Hello
 

Hello, I am new to the forum and just wanted to say hi as well as get some audio related feedback.

I haven't been in the car audio game for almost 10 years now. I used to be very into car stereo and my last setup has lasted me until now. I actually have quality components that will continue to last but I am looking into a second setup for another car. Car stereo components are so different now.

My current car has a Mcintosh amp powering I believe a Sony CDR990 from way back when (has Quad Burr brown DA converters, copper chassis etc.), KEF Uni Q's and a 12" fosgate DVC (yeah odd sub but it works well and was lying around waiting to be used at the time). I have a custom fiberglass enlsoure for the sub and my enitre setup is stealth and problem free with crystal clear sound for almost a decade. I also have some US Amps kicking around which I loved when I was going for pure SPL.

I now want a simple system for a Porsche Boxster. Maybe you guys can help with some suggestions as I don't have too much intel on model numbers and specs these days.

I want:

An inexpensive simple deck that has good BT built (external mic OK) in and Ipod/usb connectivity. I don't want it flashy as its a convertible and I leave the top open all the time.

2 shallow mount subs in custom enclosures for behind my seats. Not sure where to go and here is where I could use the most suggestions. The only sub options I have seen are 3 6" JL's in a custom enclosure behind and above my mid engine. I saw another in a typical box in the front trunk. The best that I have seen was 2 12's behind the seats. The 12's were earthquake SWS's. I just looked at the specs and the mounting depth is only 3 inches for these subs. Back in my day I never would have even considered Earthquakes but am open to all suggestions now.

I am open to any component suggestions that I can fit in my car.

I am also open to all amp suggestions or I may use my US Amps and or get another Mcintosh cause they are just so amazing (I will one day put this on a pedestal when it isnt being used). However, size and efficiency is more of an issue with the Boxster so one multi channel might be the best option since none of my existing amps are small.

I would like to keep costs more on the reasonable side. I don't want to invite theft. I don't need earth shattering Bass and SQ probaby shouldnt be a huge factor considering I am driving a convertible with a loud engine and exhaust note. What I want is to improve an outdated sound system in a great car. Appreciate any and all advice. I listen to FM radio, AM radio and mainly top 40 and rap.

Thanks!

Mcintosh makes unbelievable amps (which are quite pricy now). If you are looking at a well rounded system i would suggest all pioneer premier, or jl audio for subs and amps. Mb quart also has a great new line up of amps and subs. All these companies make shallow mount subs. Kenwood Excelon is another company that comes to mind that has everything you need. I run a kenwood excellon deck and it is great. All these mentioned are reasonably priced except for jl. But i would suggest the premier or excelon products at the top of the list if you dont want to spend to much.

The current Rockford Punch amps are quite small for their power. A 50x4 is about the size of a standard keyboard without the number pad. So many companies make shallow mount woofers, I would suggest you go listening.

Oh, BTW, your Rockford DVC 12 is my favourite woofer of all time :smilie_da

Thanks for the input so far guys. Yes, the Mcintosh amps are great and they are expensive now. Although they were even more expensive when they first came out. I bought one of mine at a cost of $2100 and I just saw one selling on ebay for under $600. Their monster amp MC4000M that I always wanted to buy was over 4K and one didn't even sell on ebay for $1700.

The Rockford DVC sub was a pleasant surprise. It didn't really fit in with my top of the line equipment back then but I used it anyway and it has performed flawlessly. At a cost of close to $500 before it still wasn't a cheap sub and feeding it clean Mcintosh power certainly helps.

Anyway, good suggestions so far and not too different from what I expected. What would really help would be specific model numbers though as this is where I am lacking knowledge. With specific models I would be able to do some research on what might work for me. Not as many places these days to shop locally compared to before. Looks like a few higher end stores, online or Future Shop/Best Buy. Knowleage is the key and I would like to be informed before I walk into any store.

BTW, if anyone is considering a pure competition deck maybe they can trade me a simple deck from today. I am not competing anymore and just want one that has BT, MP3 capabilities and maybe USB or front Aux. input. The model number on my deck is actually the CDR-910. Do a search, the deck rocks and cost me $1500 retail.

Thanks

Deck wise, single or double din? I am not to familiar with porche dashes heh :)

I would prefer a single DIN. I don't want anything too flashy...unless if you guys concinve me to go all out again. Then I might have to go with touchscreen monitors, backup cameras, 8" in the doors, custom kickpanels etc.

