I hate to ask, but I have a stereo Q

[jbrinkley]

I feel like a dork asking but, I have the cd changer in the trunk and I don't know if there's a OEM amp somewhere in the car? I assume this won't work if I install a new HU, which is fine.
I want to install a new alpine with a wiring adaptor and ant. adaptor. Im concerned about any weird things happening with the factory key fob or anti tamper stuff.,or obc when I disconnect the battery.

and one other Q

So even if there's an OEM amp in the car everything would work fine installing a new deck except the changer, which doesnt bother me. Is that right?
Im good with stereos except in newer cars. And I don't have the manual yet for the bmw

[gypsyangel]

Wanna sell me your disc changer? I have a 6 cd alpine changer that is on the fritz. Let me know

[jbrinkley]

when I do it I'll get rid of it, but it might be a month or so. I'm waiting on a manual. And I've only had the car a couple days.

[Jeron]

The OEM amp in my 97 M3 receives speaker level input and functions as a crossover. So if you wire in a new HU it should work fine though the oem amp.

[dfrost]

As Jeron states, a new head unit will generally work OK with the OEM amplifier, which is located behind the trim panel on the left side of the trunk. An adapter cable is required for the HU and can be supplied by Crutchfield or the stereo dealer (if they're conversant in BMW's).

I'm using an Alpine HU in my '93 E36, and it sounds much better then stock. I was quite willing to give up the OEM changer and have never missed it. Other significant (and not too expensive) stereo additions were: 6x9 speakers in the rear replacing the not-so-great stock 1" + 4" driver combo, and bypassing the amp for those rears (more easily done in a '93 or earlier).

[Jeron]

+1 (Yeah what he said.)

This reminds me of my own stereo project I've been putting off for 2 years. I'll think I'll pose my issues forthwith.

[jbrinkley]

I out in a panasonic in there that matches. No problems other than resetting the computer date and time and window reset.
Indeed, high level inputs at the amp.
I do want some of those adapter plates for the rear though.

[dfrost]

I do want some of those adapter plates for the rear though.

Jerry,

Unfortunately the MDF adapters I purchased 4 years ago are no longer being made, but there are templates for something very similar in the following link. Click on the "Installation FAQ" for the links to pretty nice DIY drawings; note that the "tear-drop" opening shown could be bigger.

http://www.brazeauracing.com/speakers.htm

I also found these:

http://www.bavariansoundwerks.com/product.php/II=445/_cid=162

But if it was me, I would prefer something made from MDF instead of those made from plastic (I think).