Is this a good price/setup?

[MattDyer94]

I've currently got a 750W pioneer amp with some small cheap subs..they hit hard but the quality is super low.

I came across these today on Craigslist while searching for a new set

2 12" Kicker L7s in slot ported box

I plan to talk the guy down..let's say I do, is this a good set? I don't know too much about subs..but I see the name Kicker around A LOT so I'm just hoping this is a good set and a decent price. Thoughts?

Take me to school, guys! I'm new to this :hungry:

EDIT: I've also come across 2 12in CVR Kickers in a box for 200..Would these be even better? My current subs are crazy distorted when they hit.

 

[BucknutBob]

Personally, I HATE buying used electronic equipment, because you never know if you're just buying someone else's abused junk. Yes, Kicker makes great subs, but that doesn't mean the ones you're looking at are still good. Also, are you sure your current speakers are the problem? The amp gain may be too high, it could be clipping, your power supply may not be able to keep up (hard bass notes take a LOT of juice), your wiring may not be adequate, the enclosure could be the wrong size, or made poorly, etc.. Many things can distort the sound. There are plenty of sites with new equipment at great prices, and physical stores usually always have clearance sales (that's how I usually get my stuff). I would discourage buying used--just my opinion.

 

[MattDyer94]

1. Would you say nay to buying it even if you can hear it before purchase?
2. How could I check things like wiring capacity and stuff? Is there a place like Bestbuy where they could check it and tell me?

The ones I have right now are pretty small...8inch if not smaller and it's some brand like polk maybe? the name is faded on them haha.

I appreciate the advice by the way!

 

[BucknutBob]

Crutchfield is a good source for info--they have installation specialists that can help with things like wiring, adapters, plus all the various components. Polk makes very good speakers, although they usually specialize in home speakers. Their power rating should be on the magnet (if it hasn't been worn off with the rest). I would recommend 4-ga. wire for your power from the battery, especially if you run a second amp for the main speakers--once you're near the amps, you can split into two 8-ga. wires with a dist. block. Use the same sizes for your ground wires. For the subs in particular, use thick aftermarket speaker wires (around 12 ga. or so). To check if your charging system is holding up, a simple test is to watch your headlights while playing a bass-heavy music selection--if they dim with the hits, consider adding a stiffening capacitor (this will store battery energy, and release it when needed, so it's not taking it directly from the battery).

I freely admit, I am no expert, but I have installed a number of systems, and I have done a lot of research over the years so I have a good working knowledge of the basics. My advice would be to stop in a high-end stereo shop (if you have one nearby), and pick their brain a bit. If you do, make sure you at least buy some stuff from them, too--an act of good faith and appreciation for their help, if you will. I got a lot of good info from an older book by Joe Pettitt (under the Cartech label) called "High Performance Car Stereo", which goes into great detail about components, installation, how to match the various pieces for the best sound, etc.. As for the Kickers, if you can hear them first, they might be worth the risk (as long as they give a flawless performance). Best of luck, friend!

 

[Wheeler]

Best buy is a no no.. Ill agree 10000% with crutchfield.. they are true experts with everything they deal with. I have nothing but good experiences with them, with product, tech help after purchase, install walk throughs, and they ship install tools and accessories with the purchase for free (good for HU's especially). And as far as subs go, all ive ever had are Kicker L7's. Had 2 S10L7's, then swiched to one S15L7. I love their subs, they bump with the best of them. Id hit up ebay or some discount audio places online if all you need is the sub, you can find some decent deals on ebay for subs and an amp, just be sure youre buying from a respected retailer. Good luck!

 

[BrianSD_42]

My current subs are crazy distorted when they hit.

They are either blown or the gain is turned up too high or they are low quality.

In my opinion Kicker is not that much of an improvement over Pioneer.

Ported boxes will sound more distorted than sealed.

That said USED is just that ... USED.

I would never pay more than 50% for used subs.

Where do you live? I have two MTX 12" subs in a sealed box w/ 6500D 700W (RMS) mono-block amp, not blown, that I would be willing to part with for $250.