No, yeah heck I even considered pickung up a Sony MEX-2500 deck at Best Buy for $169 because it has the built in bluetooth. Any thoughts on this cheapo unit?

You know you want to go all the way, that's why you are here.

Let me help the convincing process, here is a good deal:
http://www.canadiancaraudio.com/onli...e-sq-head.html

You might also like to look at the JVC KD-AVX33, has all you want an a bit more, no adapators or extras to buy.

Haha, thanks and thats a nice deck but not any different from what I currently have. My Sony pretty much has all the same specs and more. Heck i'll sell my Sony for the same price and include a 12 disc CD changer as well if anyone is interested. Beautiful deck but I just don't compete anymore.

Thanks for providing the model number on the JVC deck. Thats the sort of info that I am looking for. However, I will pass on the JVC as its more than I want to spend on a convertible with lots of possibilities that invites theft.

I'll also pass on the cheapo Sony that I mentioned. Whats with all the reviewers these days. All people care about is BT connectivity and aux inputs, ipod capabilities etc. The stupid thing doesn't even have preamp outputs yet it gets great reviews and only 1 person out of 30+ reviews mentioned the lack of the outputs.

Have a look at the JVC KD-BT1, maybe more to your liking.

Nto a bad suggestion. I'll look into it a bit more. I am also considering the Pioneer DEH-P7900B. Any intel on this deck?

I just found the shallow mount thread. I certainly like the pricing on those Tand Band subs you mentioned. I have never heard of them and Elemetnal Designs is new to me as well. I'll do a bit more research though. Looks like we're heading in the right direction now.

Any decently priced component suggestions? Any links to some reviews?

Thanks guys

what yr of car ?
i would do a flat sub in the foot well or under the seat

Its a 1997 but the car hasn't changed from 1997-2004. Even from 2005+ the car is pretty much the same.

I have seen a few pics of footwell installions in the boxster but it doesn't look appealing as the passenger loses lots of space and it only allows for one sub application. There is absolutely no room underneath the seats. I think there are already electronics to be found underneath the drivers seat as well.

you do have room back of the seat i know
i know the 911 better then the box's
have you looking into a 4th order in the boot ported into the car (it would be hard to do but can be done )

[QUOTE=

I have seen a few pics of footwell installions in the boxster but it doesn't look appealing as the passenger loses lots of space and it only allows for one sub application. There is absolutely no room underneath the seats. I think there are already electronics to be found underneath the drivers seat as well.[/QUOTE]


you need to have it done at a good shop and you will not see it

I have seen two boxsters with subs in the front trunk ported to the cabin. Don't really like this option as the porting is more work and losing more valuable space isn't ideal.

The footwell isntallations don't necessarily "look" unappealing. I know it can be done well and I am competent with kickpanel fibergalss installs myself. It's just unappealing in that the passenger loses comfort room.

Is there a reason that you don't think my best option is for subs behind the seats?

Thanks

ther are 3 places in that car and i would do it like this
1 behind the seats
2 foot well
3 boot with port

go with behind the seats and amp in boot on the floor with new floor on top of it

I'll try that option first. Not a rush so I will update you guys as I continue along.

Now I still needs some component or coaxial suggestions.

Component wise, merhaps the pioneer TS-C720PRS would interest you. Reviews for these are all over the net, hard to beat their quality for the price.

HEre is one of many reviews
Pioneer Premier TS-C720PRS - Diy Mobile Audio

is it a 3way set up like the 911?

Like the 911? you mean the highs in the front dash and the mids strictly to the 5 1/4's in the doors? Then yes.

focal had a set up of a 5 1/4 a 3-4 " and a 1"

Bluetooth is your main concern?

http://www.clarion.com/ca/en/products/2007/audio/source_unit/Bluetooth_SD/FB275BT/ca-en-product-pf_1170603335128.html

I stumbled upon this the other day... looks like a bluetooth oriented deck to me.

Bluetooth is a nice to have but not a necessity. Not really sure how good it will be in a topless car anyway. I saw that deck the other day on Crutchfield and thought it was a nice idea at first but the novelty of it quickly wore out. Might as well get a deck with AM/FM and CD player for the same price. The 2channel 2V preouts aren't great either.

Thanks for the suggestion though.

It has cd and amfm as far as i undrstood. But that second point is very true.