Navigation and Audio Upgrade
After a few years stuck with a TomTom in windscreen in the Boxster I thought it would be nice to upgrade the CDR-24 to a PCM with navigation. This turned out to be a very, very expensive upgrade and I started searching around for alternatives. After some research I found that the CDR/PCM slot is standard 2-DIN unit and that it would be possible to install any 2-DIN unit with a facia plate that makes it look like a factory install. Further research confirmed that the 7 speakers that are part of the Sound Package Plus option is a heap of sh*t and should be replaced.
Hence I came up with the following upgrade:
- Alpine INE-S900R Advanced Navi Station (Headunit)
- Alpine PDX-F4 (4-Channel Amplifier)
- Focal K2 Power 100 KRS (2-Way Speaker System)
- Focal K2 Power 165 KBE (Bass Extension Speaker System)
- 2-DIN Antracite Facia Plate
The Alpine headunit has a 6.1" touchscreen and built-in DVD/CD player (MP3/DivX/WMA/AAC compatible), an AM/FM tuner, a USB connection for iPod, etc. as well as GPS navigation, Bluetooth phone integration, etc. It basically offers everything that the PCM3 offers plus a bit more in the audio/video department.
The 100 KRS speakers have been installed in the dashboard (left/right) and the doors (left/right) and are connected to the amplifier. The 165 KBE speakers have been installed in the doors (left/right) and are connected to the subwoofer output on the headunit. All speakers have been installed in the original speaker mounts and there is no visible difference compared to before. The amplifier has been installed in the front boot where the original amplifier use to sit. All original cables have also been upgraded to audiophile counterparts. The GPS antenna has been placed in the dashboard where the center speaker used to be. All in all a very neat and stealth installation.
So how does it sound?
Absolutely amazing!!! It is 100 times better than the factory Bose system I have in the 911 Carrera S. The mid-range is clear and warm and fills the cabin in an unbelievable way. The bass is deep yet quick and snappy. One can play loud, and I mean loud, without any distortion, drone or rattle. It is simply crisp clear music! 
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997.2 Carrera S in Carrara White. PASM-Sport Suspension (-20 mm), PSE.
987.1 Boxster S in Arctic Silver. OZ Racing Ultraleggera HLT Wheels, H&R Monotube Coil-Over Suspension, H&R Anti-Roll Bars, Sachs Racing Clutch, Single-Mass Flywheel, Recaro Pole Position Seats, PSE.
It does look like everything is customizable to suit ones needs and preferences.
