Not lovin' the Harmon Kardon audio system.

[CobainForever69]

There's always a reason for buying the top trim, but I'm not sure why the Harmon Kardon is the standard for the 2025 Premium SEL-R line. It is not too... I don't know how to say it without offending... captivating? Before buying, I tired the SE trim with just the standard radio but it was fire. This one just is not doing the job. I thought getting the Premium would mean a better sound system, but I was wrong. It's on the lighting bolt setting with max bass and treble, but it sounds really muffled. What to do?

 

[lloyisofan]

First off, I find it pretty weird that the SE's standard system sounded better to you. You could try looking into a DSP (Digital Sound Processor) upgrade or just swapping out the factory speakers even though I know that's a hassle especially on a new car. Do you think it's just the tuning, or do you feel like the speakers themselves are low quality?

 

[CobainForever69]

I find it pretty weird that the SE's standard system sounded better to you.

Oh... then maybe there is a problem? Ok, I'm not sure if the car I tried probably had some boost to it after all it's made specially for a test drive. I'll have a look into that DSP or maybe check of there's something wrong with my tuning. Gracias...

 

[lloyisofan]

Oh... then maybe there is a problem? Ok, I'm not sure if the car I tried probably had some boost to it after all it's made specially for a test drive. I'll have a look into that DSP or maybe check of there's something wrong with my tuning. Gracias...

alright, please do and maybe you could let us know afterwards, we all learning here too

 

[VWguy2025]

Oh... then maybe there is a problem? Ok, I'm not sure if the car I tried probably had some boost to it after all it's made specially for a test drive. I'll have a look into that DSP or maybe check of there's something wrong with my tuning. Gracias...

You're probably right about that test drive car getting some special treatment, dealers definitely know how to make a first impression!
Good call on digging into the DSP settings, that's often where premium systems like the Harmon Kardon hide their real potential.
Don't just stick to the main bass/treble, try playing with all the individual equalizer bands if you have them, and experiment with any 'surround sound' or 'logic' settings. What music source are you primarily testing with?

 

[Your Precious]

Yeah guys you know what, those dealer demo cars are like... tricks. They're never quite the same once you buy. I think your best bet is to go with the deeper EQ settings @CobainForever69 don't you think? Ah. Idk, at the end of the day, it's still about preference.

 

[TheShredder]

Not sure about the Harman Kardon, but after getting my 2022 Atlas with the basic stereo system I had a chance to hear the Fender one. It's a whole different kind of experience and I'm sure VW didn't mess things up with HK.