Calling Audio Nerds: 15 Speaker JBL System Underwhelms

[UFG8R Runner]

I ordered my 4Runner with the 15 speaker JBL system, hoping that it would mostly satisfy the dorky audio snob within me....

It didn't work.

Truth is, I'm still sorely missing those delightful Alpine-powered Diamond Audio Hex's I jammed out to in high school. Red Hot Chili Peppers, anyone?

I LOVE my new Runner, but this "high end" JBL system has imprecise highs and underwhelming mids...I'd like to start by replacing the 6x9's in the front doors and the dash speakers-- which are some weird 80mm size.

Here's the system: JBL Premium Sound for Your New Toyota

Anybody have recommendations for speakers that will fit in the dash? Any audio nerds out there recommend a "80mm" component set and 6x9's that will play nice with the factory amp? I'm hoping to avoid a full stereo replacement...

Any input will be greatly appreciated. THANKS!

 

[1engineer]

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-g...vable-difference-kappa-3-5-dash-speakers.html

 

[harper7]

This is the other one with alot of great info............. http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/61082-aftermarket-stereo.html

 

[characterzero]

UFG8R - I'm with you. I recently picked up a TE with KDSS/NAV and the JBL system (2010). Honestly, for a stock stereo, it isn't bad - but leaves a lot to be desired when accustomed to JL power and Kappas all around.

Here is my tenative plan:
Dash: Infinity Kappa 32.9cf
Front door: woofers from my Infinity Kappa 60.7cs (6.5" components)
Rear door: stock for now?
Hatch: Infinity Kappa 62.7i
Sub: ?!!? JL better be working on a stealthbox. Also considering how to integrate a CP108LG-W3v3 JL microsub or something. A custom box to replace the entire JBL box isn't out of the question either, in good time. The microsub is appealing in that it is only 18-5/8"W x 11-3/16"H x 5-1/8"D and is getting excellent reviews from people accustomed to running much larger setups. Given that I am considering a storage mod along the lines of ANTMAN's, I could see making something that works well with space for a box like this and an amp.


I've got the Infinity Kappa 60.7cs and 62.7i sitting around from a prior build, so I figured I can put them to use here. I've also got a JL 4 way amp and an Alpine sub amp that I don't forsee using unless I get a real sub back there.

The only thing I am concerned about off the bat is the ability of the kappa woofers to really do the midbass role - I think they go down to 45 or so, but don't know how they'll play with the factory amp.

 

[UFG8R Runner]

1engineer, harper7-- thanks for the links. Based on that info, I ordered the Infinity Kappa 693.9i 6x9's for the doors and the Kappa 32.9's for the dash.

I'll receive everything next Tuesday and should have it installed late next week-- I'll post thoughts and a write-up as soon as I have everything buttoned up.

CharacterZero- couldn't agree more. Keep us posted on your progress!

 

[DiggetyDan]

Chiming in in agreement on the JBL system in the LE - underwhelming. I had an aftermarket system in my last car and was hoping the higher end system would mean I didn’t have to upgrade this time…. I’m sending it in for an upgrade tomorrow:

Speakers:
Front: Hertz EV 165 components (woofer and tweeter w/ crossover)
Rear: Hertz ECX 165 2-way coaxial
Sub: JL Audio 10W7 10 inch sub w/ high output box

Amplification:
Speakers: Alpine PDX 4 channel amp
Sub: Alpine PDX single channel 600 watt

The connection in the glove-box is a reach so I’m also having them run a USB-30pin-Ipod connection from the glove box behind and through the little cubby hole that’s on the left of the center console when you lift the little door. I’m going to try and fabricate some kind of elastic system that will retract the chord when not in use.

 

[Lineman]

Hmm, hard call. I'd start with a new deck where you can dedicate the hertz and volume level to the front/rear speakers.

This makes a HUGE difference in factory speakers. IMO you'd be wasting money in adding all new speakers. Your factory radio still will not allow you to adjust the hertz. You'd still be lacking bass.

Try a deck, sub, and amp and your good to go.

 

[DiggetyDan]

Hmm, hard call. I'd start with a new deck where you can dedicate the hertz and volume level to the front/rear speakers.

This makes a HUGE difference in factory speakers. IMO you'd be wasting money in adding all new speakers. Your factory radio still will not allow you to adjust the hertz. You'd still be lacking bass.

Try a deck, sub, and amp and your good to go.

Question for you Lineman: can you explain what you mean by not being able to adjust the hertz speakers with the stock head unit? I'll be running two amps, one for the sub and a second, 4 channel for the four speakers.

