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  3. BMW-DSP

GROM Audio BMW-DSP User guide

  • Hello! I've reviewed the application reference document for determining the need for a DSP adapter harness in selected BMW vehicles from 1997 to 2009. This document outlines how to identify if your BMW is equipped with Digital Sound Processing (DSP) by looking for a DSP button, a DSP option in the menu, or checking connections at the CD changer or amplifier. I am ready to answer your questions regarding the DSP adapter requirements, connection specifics, and the compatible BMW models. How can I help?
  • What is Digital Sound Processing (DSP) in BMW vehicles?
    How do I know if my BMW vehicle has DSP?
    When is a DSP adapter harness required?
    What connections are considered 'Analog' DSP?
APPLICATION REFERENCE for selected 1997-2009 BMW Vehicles
Do I need DSP adapter harness?
Certain model BMW vehicles were equipped with what is known as Digital Sound Processing (DSP). DSP is a RG174 coaxial input instead of wires from the BMW
CD Changer into the factory amplifier. BMW sometimes refers to this as "premium sound".
Vehicles with DSP as an option:
1997-2003 5-series
2004-2009 X3
2000-2006 X5
2003-2009 Z4
Vehicles with DSP as standard equipment:
09/1998-2001 7series
2000-2003 M5
2000-2003 Z8
Vehicles manufactured after MY2002 will have to inspect the connections either at the CD changer or Factory
Amplifier to determine what type of DSP is present. If the vehicle was originally equipped with a CD Changer,
this is simple as you will be able to check what connections are connected to your changer. Factory Amplifier with
Digital DSP will have a RG174 Input (Figure 3).
For these MY2002 and later vehicles,
If there is a 3-pin and 6-pin connection (these were considered “Analog” DSP) available at the CD changer then
the DSP adapter is NOT required.
If there is Coaxial Cable present at the CD changer then vehicle is equipped with Digital DSP.
Figure 1
If your vehicle has DSP button, then it is equipped with DSP
amplifier and will require DSP Adapter.
If there is no visible DSP button then you do not have DSP.
Figure 2
If your vehicle is Navigation Mode, press the MENU button
and see if your see DSP option. If there is DSP option then
you will need the DSP adapter.
If there is no DSP option in Menu then you do not have DSP.
Only DSP amplifier will have this Input on them.
If Amplifier in your vehicle does not have this then you do
not have a DSP equipped vehicle.
Figure 3
*Note: C- DSP adapter must be used with BMW Trunk (BMW-T) Installation Harness.
On vehicles equipped with DSP, it is not possible to install GROM kit behind the stereo with BMWS cable.
Revised: August '15
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