New Setup, Need Your Thoughts
09-04-2008, 08:10 AM
#1
0 Watt CAFz'r
Thread Starter
Join Date: Sep 2008
Posts: 11
New Setup, Need Your Thoughts
I am so glad a forum like this exists! Been browsing around a while and think there is a great community here. I'm new to car audio, and looking to learn a few things. I have a very crude but working knowledge of basic sound systems. This system is just for personal pleasure, no shows, no super-high quality standards, just enjoyment for someone on a student budget.
I have an Acura 1.7EL Prem and want to upgrade the sound system on it. Stock, the car has 6.5's in the front doors, and another pair of 6.5s on the rear deck (on deck behind headrests). My older brother has given me two 15inch subs and a giant box that holds them both, but it's too big for my trunk. He has also given me his amp. Here is my plan:
1. Buy and install a new headunit/deck that has a front aux for my ipod.
2. Install ONE of my older brothers 15inch sub in the trunk and box it. Also, needs to be easily removable when I need trunk space.
3. Install his amp in my trunk and tuck it away.
4. Buy and install a pair of 6.5s either in the front doors or the rear deck.
Cost:
Deck= ~$120.
Deck install= $75.
6.5's= ~120
15inch sub box = ???
For my car, it is a royal pain to install a new deck. The entire centre console needs to be removed and it's something I'm just not comfortable doing myself. Here is a tutorial from one of my friends from clubel.ca (Aftermarket Stereo (Head Unit) Installation. Removing Stock Unit.) on installing a deck in a 5spd version of my car, and mine is an automatic and is even more complex to install. So I'm not touching it. You will probably cringe, but I'd just rather pay FutureShop 75bucks and let them install my deck only with peace of mind, guarantee, etc.
Now, my brother has some sound system experience, but more old school (his time was like 10 years ago) but the basics haven't changed. Ground wires, wire from headunit to amp, wire from battery to amp, etc. Him and I want to try and install the 6.5's, amp and sub ourselves. We should be okay with the sub+amp in the trunk, but we aren't sure whether to replace the 6.5s in the front doors, or rear deck. Both are hard to replace in my car but I think the rears are easier. I also figure the high's and mids' tones will bounce off the rear window and be at a nice ear level too. If I do the fronts, I have to take the entire door panel off. Which do you think are better to replace cause I'm only buying one pair.
Overall, what do you guys think? I'm open to all advice and suggestions.
I have an Acura 1.7EL Prem and want to upgrade the sound system on it. Stock, the car has 6.5's in the front doors, and another pair of 6.5s on the rear deck (on deck behind headrests). My older brother has given me two 15inch subs and a giant box that holds them both, but it's too big for my trunk. He has also given me his amp. Here is my plan:
1. Buy and install a new headunit/deck that has a front aux for my ipod.
2. Install ONE of my older brothers 15inch sub in the trunk and box it. Also, needs to be easily removable when I need trunk space.
3. Install his amp in my trunk and tuck it away.
4. Buy and install a pair of 6.5s either in the front doors or the rear deck.
Cost:
Deck= ~$120.
Deck install= $75.
6.5's= ~120
15inch sub box = ???
For my car, it is a royal pain to install a new deck. The entire centre console needs to be removed and it's something I'm just not comfortable doing myself. Here is a tutorial from one of my friends from clubel.ca (Aftermarket Stereo (Head Unit) Installation. Removing Stock Unit.) on installing a deck in a 5spd version of my car, and mine is an automatic and is even more complex to install. So I'm not touching it. You will probably cringe, but I'd just rather pay FutureShop 75bucks and let them install my deck only with peace of mind, guarantee, etc.
Now, my brother has some sound system experience, but more old school (his time was like 10 years ago) but the basics haven't changed. Ground wires, wire from headunit to amp, wire from battery to amp, etc. Him and I want to try and install the 6.5's, amp and sub ourselves. We should be okay with the sub+amp in the trunk, but we aren't sure whether to replace the 6.5s in the front doors, or rear deck. Both are hard to replace in my car but I think the rears are easier. I also figure the high's and mids' tones will bounce off the rear window and be at a nice ear level too. If I do the fronts, I have to take the entire door panel off. Which do you think are better to replace cause I'm only buying one pair.
