Alright, for a while I've been searching for an aftermarket unit that would work with the Bose system in my 4th gen GLE. I knew it'd be hard to find (and now it looks like it's not going to happen) and I'm not wasting a lot of money buying from Nissan... so I guess it's time that I just replace the entire system.

I'm not really experienced when it comes to car audio systems, so I need A LOT of advice. I already know that I'm going to need to replace everything (amp, head unit, speakers...) so first of all I'm just looking for some suggestions on mid price range alternatives. I'm not too concerned about power (at least, not yet) - more about sound quality and clarity.

Secondly, what kind of money am I going to be putting down to replace the whole system (and this includes getting a 6 or more disc changer, since that's what started all of this). I'm guessing $1000+?

And finally, how difficult is it going to be to replace everything? I have experience in installing new speakers, amps, and head units... but I've never had to replace an entire system at the same time. Am I better off just having someone else do it for me?

Hoping to get some good advice. Thanks in advance.

EDIT: Oh, and a few other questions/comments...

1) Sometime late next year I plan on selling this car and getting a 2002 so I can get a 6-speed. Any reason I won't be able to transfer the components I buy now to that car (ie, I'm not sure of the differences in sound system set up between 4th and 5th gens)?

2) Sorry if this entire thread sounds a little vague, but I meant it to be that way - with my other two cars I've always had a definite and single component to upgrade (first HU so I could use a cd changer, then speakers for better sound, amp for more power, etc.) which made things easier... but the idea of replacing the entire sound system in one swoop is a bit daunting. So, again, I appreciate the advice.

Thanks...

 

Head Unit(s):
Pioneer DEH-P6400-Great mid level deck, retails for $279 + Shipping
Pioneer DEH-P7400MP- Adds High Pass Filter and MP3 playback, if you are interested, retails for 329 + Shipping

CD Changers:
Pioneer CDX-P1270 12-disc CD Changer, Retails for 220 + Shipping

Door Speakers:
I would recommend going to a local retailer like Best Buy or Circuit City and listening to their 6.5" coax selection. This is something that you want to hear before you buy, but a good set will run 75-120 bucks a pair

Amps:
Not necessary to start unless you plan to add a sub. If you are going to do this expect an additional 300-500 bucks depending on amp/sub/enclosure/wiring combintaions. You can get an amp for your high's which is a great thing to do if money allows but you will be fine powering them from the deck for now.

E-bay/Crutchfield:
All the above links are to Crutchfield's website for descriptions and pics. If you order from them the 6400, and changer they will give you combo special and knock 25 bucks off making your total including shipping $490, not a bad deal, but if you are comfortable ordering things off of ebay check out these links, they will save you 150-200 bucks on your entire system.

Pioneer DEH-P6400 200 or less

Pioneer CDX-P1270 Changer for 170

Your total costs for: HU, Changer and (4)6.5" Coax door speakers would be 750-800 from a retailer or 600ish if you get it all from Ebay.

If you have any car audio install experience you should be able to handle this install. Just take it one step at a time and in a few hours youll be jamming. I recommend Pioneer stuff because Ive had such good experiences with them...other opinions may differ accordingly!

Warbucks

 

First of all, thanks for all of your advice!

Secondly, doesn't the Maxima use oversized 6.5" speakers? I had it in my head that I'd definetly have to buy 6 3/4" speakers, but am I better off just getting regular 6.5"s and use some kind of mounting bracket to get them in the factory spots?

 

I bought regular 6.5's and they worked fine, no modification necessary. There may be room for 6.75's also but Im not 100% sure...

Warbucks

 

yes they are 6.75's. as for putting the stuff in all at once, its easier doing that, than taking it apart 4 times to put a new thing in each time, although you will know your car a lot better if you have to take it apart that many times.

and as far as the amount of time it takes...my friends (3 friends plus me) had an entire system in my friends car, and had him rolling in 1/2 hr. course, thats 4 guys working on different parts, and starting totally stock. now, we didnt replace the highs, but we had to do the cd player, the whole wiring harness, the amp wiring kit, the amp, and the subs/box/etc.

eric

 

Rewiring everything is what has me worried, but I guess I should be able to handle it. I'll have someone around to help (although he's a moron when it comes to cars, electronics, or sound equipment - so he's really just there to give me two extra hands ) so that should speed things up a bit.

If all goes well I should have everything I need in about two weeks. Wish me luck..