Why does everyone hate the B&O stereo?

[911 Crazy]

So I read thread after thread on how costly it is to upgrade the B&O stereo in the Gen 2's. What makes them sooooo bad they would need to be upgraded? It's a $75k vehicle! Is this for audiophile stuff? Or does it just sound like an old AM radio in a Ranchero?

 

[MetalDaze]

It was a huge upgrade from the 2000 Lightning I traded in

I guess with the name B&O you expect something special, but it is just average. Not bad but it isn’t going to turn any heads.

 

[smurfslayer]

Have you been in one and tested out the audio with a cd or phone over CarPlay/android play?

Full disclosure, Lucille sported the Sony system, which from all reports at least has more sound from the rear speakers. I’ll defer on the finer points to @lawdog, @goblues38 who have detailed their exploits in pursuit of better sound.

I’ll say my requirements were rather similar to @goblues38 in that you can overwhelm the stock stereo at 70mph with all 4 windows down. At max volume.
Not exaggerating here.

1) the system is imprecise and does not reproduce acoustic guitar, or rhythm sections(riffs) at all. it’s not just bad, it’s really bad. As in a $50 receiver from Crutchfield would sound better.

2) Mixing is poor. The sound is tailored for ... something. I don’t know who thinks this system sounds good, but, I’d bet it’s the 94 y.o. ww2 vet who’s been working at Ford since ’47.

3) cheaply made components, as detailed in the under 500 dollar thread in the Jenny audio section.

4) the cheaply made components necessitate compromises in the mixing, making it sound muddy, imprecise and roll off the bass

Try Eagles Greatest Hits ; Take it Easy. First, play it in a 2000’s Subaru. Any model will do, regardless of stereo. Now, play it in the Raptor.

Bernie Leadon’s track is completely and totally destroyed by the Raptor’s poor mixing. I could buy 3 of my wife’s basic S00b Legacy for the cost of the Raptor and her stereo sounds better stock for stock. Come on Ford. At least try.

Now, pull the Sony (or B&O) amp, put in a signal processor and even basic aftermarket components and the stereo sounds orders of magnitude better; more accurate sound reproduction, more precise track separation and alignment, better sound overall.

It was a huge upgrade from the 2000 Lightning I traded in

I disagree. Seriously. I had a 2001 Lightning; (Whole lotta) Rosie. It wasn’t as loud, but it also wasn’t as imprecise. It actually sounded pretty doggone good with just a sub and amp. Of course, she’s been in other owner’s hands since ’09 but I really liked Rosie.

So I spent more than I wanted to on audio, but I’m happy with the sound.

In the modern business parlance, Ford Trucks sound system options are a “development opportunity”.

 

[David1986]

Mine sounds Awesome! No complaints at all.

 

[GordoJay]

My 801A sounds awesome. Of course, after those rock concerts, running heavy equipment, and the unprotected shooting in my youth, my ears aren't what they were ...

 

[jamanrr]

I know you didn't compare a subaru stereo setup to fords? I have the Harmon Karden setup and it does sound better than the B and O Buf the B and O is not bad it just all sounds the same regardless of level.

 

[Kmorgs]

I’ve had B&O sound systems in Audi and BMW. This one sucks beyond belief. They could have easily put better components in for not much money at all.

 

[Troutrad]

So I read thread after thread on how costly it is to upgrade the B&O stereo in the Gen 2's. What makes them sooooo bad they would need to be upgraded? It's a $75k vehicle! Is this for audiophile stuff? Or does it just sound like an old AM radio in a Ranchero?

911, Not everyone hates it, I like it just fine. It’s a very good quality stereo for a truck; could use more of a punch of bass. The Highs/Treble and Midrange are well above average...I’d say very good and the bass is kinda “Meh” but fair to good in my opinion. Really depends on how ya like your music. Doubt I’ll upgrade that but never know, down the line.

 

[GCATX]

The B&O is not very good above "11" on the volume. For family driving around it's fine. When your by yourself and put it in sport mode and click off the nannies, it's no bueno.

 

[Droid]

The B&O in my 19 is enormously better than the Sony was in the 11. I'm not an audiophile, but the Sony managed to ruin some bands/albums completely (while doing just fine with others). I don't see this in the B&O, everything sounds fine...not amazing, but fine. With the B&O you can at least hear all the instruments instead of just a muddy noise.

I don't consider it to be "great" but do think it's "decent" ...maybe only because the 9 years with the Sony lowered my expectations.