Stereo, speaker, amp, questions and advice appreciated

[zgensler31]

So ive wanted to upgrade the headunit for quite while, pretty , uch since I bought it. Then I read some threads and decided that I should probably switch out the speakers as well, since the stock ones leave so much to desire. And I just recently picked up a couple 12" subs in a box and an amp to power them in a trade....so here I am. Building a stereo system.

This is the first time ive done this. Im not looking for any crazy bass or a super loud system, or to win any competition by any means, just looking for quality, good sounding syatem that I can crank the volume and enjoy.

So I got on crutchfield. Found some stuff I like thats in my price range. And would like to rhn it by you guys for any reviews and advice, cuz well, idk what any of the specs mean or how they coincide with each other.

Hear is the subs and amp I got, guy I got them from ran them together and confirmed that they worked well together, but got some free 15" subs so upgraded after a few months.


20140527_165727 by zgensler31, on Flickr

And the specs for it...

Screenshot_2014-05-31-14-40-41 by zgensler31, on Flickr

And the amp. Earthquake 4 channel 600 watt...

20140527_165831 by zgensler31, on Flickr

Headunit ive basucally decided on because of price, double din, brand and bluetooth capabilities.

Kenwood dpx500bt
$155.99 on amazon
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_113DPX...tml?tp=5684&avf=N&nvpair=AG_Size|FFDouble@DIN

Speakers, I wanted to find a set I like and stick with the same series front and back, so looking at these....

Fromt components-Kenwood KFC P709
Only $66.95 on amazon
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_113KFCP709/Kenwood-KFC-P709PS.html?tp=106

Rear speakers- Kenwood KFC1365S
Basically the same price on amazon $39.99
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_1131365S/Kenwood-KFC-1365S.html

And a basic 4 channel amp to power the speakers...

Clarion XC1410 $88.81 on amazon
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_020XC1410/Clarion-XC1410.html?tp=115
It seems to have great reviews, is compact, and has a decent price as well.

I have found better prices for all of these on amazon as well, so will probably purchase through them.

So...thoughts, opinions, comments... just throwing this out there cuz I dont really know what I doing here lol.

 

[4Runner_101]

amps and subs made in the U.S are usually very well made, especially amps. But if i were you i would have heard them before purchasing just to make sure the amp and/or subs arent blown, but i guess to late for that.

as for the head unit, speakers and amp for the speakers, there pretty decent and good for that price. When i worked at a car audio shop, the best over all product we sold was rockford fosgate, there warranty was great, they rarely failed and best value for the price

 

[BrianSD_42]

we've done a number of threads on this and I've made numerous suggestions already.

If you haven't already done it, I'd suggest you do a search because I won't be able to comment tonight

How to search effectively ----> http://www.toyota-4runner.org/off-t...far-more-accurately-than-standard-method.html

 

[Mr.B]

The system I have in my runner cost me about 2500 and worth every penny. I was brand loyal with my components and subs, both of which were from sundown audio. Sundown components up front in the factory spots and a pair of SA12s I. The rear giving me all the bass I want..for now. As far as amps are concerned, I wanted a pair of amps that are reliable and have a tiny footprint in the car. I ended up going with massive audio for the amps. A 4x100, 4 channel amp and a 2000w mono amp for my subs. Moth amps fit nicely under my drivers seat and do not impede any functions of the seat. I spent a few bucks (something like 500 at the time) on what I consider to be in the top 5 as far as mobile electronics audiophile head units go. It's the pioneer den-80prs and has every single bell and whistle you can think of for someone that loves car audio, yet doesn't feel like dropping a grand or more for a p99 or older copper chassis, burr brown DAC head unit from pioneer, eclipse, or alpine. Funny thing is my tacomas system is almost 5k in mid grade audiophile components with a **** around touch screen 2 din head unit. Got a little off topic here. Shop around for a local company to sell you a product that your ears appreciate and can provide good customer service if/when a problem may arise. Saving a few bucks shopping online doesn't buy face to face, customer relationships. Demo a component set with YOUR favorite music and go from there. Don't worry about rear speakers because it's essentially just "fill". Shop smart and this investment will last you the life of the truck.

 

[zgensler31]

amps and subs made in the U.S are usually very well made, especially amps. But if i were you i would have heard them before purchasing just to make sure the amp and/or subs arent blown, but i guess to late for that.

as for the head unit, speakers and amp for the speakers, there pretty decent and good for that price. When i worked at a car audio shop, the best over all product we sold was rockford fosgate, there warranty was great, they rarely failed and best value for the price

Thanks man. I'll have to look and see if there are some Rockford Fosgate's that might work better. And the subs were basically a throw in on a trade. And the guy works with my brother so I can get ahold of him if there are any problems.

 

[vanion2]

I have basically installed stereos in every car I have owned going back 10 years because it's easy to do, it's done the way I want it, and I don't have to worry about some shop knowing what I have installed in my vehicle. I've been burned by this in the past.

