[msaeger]

I have a 2004 cooper with the HK system. I would like to replace the head unit with one that does not have a built in amp. I know the factory amp is propritary but my question is are the speakers also ?
I would like to install the head unit with an aftermarket amp and keep the HK speakers..

If anyone knows the answer it would be great I asked one install place and they think the speakers are standard but I don't think they really know.

[GBMINI]

The front speakers in the doors do not have a crossover - separate feeds from the HK amp. Replace the amp and you need to add crossovers.
The rear speakers are "dual voice coil" so they theoretically need two channels per speaker; you could wire the coils in series and drive them that way. Note that the coils are 2 ohm so parallel wiring would bring the impedance down to low for most amps; even 2 ohms is not liked by some less expensive amps.

There is lots of info on the web about the HK system - here is an entry on my web site for example.

[LeiChat]

Can you suggest any other links please ?

Does the HK amp take the signal from speaker output on the factory headunit ?

Like the OP I have a headunit with no internal amplification.
It has 3 way set of pre-outs, hi - mid - bass which are digitally customisable.

Can the HK amp accept line level inputs ?

[GBMINI]

The HK amp has speaker level signals from the head unit. It does not have line level inputs.

It is possible to run an aftermarket head unit through the HK amp - provided the HU has speaker outputs. A special circuit is needed to persuade the HK amp to still work.

Otherwise, you will have to bypass or remove the HK amp - and either get aftermarket amps that work with the factory speakers, or replace the speakers as well!

[LeiChat]

Thanks for the info.
As the factory head units are so dull, and don't support cd-text / iPod text,
think I'll have to do the entire install and not go for the HK upgrade.

Has anyone posted info on the standard speaker sizes on the forums.
(I don't seem to have much luck searching for posts)

Am I correct with regards to the being two speakers each side up front (in the door)
and two in the rear (which the HK upgrade replaces with subwoofers?)

I have a six channel Rockford amp which I'll run 3 way stereo.
Anyone know any manufactures who do components specifically for the Mini ?

[GBMINI]

Did not realize you don't have a MINI yet - definitely if you are considering aftermarket stereo, DON'T start with the HK! The HK is for people who are satisfied with what it offers.
I ordered it unseen, and was not satisfied - that eventually forced my development of the HKenabler circuit, but it is a compromise solution.

Of course, a good aftermarket system will cost you more than the HK package.

The front doors *can* take a 6.5" speaker with appropriate adaptors; the rears are 6x9 unless you are planning a convertible (which I think has the 6.5" again).
Here is a fabulous strip down / upgrade sequence put together by Paul - it will give you some idea of the work involved!

[LeiChat]

Thanks again for the informative reply.

Inifity used to do a three way Kappa kit that included 2 6x9 woofers.
I have an old Kappa 6.5" and tweeter components kit,
only problem with that I guess is the tweeter wouldn't fit into the door.

Not sure where I'd be able to hide the amp as it's a little big for a Mini.

[GBMINI]

Quote: Originally Posted by LeiChat

I have an old Kappa 6.5" and tweeter components kit,
only problem with that I guess is the tweeter wouldn't fit into the door.

There is a position for a stock tweeter - small and high (next to the door opening handle) but maybe workable.
Pics in my gallery of Tweeters failed attempt to upgrade my stereo system includes a big amp in the trunk: