Audi TT: Audio Upgrade
BACKSTORY
Audi TT: Audio Upgrade
The latest Mk3 Audi TT is packed with technology and has a very sophisticated infotainment system installed as standard (it desperately needs better speakers but that’s another story). But what of the Mk2 TT? Still a great car; but the old Chorus, Concert and RNS-E navigation systems are certainly showing their age. Regardless of whether it is equipped with standard or Bose audio the head unit is the same and is definitely lacking features and performance.
PROblem
Let’s Improve It
One feature that the later cars have is a multi-function steering wheel which incorporates audio controls. These are invaluable as they allow you to alter such things as volume and track without taking your hands off the wheel. When we upgrade the system we would definitely want to retain these.
Our most common upgrade to the TT is one the Pioneer multi-media navigation units. These very sophisticated entertainment systems feature DAB radio, CD and DVD, Bluetooth streaming and hands free telephone, Apple Car Play. They also include dual USB ports, reverse camera input and external video input/output.
We have all the appropriate installation items required for installation; so that all vehicle functions work properly. This includes steering wheel controls as well as neatly blending with the dashboard.
Components
Speakers: Audison Prima APK163
With the head unit brought up to date it’s time to look at the speakers. Regardless of whether the audio system is base level or has the Bose option; the speakers have pretty much the same disappointing performance. On the positive side the speaker locations are good and the cabin is compact and quiet.
The simplest option is to just upgrade the front speakers. There are three speaker locations per side, two in the door and one on the corner dash. If the car is not already equipped with the smaller driver then the ‘grille’ in the middle of the door is actually just a solid cover without a mesh. If we wish to add these drivers then the appropriate part can be sourced from Audi. This then allows us to add a proper three way speaker system, one solution is the Audison Prima APK163.
Speakers: Hertz Mille Legend MPK1650.3
We also like to add sound deadening treatment to the door to improve the acoustic response. The Audi door is well constructed but a generous addition of Dynamat or Skinz will dramatically enhance speaker performance.
Another option (and my preferred one) is to ignore the dash tweeter location and install a high quality two way system to the doors. Perhaps the magnificent Hertz Mille Legend MPK1650.3.
This is my preferred option as I prefer to keep the speaker count to a minimum. With a three way system there are by necessity two different crossover points; one for the bass / mid and one for the mid/tweeter. More crossover points mean more opportunity for phase errors to creep in if we use the standard passive crossovers with the kit. This can lead to poor definition in the image and sound stage. With a two way speaker system there is only one crossover point that is easier to control and thanks to the good speaker/listening position in the TT the staging works very well.
Audison Amplifier
Of course a great speaker requires a great amplifier to achieve the best results. Therefore, the standard Audi (or even the Bose option) amplifiers will never be good enough.
One of my favourite options is the Audison Prima 8.9Bit amplifier. This extremely compact amplifier is absolutely perfect. It is small enough to completely hide and is powerful enough to drive all the vehicle speakers. However, if more power is needed then a secondary slave amplifier can be connected alongside.
Of course its greatest asset is the very powerful digital signal processor on board. This DSP allows me to carefully tune the system for the optimum sound staging and personal preferences of the customer.
It also allows me to customise cross over points, time delay and phasing to ensure the best possible response in the car. Even better, if the TT is a convertible then I can tune two different performances; one for top up and one for top down. These tunings can be swapped at the touch of a button to ensure optimum sound whatever the configuration of the car.
Conclusion
Is it all worth it?
Naturally these speaker and amplifier upgrades are not cheap but consider this; if you were to opt for the expensive dealer audio ‘upgrade’ option then when you changed the car you would lose it all and you certainly would not get any of the cost back. In comparison everything I add can be removed and the original equipment reinstalled. This means you keep your investment and can have it reinstalled in your next car (and the next and the next…) and whatever the vehicle I can re-tune it for fabulous performance. I think this makes great sense and offers tremendous value for money.
If you would like to know more about how we can improve the system in your Audi TT or indeed any car please feel free to call me on 01625 432707 or better still pop into our shop on Sunderland Street in Macclesfield for a chat.
Hiya,
I have an 09 audi TT with the audi concert stereo. I would like to upgrade it to something like the above photo.
Would someone be able to get in contact and discuss a job time and quote ?
Thanks again
Nathanael
I have replied to your email.
Thank you
Tim
I’m looking to upgrade my Audi Q5 SLine Quattro (2013 model) MMI entertainment system, which has sat nav, parking sensors, Bluetooth telephone and steering wheel controls.
To include a rear camera, apple play, Spotify.
What are the options and how much would it cost to supply and install?
