e36 coupe stereo/speakers - moved from e36 forum

[CrookedMile]

I'm reposting this to the correct forum-- currently, it's posted in the e36 forum.

Original post:
I just bought a '96 e36 and I noticed that the speaker slots are quite unconventional. In each door panel, there are two small speakers that appear to be tweeters, and in the back, there are two 4" speakers. I'd like to install bigger and better speakers. Does anyone know what I can do while leaving the interior of the car intact?

For example, are there any speaker-housing kick panels made for the e36 or something like that? Or maybe some low-pro 6x9 boxes I could put on the trunk lid without damaging it?

[carstereopro]

Your kick panels contain 5 1/4" speakers. Take a look.

I'd recommend a 5 1/4" component set. Install the new tweeters in the factory lockations, leave the 3" midrange disconnected.

I'd look into rear speaker adapters. They're out there for 6" or 6"x9" speakers.

You should first replace the radio with a good quality aftermarket radio if you really want to make an impact.

[CrookedMile]

Thanks so much for your help. There's these nice Infinity Reference 5 1/4" components I found on crutchfield that I'm eyeing. They'd go pretty nice with the Reference 6x9's, I think....

I also have one more question. I have a really nice and somewhat new JVC head unit. My e36 came without one, but I'm just gonna transplant this one from my old car before I sell it. I noticed, though, that the plug(s) from my head unit don't fit the male end that came with the M3. Do you know if and where I can get an adapter piece somewhere, or do I have to cut and reattach all the wires?

I appreciate all the help!!

[carstereopro]

Originally Posted by CrookedMile

Thanks so much for your help. There's these nice Infinity Reference 5 1/4" components I found on crutchfield that I'm eyeing. They'd go pretty nice with the Reference 6x9's, I think....

I also have one more question. I have a really nice and somewhat new JVC head unit. My e36 came without one, but I'm just gonna transplant this one from my old car before I sell it. I noticed, though, that the plug(s) from my head unit don't fit the male end that came with the M3. Do you know if and where I can get an adapter piece somewhere, or do I have to cut and reattach all the wires?

I appreciate all the help!!

Check your PM.

(you need a wiring harness adapter and a European antenna adapter)