Overall, what do you guys think? I'm open to all advice and suggestions.
Last edited by Dlusion; 09-04-2008 at 08:17 AM.
09-06-2008, 09:47 AM
#3
Welcome to the forum!
Some short answers to your questions....in no particular order...
Personally, I would replace the front speakers first. They are closer to your ears than the rear deck, and the difference in SQ will be more noticeable. When I have done upgrades like this one for my friends, I always ask them where the most listening is going to be done. There is always a driver, passengers are optional at best and they will just have to put up with what they get in the way of sound.....it cuts down on the whining if you point out they always have the option of walking if it bothers them enough....
If you are going to take the car in somewhere to have the deck put in, have them do the front doors at the same time. If you buy the equipment at the shop, they will be more inclined to give you a deal on the install.
As for the subs, if you are running the 4 speakers on deck power, 2 15s will drown them out quite easily. Since trunk space and ease of removal are issues for you, I would sell the 15s and the box for them and put the cash towards a pair of 10s or a single 12. In the right enclosure either setup will give you enough bass to go with your other speakers and will be easier to remove when the occasion requires it.
HTH
Some short answers to your questions....in no particular order...
Personally, I would replace the front speakers first. They are closer to your ears than the rear deck, and the difference in SQ will be more noticeable. When I have done upgrades like this one for my friends, I always ask them where the most listening is going to be done. There is always a driver, passengers are optional at best and they will just have to put up with what they get in the way of sound.....it cuts down on the whining if you point out they always have the option of walking if it bothers them enough....
If you are going to take the car in somewhere to have the deck put in, have them do the front doors at the same time. If you buy the equipment at the shop, they will be more inclined to give you a deal on the install.
As for the subs, if you are running the 4 speakers on deck power, 2 15s will drown them out quite easily. Since trunk space and ease of removal are issues for you, I would sell the 15s and the box for them and put the cash towards a pair of 10s or a single 12. In the right enclosure either setup will give you enough bass to go with your other speakers and will be easier to remove when the occasion requires it.
HTH
09-06-2008, 09:58 AM
#4
0 Watt CAFz'r
Thread Starter
Join Date: Sep 2008
Posts: 11
Welcome to the forum!
Some short answers to your questions....in no particular order...
Personally, I would replace the front speakers first. They are closer to your ears than the rear deck, and the difference in SQ will be more noticeable. When I have done upgrades like this one for my friends, I always ask them where the most listening is going to be done. There is always a driver, passengers are optional at best and they will just have to put up with what they get in the way of sound.....it cuts down on the whining if you point out they always have the option of walking if it bothers them enough....
If you are going to take the car in somewhere to have the deck put in, have them do the front doors at the same time. If you buy the equipment at the shop, they will be more inclined to give you a deal on the install.
As for the subs, if you are running the 4 speakers on deck power, 2 15s will drown them out quite easily. Since trunk space and ease of removal are issues for you, I would sell the 15s and the box for them and put the cash towards a pair of 10s or a single 12. In the right enclosure either setup will give you enough bass to go with your other speakers and will be easier to remove when the occasion requires it.
HTH
Some short answers to your questions....in no particular order...
Personally, I would replace the front speakers first. They are closer to your ears than the rear deck, and the difference in SQ will be more noticeable. When I have done upgrades like this one for my friends, I always ask them where the most listening is going to be done. There is always a driver, passengers are optional at best and they will just have to put up with what they get in the way of sound.....it cuts down on the whining if you point out they always have the option of walking if it bothers them enough....
If you are going to take the car in somewhere to have the deck put in, have them do the front doors at the same time. If you buy the equipment at the shop, they will be more inclined to give you a deal on the install.
