e34 Stock system very quiet

[mbonanni]

I recently got an e34 that required me to enter a code for the radio. I got the code entered and the head unit works. I can cycle through all the settings, play cd's, play the radio etc. All the speakers work, but very quietly. The fuses looked good as well. Even at max volume the speakers project no more sound than a whisper. The whole system system is stock, and has a pioneer 6 CD changer.

Any idea what this could be?

[AndrewBird]

Your factory amp is dead.

[mbonanni]

Well, thank you.

Is there a way to bypass it, or is replacing it with a factory or aftermarket unit the best option?

[AndrewBird]

Here is a how-to on bypassing the stock amp:

http://www.bimmerforums.com/forum/sh...t-bypass-quot-)

This only works on early model amps though. If you have a late model, you can swap in a modified early model amp. It also won't work if you have a stock stereo, you have to have an aftermarket stereo. The stock stereo doesn't have an amplifier built in (hence the exterior amp). If you want to keep the stock stereo, then buying a used stock amp is your best bet.

Another option is to get a passive crossover network from www.GermanAudioSpecialties.com. I run one of their PCNs along with their 10" box all powered by a 5-channel amp and it sounds fantastic. All stock speakers and wiring (except RCAs and amp power).