I know this is probably the wrong place to ask this question, but seriously... How bad
is the stereo??

I have an M3 now, and it's stereo was quite pitiful. My brother's 91 Legend (first year
of the newer body style) sounded pretty good I thought. Can anyone compare the CL-S, or
TL-S to that stereo?

Is it really as bad as what I'm reading?

 

My personal opinion is that it's not bad at all. It's not the best factory stereo but it's far from the worst. I think it has great clarity and volume. The only big issue that is constantly raised is the lack of bass. While I do agree that it could use a little more bass, I don't think it's a big enough issue to be concerned about. If you get a CL-S and feel you need more bass it's always easy to add it without changing out the stereo.

Other than the bass, it's a great system. IMO

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2001 Acura 3.2 CL Type-S - San Marino Red / Parchment - #26519
non-nav - spoiler - wheel locks - splash guards - PIAA 19169s - Pics of my car

 

I just bought a '01 CL-S and also think the system isn't that bad. I previously owned a 99 BMW 328is. The Harmon Kardon system in that car SUCKED. I replaced it with an aftermarket head unit/amp/sub but kept the stock speakers and that thing sounded "audiophile". Being used to that quality of sound, I honestly think that the Acura-Bose sound is clean enough that just adding a subwoofer should do wonders without having to overhaul the whole system.

 

It's pretty awesome (sounds good) when you are in the dealership sitting in the new car on the showroom floor getting ready to buy.

It only gets lousy over time and when you try to crank it. Or when you compare it to your friend's multi-$1000 system.

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* 2001 Acura CL Type S * Blk/Blk * Navigator * Spoiler * Moonroof Visor * V1 *
* Since 3/31/2000 *
* Road Warrior *

 

I personally think the stereo is downright poor. Like was mentioned, no bass at all, and I think the highs leave much to be desired. The mids aren't entirely bad, but they're not that good either. I'm going to be ripping the entire thing out and replacing it all with a LOT better stuff than the Blose system that's in there now. Remember, no bass, no highs, gotta be Bose.