Premium Audio Changes?

[weil]

How does the Premium audio in the 2014 compare to that of the previous generation? Newer system with one less speaker (minus the trunk subwoofer I think) -- does this make much of a difference?

 

[npaladin2000]

How does the Premium audio in the 2014 compare to that of the previous generation? Newer system with one less speaker (minus the trunk subwoofer I think) -- does this make much of a difference?

It's an entirely new system. Not even a descendant, but a clean-sheet new-from-scratch system. Without all the indexing delays from the old system.

 

[weil]

Does it sound significantly better? I'm asking as not as an audiophile but I do listen to music (a gamut/mix of classical, jazz, modern pop) during daily driving and I have enjoyed the sound in the 2012 IGT 4DS.

It's an entirely new system. Not even a descendant, but a clean-sheet new-from-scratch system. Without all the indexing delays from the old system.

 

[npaladin2000]

I haven't used the previous Mazda system, but to my ear this one sounds excellent, especially when you use high-quality input (high bitrate MP3s, CDs, etc). A lot of detail comes through that a 4-6 speaker stereo will miss. I've got all processing enabled too (Centerpoint, etc).

 

[Pengaroo]

2014 radio supports hd radio now which helps with sound quality alot.

 

[Chibana]

I haven't used the previous Mazda system, but to my ear this one sounds excellent, especially when you use high-quality input (high bitrate MP3s, CDs, etc). A lot of detail comes through that a 4-6 speaker stereo will miss. I've got all processing enabled too (Centerpoint, etc).

I agree. It sounds quite good, especially for an OEM system. I've been a bit of an audiophile for 25 years or so, and have a pretty decent system at home. I've owned several good aftermarket systems in my cars over the years, but this one is good enough that I have no desire to do anything with it, even if it were easier to replace. I think it sounds a bit better than the Bose system in my 2009 RX-8 and a bit better than the Sony system did in my 2012 Focus.

 

[jadnice]

How does the Premium audio in the 2014 compare to that of the previous generation? Newer system with one less speaker (minus the trunk subwoofer I think) -- does this make much of a difference?

I moved from the 2010 Mazda 3 (Bose system) to the 2014 Mazda 3 and the 2014 audio system is much more refined. The bass still needs to be deeper but overall the new audio system is definitely better.

 

[nitsuj]

I moved from the 2010 Mazda 3 (Bose system) to the 2014 Mazda 3 and the 2014 audio system is much more refined. The bass still needs to be deeper but overall the new audio system is definitely better.

I concur. I went from a 2012 sGT with Bose (originally) to a 2014 sGT and the new system is very noticeably improved. I went about 6 weeks in my 2012 before replacing the speakers, amp, and sub. I currently have no desire to upgrade my 2014. Deeper base would be nice, but it is acceptable as it is.