2010 Mazdaspeed Bose Replacement

[MJWMS3]

I've had my MS3 for a week now and am underwhelmed with the Bose. I want to retain the head unit as I like the Bluetooth 2.0, Nav and Sat integration. My problem is I'm getting mixed answers from some of the installers.

One installer says I can remove the Bose amp and speakers and sub and that the signal from the head unit will be useable, as it is, straight into the new amps.

The second installer says the signal from the head unit can't be used. The bose amp must remain and a controller added inbetween the Bose amp and the new amps. He says the controller is necessary to bring the signal back to full range as the signal going into to the Bose amp is cut off at around 2000hz.

I don't completely understand. It seems to me that using the high level signal after the Bose amp would distort the signal going into the new amps, but if its not full range until then I guess its necessary.

Can anyone clarify?

 

[chuyler1]

If the 2010 MS3 is anything like the 2008 MS3 and MS6, installer 1 is correct.

Every Bose system is slightly different, especially going between car manufacturers. Mazda's current Bose system found in the Mazda6 and Mazda3 is pretty much summed up in the following thread but I don't know if it still applies to 2010 models.

6/MS6 Factory Radio Upgrade Options (plus MP3 options!!!)

But in short, the head unit sends 2v line-level output to the amp. If you remove the amp you can use the head unit signal like RCA outputs on an aftermarket head unit. So pull the amp and speakers (including subwoofer) and get aftermarket amps, speakers, and subs.