I am looking to replace the stock speakers in my 97 Chev-s10 (extended cab, speakers on door and dash). I currently have a Pioneer DEH-P44 head unit, which says it kicks out 50X4.

I think at this point I am looking only to replace the door speakers and not purchase an amp or sub, which I'll probably pick up later.

Looking to spend around $200-$400 or so.

I think either the Alpine R or X component series, or the Focals.

Couple questions:

#1) Will these speakers run alright just off the Pioneer (i.e. no amp)? I was told the Alpines probably will but the Focals most likely need an amp.

#2) Should I disconnect the dash speakers? or should I just leave the stock speakers in there?

#3)Am I correct to assume that the tweeters should be within 6-8 inches of the driver?

#4) Any other recommendations on speaker brands?

thanks alot in advance

 

1.) Your deck puts out around 20 watts. (The top of the line decks available measure in the 22 watt range when bench tested by the pros)

2.) $200 to 400 will give you quite a selection, and because of this, a lot of "different" sounding product. Use your ears. Being in Calgary, I'd recomend you go to Audio Concepts Mobile and spend half a day listening to everything they have in your price range. Very good store...

It is very likely your budget will get bigger when you hear good sound.

Adam

 

I got rid of the dash speakers in my S-10. A set of components in the kick panels is all you need. Don't bother placing any speakers in the rear pillars either. In my opinion.....a single set of component speakers powered by an amp is the best option.

1) your deck does 50 watts MAX....not nominally. In reality your deck is giving the speakers somewhere in the range of 17-22 watts RMS.

2)I would personally disconnect them. Depends on how important imaging is to you.

3)I think this is dependant on the speaker, tweeter and crossover. (my CDTs like to be near [img]smile.gif[/img] )

4)Go to audioconcepts and listen to what they have to offer. Personally.....my ear is partial to CDT speakers. Something about them just pleases me....maybe it is their warmth. I think Alpines sound kind of lifeless. Focals are nice. Speakers are totally personal preference.

 

Toolman,
I don't think I was going to buy an amp at this time. The Pioneer should be alright to power any component speakers (I think)

You don't find you're "missing something" by disconnecting the dash speakers and having nothing up front?

What? Another Chev-S10 owner in Calgary? That only makes, what? 400,000 of us?

 

hahaha isn't that the truth huh? You should come over to http://forums.s-series.org/viewforum.php?f=42 That section (Canada) is almost entirely populated by Albertans. We also get together once a month or so.

Anyhow....back onto your stereo. In my opinion, I think it would be a good idea to get an amp that has more power than your deck. Some of the nice component sets like a lot of power and need a bit of juice to get moving. If you hooked that small amount of power, you might have the tendency to crank the stereo and clip the speakers. If I were you and I didn't want to get an amp-powered system yet, I would pick up some quality coaxial speakers that are not power-hogs, and place them in the doors. Definitely go have a listen though to see what sounds good to you.