[cgt]

I know there is music from the engine but ever since I got my 2004 model 575 I have been unhappy with the sound system. Very poor quality sound, no ability to play MP3 files, no Bluetooth and no navigation. However I am not a fan of aftermarket sound systems in Ferrari's, as a Ferrari interior is all about aesthetics and the driving environment, I dont like flashing lights or christmas trees on my dash.

So I decided to do something about it. I managed to get a Becker Cascade Ferrari unit from a 2008 model 430 (same unit is also used in 599) from friend for about a third of what Ferrari would charge.

My problem was how to install it to look completely 'stealth' and factory. I could do it myself (fitting a car stereo is one of the few mechanical jobs I can actually do) but I couldnt figure how to route the mic or GPS aerial.

Many thanks to fantastic Ferrari dealer Carrs of Exeter who installed this unit for me, I had to look hard to even see where the Bluetooth microphone was. I now have a sound system that sounds a million times better, I can speak on the phone safely while driving, play MP3's and have navigation.

[archiegibbs]

Looks good

[cribbj]

I've always felt that people who wanted good audio in cars that already made beautiful engine music were a bunch of sissies, but my eyes were opened recently, when I upgraded the 15 year old system in my other car to a CarPC. I now freely admit the error of my ways.....

Since I've now owned my 550 all of 2 days, 16 hours, 37 minutes, and about 30 seconds (give or take ), my thoughts are turning to the possibility of an upgraded system for it also. But, I too have a reluctance to install an aftermarket system as I don't want to change the character of the interior or the car. So no OTT Christmas trees or light shows for me, either.

Interestingly, the touchscreen displays for the CarPC are subdued and the interface is uncluttered and very user friendly, plus these units bring a number of other capabilities to the table that an A/V system simply can't match (think OBDII engine monitor, 3/4G network connectivity, Bluetooth hands free iPhone, GPS, XM/Sirius & iPod all rolled into one unit). While I'm not convinced that a CarPC would be the best choice for this car, it certainly wouldn't be as bad as some of the hideous looking head units that are out there.

Aside from that choice, what other high end units are available that are in keeping with the car's character, but are still a modern system (ie no cassette or CD player - flash disk or SSD storage only)? Are Becker still a viable option, or with the Harman merger have they become just a bit player now? And I suppose Becker's European units such as CGT's wouldn't be suitable for the US anyway, with the different frequencies of FM, etc....

I would imagine double DIN size units are out of the question?