Thanks for getting in touch I will email you directly.
Tim
I have just purchased a 2013 Audi TT and the speakers and stereo need an upgrade. I would love to use you but I live in London. Do you have a London base??
HI Shani,
I have a lot of customers from the London and Southern area but I only work from here in Macclesfield. It’s a fairly simple drive straight up the M1 and M6 and I can easily turn you round in a day. If you feel like you can make the trip I can certainly get your car sounding great (I do a lot of TTs).
Please feel free to call me on 01625 432707 with any questions.
Thank you
Tim
Hi
I have an Audi TT 2.0 TFSI 2009. I would like to upgrage my car stereo with the Pioneer above.
What is the cost and how long does it take to implement?
Thanks
There are so many options and I would need to know a litle about your car, I will email you directly but please feel free to call me on 01625 432707.
Cheers
Tim
It seems for Audi TT MK2 with digital amplifier upgrading the head unit can be a challenge. Indeed, the amplifier is expecting a signal from the head unit. The work around is to change also the amplifier and speakers.
Is such information accurate ?
Thanks for getting in touch.
Changing the amplifier and speakers is not essential as I have solutions available that will retain these if the head unit is changed. However I have to recommend a full swap out as the standard equipment is poor to say the least. If you are looking to really improve the sound then I have a wealth of experience to do this for you as well as some class leading products.
Please call me on 01625 432707 if you would like to discuss options.
Cheers
Tim
Hi I have a Audi TT 2007 which has the above
Audi concert system and would like to change it to something with music streaming and phone Bluetooth? Can you please advice which is the way forward and cost of this please.
Kind regards
Aky
I have emailed you directly.
Is there an under seat subwoofer that will fit an Audi TT mk 2 tfsi convertible?
Everyone I’ve spoken to says no but there must be some!
I have emailed you directly.
Hi,
Recently bought a TTrs 2013 model. It came with amplifier and subwoofer installed but the sound quality is very poor. Can you give me a quote for the best head unit..
Thanks
I have a lot of solutions for that car but I need a bit of information to make sure I offer you the correct upgrade. I will email you directly.
Cheers
Tim
Hi,
I have a 56 plate MK2 with Concert and Bose system. Currently the Amp decides based on wind direction whether it will work on all 4 channels or not. Would you be able to email with a price please to supply and fir the Pioneer Head unit, 3 way component system up front, sound deadening in the doors, the Audison amp and a suitable SUB (not fussed if using the wheel well or stand alone boot mount). I realise its all fairly vague etc. but I’m just after ballpark figures at the moment. Thank you in advance, Ken
I will email you directly.
Hi Tim
I have an Audi TT 2013 with a Bose stereo sat nav which I want to upgrade as current system doesn’t pick up seemed cameras and it’s not easy to navigate. Are you able to upgrade and give me a quote
Hi Mr Singh,
I do lots of these and have some very good solutions. I will email you directly.
Options for a 2014 MK2 TTS that currently has Bose?
It all depends on how much performance you want. A simple speaker upgrade in the front doors would improve the sound but of course the stock Bose amp is not great so real improvements would come from a head unit change and ideally a much better amplifier.
I will email some options to you directly.
Thank you
Tim
Hi ,I too have an 09 Mk 2 with Bose system .It’s the Navigation Plus head unit.
What is the cost of the Pioneer head unit with a rear camera ?
My hearing not great so the Bose sounds alright to me ,guess I’ve not heard much better .
Cheers
Hi,
I will email you directly.
Cheers
Tim
Hi, I have an 08 TT and I’m looking to upgrade the head unit and maybe the speakers too.
Can you give me some options?
Hi Harry,
There are so many options depending on what you want to achieve but my favourite system is a mixture of Pioneeer navigation head unit and Hertz speakers. We will often add a sub in the boot of the TT as well to really improve the audio. Of course that might not be for you and I do like to know what my customers really like so please call me on 01625 432707 to discuss.
Cheers
Tim
Hi we have a tt mk 2 2012 s line with the std audio set up no sat nav or bluetooth etc. Pls drop us a line for a quote on a basic audio upgrade that will notably improve the sound. Many thanks.
Will do.
Hi, I would like to discuss options for upgrading my 2006 mk2 TT. It currently has navigation pro and full Bose but it’s terrible. I’d like a modern head unit and open to ideas with speakers.
Hi Daniel.
There is a lot to discuss,probably too much for here! Please call me on 01625 432707 for a chat any time and we can get this done for you.
Thanks
Tim
I’m about to get a Audi TT Tdsi could you email me a rough quote for the pioneer units to supply and fit.
