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HK Audio Review?

5K views 7 replies 5 participants last post by  MarkinVan 
#1 ·
I am curious about the Harman Kardon audio upgrade. I plan to order a 2016 Overland and want a nice audio system. I'm not sure whether to pay for the HK system or just order the std system and have it upgraded by a good installer with processor, amps, speakers and sub. I'd be willing to spend some $ aftermarket to get a nice system but having the factory HK system with warranty would be nice also.
 
#3 ·
so, what are the differences in SRT, Summit and Overland HK Audio? Are there actual component differences? Is the Overland version inferior to the others? Or are the differences minor tuning differences due to material and design differences?

If I demo an SRT or Summit version is that representative of the Overland version?
 
#4 ·
I got the HK upgrade in my 2015 High Altitude (Overland) and highly recommend it. The surround sound is great and crystal clear. I am by no means an audiophile, but I can tell the difference compared to my older car. I actually find myself just sitting in the car now in the garage listening to the stereo because it sounds so good.
 
#5 ·
Greetings,

I do not have the HK system and now have heard it a few times.

If you are serious about the quality of your sound and are in one of the audiophile levels, then this system might not be for you. Yes, it nice step above the Alpine system. In fact, this system should have been designed as the 2nd level offering, aka, Alpine. It is important to note, that all of the systems presented by FCA to the OE vendors are the specifications of FCA and the vendors design systems around them. The question is how much input does vendor have over FCA.

One om first grips about the HK system is placement of the mid range speakers in the doors. A lot of others here recognize that problems as well. The rear door tweeter is to close to the front stage. IMHO, the Grand Cherokee for surround sound was designed correctly with the use of 1 pair of tweeters in the front. As for the speaker choices present in the HK system, that depends on you and how you perceive sound.

Now, if you never had a surround sound system before in vehicle, it is best to demo it for a while. Do not think of it as a video HT system. Music is different. If you are coming from the traditional front/rear/sub, it might be strange to you, so again demo it.

Is it worth of the upgrade cost? That depends on the level of sound you are looking for. For certain, the aftermarket solutions are far better than the HK and you can easily spend over the upgrade price that FCA is offering. In addition, if you are think of going the surround route, it will be even more to do it correctly.

If you have not checked out this thread, some interesting reading:

http://www.jeepgarage.org/f155/from-the-horses-mouth-on-the-harman-kardon-system-53508-11.html

Hope this helps.

Best for now.:)
 
#6 ·
Thanks. Good info. I do consider myself an audiophile. It's been a long time hobby. Surround sound done badly is awful. Sounds like I need to take my demo playlist (I only listen to Apple Lossless rips - no mp3) to a dealer for a listening session before ordering. And stop by a couple of high end shops to ask specifically about upgrading the JGC. That will certainly be more than the HK cost but perhaps worth it in the long run.
It's a shame all manufacturers don't offer a true audiophile system. With the ability to design specifically for a vehicle it could be done well and at reasonable cost. But then again most people have never heard a truly great home or car system.


Sent from my iPad using JeepGarage
 
#7 ·
Greetings,

Anytime.

To get a rough idea, if you have not hit my link in my signature page already, is my write up on my surround system. Trashed the Alpine.


Also note, at the present time you can not change the headunit out to an aftermarket. In your case, to tap into the system and get the cleanest signal first before you start your own processing for a full fresh start, I like the JL Audio Cleansweep system.

Car Audio - OEM Interface - OEM Integration

JL Audio is in the process of developing a new unit(s). That release is pending.

Keep us updated.

Best for now.:)
 
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