Amp Replacement - aftermarket amp or new Head Unit?
 

I am new so sorry if this question has already been answered.

I have a 2004 Cooper Mini S with 18k on it oh and with the Harman Kardon stereo. Just had the oil changed and I had them look at the radio (had issues before I came in). They said the amp is bad and will need to replace it. It's $1200 from the factory. I can get an aftermarket replacement amp for $160 or so. Does anyone suggest doing this and having no problems with an aftermarket amp? I have also looked into an aftermarket head unit with ipod integration. I feel this could possibly have enough power to not need the amp...has anyone done this?

Summary:
- Do aftermarket amps work well as replacements?
- Has anyone used a aftermarket head unit to power there speakers with a H/K kit?
- If so do you suggest some good aftermarket head unnits? (I have like the results on Alpine and Kenwood in my other cars)

Thanks

Where did you find an aftermarket for that amount and could you share that info?

Yes I'm curious as well ... The HK is a SIX channel amp , I'm not aware of any 6 channel aftermarket amps ...and to use a 4 and a 2 channel amp would be pretty pricey ...

The HK uses speaker level so to eliminate it you'll have to remove it and wire around it. to use an aftermarket head unit ...

Personally I'd look at the junkyards ect to find one /or find one on the forums /ebay for sale ... car-parts.com

I talked to someone from Crutchfield.com and he told me a two channel would work. This link is supposedly everything that will work with my 04' Mini with H/K system. I have used Crutchfield in a lot of my other cars and they have been extremely helpful.

http://www.crutchfield.com/g_120/Amplifiers.html?tp=115

I'd have to wave a bs flag there ... the HK has two tweeters /two door speakers and two rear speakers , how the hell can you run six speakers off of a 2 channel amp

When I said two channel I meant four. A four channel amp would work best. Glad we have our SUPER MODERATOR "bad venge" looking over us!