Hi everyone,

As some of you may be aware, I was concerned about the stereo quality of the non navi package as the ELS is getting such rave reviews. I agree that the ELS is very amazing and certainly would be a nice feature to have if you also plan on using the NAVI system and the backup camera. I, for one, do not use the NAVI and was worried that I'd miss out on something if I didn't get the ELS stereo. Truth of the matter is that although noticeable, it is not a deal breaker for me. I am very critical of the audio quality and the stereo in the non NAVI is just as good as the previous generation with the exception that a 6 disc player is no longer there unless you fork up the cash for the ELS. Given the USB/XM and single disk player, there is enough to keep me busy there and quality is good.

My question is that the brochure indicates that the ELS stereo has 10 speakers while the non ELS has 7. When I went for a test drive yesterday, I noticed the 2 tweeters found on the upper portion of the doors seem to be playing as well. Are those tweeters part of 1 speaker (i.e. door bottom is the bass...tweeter treble = 1 speaker)?? If so, counting those 2 (on the front door), the 2 on the back doors, the 2 on the rear of the car, is the 7th the sub between the two on the rear of the car? If so, what constitute the 10 for the ELS? I know there is also one on the front dash in the middle but that would only bring the total to 8 (unless the tweeters count as seperates but I am convinced they were playing on the non NAVI stereo too)...DO any that don't have the non NAVI can also chime in?

 

*TSX crickets*

 

The tweeters are considered separate speakers in both cases. The ELS system has one in each door (4), two tweeters (2), two rear deck (2) one front center (1) and one rear deck sub (1).

I think the non-ELS system has no speakers in the rear deck except for the sub. Either that, or they're in the rear deck and not the rear doors.

 

The tech package has an amazing stereo system. I had the 09 TSX for a full day. To me it's definitely worth the premium. Then again I am addicted to my iPod and the integration is just so seamless.

 

datar...That makes sense I guess, so 4 in the front doors, two in the back doors and the sub in the middle in the back of the car while the ELS system adds the two extra one in the back with the one in the centre of the dash. At least the tweeters are active on the front doors as I like my sound with lots of treble so those tweeters really help.

JAB00...I know that system is amazing but not usre if its worth the 3k extra as that is all I would use the technology package for. As far as the USB integration, the non-Navi system also uses the USB integration as well doesn't it? At least that is what the brochure indicates and with the centre screen where the NAVI goes, you can still see all the names from your i-pod/mp3 player as well...At least I beleive so.

 

why use CDs when u have an ipod...

 

Tapwave...I have so many Cds that I just can't bother to put everything on the computer or sometime a friend has a good CD you wanna borrow but I agree, once I get he car and my mp3 player...I doubt I'll use the CD player much...it will become sorta like an 8 track player

 

From Acura:

Both systems play music from USB or mini-phono plug. IMO the full color display is much easier to see than the mono-chrome display in the base model,but functionality seems to be the same. (ie. playlists, artist, song title selection etc.)

 

Well, there is that huge difference in sound quality......

 

Colin...Thanks for the info, it does clarify this whole speaker configuration thing. I am hoping I won't regret no going with the ELS/NAVI package but after hearing the non NAVI, it did sound pretty good (as good as my 2006 TSX) but I didn't do a back to back comparison with the ELS system. Sometimes, its best not knowing how good the other system as it may kill the fun of owning my 2009 TSX...although its not too late to change my mind as my car hasn't arrived yet and I could easily just wait for the next PWP NAVI but I have waited enough...and spending close to 3k for just the upgrade in stereo, not sure if that worth it...would you feel the upgraded stereo is worth the extra 3k (as I hate NAVI and backup cameras). I could always explore my option of getting additional speakers installed, I assume that could be done...

 

If you don't want Navi and the camera it's not worth it. We ordered a tech because I like having the datebase or restaurants available (always looking for where to eat). My wife wanted the camera since this car is so much larger than her S2000. I want the full color screen to see the iPod info so the Tech was a 'no brainer'

With the money you save, you could easily upgrade the stock drivers to better components (real x-overs for the fronts), nice co-axials for the rear shelf speakers, and possibly even a small amp for the stock 8" sub. (or an all new amp/speaker combo for the sub). The amp idea assumes you can find and tap the rear speaker 'high level' and convert it. IMO, you would want to keep the stock radio so you don't loose your other things connected to it (steering wheel controls).

When I used to be in the audio business, the rule of thumb for improving sound quality is to start with the speakers and work you way backwards.

 

Colin...Thanks for confirming or re-assuring me that I am not making a huge mistake by not getting the ELS stereo as it is a pretty pricy move considering i just want the stereo I'll likely make some speaker mods if I decide to purchase rather than lease

 

Definitely a consideration for those seeking sound quality over access convenience. I have not sampled the 09 yet, so I don't know what the new ELS system is like, but I suspect the basic stereo system is still only comparable to the 04-08 system, which I felt was very weak on the qualty of the sound. I immediately gutted mine (04) and replaced the speakers and amp to include a true subwoofer (not those "muddy" base speakers in the shelf.) Unfortunately, it was necessary to keep the head unit (without spending many thousands extra) and so the limited ability to shape the sound, with only Bass and Treble controls, still puts a crimp in getting great sound from it. But I got it sounding pretty good, and after a while (five years this month) everyone gets used to their system and learns to like, or at least accept, it.
I just hope for everyone's sake that ACURA put some good quality speakers in the 09, especially the ELS upgrade. Anyone know what the new speakers are? Better quality than the 1st Gen?
In the 1st Gen I think the weak sound system was definitely the worst feature of an otherwise great car.

 

RGlesing...What kind of speakers did you end up putting in? I am also concerned that after market install may affect the electronics of the car or even create rattles as they have to remove door panels...I assume you had nothing like that.