is your ticket!

With woofers that boast a 2 Ohm impedance, you’ll get deeper bass and cleaner sound. It’s like moving from a flip phone to the latest smartphone—life-changing!

BMW Harman Kardon Sound System
Audio Option: S674A

Now we step up to the Harman Kardon system (S674A), but don’t get too excited—it’s more of a small hop than a leap. You might think Harman Kardon systems are the rock stars of audio, but this one is more like the opening act.

This setup is similar to the HiFi system in terms of power and channels, with a few minor tweaks in the speakers and head unit coding. Why the downgrade, you ask? Space constraints! The big, powerful amplifiers just wouldn’t fit in the smaller BMWs. So, while it’s still better than the Base system, you might be left wanting more—like a kid at a candy store with only gummy bears to choose from.

BMW Harman Kardon (Top-HiFi) Sound System
Audio Options: S688A / S677A

Finally, we arrive at the Harman Kardon surround sound system (S688A). This system boasts around 16 speakers—yes, 16! That’s more speakers than most people have in their entire home audio setup!

With two underseat woofers and seven mid-range speakers along with seven tweeters scattered throughout, your music will sound amazing. Just don’t blame us if you find yourself singing along to every song—you’ll be tempted!

These woofers are 8 Ohms, which means they need some serious power to get going. But don’t worry, the Top HiFi amplifier can handle it. It’s like giving a race car the fuel it needs to zoom ahead—pure audio bliss!


In summary, BMW offers a range of audio systems to fit different needs and budgets. Whether you’re just cruising or aiming to create a concert on wheels, there’s a system that will meet your (and your passengers’) expectations. Just remember, the music’s better when you can actually hear it!