plangevin

Hello !

I have a standard 2005 Mazda 3. I am thinking of switching out my audio system for something of better quality but I don't know much about speaker quality and don't want to be a sucker.

I already went to Futureshop who suggested that I buy some JVC radio (with usb for my iphone) and 4 speakers. Radio was 149$, speakers were 129$ a pair (2 pairs total) and I wanted to get Sirius radio installed (129$). With the astronomical installation fees, it would have ran me up 900$, which is miles over my budget.

I was wondering if the factory radio and speakers are that weak? My speakers are 6 X 8 and I'm certainly not looking for bass, as I tend to turn as low as I can but rather the best sound. I won't be cranking it up either.

I was wondering what would be the best way to upgrade my radio or speakers for the best performance while keeping it under 500$. I'll worry about Sirius later on.

I am from Montreal, Qc incase someone has any contacts for cheaper installation fees.

Thanks a bunch :-)

trent.g

For starters, skip the rear speakers. Focus on your front soundstage with the money you save. You could upgrade speakers now and then decide how weak the HU is. I heard the signal is not very level from that HU so you may want to start there instead. Most of your installation charges are for the deck because it's a rather large trim piece to replace the factory unit. Also, if you do start by just replacing the source, check out the EQing capabilities. This may bump up the price of the deck tho. The more complex the eq is, the better chance of making crappy speakers sound decent. (as long as you're up to the challenge of figuring it out)

stephenfleming

iTrader: (1)

Swap out the deck first.
Go see Donald @ Central Station Customs. I know he'll be more than able to help you out.

jon818181

If I were you I would start with a 4-channel amp running a set of front component speakers and a small subwoofer. You would use a line out converter to keep your head-unit or buy another head unit, but your budget is quite limited.

Dukk

Radio: $149
Fronts: $129
Rears: $129
Total: $407 pre tax, parts and install and you want to keep under $500? Good luck.

Now lets have a look at those "astronomical" install fees..

You say it was to total $900 or so. Less taxes (not sure there but here its 12%) is $803, less parts (can remember what that kit is worth but lets say $70 total for parts) is 733, less the $407 above and the $129 for the Sirus leaves $197 for a non-standard deck install, two sets of speakers, and a sat radio. Sounds not only reasonable, but like they cut you a bit of a deal...

jon818181

[QUOTE=Dukk;646161]Radio: $149
Fronts: $129
Rears: $129
Total: $407 pre tax, parts and install and you want to keep under $500? Good luck.
QUOTE]

changing rear speakers is really not worth it if he's on a budget

jon818181

And btw if you are looking for used stuff in Mtl go on montrealracing forum

trent.g

So there you have it. $500 doesn't get you very far in a stereo upgrade. Get a good HU installed and see if you're happy with it first. They typically put out alot more power and flatter frequency response than factory units. If you need more, there's always next year's budget. Also, do you really need sat radio if you're using the iPhone?

stephenfleming

iTrader: (1)

Futureshop charges what $50+parts for the deck, $40-70 for speakers, $100 for the neat and tidy sat radio.
Sounds more than fair. I know shops that charge $65/hr, and that's for everything.

plangevin

Thanks for the responses.

If I remember correctly, Futureshop was charging:

79.95$ for the radio
79.95$ to hide the wires on the sat radio
69.95$ for the front speakers
69.95$ for the rear speakers

Not knowing much about car audio, I thought all that could be done within an hour or so, making it 300$/h, which I thought was outrageous. They were charging me 29$ for the new radio panel and they hadn't included the wiring in that price.

Anyway, I think I'll start with a new deck because that might do the job. I know 500$ isn't much but I really don't want much of a system.

Also, I will check that montreal forum for used parts, thanks for that. If anyone is in the Montreal area and wants to make a little money for the service, give me a shout.

Cheers