 

[Lineman]

In that case, right on :guitar2:

 

[Monty_USA]

Just posted this on another thread, but, I recently purchased a 2012 Limited with eight speaker entune. Sound quality was as bad as I have ever heard from ANY vehicle sound system. Couldn't stand it, so after only three days of ownership I had the folowing installed and couldnt be happier:

Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty Processor
Kenwood 5 Channel XR-5S Amp
Focal 165s speakers all around
JL Audio 10W3V3 10" Sub

I have all of the functionality of the factory system and a custom sound quality. While I dropped a ton of cash, sound quality is better than anything I have ever heard. Glad I didnt get the upgraded JBL because I would have just had to replace more speakers... :bluejump:

 

[characterzero]

Just posted this on another thread, but, I recently purchased a 2012 Limited with eight speaker entune. Sound quality was as bad as I have ever heard from ANY vehicle sound system. Couldn't stand it, so after only three days of ownership I had the folowing installed and couldnt be happier:

Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty Processor
Kenwood 5 Channel XR-5S Amp
Focal 165s speakers all around
JL Audio 10W3V3 10" Sub

I have all of the functionality of the factory system and a custom sound quality. While I dropped a ton of cash, sound quality is better than anything I have ever heard. Glad I didnt get the upgraded JBL because I would have just had to replace more speakers... :bluejump:

Well, a couple issues here, as much as I am happy that you are happy with the setup...
1. We're trying to make-do with the JBL amp that is factory (party mode, head unit functionality etc contingent upon this).
2. Where is your sub?
3. the "15 speaker" setup is really only 9. They count coax as 2 speakers (lame) 2 dash, 2 door, 2 back door, 2 hatch and 1 sub

 

[characterzero]

Question for you Lineman: can you explain what you mean by not being able to adjust the hertz speakers with the stock head unit? I'll be running two amps, one for the sub and a second, 4 channel for the four speakers.

Do you have to adjust balance/fade with a screwdriver under your seat, or is it available from the dash/head unit?

 

[Monty_USA]

Well, a couple issues here, as much as I am happy that you are happy with the setup...
1. We're trying to make-do with the JBL amp that is factory (party mode, head unit functionality etc contingent upon this).
2. Where is your sub?
3. the "15 speaker" setup is really only 9. They count coax as 2 speakers (lame) 2 dash, 2 door, 2 back door, 2 hatch and 1 sub

Sorry for any confusion on my part. The Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty Processor allowed me to add the kenwood amp, speakers and sub and STILL keep ALL of the functionality of the factory system (party mode, head unit functionality, NAV, Ipod, bluethooth, etc...) The processor basically takes the signal from the factory head unit and then allows for the proper equalization and connections for running to the Kenwood amp for additional power. I addede a stand alone sub box in the rear compartment which I can unplug and remove if the space is needed (although its not that bad since its a 10").

 

[jangoforhire]

Sorry for any confusion on my part. The Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty Processor allowed me to add the kenwood amp, speakers and sub and STILL keep ALL of the functionality of the factory system (party mode, head unit functionality, NAV, Ipod, bluethooth, etc...) The processor basically takes the signal from the factory head unit and then allows for the proper equalization and connections for running to the Kenwood amp for additional power. I addede a stand alone sub box in the rear compartment which I can unplug and remove if the space is needed (although its not that bad since its a 10").

I remember those processors from my car audio days. Those things are sick. Expensive, but awesome.

 

[characterzero]

Sorry for any confusion on my part. The Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty Processor allowed me to add the kenwood amp, speakers and sub and STILL keep ALL of the functionality of the factory system (party mode, head unit functionality, NAV, Ipod, bluethooth, etc...) The processor basically takes the signal from the factory head unit and then allows for the proper equalization and connections for running to the Kenwood amp for additional power. I addede a stand alone sub box in the rear compartment which I can unplug and remove if the space is needed (although its not that bad since its a 10").

Very nice! That sounds like a great setup. Did you shop the RF processor against any of the other options? I know there are a few out there.

 

[bofa]

Forums are so addictive. I haven't heard the first note on my T4R stereo (picking it up today, standard sound system) and I spent nearly an hour last night looking at audio products. Must... step... away... :smashputer:

 

[characterzero]

listened to another setup last night

another member here had replaced his speakers:
infinity kappa dash
JL audio coax all around
factory amp
factory sub

the difference in SQ was astounding. I won't be replacing the sub or amp, but I am going to move forward with the speaker install (hopefully this weekend).

 

[Monty_USA]

Very nice! That sounds like a great setup. Did you shop the RF processor against any of the other options? I know there are a few out there.

I didnt shop the RF processor too much, there are definately other options, but I felt the equalization and adjustment options with the RF were much better for me.

 

[DiggetyDan]

picture of factory jbl speakers

I just did a system upgrade and wanted to post some pictures of the factory speakers. For a "premium" system they seem pretty lightweight.

In one of the pictures I put the speaker against an Alpine aftermarket 6x9 to give a comparison. You can see a big difference in magnet size. Not sure about newer speakers but back in the day you needed a big magnet to drive powerful speakers.

 

[Jscott]

Good Combo!! Pricy??

Just posted this on another thread, but, I recently purchased a 2012 Limited with eight speaker entune. Sound quality was as bad as I have ever heard from ANY vehicle sound system. Couldn't stand it, so after only three days of ownership I had the folowing installed and couldnt be happier:

Rockford Fosgate 3Sixty Processor
Kenwood 5 Channel XR-5S Amp
Focal 165s speakers all around
JL Audio 10W3V3 10" Sub

I have all of the functionality of the factory system and a custom sound quality. While I dropped a ton of cash, sound quality is better than anything I have ever heard. Glad I didnt get the upgraded JBL because I would have just had to replace more speakers... :bluejump:

How much did that cost (parts & labor)??