I am trying to replace the stock system in my 2002 SE. I already have a Focal 12in Sub with a 1000W Xplod amp in my trunk. I am thinking of spending about $600 on the headunit and 4 speakers (approx. $200-$300 on the head and $300-$400 on the speakers.) Does anyone have any suggestions for either items in the suggested price range. Should I spend more in either section and in turn spend less on the other? Thanks.

 

I'd spend around $200 on your HU, I like Pioneer or Alpine, only replaced my Pioneer because I wanted the Alpine MP3 deck. As for your speakers get a good set of components spend maybe $200-300 and a good amp to power them. I just bought some Focal 165K2s, if I were you I'd go Focal since you already have the Focal sub. Make sure you get a good amp to power them though, they'll sound a lot better. I you want rear speakers I'd get some cheaper ones and put as much as you can into the components/amp. I took out my rears myself; you won't notice it unless you're in the back. Even them my components are plenty loud enough for the rear passengers.

 

sorry but a $200. headunit is really Mediocre!
Yes, you may have some great sounding speakers, the focals, but your music will sound only as good as the weakest link! In this case the HU. Your speakers will just reproduce the crappy signal theyr're given. Since you have the 600. budget for a headunit get an eclipse 8052 So clean and clear you'd wanna smack somebody. for your speakers, i would go with focals or diamonds. PM pearl96max he can get all of this stuff for you, and he's not expensive at all!

 

Why are you trying to replace the stock headunit? I am running the output of the stock Bose headunit to a audiocontrol 4.1 eq line driver located in the center console. It will handle the differentially balanced signal coming from the Bose/Clarion headunit that comes stock on Bose cars. That retains the stearing wheel controls and also looks bone stock (very important if you don't want you stuff getting stolen)

 

I don't have the Bose head unit. I just have the crappy factory sound system which sounds awful. I think I want to spend $300-$350 for a head unit and $300 for the 4 speakers. Can you guys give me any suggestions for brands for either items. I mean should I go with Kenwood, Alpine,Sony???!? How are Memphis speakers? Thanks for your help.

 

I paid a little over $200 for my Pioneer 7300 deck last year, you can get a good head unit for under $300. How much is the Eclipse deck? I've never used Eclipse deck personally so I don't really have an opinion on them. It would be hard to get Focal/Diamond speakers and an amp to run to them if he spent any more than $300 on a deck.