Never been really been much of an audiophile but I got a BMW 7 series with the diamond surround system, Bowers & Wilkins I think. Even after a few years of owning the car every time I listen to some slow song at half volume I am in awe at the clarity, how you cannot tell exactly where the sound is coming from, and everything in between. I have a few Bose and LG sound bars but nothing compares. I’m looking for recommendations for a home audio system that can come somewhat close and doesn’t break the bank.
You can build a system based on new B&W 700 series. :)
Budget…always come with a budget
Best bet is to visit some high stores and have a listen. Understand though, that what you are hearing also has much to do with the architectural design of the car and placement of the speakers. Many rooms in homes are not practical for this purpose as is and must be ‘tuned’ with various sound absorbers and bass traps. Buy the best speakers you can afford and enough quality power to run them.
Sound bars don’t compare to good hifi systems – good car systems don’t even compare. I would caution buying ‘‘designer surround systems’’. Make sure to buy from a reputable hifi brand (Bowers & Wilkins, Dali (my favorite)). Two floor-speakers and a a good integrated AMP is a great start. If you then realize that you still want that surround feeling; by all means, buy some additional speakers to create a surround system.
Sound is subjective, what speakers and AMP you like depends on what kind of sound you like, some are smoother, harsher, more or less punchy etc.
I’m currently planning on buying a Pair of Dali Opticon 6 and a Hegel H190 AMP (witch has integrated Spotify and Airplay 2 connectivity). Availability and price may vary depending on where u live. Im getting my speakers shipped from Germany and buying the AMP locally in Sweden. In total I’m planning on spending 3 700 euros.
If you drive a 7-series I’m guessing you have some money to spend on speakers. The more expensive the better (at least in most cases) – but the more you spend the less you get for your money. But for 2 000 Euros you will get a sound that will make your BMW speakers, well… not seem as impressive anymore. For 10 000 Euros you’ll get 99% of the sound of the best system in the world.
But of course the room your planning on putting the speakers in will have a huge impact*
My best tip is go to a dedicated HIFI store that has many brands, the people who work there will give you better tips than people on reddit – but most importantly, you can test different speakers and see what you like and what you get for your money.