[Jmatt07]

Hi all, this will be my first bmw. I want to get a 330i alpine white with cognac interior. Those cognac leather seats look amazing! My dealer can find the set up I want except for one with the sound system. Is there a large difference between the stock system and the upgraded HK system?

Also, I wanted the remote start option on the car but I read on another post that if I have an android phone i wont be able to use remote start. Is that true?

Thanks and if you have any other info about leasing a bmw or with these cars for a first time bmw owner let me know!

[tturedraider]

Personally, the HK sound system is one of the things I would not compromise on.

[CyclingBroStyle]

Originally Posted by tturedraider

Personally, the HK sound system is one of the things I would not compromise on.

Agreed. Also remote start not worth it.

[nola2atx]

I find myself listening to the engine/exhaust more than the stereo, but I'd say the standard system is adequate. Seems comparable to the HK stereo on my 2014 BMW. Remote start I use more than most probably do because of the heat here in Texas. It's a life saver for cooling the car down before I get to it.

[Jmatt07]

Yeah I live I'm GA so I want the remote start to cool the car down. Does remote start only work through the app? I heard remote start wont work with android phone

[Hysnbrg]

Originally Posted by Jmatt07

Yeah I live I'm GA so I want the remote start to cool the car down. Does remote start only work through the app? I heard remote start wont work with android phone

You can triple click bmw button on the key fob to remote start the car. Needs to be enabled in one of the setting menus though.

[nola2atx]

Yep triple click works great. If you want to do it from far away (inside office, gym, etc.) before you get to it, you'll need to use the App. I have iPhone so I'm not sure about Android compatibility.

[hubbahubba]

As for the stock stereo vs HK, this was a big factor for me before I placed my order. I went and listened to each at the dealer back to back, and there is definitely a difference that I thought worth paying for. If you can compare them back to back, do it.

For the remote start, I ordered it for the same reason you did. I live in Az, and getting into a superheated car sucks. I can't comment yet about the Android factor, don't have the car yet. I am hopeful for the Android, but if I have to get an iPhone, I will.

HTH.

[golferboy2312]

remote start works great for me through the app, I have a Galaxy Note 9.

[Weiner0123]

Well I'll be the first to say it... welcome to the BMW Family

[Nabzpv]

Originally Posted by tturedraider

Personally, the HK sound system is one of the things I would not compromise on.

Agreed.

[Eagle Creek]

Here in Europe you can choose from three different audio options: basic, premium and HK. Going through several forums (Dutch, UK and US) I'd say it's a very personal experience.

Some people say the difference between basic and HK is small. Other people say the difference between premium and HK is neglectable. Other people say HK is so much better, nothing is alike.

The best advice: go and see (Hear) for yourself and choose the option you like best and you are willing to afford. If premim audio is goed enough for you, don't buy HK even if people say it's better. If you like the HK sound and you can effort it, why go with less? Good for the retail value and it doesn't hurt.

Personally I've ordered the HK. Simply because I like listening music and I find it improved over basic sound. Can I hear the difference between premium and HK? Probably not. But at least I know my audio will be good.

[BEK46]

Originally Posted by Eagle Creek

Here in Europe you can choose from three different audio options: basic, premium and HK. Going through several forums (Dutch, UK and US) I'd say it's a very personal experience.

Some people say the difference between basic and HK is small. Other people say the difference between premium and HK is neglectable. Other people say HK is so much better, nothing is alike.

The best advice: go and see (Hear) for yourself and choose the option you like best and you are willing to afford. If premim audio is goed enough for you, don't buy HK even if people say it's better. If you like the HK sound and you can effort it, why go with less? Good for the retail value and it doesn't hurt.

Personally I've ordered the HK. Simply because I like listening music and I find it improved over basic sound. Can I hear the difference between premium and HK? Probably not. But at least I know my audio will be good.

Originally Posted by Nabzpv

Agreed.

If all you listen to is talk radio, HK may not be worth the cost. However, if you enjoy listening to music and appreciate actually hearing the different instruments, the HK is definitely worth it. Also, if you are a bit hearing challenged like I am, the equalizer in the HK is another great plus.