Ok,
To start, did A LOT of reading, including subxero's reeeaaallly long thread that was very informative.

I did car audio sales/install years ago, but got out just before the 5th gens hit the market. So, I'm wondering what is the best plan f action to improve SQ, while keeping budget in mind.

Due to the amp signal issues I have been considering a couple options and wanted to get feedback from those that have upgraded.

1. Upgrade the deck; I assume this could possibly improve the clarity/depth of the system. Issue: I have read about the voltage inconsistancies and am not sure which deck with 4v can keep me from having to run the PAC adapter.

2. Upgrade front speakers to higher quality 2 ohm units and keep the rest stock. Issue: If the deck is the cause of poor SQ, the speaker upgrade will not make much difference.


3. upgrade the sub (which i will eventually do either way) I have chosen the 8" L5 ( http://www.kicker.com/solo-baric_L5 ) in a .66 sealed enclosure. Issue: The bass will drownd out the mids/highs of the BLOSE F/U.

4. Install an active crossover BEFORE the bose amps to improve SQ signal and build a sound stage with highs/mids/lows. I feel if this would work, it could give the greatest overall improvement.
Issues : I have done similar things many times with factory non bose units years ago on factory domestic systems with great results. However, I'm a newbie to Nissan/Bose Car audio


All constructive input is appreciated,

Thanks in advance,
DC

 

1. 4V is ideal but I am running 2.5V RCA out and having great results from my JVC HD HU. I haven't replaced the stock bose speakers, becuz of the customizing of the deck the sound clarity is much better than stock HU. Could it sound better with after market speakers set up? Sure! But that all comes down to what you are looking for.

2. I would try using an after market HU and see what you think. Everyone has their liking to sound clarity. I guess it all comes down to preference and what the budget is like!!!

3. I would opt for 10 or 12 for better Bass, but that all comes down to your budget and how much bass you are looking for! If you do opt for bigger subs definitely look in to getting a bass **** so you can control the bass level...

4. Don't know too much about having a crossover in line but I do know that newer decks you can customize to your liking. So putting one in line might be an over kill? I really can't say for sure but after the HU install and customize the eq and volume level see how it turns out, and if it's not to your liking add in components to see if that makes the sound quality better.

Like I said before it all comes down to your budget and your idea of what sound clarity is. It's all about preference, you know!!!







I have swapped the amp pictured with a Memphis 16-PR2.150 and I am so much happier with the result!

 

Thanks for the input, So if im to understand you correctly you didnt need to use the pac adapter with that deck correct? I would prefer to utiliaze a decks preamp outputs for the factory bose system and possibly add supplemental tweets/ mids to the deck utilizing its SQ and wattage.


Also, what model deck?

Thanks, hope to get more input as this is something I'd like to do. Regarding the 8" sub, I have heard that Solobaric subs are more efficient in bass production, I'm not set on it but wanted good deep bass without sacrificing trunkspace. The draw to the SOLO L5 was the Bass output of a 10-12 with an 8.

Thanks
DC

P.S. Nice setup

 

Thank you!

My deck is JVC KD HD550, only draw back is that it only has one pre-out with sub out. Usually I like to buy them with dual preout with sub out but since I am not using external amps it will do...

My mistake for misleading you, I am using the adapter but the sound quality is to my liking... I did call Nissan dealer spoke to a technician and he told me that you can add an external amp to the stock bose speakers but would use 50 watt rms. I have a JL e4300 amp at my disposal for an upgrade but just didn't see the need to upgrade.

I hear very good things about Kicker Solobaric speakers. Just out of curiosity, wouldn't you get better bass production thru a vented enclosure? I know you spoke about the trunk space but with a 8" sub you could use a vented enclosure and still have enuff trunk space?

I will take a pic of my new amp and upload it!

 

Here is my new amp





my only problem is how I should mount the amp? Any suggestions?

 

Personally,I'd either do a hideaway setup behind the sub and secure the sub with mounting straps or I'd build a dress boad that frames out your sub, is carpeted, and mount it and the Cap for trunk play.

Thanks for the feedbank, I'm thinking about getting a clarion deck with 4v preouts, As to the sealed box, I'm 29 and looking for solid bass but nice tight, and clean; not sloppy. Usually the general rule I adhere to is SPL=ported, SQ=sealed.

I havent built a system in more than 10 yrs so its kind of interesting to use that type of skillset again.

Keep me posted,

DC

 

You are right better bass with sealed enclosure.
Or should I say SQ!

 

Keep me posted with ur progress man.

 

Any additional opinions?

 

What amp are you going with?

Oh are you going to sound proof your trunk using Dynamat or the cabin?

 

Are you going to get 1 ohm stable amp? Will definitely give you more flexibiltiy!

 

Option 1 is the only way to go, the preferred route, option 1 and add an amp and replace the oem speakers.

 

How goes the install of the stereo comps? Let me know man!