Help build me a new sound system - 1997

[biak1]

My first post!

Well... I turned over my rig this morning, smelled burning and saw smoke coming from the head unit (stock, as is everything audio-wise). Front tweeters/speakers now won't work but radio/cds are fine, just sound only comes from rear speakers. After some deliberation, had a "come to Jesus" moment and am now wanting to upgrade it all.

I don't know much about audio components or installation, but wouldn't mind doing the work myself for the experience and saving some money (unless something can go horribly wrong). Anyway, I'm honestly not sure how much to drop on everything. Not looking to go top-of-the-line, but rather a price-efficient selection that won't rape my wallet but still sounds great. Don't need a sub, but I might be able to convince myself to get an amp.

Just looking for your guys' advice/links/input/suggestions.

Thanks!

 

[BucknutBob]

If you want to stick with new components (something I HIGHLY recommend--I don't trust used electronics), Amazon is a good source for inexpensive name-brand stuff. For a decent yet reasonably-priced set-up, I'd get a low-priced brand-name head unit--it doesn't have to be wild, just as long as it plays digital material (don't worry about power output, just make sure it has RCA pre-amp outputs). Get a small 4-ch. amp, something around 50x4 (RMS, not peak), also name-brand (think Sony, Kenwood, Pioneer, etc.--those will provide good quality without breaking the bank). Where you may want to splurge a bit is on the speakers--that's what's making the sound, and it's worth a step up if you can swing it. I typically go for the mid-level offerings, or higher if I can get a good sale. Four serious coaxial speakers will give good sound without going ballistic. If you do your own installation, just make sure to keep power wires away from signal wires--I usually run speaker wire in the doorsills, power on one side of the tranny tunnel, and RCA's on the other side--this will help keep noise/hiss out of the system.

 

[jrm]

A simple system

I replaced the HU with a JVC KWR500 (with pre amp RCA) and speakers with the 500 & 600 series offerings from Alpine. Its a pretty cheap system, low power and sounds nice.

 

[SJC]

Amazon.com: Pioneer DEH-P5200HD CD Receiver with HD Radio and iPod Direct Control: Electronics

Best HU iv ever had