I upgraded the sound system and installed 2-3 layers of sound proofing (separate thread). I replaced all speakers and added an amp and DSP. The JBL MS-8 is the key component of this upgrade as it not only provided the majority of the sound quality upgrade, but it also takes the annoying EQ bug out of the equation. The factory controls (e.g. volume) still work, but the factory EQ is left flat and audio tuning (31-band EQ, Balance, Fader) is performed with the DSP. My goal was to get the best sound quality I could while retaining the factory look (speaker locations) and not exceeding my budget ($1500 for gear & $300 for soundproofing). The sub is the only component that did not stay in the factory location; I felt it imperative to eliminate the plastic sub box. The new sub has an extended cable so it can be easily moved (or removed) in case I need to fold down the seats and use the cargo area.
This upgrade was definitely worth the time and effort. I am extremely pleased with the results which must be heard to really be appreciated. The factory (506-watt Alpine-branded, but not really Alpine) system isn't bad if you can live with tweeters that sound terrible and a sub that sounds like someone banging on a plastic 55-gallon barrel. You could just add a big subwoofer and turn down the harsh treble; eventually you will forget that music is supposed to include high frequencies (many people do this).
Front Doors: Focal ISS 690 (6x9" component)
Rear Doors: Focal ISC 165 (6.5" coaxial)
Dash: Infinity Reference 3002cfx (3.5" coaxial)
D-Pillars: Infinity Reference 3002cfx (3.5" coaxial) (brackets were modified)
Sub: Alpine Type-R DVC SWR-1042D (10")
Amp: Alpine MRP-F300
DSP: JBL MS-8
Focal Door Speakers (Excellent SQ)
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Alpine Amp and JBL MS-8 DSP
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Alpine Sub
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This upgrade was definitely worth the time and effort. I am extremely pleased with the results which must be heard to really be appreciated. The factory (506-watt Alpine-branded, but not really Alpine) system isn't bad if you can live with tweeters that sound terrible and a sub that sounds like someone banging on a plastic 55-gallon barrel. You could just add a big subwoofer and turn down the harsh treble; eventually you will forget that music is supposed to include high frequencies (many people do this).
Front Doors: Focal ISS 690 (6x9" component)
Rear Doors: Focal ISC 165 (6.5" coaxial)
Dash: Infinity Reference 3002cfx (3.5" coaxial)
D-Pillars: Infinity Reference 3002cfx (3.5" coaxial) (brackets were modified)
Sub: Alpine Type-R DVC SWR-1042D (10")
Amp: Alpine MRP-F300
DSP: JBL MS-8
Focal Door Speakers (Excellent SQ)
Alpine Amp and JBL MS-8 DSP
Alpine Sub
