My factory JBL System Install, sounds amazing!

[wmflyfisher]

In the weeks leading up to this install I spent hours and hours reading and researching. Yes, it took a lot of time but was definitely worth it. My main goals were to keep this as cheap as possible, retain the factory JBL amp, and do the least amount of "work" as possible.

I have installed several high end systems so this isn't my first rodeo. I won't go into great detail with this but here is what I did for a rocking sound system which retained the factory JBL amp.

Removed factory navigation head unit and added this unit with PAC interface to retain factory amp. Kenwood DDX373BT ($135 on EBay for used unit).

Disconnected rear factory JBL sub and added this Rockford P-300 powered sub. Sounds amazing (paid $145 shipped used off EBay).

https://www.crutchfield.com/S-pjFILolWOJB/p_575P30012/Rockford-Fosgate-Punch-P300-12.html

Installed Infinity Kappa 6.5 coaxials in front doors (2ohm speakers) to match existing JBL 2ohm factory 6x9's.

https://www.crutchfield.com/S-NgnEBJPFGwT/p_1086211I/Infinity-Kappa-62-11i.html

I'm planning on replacing the factory door tweeters with JBL GTO's soon but after that I'll be done. It really sounds amazing for the little amount I've spent and the factory amp pushing everything is GREAT. I used the Kenwoods crossover for the kappas and it works like a champ.

Sorry this is so short but wanted to give my experience because there are so many options out there. Let me know if you have any questions.

 

[feralcomprehension]

Cool! I just got a new HU and a PACbox my own self, but have yet to begin the install in ernest. Can I ask a couple questions?

On the sub, did the RF unit fit into the factory space, or did you just extend the wiring?

How is the sub output handled from the factory HU to the amp- is there a separate channel(s), or is there a crossover somewhere else in the vehicle (like the amp?) My PACbox has no provision for sub output, so I was a little confused.

Thanks!

 

[wmflyfisher]

Cool! I just got a new HU and a PACbox my own self, but have yet to begin the install in ernest. Can I ask a couple questions?

On the sub, did the RF unit fit into the factory space, or did you just extend the wiring?

How is the sub output handled from the factory HU to the amp- is there a separate channel(s), or is there a crossover somewhere else in the vehicle (like the amp?) My PACbox has no provision for sub output, so I was a little confused.

Thanks!

I eliminated the factory sub all together by disconnecting the wires at the sub and just ran the new sub off the RCA's from the Kenwood. The sub is powered so the amp is built into the box. Hope this helps.

 

[aquilon]

I've only replaced my factory JBL blown sub with a Pioneer one I picked up on Amazon for like $60 or so and it sounds great!

 

[WhiteBoomer04]

I'm desperate to upgrade my system after 13yrs of ownership! Hope you dont mind me asking some questions which I hope aren't taken as criticism..just want to understand the whys and wherefores...

... Disconnected rear factory JBL sub and added this Rockford P-300 powered sub. Sounds amazing (paid $145 shipped used off EBay).

https://www.crutchfield.com/S-pjFILolWOJB/p_575P30012/Rockford-Fosgate-Punch-P300-12.html

Where are you putting this inside the truck?

Installed Infinity Kappa 6.5 coaxials in front doors (2ohm speakers) to match existing JBL 2ohm factory 6x9's.

https://www.crutchfield.com/S-NgnEBJPFGwT/p_1086211I/Infinity-Kappa-62-11i.html

When I search these on the Crutchfield site, it says they don't fit a 4th gen and to use 6 3/4. Yours are 6 1/2. Is this why they say they wont fit, or possibly the depth? Why the difference and will you have to modify or make something to make them fit in the stock location? Also, what is your thoughts on replacing the rear door speakers too?

Thanks in advance for your feedback! :bluejump:

 

[wmflyfisher]

I'm desperate to upgrade my system after 13yrs of ownership! Hope you dont mind me asking some questions which I hope aren't taken as criticism..just want to understand the whys and wherefores...

Thanks in advance for your feedback! :bluejump:

Sure thing and no problem. The Rockford sub just sits in the back facing the rear up against the rear seat. There is a quick disconnect plug on the side of the box where the power, negative, and remote wire connects. If I need to utilize the back for more room I just unplug and pull it out. It really doesn't take up much room anyways.

You are correct the kappas do not show up on the Crutchfield site when you plug in the vehicle info but trust me they fit but you will need some front door adapters. I made some out of 1/2" starboard material but there is plenty of clearance behind them with the window rolled down. Maybe 1.5 inches if I have to guess. Check tacotunes for adapters, eBay or Crutchfield. They all sell them.

I plan to replace the rear doors one day but they honestly don't sound that bad. The JBL speakers really aren't that bad with the factory amp. Replacing the head unit is what will make the main difference in the sound. I tend to fade the system a little to the front so the rear doors don't get pushed that hard anyways. They're just for full. I will replace them one day.

The tweeters are next. Once I replace those I'll be done for a while. I'm super happy with how it sounds now and yes, I listen to it loud frequently!

 

[wmflyfisher]

And I also should mention it's important to have your crossover points set correctly at the head unit for all the speakers as this will really make them shine. Even the factory JBL's. They will sound like shit when loud if the crossover isn't utilized.