Does the ANC conflict with the existing audio system? Can bass response be improved by disabling the ANC without component upgrades?
Many thanks in advance! Answesr found below: yes and yes.

 

i personally believe so and would like someone to try and let us know.

 

Answer to my own question.

I disabled the ANC system in my 2013 Accord EX.
What did I find: the stereo sounded 100% better!. The sound was full and enveloping. The bass was not subwoofer quality, but sufficient for me listening to mostly classical music. Midrange and treble were quite good. Audible distortion seemed much less. In general the sound was natural and reasonably transparent and uncolored. You won't find the stock stereo sound sub-par compared to comparable units.

It is very strange that
1. Honda did not provide controls to shut off the ANC upon demand. (I used the press 1-6-Display-power trick to get to the Diagnostics menu, then push the 1 button until the ANC is indicated as off.) As most of you know if you turn off the ANC using the this method, ANC turns back on the next time you start the car.
2. Honda did not have the radio/ANC system designed not to conflict with each other.

Try it, you will like it.

Phil

 

Thanks Phil!!!