fdl

Cars under 30k

Cars over 30k

magic_man

I don't know why they continually put the Pathfinder's system in the top 10. I don't know if any of you have had much experience with them but a coworker of mine and my girlfriend both drive 2003 Pathfinders with the Bose system. They both complain about lack of detail and muddy sounding bass. It's a narrow sounding system with no highs and no lows which makes it sound very much like a low quality clock radio. My girlfriend talked to the service manager at her dealership and asked if she could listen to a stereo in a new Pathfinder since she is always reading these good reviews about it. After listening to hers first, he agreed that it's sound left much to be desired. He thoguht there was something wrong. Unfortunately, after listening to a new Pathfinder, they found that it sounded about the same. Even the service manager was surprised by how bad this factory stereo is.

Sorry for the rant, I just had to get that off my chest. I feel that the inclusion of the Pathfinder to the list blows their credibility with me right out of the water!

fdl

Not to mention the inclusion of the focus.

MikeMa

I do agree with the inclusion of the VWs with the Monsoon sound system. I sat in a Passat with the system, and Man....that was nice. It's not hella powerful like a system with 500 subs or whatnot, but it's extremely clear sounding, with a good, rich, bass tone.

I've got a set of Monsoon computer speakers, and I really like them. I just wish that they were still making them (I kinda wanted them to make a system with larger, more powerful satellites, and a larger sub).

Now, I haven't actually heard the Focus stereo, but if it's anything like the stereo that was in the Escort, I think these guys need an ear test.

And, I thought that the Mark Levinson sound system in one of the Lexuses was supposed to be pretty nice?

Encyclo

OK guys,

I'm a Honda/Acura fanatic from way back and on this stereo thing, I have to admit the choice of the Focus I agree with: bought this 2001 Focus Wagon as a sort of winter beater last fall for my 97 EL, also for the kids to start driving. The wagon is actually a lot of fun to drive, although it makes you appreciate the Acura Vtec and 5 speed real quick

Anyway, apart from surprizing reliability (starts fine at -35), the sound system impresses me every time I drive the car. I just wasnt expecting that sound quality from such an inexpensive car. If you get a chance, try it and see what you think!!!

horsetrdr

Hi magic_man,

Please contact Bose Technical Assistance (1-800-367-4008 till 11PM ET) and explain your issues with the sound system. Their customer service is first rate and I'm sure they will try to help you. Sounds like it could be as simple as a harness is wired out of phase (often a source of muddy bass). No harm in asking. Good luck.