I have the S500 and was wondering if someone could explain (better yet, pics) the layout of the 500 system. Is all of the amplification in the H/U, or are there separate amps? If so where are they located? What is the input/output configuration? I might be the minority, but I like the MP3 capable 6-disc changer. Is there a way to improve sound quality through swapping amps? Any way to add a fader to the door subs or adjust the crossovers, maybe an EQ? Sorry, kind of thinking to myself...

I'll need to step up slowly (just bought CAI/X-Cal 2). I have replaced the factory door speakers with Infinities which sound pretty good, but I think the stock H/U is the weak link. I'll probably get another pair for the rear deck, but I think I'd like to hear the new fronts on a different head unit first.

It seems like the door subs only play the real lows and the door mids are clipped too high. The mids just die out. I'd like to keep the door subs (at least for now), but need to consider where replacement amps might be located and getting all the wiring where it needs to go.

If any of you have "stepped" your way through a S500 upgrade, I'd like to hear about it. I'm not necessarily looking for a blasting loud system, just one that sounds good and clear across the whole range. Any recommended, reasonably priced replacement equipment suggestions would be appreciated.

Thanks

D-

 

The amps for the Shaker 500 are located in the kick panel by your left foot as you sit in the drivers seat. Look up and there they are. The dealership told be they are rated at 90 watts. There is one amp for each door sub. They run into two channels for the dual voice coil subs which are labeled 60watts x2, 1.6ohm x 2.

Aftermarket amps can be added to the factory HU by purchasing a wiring harness adapter which gives you RCA outs in place of the output to the factory amps. Crutchfield carries the adapter.

I do not know the HU's output specs, but with the amps only adding up to 180 watts, I keep wondering where they get the 500 in Shaker 500 from.

Also, from reading almost every post in this forum, I can tell you that the general concensus is to go aftermarket with the HU. Most people are going with Alpine, Kenwood, and Pioneer's AVIC Double Din video displaying units.

 

what!