As for the subs, if you are running the 4 speakers on deck power, 2 15s will drown them out quite easily. Since trunk space and ease of removal are issues for you, I would sell the 15s and the box for them and put the cash towards a pair of 10s or a single 12. In the right enclosure either setup will give you enough bass to go with your other speakers and will be easier to remove when the occasion requires it.
HTH
I don't know much about car audio, so if the majority say that replacing the fronts is better than the rears but a longshot, they I guess I'll cave and pay the installation fee, which is hard on a student budget. My brother is fine with replacing speakers, its just getting to them which is hard.
I'm not running two 15's, they won't fit. So instead, I think I'll just get a basic box for a single 15 and put that in the trunk with the amp. My system won't be drowned out since I'm installing an amp too right?
I appreciate the guidance.
09-06-2008, 10:21 AM
#5
I wouldn't bother with the pretending part, most shops have heard every story already and will appreciate someone who is straight up with them and not trying to be "cute".
The volume of the sub(s) is detemined by the system setup process, I suggested the other option to save you trunk space and the wrestling match every time you need to take your golf clubs with you.....
If FS wants $155 to install a deck and 2 speakers I would look at other places before I spent my money. Last time I looked a typical deck install at a dedicated car audio shop is less than $50 and around the same for door speakers. There may be issues in your car that are raising the price or perhaps that amount includes the wiring harness and mounting kit, but it's probably worth looking around. If the shop can save you a few bucks on the install you might be able to negotiate for slightly better speakers or a deck with a couple more features you might find useful.
Another 2cents worth down the drain.....
The volume of the sub(s) is detemined by the system setup process, I suggested the other option to save you trunk space and the wrestling match every time you need to take your golf clubs with you.....
If FS wants $155 to install a deck and 2 speakers I would look at other places before I spent my money. Last time I looked a typical deck install at a dedicated car audio shop is less than $50 and around the same for door speakers. There may be issues in your car that are raising the price or perhaps that amount includes the wiring harness and mounting kit, but it's probably worth looking around. If the shop can save you a few bucks on the install you might be able to negotiate for slightly better speakers or a deck with a couple more features you might find useful.
Another 2cents worth down the drain.....
09-06-2008, 05:28 PM
#6
50 Watt CAFz'r
Join Date: May 2008
Posts: 365
find a good reputable car stereo shop near you and forget about FS.. future shops pricing is for basic install only and anything needed is extra. a good shop will give a great price to you if you buy and install with them. some will only charge for materials only.. look around before you go the FS way and get hosed. btw they dont do a good install either! they like tape and crimp taps. a good shop will solder and heat shrink. so no loose connections after a month or so!
just my $0.02
gl
just my $0.02
gl
09-14-2008, 11:45 AM
#7
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Sep 2008
Posts: 11
Thanks for the heads up. Any good shops in the Mississauga/Brampton/Toronto area? I'm located in Mississauga, a shop here would be sweet but I dont mind going to Brampton or Toronto.
I hear good things about Car Audio Haven in Brampton. I heard mixed reviews about Phantom Audio. Any other suggestions? I just don't want to get ripped off by some small shop that overcharges when I know FS has a guarantee.
I can spend 50bucks and box one of my brothers single 15 sub. I know nothing about boxes. Future Shop: Car & Marine Electronics: Car Speaker Boxes: Bassworx 15" Unloaded Car Speaker Box (H15G)
Or I can buy used, two 10's or 12's subs+box online or here for a bit more. Portability would be great, so I'm thinking a single 15 would be easier than two 10's or 12's. Not sure what that means for sound though. I listen to a good variety, from hard metal to hiphop/rap to some dance/house.
I hear good things about Car Audio Haven in Brampton. I heard mixed reviews about Phantom Audio. Any other suggestions? I just don't want to get ripped off by some small shop that overcharges when I know FS has a guarantee.
