Premium audio option worth it?

[RNAPDA]

Unfortunately, I recently totaled my 2023 R1S quad. I am now torn between theDual max performance model and the tri max. Sound quality is important to me and I’m looking for information on whether the premium audio option is worth it or not? Thanks

Sponsored

 

[beatle]

I have not heard the base stereo option, but the general consensus is that it's not that great. If you care about audio, I'd get the upgraded stereo or set aside a chunk of change to do a custom amp(s)/DSP/sub/speakers. An aftermarket setup will sound much better than the stock premium setup, but it'll likely cost you a lot more too.

 

[Donald Stanfield]

The upgraded audio has gotten much better since the latest update. If you get a Trimax it is a standard option for that trim level

 

[Girldadx3]

The standard audio has also gotten a LOT better after the last couple of updates. It’s actually decent now.

 

[captainjp]

Premium audio is actually really good after the last update. I’d say it’s worth it.

 

[usofrob]

I suspect that the differences between the standard and premium is the 3D surround speakers and a subwoofer. Some think it sounds better with the 3D surround turned off. But, last I heard, no one has figured out how to add a subwoofer. The subwoofer is okay, but not as deep or strong as some people would like.

I've been very happy with my premium sound with 3D surround on now that they've mostly fixed the sound stage. It's not perfect, but when you're driving with the HVAC on, I'm not sure how important clarity is. I never turn the volume up more than half way.

 

[Erik+]

I think the specs on the standard audio from Gen 1, non Meridian, were reduced for Gen 2, but not positive. Or was there still a Rivian premium option in Gen 1 once Meridian got dropped?

 

[trimotormusthave]

Premium audio is actually really good after the last update. I’d say it’s worth it.

I concur…I am loving how tracks in general sound with Dobly Atmos in Apple Music…I prefer it over my wife’s 2024 X5 upgraded Harmon Kardon System. I might supplement the system with a 10” woofer for some extra high volume kick…but I’m enjoying it too much right now to be compelled.

 

[beatle]

I think the specs on the standard audio from Gen 1, non Meridian, were reduced for Gen 2, but not positive. Or was there still a Rivian premium option in Gen 1 once Meridian got dropped?

Yes, G1 got Rivian Elevation audio after Meridian.

The premium audio has less power in G2.

 

[trimotormusthave]

Yes, G1 got Rivian Elevation audio after Meridian.

The premium audio has less power in G2.

Note, less power does not mean less quality…it is plenty loud to make you deaf.

 

[JamboF4]

I suspect that the differences between the standard and premium is the 3D surround speakers and a subwoofer. Some think it sounds better with the 3D surround turned off. But, last I heard, no one has figured out how to add a subwoofer. The subwoofer is okay, but not as deep or strong as some people would like.

I've been very happy with my premium sound with 3D surround on now that they've mostly fixed the sound stage. It's not perfect, but when you're driving with the HVAC on, I'm not sure how important clarity is. I never turn the volume up more than half way.

Not true about the aftermarket sub, uso….there was a very nice thread about a self-powered 10” drop-in sub box from JL….passenger side, under back seat. Great reviews on results.

 

[captainjp]

Yes, G1 got Rivian Elevation audio after Meridian.

The premium audio has less power in G2.

The wattage difference is negligible

 

[JamboF4]

Note, less power does not mean less quality…it is plenty loud to make you deaf.

Adequate power and total volume are not necessarily related.

 

[JamboF4]

I concur…I am loving how tracks in general sound with Dobly Atmos in Apple Music…I prefer it over my wife’s 2024 X5 upgraded Harmon Kardon System. I might supplement the system with a 10” woofer for some extra high volume kick…but I’m enjoying it too much right now to be compelled.

the beauty of a quality sub, is solid bass performance at LOW volumes!

 

[trimotormusthave]

I say high volume since at volume 17+ the bass thump ( say on a non-Dobly deadmou5 track) becomes distorted. I get what you are saying regarding low volume control.

Sponsored