Of course, I will email you directly.
I am looking for a mark3 ive tested the standard non B & o SYSTEM.
Can you please confirm how much the mark 3 upgrades you refer to in this article.
I dont want to exclude all non B & O cars if there is a decent upgrade option as there is for the sat nav
thanks
Hi Carl, thanks for getting in touch.
The article really refers to upgrading a Mk2 but we certainly have upgraded many Mk3 TTs as they are lacking in audio performance (and I include the B&O equipped version in that statement).
If I might offer my advice it would be to choose a car without any audio upgrade options if possible and let me improve it for you. It may well be cheaper and it will definitely be far superior.
Regardless of system installed as standard I can improve it so I would ask that when you have it please call me on 01625 432707 for a chat.
I look forward to speaking to you.
Tim
I have a 58 Audi TT and want to upgrade the system so I can connect My iPhone and maps etc . Could you give me a price for this please ? I’m about 70 miles away but you e got great reviews and want someone I can trust.
Hi Adrian, thanks for getting in touch. There are lots of options as you can imagine and I will need some information about your TT so please call me on 01625 432707 for a chat and to get you booked in.
Thanks
Tim
Hi, I have a 2014 MK2 TTS and would like to upgrade but want to keep the in dash directions display, is this possible.
Thanks
Hi Stuart, I have emailed you directly.
I have an Audi TT roadster 2010 and want to upgrade to something with more advanced technology. Would the system above be compatible
Definitely! Please give me a call on 07971 928881 or 01625 432707 so we can discuss options with you and get you booked in.
Tim
Hi, I have a 2012 TT FSi with the standard Audi system – FM & AM only, what upgrade can you offer to give me DAB and an iPhone interface for satnav etc.
Regards, Matt
Hi Matt, I have plenty of options for that, I will email you directly.
Hello
I own an Audi tt 08 plate and would love to upgrade the cars navigation system to facilitate apple car play. Is this something that is achievable? if so how would we go about getting my car booked in for installation?
Hi Oliver, I will email you directly but the best way to move this forward quickly is to call me on 07971 928881 or 01625 432707.
Thanks
Tim
Hello,
I am purchasing a 2011 Audi TT sport tdi Quattro and the unit looks like the concert photo above. I am looking to upgrade this so that I can install a reversing camera and use Bluetooth and sat nav. Would this be possible and how much would it be please?
Thanks,
Mel x
Hi Melissa, thanks for getting in touch. I can certainly do that for you. Costs range from around £900 but I would like to chat with you about what is the best system. Please call me on 01625 432707 to discuss options.
Thanks
Tim
Good day,
I would like to upgrade the music system on my 2018 Audi TTS. Please advise with an optimal upgrade and quote.
Hi there, sorry for the slow reply.
Please give me a call on 01625 432707 so we can discuss options.
Thank you
Tim
Hi,
I have an 09 audi TT with the audi concert stereo. I would like to upgrade it to something like the above photo.
Would someone be able to get in contact and discuss a job time and quote ?
Yes of course. I will email you directly.
Hi there, sorry for the slow reply.
I can certainly help you, please call me on 01625 432707 for a chat about options.
Thank you
Tim
Hi,
I have an 09 audi TT with the audi concert stereo. I would like to upgrade it to something like the above photo.
Would someone be able to get in contact and discuss a job time and quote ?
Hi
I have a 56 plate Mk 2 Audi TT
What would be the cost and fit a stereo
Kenwood or something different
I would like sat nav n Bluetooth
Also still use the steering wheel controls
Hi Michael, sorry for the slow reply, I don’t know why I missed your message!
I have a lot of options for your car My favourite is one of the Pioneer navigation / multimedia systems. This would work with your car steering wheel controls and bose system if fitted. Prices start from £850 installed but of course there are many options so please feel free to call me on 01625 432707 for a chat and to get you booked in.
Thank you
Tim
Hi Tim
I have 2007 Audi TT. I really only want a radio that I can connect via bluetooth for my iphone. Not worried about any other features. Could you send me some ideas? Plus any other accessories I may need.
Thanks
Hi Glenn, thanks for getting in touch.
I have lots of options that do not need to cost the earth and will work perfectly in the TT starting from only £200. I do need a bit of information about your existing system / car so please call me on 01625 432707 for a chat.
Thank you
Tim
Hi, I am looking to buy a Mk2 Audi TT 2.0 TFSI so I was wondering if you could give me some pricing info on how much it would cost to replace the standard AM/FM system with a SATNAV and Apple car play compatible unit. I may also be interested in replacing the sound system. Cheers.