I can spend 50bucks and box one of my brothers single 15 sub. I know nothing about boxes. Future Shop: Car & Marine Electronics: Car Speaker Boxes: Bassworx 15" Unloaded Car Speaker Box (H15G)
Or I can buy used, two 10's or 12's subs+box online or here for a bit more. Portability would be great, so I'm thinking a single 15 would be easier than two 10's or 12's. Not sure what that means for sound though. I listen to a good variety, from hard metal to hiphop/rap to some dance/house.
09-14-2008, 02:04 PM
#8
I use Number1Sound in downtown Toronto. Better prices, product, and way better install than FS. I would get a component set in the front, instead of coaxials, and also get an amp for them. You can bring gear to N1S, and they will install for like $50/hour. The best by far student budget comps you can get on Ebay - Phoenix Gold RSD. Lotsa used amps for sale around. Find user Carfi4ever, he has nice Audisons far sale. You may be happy with his Lrx 2.250
09-14-2008, 03:18 PM
#9
Just kidding of course.
Anyway Dlusion, as a general rule, you will need a $17.00 or $18.00 harness for your new deck, and probably a "mounting kit" which is more or less a trim panel with a pocket more than likely. Usually around $18.00 or $20.00 there as well.
FS or BB (forget which) right now has a Pioneer deh500 on sale for $159.00 I think. It has 3 preouts and they are 4 volt. You want 2 for the front speakers, 2 for the rear speakers, and 2 for the sub(s). It also has USB capability I think.
Depending on the amplifiers power, you will also need an install kit which includes battery to amp, say 20 feet, ground, about 2 feet, inline fuse to be placed in the power wire, and an 18awg remote wire, again about 20 feet. It will probably include some connectors and such as well.
If you get a kit that is 4awg wire (baby finger diameter) then the cheapest i have seen online is $60.00 or so. If you walk in to FS you can pay over $100.00
Possibly your brother gave you the wiring needed along with the amp? That would save you some coin.
Maybe I misread your earlier posts, but I think the amplified sub has the potential to totally overwhelm the door speakers if they are run off the deck, because in that price range you will get maybe 17 to 22 rms per channel I think.
Best of luck and this is a great board. Have met 2 users in person so far, both very nice to deal with!
John
09-14-2008, 03:51 PM
#10
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Thread Starter
Join Date: Sep 2008
Posts: 11
Cool, I'll check em out. Well, I already have a 4channel, 4ohm, with built in crossover, Kenwood amp (that was able to power my bros entire system which is more advance than mine, I dont remeber RMS) and a single, unboxed 15inch PPI (Precision Power) sub I'd want to use. I can't afford to have separate components, coax or tweeters and just want an average 6.5inch that covers my mid to high range tones and let my sub do all the low range.
These 2way alpine sps-170A type-s cost 99.99 @ number1sound
http://www.number1sound.com/description_399.html
This one has 35Hz-30kHz
These 3way Pioneers TS-A1672R cost 89.99 @ FS
http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10 085200&catid=
This one has 30Hz - 33kHz
@ JT, thanks, it brings me to my next question, what other expenses/fees can I expect to find for wires, harnesses, etc. Anything else other than what you said? Also, I was planning on running the 6.5's off the amp since it should be capable of powering a system more advanced then mine. For a deck, all I really want is a front aux input. Remember, student budget
Thanks in advance everybody for all your help so far.
These 2way alpine sps-170A type-s cost 99.99 @ number1sound
http://www.number1sound.com/description_399.html
This one has 35Hz-30kHz
These 3way Pioneers TS-A1672R cost 89.99 @ FS
http://www.futureshop.ca/catalog/proddetail.asp?logon=&langid=EN&sku_id=0665000FS10 085200&catid=
This one has 30Hz - 33kHz
@ JT, thanks, it brings me to my next question, what other expenses/fees can I expect to find for wires, harnesses, etc. Anything else other than what you said? Also, I was planning on running the 6.5's off the amp since it should be capable of powering a system more advanced then mine. For a deck, all I really want is a front aux input. Remember, student budget
Thanks in advance everybody for all your help so far.