First, I never buy second hand stereo equipment. Why? Because it might work when you install it but you don't know how abused the equipment has been and having to replace used components is just a PITA.

Second, I see all your components but the biggest thing I don't see is your wiring. As in putting a nice speaker on the anemic stock wiring and hooking it up to an amp is a very bad idea. For those 15's you should be running a minimum of 4 gauge wiring for power and ground and it should be wired directly to the battery and chassis. I don't want to complicate this for you but if you want to build a stereo system the wiring should be the first thing you are looking at. It's the hardest part to do but once it's done you are set.

Third, disconnect your ground terminal to your battery before you begin doing anything. The quickest way to ruin a new head unit or amp is to skip this one simple step and fry your equipment.

And last, set aside plenty of time. If you try to do this in a rush you will end up frustrated, forget something, or wire something up wrong. Break it down into steps. Example. The first thing I do is wire up the head unit to the harness that you will use to connect to your factory connector. I do this on my dining room table so that when I get to the vehicle all I have to do is focus on removing the old head unit and plugging in the new one. Then I test it to make sure it works with the factory speakers and such, button it up before moving on to the next phase. Usually I do the speakers in pairs. Like the front door speakers and tweeters. It's during this stage I upgrade the wiring so I only have to remove the door panels once. By doing it in steps you will find it easier to concentrate on just one task at a time. You can even break it up into doing it over different days. Just make sure you complete your objective in the time you allot yourself so you don't forget something.

Stereo building isn't hard but it is time consuming and there are a lot of details that goes into it. I personally won't ever take my vehicle to a stereo shop ever again because once I have everything wired up and I turn the stereo on it's just pure bliss. As for brand loyalty, well, I do my own research and pick the components that best suit my needs. If you have thousands of dollars to spend on something because of a brand name that sounds just as good as a setup that costs $500 bucks then its your money to spend. Just learn how to read the numbers on the speakers and go to different places to get reviews and listen to the hardware. But truth be told most display speakers are set up in ideal conditions so what you hear on the show room floor will sound completely different once it is put into an automotive environment so take it with a grain of salt.

Good luck!

 

[TheeMikeB]

You aren't looking for crazy bass but yet you have a pair of 15s? LOL I have a single 10 and it hits hard enough me.

 

[zgensler31]

You aren't looking for crazy bass but yet you have a pair of 15s? LOL I have a single 10 and it hits hard enough me.

No I have the twelves. The previous owner went from theses to 15. Sorry for the confusion. Lol

 

[zgensler31]

I have basically installed stereos in every car I have owned going back 10 years because it's easy to do, it's done the way I want it, and I don't have to worry about some shop knowing what I have installed in my vehicle. I've been burned by this in the past.

First, I never buy second hand stereo equipment. Why? Because it might work when you install it but you don't know how abused the equipment has been and having to replace used components is just a PITA.

Second, I see all your components but the biggest thing I don't see is your wiring. As in putting a nice speaker on the anemic stock wiring and hooking it up to an amp is a very bad idea. For those 15's you should be running a minimum of 4 gauge wiring for power and ground and it should be wired directly to the battery and chassis. I don't want to complicate this for you but if you want to build a stereo system the wiring should be the first thing you are looking at. It's the hardest part to do but once it's done you are set.

Third, disconnect your ground terminal to your battery before you begin doing anything. The quickest way to ruin a new head unit or amp is to skip this one simple step and fry your equipment.

And last, set aside plenty of time. If you try to do this in a rush you will end up frustrated, forget something, or wire something up wrong. Break it down into steps. Example. The first thing I do is wire up the head unit to the harness that you will use to connect to your factory connector. I do this on my dining room table so that when I get to the vehicle all I have to do is focus on removing the old head unit and plugging in the new one. Then I test it to make sure it works with the factory speakers and such, button it up before moving on to the next phase. Usually I do the speakers in pairs. Like the front door speakers and tweeters. It's during this stage I upgrade the wiring so I only have to remove the door panels once. By doing it in steps you will find it easier to concentrate on just one task at a time. You can even break it up into doing it over different days. Just make sure you complete your objective in the time you allot yourself so you don't forget something.

Stereo building isn't hard but it is time consuming and there are a lot of details that goes into it. I personally won't ever take my vehicle to a stereo shop ever again because once I have everything wired up and I turn the stereo on it's just pure bliss. As for brand loyalty, well, I do my own research and pick the components that best suit my needs. If you have thousands of dollars to spend on something because of a brand name that sounds just as good as a setup that costs $500 bucks then its your money to spend. Just learn how to read the numbers on the speakers and go to different places to get reviews and listen to the hardware. But truth be told most display speakers are set up in ideal conditions so what you hear on the show room floor will sound completely different once it is put into an automotive environment so take it with a grain of salt.

Good luck!

Thanks I will be redoing the wiring as well. And your advice on doing it in step sections is great. Appreciate that.

