I Just Put a Deposit on the Rivian R1S Gen 2: Is the $4K Premium Sound Upgrade Worth It?

In the world of electric vehicles (EVs), few names have stirred as much excitement as Rivian. Known for its rugged, all-electric trucks and SUVs, Rivian has become a standout contender in the electric mobility market. Among its various offerings, the R1S Gen 2 has drawn significant attention, especially from those eager to experience the future of luxury electric SUVs. But, as with any major purchase, there are always decisions to be made, one of the most debated is whether the $4,000 premium sound system upgrade is truly worth it.

Christopher Andrew, who recently placed a deposit on a Rivian R1S Gen 2, is facing this exact dilemma. He’s concerned about whether the nearly $4K extra for the upgraded sound system is justified, especially given the mixed reviews of Rivian’s standard audio system. Andrew shares his thoughts:

"Just put our deposit on the R1S Gen 2. We've heard mixed things about the audio, but we heard the recent update made it sound a lot better. We have the standard sound, but there is another vehicle available that has premium sound, but it also comes with blacked-out badges and a dimming roof, which we don't care about. We like good sound but are coming from a 2021 Ram 1500 with the standard Alpine system. Is it really worth the nearly $4k the other vehicle is coming in at just to get premium sound?"

Understanding the Debate: Is the Premium Sound System Really Worth It?

Rivian’s standard audio system has generated a fair share of feedback. While some drivers have praised the standard setup for its balanced sound quality, others have found it lacking compared to other high-end systems available in competing vehicles. Recently, however, updates have been rolled out to enhance the performance of the stock system. Rivian claims these updates have made a significant difference, with some users reporting better clarity and bass, which could make the standard system more than adequate for the average listener.

Still, the question remains: is the upgraded system, priced at a hefty $4,000, worth it? The added features, such as blacked-out badges and a dimming roof, are simply not necessary for some buyers like Andrew. He’s just looking for a sound experience that matches or exceeds his current standard Alpine system in his 2021 Ram 1500. With so much focus on the premium sound, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making that final call.

Community Insights: What Are Other Rivian Owners Saying?

As is often the case with large purchases, the Rivian community has plenty to say about the decision to opt for the premium sound upgrade. Several owners shared their experiences in a post under Andrew's inquiry, each with their own perspective.

Ashton Falchi Arroyo, another Rivian owner, advises sticking with the standard audio option. He explains:

"I was advised by many Rivian owners and an employee to stay with the standard sound. That it was actually the better option, as the upgraded version has some kinks still. That's what I did, and I'm very happy with the quality and the money I saved."

This sentiment seems to reflect a broader concern among users about whether the premium system is really a “game changer” or if the standard setup is more than sufficient for most people’s needs.

On the other hand, Chad Bonnette presents a contrasting opinion. He writes:

"The premium sound is good but doesn't hold a candle to the Meridian system. If I had bought a Gen 2, I wouldn't have paid for premium after hearing Meridian. It's too bad Rivian went backwards with their sound package."

Bonnette’s frustration with Rivian’s sound package is shared by some who feel that while the premium system might be good, it doesn’t live up to the expectations set by other luxury audio systems, such as the renowned Meridian system found in some competitors.

Finally, Justin Maurice Brown offers an optimistic take on the situation, which may be especially appealing to those who are hesitant about paying for the upgrade. He suggests:

"My Meridian system didn't sound very good for two years until a major update made it sound incredible. It is quite possible both Gen 2 variations will sound significantly better in the near future just from updates. Secondarily, you could probably spend 4k in the aftermarket and get a seriously banging system."

Brown’s view highlights a key factor for those who are unsure whether to pay for the extra money upfront: software updates. Given Rivian’s track record of continuously improving their vehicles through software, there’s a chance that the sound system could evolve over time, making the premium option less critical.

What Does Rivian’s Audio System Mean for the EV Industry?

Audio systems in vehicles have long been a point of pride for automakers. In the age of electric vehicles, where driving noise is minimized and technology takes center stage, sound quality plays a unique role in shaping the driving experience. Premium sound systems are more than just an accessory, they’re a defining feature for those who want to enjoy every moment behind the wheel. For Rivian, whose focus is on delivering a cutting-edge driving experience, offering a premium sound system that complements their high-performance vehicles is an important decision.

However, Rivian is not the only player in the game. Other manufacturers like Tesla and Lucid have set the bar high with their own premium sound systems. Rivian’s ability to compete in this arena depends not only on the hardware they offer but also on the software enhancements that can optimize performance over time.

If you're curious about how Rivian is handling updates and issues with their technology, check out how Rivian's software updates are not just about improving sound but also addressing critical issues in their cars, as seen in this story about an EV breakdown.

Should You Spend the Extra $4K on Premium Sound?

When considering whether to go for the $4,000 upgrade, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preferences and priorities. Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Current Audio Setup: If you're coming from a system like the standard Alpine setup in your 2021 Ram 1500, the premium Rivian sound might seem like an upgrade worth considering. However, if you’re generally satisfied with the current system or are willing to wait for software updates to improve the sound, the standard setup could suffice.
2. Long-Term Software Updates: Rivian has shown a commitment to improving its vehicles over time, particularly with its software updates. As mentioned by Justin Maurice Brown, updates can drastically improve audio quality, which might make the initial upgrade less necessary. If you’re in it for the long haul, keeping an eye on future updates could be a smart move. Rivian has been addressing various issues with its vehicles, including key problems that users have faced, as explained in a recent update.
3. Aftermarket Options: If you’re looking for the ultimate audio experience, aftermarket options could be a more flexible and cost-effective solution. Investing the $4K elsewhere might allow you to build a custom system that fits your needs and preferences exactly.
4. Other Vehicle Features: As noted in the original post, Rivian offers the premium sound system as part of a package that includes features like blacked-out badges and a dimming roof, which some users may find unnecessary. If these features don’t appeal to you, the $4,000 premium may feel like an unnecessary expense.

For example, Rivian's software fixes, such as the one addressing LED trailer light recognition issues, can be found in this post, where owners have seen improvements that could also extend to things like audio performance.

A Moral Lesson: Don’t Let Trends Make Your Decision for You

When it comes to purchasing a vehicle, especially one as technologically advanced as the Rivian R1S Gen 2, it's easy to get swept up in the allure of the latest features and upgrades. However, it’s essential to evaluate your needs and desires carefully. The moral here is simple: don’t let trends or peer opinions dictate your decisions. What’s “worth it” for one person may not be for another. Make sure to prioritize your unique preferences, whether it's sound quality, features, or long-term value.

Let’s Hear from You: What’s Your Take on the Premium Sound Upgrade?

What do you think, do you believe the $4,000 premium sound system upgrade is worth it for the Rivian R1S Gen 2? Have you experienced the standard or premium sound system, and how do they compare in your opinion?

If you're interested in learning more about Rivian's vehicle updates and how they handle issues, check out our article on unexpected challenges that owners have faced. And don’t miss the latest issue with Rivian's key functionality, which highlights how customer service has tackled key-related issues. For more on Rivian’s struggles with their streaming issues despite updates, be sure to read this interesting take. Please share your thoughts in the comments below we’d love to hear your personal experiences and insights!

Narek Hareyan is a young automotive journalist with experience in a golf cart dealership and an interest in the automotive industry. Follow Narek on X for daily news coverage about cars.