Boosting the factory radio?

[OVcruzn]

Is there any hope for the factory radio in my DC? I like the functions and look of my 6-disc/Sirius radio but it sounds pretty bad. Is it possible to add an amp to the system or should I look into changing the speakers as well? Thanks for your input.

[rash_girl]

there is always hope when you have money.

we've had a previous discussion on this forum before of decks vs speakers. there wasn't much of a consensus, but there was the opinion that you can upgrade the speakers and run them off the factory deck and still get a good sound. you have alot of options to play with:
a)run all the speakers and possible sub(s) off an amp
b)run the sub(s) only off an amp, speakers off the deck
c)run just the speakers off an amp, no subs
d)maybe look for an equalizer to tighten your sound
e)keep your factory door/rear speakers and add some tweeters

adding an amp alone should clean up the sound. if in doubt, talk to a local installer you trust and ask their opinion. start out small and work your way up to the sound you want.

[:0]

[OVcruzn]

Thanks for the suggestions. I think I'll look into an amp for the existing speakers for now and see how that sounds. Where is everybody putting their sub? I have one in my Tundra that replaced the factory Center console between the front seats. Anybody make one that may replace an existing part in PT's?

[OVcruzn]

OOps forgot to keep reading. Looks like kgdptblue put a powered woofer under his seat....hmmm. I wonder if he has heated/power seats.

[RobGT]

Quality sound starts in the deck...aftermarket will ALWAYS sound better than stock units, no matter what speakers, amps, subs you add to the stock deck.
Aftermarket decks offer more power, cleaner sound, more features and compatibility for future accessories.
Just my $.02!

BTW - Im running stock speakers from a Kenwood deck with a 12" Sub (250 watts) and it sounds awesome!!
Good Luck!

[SHOVEL100]

I had my system hooked up with the stock deck and it rocked
but i wanted to be able to play mp3's so i went with high dollar alpine and the sound was more crisp so robgt is rite but the stock deck i thought sounded really good

[Gary04GT]

Since you like the CD Changer/Sirius Radio unit in your DC2 recommend that you add an amp. Think you will like what you hear, but, if not, then replace the speakers. BTW, according the DC info, the speakers in both the DC2 and GT with the 6-disc CD changers are supposed to be upgraded. Just my two cents.

[llars]

No need to upgrade any of the power wiring or alternator with these systems? But maybe thats only with older cars....
Anyone buying their stuff from Crutchfield? They seem to be close to list $ though....

TIA

[rash_girl]

llars,

depends what you're running, and how its setup.
i cooked the alternator in my '99 mazda protege within 2 years...

so its possible.

[Goldmember]

I used to kill alternators on a regular basics on my 77 Buick Regal with just 2 mid sized amps