 

[vincer77]

When we did my son's system, I went onto some audiophile forums and they had great recommendations, and knew where to get great deals. I found this to be the most helpful site Car Audio at CarAudio.com

 

[MosesByxbe]

Speakers are a great place to start if you're looking for the ability to listen at a reasonable volume without the desire to shake other vehicles at a traffic light. Add a sub if you want the extra punch.

Right now I'm just on factory speakers/tweeters with the head unit and amp/sub in my signature.

If you run factory speakers from an aftermarket head unit, make sure the head unit has a high pass filter so you aren't sending bass to the speakers. Otherwise, you'll blow the factory speakers. I've got my head unit configured so it only sends bass to the sub and anything higher goes to the speakers.

Discrete subwoofer volume control is also a plus. I find that some studios put way too much or not enough bass in their mix and it's nice to adjust only that component of the system without having to screw with EQ.

Find a car audio shop in your area and ask them to let you mess with a few head unit options. Best Buy can help, but their selection is typically very limited (I also wouldn't let them touch my truck if I were you).

Go with a system that sounds good to you. You're the one who will be listening to it.

 

[3rzrunner]

So ive wanted to upgrade the headunit for quite while, pretty , uch since I bought it. Then I read some threads and decided that I should probably switch out the speakers as well, since the stock ones leave so much to desire. And I just recently picked up a couple 12" subs in a box and an amp to power them in a trade....so here I am. Building a stereo system.

This is the first time ive done this. Im not looking for any crazy bass or a super loud system, or to win any competition by any means, just looking for quality, good sounding syatem that I can crank the volume and enjoy.

So I got on crutchfield. Found some stuff I like thats in my price range. And would like to rhn it by you guys for any reviews and advice, cuz well, idk what any of the specs mean or how they coincide with each other.

Hear is the subs and amp I got, guy I got them from ran them together and confirmed that they worked well together, but got some free 15" subs so upgraded after a few months.


20140527_165727 by zgensler31, on Flickr

And the specs for it...

Screenshot_2014-05-31-14-40-41 by zgensler31, on Flickr

And the amp. Earthquake 4 channel 600 watt...

20140527_165831 by zgensler31, on Flickr

Headunit ive basucally decided on because of price, double din, brand and bluetooth capabilities.

Kenwood dpx500bt
$155.99 on amazon
Kenwood DPX500BT CD receiver at Crutchfield.com

Speakers, I wanted to find a set I like and stick with the same series front and back, so looking at these....

Fromt components-Kenwood KFC P709
Only $66.95 on amazon
Kenwood KFC-P709PS Performance Series 6-3/4" component speaker system — also fits 6-1/2" openings at Crutchfield.com

Rear speakers- Kenwood KFC1365S
Basically the same price on amazon $39.99
Kenwood KFC-1365S Sport Series 5-1/4" 2-way speakers at Crutchfield.com

And a basic 4 channel amp to power the speakers...

Clarion XC1410 $88.81 on amazon
Clarion XC1410 Compact 4-channel car amplifier — 50 watts RMS x 4 at Crutchfield.com
It seems to have great reviews, is compact, and has a decent price as well.

I have found better prices for all of these on amazon as well, so will probably purchase through them.

So...thoughts, opinions, comments... just throwing this out there cuz I dont really know what I doing here lol.

The head unit you have selected is the same one I have in my 4runner, its awesome I love the display and the Bluetooth capability.
As for the 6.5" kenwoods I HAD them in the front doors of my 4runner powered off a 6channel A/D/S/ amp and they sucked so bad. absolutely crap. no bass response and the mids where sketchy, and the crossover is ridiculous. I have swapped in a set of HERTZ components and its like night and day better.

 

[zgensler31]

The head unit you have selected is the same one I have in my 4runner, its awesome I love the display and the Bluetooth capability.
As for the 6.5" kenwoods I HAD them in the front doors of my 4runner powered off a 6channel A/D/S/ amp and they sucked so bad. absolutely crap. no bass response and the mids where sketchy, and the crossover is ridiculous. I have swapped in a set of HERTZ components and its like night and day better.

Thanks for the reviews man.
I've been looking around at different speakers as well.

Did you have a sub wired up to your system as well? Just curious.

 

[3rzrunner]

Thanks for the reviews man.
I've been looking around at different speakers as well.

Did you have a sub wired up to your system as well? Just curious.

Yep. I have a 3 way system front and rear
separate woofer, mids, and tweets, front and back
also 2 subs in the trunk.
and A/D/S/ ph15.2 amp and A/D/S/ 642ix pre amp

ill send you a Pm.

 

[ELock3rdGen]

Sound system. What can I say. Everyone ear is different so if I were you I would install it and see how it sounds. I have a sound system in my car but it is setup to my liking not to my passenger nor to the guy driving next to me. I have been doing this car audio for some time and have always found that he most important unit in a car audio system is the head unit. Other might disagree but that is my opinion. Do what your budget allows not what others recommend because truth of the matter is the only ear that it will really matter to is yours.