Hi Luke, I will email you directly.
Tim
Hi there,
I have a 2012 Audi TT S Line. It currently has an audi concert radio system with the Bose set up.
Looking for something similar as mentioned above. (I.e. android or apple play (preferably both))
If you could sort me that would be great.
Hi Sean, I have emailed you directly.
Tim
Price on a audi tt 2008 full system upgrade. Cheers
Hi Andrew, I have emailed you directly.
Thanks
Tim
I have just purchased an 08 TT with RNSE and standard speakers, I am interested in a carplay system and speaker upgrade, could you please provide me with a price?
Hi Chris,
We can install a replacement system to your car for around £600. There are of course many options so please feel free to call me on 01625 432707 to discuss what will be best for you.
Thank you
Tim
Hi,
My TTS MK2 has a compass, what happens when you do the upgrade ..?
Hi Richard.
If the compass is on the instrument dial then it will remain operational. If it is built into the radio then it would be lost if the system is changed.
Hope that helps but if you have any questions please call me on 01625 432707.
Thanks
Tim
I have a Mk2 Audi TT 08. It has the Audi concert stereo & I would love an upgrade of head unit, speakers & possibly a subwoofer. I would also like some Bluetooth but my steering wheel has no controls on it. Could you quote some options for me please.
Many thanks
Hi Marcus, I have emailed you directly. I have lots of options and I’d love to chat about them with you. Please feel free to give me a call on 01625 432707.
Thanks
Tim
Hi Tim, can you email me with a quote for an upgraded head unit for my standard mk2 8j concert system that would offer DAB, bluetooth phone, CD and sat nav (I use an android phone of that helps!?).
Thanks
Rich
Hi Marcus,
Will do.
Hi, i have a similar situation to the above gentleman.
‘09 TDi Quattro, honestly not sure which sound system it has at mo –
Ideally i’d like: BT, carplay, camera, and i don’t have buttons on my steering wheel, but i’d like them.
Please feel free to email me to find out more or with a quote/s!
Thanks in advance!
Chris
Hi Chris,
I will email you directly but please feel free to call me on 01625 432707 if you would like to chat about options.
Thanks
Tim
Hey Tim. You definitely seem like the person to contact for upgrading a TT. Please email me when you have time. Would love some more info. Thx!
Hi John, please call me on 01625 432707 to discuss exactly what you would like.
Thanks
Tim
Hi,
I have just brought Audi TT – 2009 (i think its Mk2)
It has sat nav – which doesnot have touch screen.
Would like to have a sat nav (touch screen) and reverse camera – could you please let me know the best possible options.
I have checked online there are few external satnav with reverse cam – both in one.
Hi Rama,
I can indeed help you. I have emailed you directly. Please call me on 01625 432707 if you would like to chat about options.
Thank you
Tim
Hi,
Like most comments on here I’ve purchased a mk2 57 plate Audi TT that’s fitted with standard stereo system. I’d like to upgrade head unit and speakers so I can use sat Nav, hands free and reversing camera. Drop me an email and I’ll give you a call to discuss. Thanks Andrew
Hi Andrew
Will do. Please check junk if you don’t see it straight away.
Thanks
Tim
Hi i have recently brought an audi tt, it has the functions on the steering wheel for hands free but they do not seem to work through the wireless. but the sound and cd are all lovely. Do you know how to conect with the original wireless or do i need to upgrade?
If so can i buy mail order and fit at home? or do i need to bring the car to you guys?
Many thanks for your help
Kind regards
Simon
Hi Simon,
I have emailed you directly but please feel free to call me on 01625 432707 with any questions.
Thanks
Tim
Hi, need a speaker upgrade to Audi roadster mkII, none Bose. Has kenwood head unit.
Hi Lee, sorry for the slow reply.
I can certainly do that for you and I have many options. Please give me a call on 01625 432707 to chat about what is best for you.
Thanks
Tim
No problem,
Please call me on 01625 432707 to get you booked in.
Thanks
Tim
Hi Tim,
I’m looking for some advice?
I have a mark1 2006 TT.
I’m looking to update the original audio system? to include- DAB, Bluetooth phone, and CD.
Which units could you recommend, also would be compatible with the Audi, please?
Regards
Steve
Hi Steve,
There are lots of options as you can imagine but I like the Alpine CDE range. The 205dab would fit the bill at £200. Please call me on 01625 432707 if you would like to arrange an installation.
Thanks
Tim
I have an Audi TT 2014 with RNS-E Media Navigation Plus + and AMI unit in the glove box. I’m looking to upgrade the unit with an aftermarket Android compatible media head, could you help?