Stereo upgrade

[Eastsoutheast]

Hi All

I have taken pictures along the way which I will post when I can work out how to. I started by having a Sony 6000BT head unit fitted, great unit and once the microphone was properly located I can talk on the phone with the roof down.

I added a pair of Focal PS 165's which are the performance version of the AS 165's. I managed to get them for only £30 more than the AS's so as a music lover it seemed a worthwhile upgrade. I spent a weekend fitting which included making MDF brackets, foam gaskets, modified arm rest foam for xovers, sound deadening in both doors, one door totally sealed one partially (still trying to decide which I prefer), cabling for everything and a tough time installing the tweeters.

I had already decided on putting speakers in the rear storage doors but went round in circles deciding what and how. I have a Pioneer 1200 watt slim sub from a previous car plus a matching Alpine mono amp. I decided to not fit this as I was concerned about rattles, strength of storage doors, location of partnering components being compromised and practicality.

I purchased a Rockford Fosgate Punch 8004 which would power two pairs of components (front doors rear storage doors) but did not realise how big it was. Despite the initial plan being to install it in the storage area (it did fit just) I changed plans, removed the spare wheel and moved the alarm. The amp will be fitted in there, on MDF (painted and sealed) which will be mounted onto the floor of the frunk with Sorbothane feet to avoid rattles and too many vibrations.

I was going to use a pair of AS 165's in the rear and decided on components so I can experiment with placement. I ended up buying a pair of Focal PS 165 FX and realised they would be better than the ones I just fitted in the front doors!!!! I spent half a day changing just the passenger side because of time and to compare. It was a real pain as the cross overs are totally different so I had to re-mount and change all my cabling. It sounded better which was good news and I have just finished changing the other side. WOW the FX's sound so much better in every way and that's being powered by the head unit.

I spent a long time installing the speakers into the rear doors as I had some important objectives.

Not lose 1cm of legroom - meant comming up with a way of flush mounting the speakers.
Keep storage doors independent for practicality.
Expose as much of the main driver as possible to avoid a muffled sound.
Make it look as neat and well integrated as possible.

I can honestly say I achieved every objective and am really pleased with the result. I will share pictures of this part of the build as it may be of interest.

Hopefully I can get the amp fitted next weekend and I am going to have wiring for a sub fitted at the same time terminating in the storage area in case I decide I need a sub.

Hope I have not bored you with my rather long post and that you found every so slightly interesting.

Cheers

[Anonymous]

Sounds like a very well thought out and executed plan.
Look forward to seeing some pictures