So I just had this head unit installed in my 2003 Audi A4, and I'm having some problems with sound quality. At higher volumes on CD, and any volume on my ipod the sound gets kind of.. bad. I'm not sure how to describe it, it gets kind of broken up, it's especially noticeable in people's voices, it sounds broken up and almost kind of mechanized (like a robot voice almost). It's especially noticeable when the bass hits (I have kicker subs on their own amp).

I'm new to audio, so I'm not sure of the proper term like clipping or distortion. What could the problem be? Was it installed wrong, or is this something I could fix through messing around with the settings?

They have it powered through the factory amp if thats relevant at all.

 

The factory amp may not be strong enough to keep up with all the speakers. Is the sound okay at regular levels? You may need to upgrade your factory amp, too. I had the same problem in my old Lexus.

 

How many preamps on the head unit?

You may have to change a setting on the head unit to run all speakers (ie not a subwoofer)

 

Get an aftermarket amp and some new door speakers and/or tweeters