Donnie

I figure I'd post the start-to-finish build and install in our 2011 Ford Escape.

Here's my wish-list:

1. New head-unit. Touch screen, supports USB, iPhone, Bluetooth.
2. New speakers all around, components up front.
3. Subs.
4. Amps for above.
5. Reduce unwanted noise.

Here's my requirements:

1. One through four above.
2. Minimal modification to vehicle.
3. Minimal loss of space.
4. Retention of all factory audio/phone features (SYNC, SWC, etc).
5. Fit within my budget.

I'm not a dreamer, not a butcher, not interested in competition or otherwise displaying (dare I say 'showing off'). This is a one of our daily drivers. The car needs to sound great, look clean/professional, and remain practical.

There are some challenges in this car to be sure. I already know SYNC is a pita to work around, and the room for subs is not exactly great. But I'll do what I can and document it along the way so that others with these popular SUVs get an idea of what their up against. I am not all an expert in this field, rather I work in high-tech forensics. So bear with me as I build this out.

Speaking of what I'm up against, here's the factory dash and rear cargo area. This is what I have to work with.


Factory deck, no sub, no amps. I DO have the steering wheel controls (not shown)




Rear cargo area.

jalat

iTrader: (6)

I would integrate into the existing radio. Plenty of really nice interfaces that can work for you.

As for sub stage, I think a pair of shallow mount subwoofers will be your friend.

I am interested to see how this will turn out.

Good luck.

footballdad

what about this for the lows? JL makes this stealthbox for the Escape
http://mobile.jlaudio.com/images/15819.jpg

ryls

iTrader: (1)

Dosnt ford have decent touch screens that you can upgrade to or have them install? Personally i would use an OEM touch screen and then hook an ms8 up.

Donnie

Jalat you're right, there are nice features to the factory radio. Over-all I really like the features of the SYNC system. The USB audio is VERY quick to navigate and restore playing (for example, after the stereo is turned on, or after completing a call). I've seen some HU's that seem slow as molasses and that's annoying.

The above said, I really want a better visual display and more powerful navigation features for iPhone and USB music.

Donnie

It's about $1800 for the upgrade, which would be a great clean install. I had another Ford with the 'premium' system, however, I found it didn't have near the features of even a mid-level aftermarket HU. That got me searching for a new HU.

The JBL MS-8 is a fantastic unit. I can tell you it's out of my budget, for the first phase at least.

The plan is to put the basics in place and listen to it for awhile. Once I get a feel for it I'll consider spending the moola on an active processor like the MS-8.

Dukk

^ At $800-ish retail (I think), the MS-8 should top your list - unless you are determined to replace the factory deck. It has built in power for all your mids and tweets and fantastic sound processing. Add that JL Stealthbox with a 300watt amp, drop in front component speakers and you are lauging.

d4rin

What brands are you looking at for components? If you want a really smooth sound I would suggest taking a look at Morel.

Donnie

Yes, I am determined to replace the deck for reasons previously noted. The MS-8 is certainly on my radar, more of a second phase deal.

Certainly is a lot of support for that magic box.

Donnie

Well I've looked at Morel and Hertz and settled on a pair of modest Hertz components. Not that they were better or cheaper, they just satisfied my needs and got some good reviews here and there.

I've actually just finished installing the components and will be posting up the pics a little later.