Hey,

I have a '76 240D w/ the original Becker Europa Am/Fm radio w/ the one speaker in the center of the dash. I have been wrestling w/ the idea of replacing that with a stereo. I'd like to be able to keep the car as orginal as possible though and put minimum impact into the car. What do you guys think? Suffer through the poor sound until the Becker dies, or buy a nice aftermarket system and start cutting holes?

Thanks

Oh, and what aftermarket head units and speakers might I consider? I am a college student on a limited budget and don't want to spend more than $500. Maybe keep it German? BLAUPUNKT?

There are a lot of great deals in car stereos for $500 and less. For stereo, that means at least two speakers.

First consider whether you want to do two or four speakers.

Then consider where you want to locate the fronts. If in the doors that takes into account removing the door panels and cutting holes in them. Another solution could be to mount self-contained speakers under the dash. Not quite as good sound, but you wouldn't have to do the doors.

Rear speakers can be shelf mounted. Either on the shelf or mounted into.

I had a friend years ago who was in a similar situation. He attached speakers to the rear shelf with quick disconnects. He could remove them whenever he wanted.

Really think through the cutting and drilling deal. If your interior is real good and you really want to preserve it, don't do it.

I am very conservative on these things. I have had too many cars butchered by "professional" installers.

Two really good speakers under the dash and stereo can go a long way. Definitely blow away the center speaker OEM setup.

Go to crutchfield.com and check out their stereos. Great comparisons.

Haasman

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'03 E320 Wagon-Sold
'95 E320 Wagon-Went to Ex
'93 190E 2.6-Wrecked
'91 300E-Went to Ex
'65 911 Coupe (#302580)