BMW’s sound systems vary by vehicle generation (E, F, and G), with significant differences in features and setups. Below is a breakdown to help you understand the types of systems available, depending on your vehicle model.

1. Generational Changes in Sound Systems

• E Generation (Early Models):
  • Up to about 2001-2005.
  • Simpler sound systems without under-seat subwoofers.
• E, F Generation (2005-2020):
  • Introduced a standardized 2/3-way speaker system with front under-seat subwoofers, installed in all BMW today still.
• G Generation (2020 onwards):
  • Most models include a RAM (Radio Amplifier Module) system, introduced in about 2019-2020.
  • RAM integrates the amplifier as part of the head unit that's usually located in the boot to the left.

2. Types of Sound System Options Since the 2000s

BMW generally offers three main sound system versions, with some other options available:

• Base Stereo
• HiFi Speaker System S0676
• Harman Kardon Surround Sound System S0688

Additional options include:

• Bowers & Wilkins (usually built on the Harman Kardon system, with additional features).
• Harman Kardon S0674 (in some 1st and 2nd Series BMWs, similar to the HiFi system).

3. Sound Systems Without RAM (Classic BMW Systems)

• Base Stereo:
  • Front 4" full-range speakers paired with 6.5" under-seat subwoofers on the same channel.
  • No amplifier, powered by the head unit.
  • Plain 4-channel setup with 6 speakers, no tweeters or center channel.
  • Radio connectors are located behind the radio unit in the dashboard.
• HiFi S0676:
  • Includes an amplifier with an analog low-level signal from the head unit (not optical).
  • Front split speakers with tweeters near the rear-view mirrors, plus a center channel.
  • 8" under-seat 2-ohm subwoofers powered by the amplifier separately.
• Harman Kardon:
  • System powered by MOST25 optical network.
  • Amplifier replacement requires a MOST25-to-analog converter.
  • Amplifier can be also upgraded by retrofitting a T-Harness from MATCH.
  • Tweeters, midranges, and under-seat subwoofers all powered by an amplifier.
• Bowers & Wilkins:
  • An upgraded Harman Kardon system, sharing similar wiring but with premium features.

4. Sound Systems with RAM (Newer BMW Systems)

• Base RAM System:
  • Includes an external amplifier serving as a head unit, located in the boot.
  • Non-replaceable amplifier.
  • 4-channel setup with 6 speakers, including 6.5" under-seat subwoofers (some systems have independent wiring, others share channels with door speakers).
  • No tweeters or center channel.
• HiFi S0676 RAM:
  • Similar to the Base RAM system, includes tweeters, centre channel, has better speakers and more power.
  • Woofers are 8” drivers with 2-ohm impedance, powered separately.
  • Amplifier upgrade requires a T-harness, and the amp itself cannot be replaced.
• Harman Kardon RAM:
  • Similar to HiFi with additional surround speakers.
  • Tweeters in front and rear are passive, paired with midranges.
  • Comes with two amplifiers: one for the entire sound system and the other to power the 8-ohm subwoofers.

5. Finding Your BMW Sound System Version

Use our VIN decoder tool to identify your BMW sound system. Look for keywords like S0676 (HiFi Speaker Upgrade) or S0688 (Harman Kardon). If no code appears, it typically indicates the Base Stereo system.