Audio Systems: 99 audi a8 stereo deck replacement, alpine cda, bose speakers

Question
Hi Cleggsan,
I am currently looking at changing the stereo deck in my 99 audi a8( believe the deck is made by panisonic with bose speakers) to a new alpine cda-9886. I know i need an adapter harness but not sure which one. There are two... one that is a simple plug adapter and one that has an amp intigration harness. do you know which harness i will need. I'm not sure if this system is amplified. Dosethis system have a bose amplifier?
thanx for your help

Answer
I doubt if it is a mixed system.  Bose systems do not integrate with  other manufacturers because they use different interface standards.   I don't know about the A8 but in some Bose installs the final power amp is mounted right inside the speaker basket!  As a general rule, in my opinion, if you have a Bose system and want to upgrade or change out the head stuff you should rip out the entire system and start over from scratch.

In any case, go to Crutchfield.com and plow through their "outfit my car" as they have the best catalog of data for what works.  It requires you to answer some questions about your car that will lead you to compatible gear.

Also, my colleague Ernesto on allexperts.com has personal experience with these kinds of installation; you may want his opinion as well.

All the best.