Audi A7 Car Audio Upgrade Review: Sound & Style
Service Price
Est. $1,150–1,500
Estimated price · Actual price may vary by shop
Audi A7 speaker upgrade: ₩500,000-₩1,500,000. Enhanced sound clarity and RS7-style mirror covers for improved aesthetics.
Audi A7 Sound System Enhancement
Many Audi A7 owners find the factory audio system, especially in models like the 40TFSI Comfort, lacking in sound quality. Over time, stock speakers can degrade, leading to static or muffled audio. While a full system overhaul is an option, it's often costly. A more budget-friendly approach is a 1:1 speaker replacement, often referred to as 'speaker swapping.' This review details such an upgrade for an Audi A7, focusing on improving the rear sound stage and enhancing the vehicle's overall aesthetic with new side mirror covers.
Speaker Upgrade for Enhanced Clarity
The original speakers in the Audi A7, even in higher trims, can be surprisingly basic. Upon inspection, the stock units revealed a quality that didn't quite match the vehicle's premium status. Fortunately, specialized installers can perform a seamless 1:1 replacement using 'Jack-by-Jack' (plug-and-play) methods. This technique ensures no damage to the original wiring, making future restoration straightforward. In this case, the owner, having previously upgraded the front speakers, opted to enhance the rear audio experience. The chosen upgrade involved replacing the rear mid-range speakers and tweeters with Focal components, a brand renowned among audiophiles for its crisp and rich sound reproduction. This targeted approach significantly boosts the perceived sound quality without the expense of a complete system overhaul, offering a substantial improvement in audio immersion for all passengers.
Exterior Styling: RS7 Mirror Covers
Beyond the audio enhancements, the Audi A7 also received an exterior styling upgrade: the replacement of the stock side mirror covers with RS7-style matte chrome units. The vehicle was already fitted with an RS7 body kit, making the original, wrapped mirror caps a minor visual inconsistency. The new matte chrome RS7-style covers provide a more cohesive and aggressive look, perfectly complementing the car's sporty aesthetic. Both the upper and lower sections of the mirror housings were replaced, ensuring a unified and premium finish that elevates the vehicle's overall appearance.
Installation Process and Final Verdict
The combined upgrade of the BOSE speakers and RS7-style matte chrome side mirror covers was successfully completed. The speaker replacement dramatically improved the rear sound stage, while the new mirror covers added a touch of refined sportiness to the exterior. Such targeted modifications can significantly increase a car owner's satisfaction. The entire process typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. For the speaker upgrade, costs can range from approximately ₩500,000 to ₩1,500,000 (roughly $370 - $1100 USD), depending on the specific Focal speaker models chosen. The RS7-style mirror cover replacement generally falls between ₩200,000 and ₩400,000 (roughly $150 - $300 USD). Exact pricing will vary based on the vehicle model and selected components.
Installation Process:
- Careful removal of the original door panels and speaker grilles.
- Disconnecting and removing the factory speakers.
- Connecting the new Focal speakers using plug-and-play adapters to the original wiring harness.
- Securely mounting the new speakers in place.
- Reinstalling door panels and testing the new sound system.
- Replacing the original side mirror covers with the RS7-style matte chrome units.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How much does a car audio upgrade cost for an Audi A7?
In Korea, this specific speaker upgrade for an Audi A7 cost between ₩500,000 to ₩1,500,000 (approx. $370-$1100 USD). Similar quality aftermarket speaker installations in the US can range from $400 to $1200.
Q. What car audio components give the best value for an Audi A7?
Replacing stock speakers with quality aftermarket units like Focal offers significant value, improving sound clarity and richness. Regular cleaning of speaker cones and ensuring connections are secure can help maintain their longevity.
Q. Is a car audio upgrade worth it for an Audi A7?
A 1:1 speaker replacement is highly worth it for Audi A7 owners dissatisfied with their factory audio, offering a noticeable sound improvement for a reasonable cost. It's ideal for those seeking better audio fidelity without a full system replacement.
Q. How is a car audio system installed in an Audi A7?
Installation involves carefully removing door panels to access factory speakers. New speakers are then connected using plug-and-play adapters to the original wiring, ensuring a 1:1 replacement without damaging the car's electrical system, followed by reassembly.
Q. What is the difference between a stock and aftermarket audio system for an Audi A7?
Stock systems often use lower-quality components for cost-saving, resulting in less dynamic sound, whereas aftermarket speakers like Focal offer superior materials and design for clearer highs, richer mids, and deeper bass.
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