OK, I'm thinking about totally redoing my system in my car, however I'm stumped as to what's truely the best bang for the buck. I'll list what I have, and I'd like for you guys to rate it on a scale from 1-10, 1 = total crap, 10 = totally awesome, like sex on wheels. I've mainly been looking at a full Alpine system, Alpine everything, but being that my audio knowledge is near zilch, I really need some help with this one, especially when dealing with Amp wattage, how goes with the multi channels, what channel setup I'd need to run both bass and speakers, or is there a better way, and just any more knowledge in general. When it comes to audio, just assume I know nothing and we'll go from there. Also what other good brands are there that's not in the main stream that's both affordable, and great.

Eclipse In Dash Multisource Reciever 07 Model
Boston Acoustic Tweaters - 06 model
5" X 7" Eclispe 2 way Speakers - 06 model
10" JL Audio W2 Subs - 05 model
Dual 10" Box
Sony Silver Series 1200W Amp - 05 model

OK with that done, what would you rate the following brands in quality on the same scale in stereos, speakers, AMPs, Subs and any feedback you can give would be appreciated

Alpine
Eclipse
JL Audio
Kenwood
Other

 

This is a touchy subject in the audio forums..be prepared for a lot of feedback!

 

I'm extremely open, I just ask that you guys respect each others opinions. I'm mainly asking this to learn more myself as I'm very ignorant when it comes to car audio, or electronic in general lol.

 

Eclipse In Dash Multisource Reciever 07 Model
Boston Acoustic Tweaters - 06 model
5" X 7" Eclispe 2 way Speakers - 06 model
10" JL Audio W2 Subs - 05 model
Dual 10" Box
Sony Silver Series 1200W Amp - 05 model


Model numbers are much more helpful.

And is your box a pre-fab or did you build or have someone actually build it?

You want to use the decent stuff you have and replace the not so hot equipment, or do you strait up want to start over?

 

I love my alpine and its a very good hu, 9883 is the model # i beleve

 

Pfft if I remember the exact models. I'm more or less looking to just take out the weak spots, but if there are better things out there, then I'm willing to start over. This is something that I'm going to do over a long time, engine, drivetrain, and body work is going to be eating away at my funds for a few more months, but it's deffinitly something I want to start getting into, learning more about, and getting everything setup right. It took me 3 years to get engines down pat well enough to do my own work, so I want to go ahead and get the basics about audio down, and get some broader knowledge about what's good and what's not.

 

Well without model numbers, as long as your Eclipse HU isn't the bottom of the line model you should be fine with that.

If you like the sq and SPL you get from your JL's keep them too. I would definatly get rid of your Sony amp, I assume your powering your front stage off your deck, which getting a separate amplifier to power those is an excellent idea. Not sure what got you to mix your mids and tweeters though. I would suggest a $200ish set of CDT components, great bang for the buck.

Also if your box is a pre-fab, consider building one, or having one built for you, a properly built and tuned box can make a world of difference in the sq and spl you get from your subwoofer setup.

 

Yea, my box is prefabed. My Eclipse is basically the same one Circuit City sells now. It's the highest end ($250) price range, model that's non DVD, LCD screen.

The speakers were 2 way (I believe) $99 models. The tweeters I'm satisfied with and they ran $150 if memory serves me right. I know the amp is a weak spot, but I'm also a little unhappy with the bass. The W2s really just don't seem to hit hard.

Under the same thing I'd still just like to know if there is anything better or if it's worth it? Also what channel amp should I look into, and what are the advantages/uses of mono, two, four, and five channel amps. Any opinions on Alpine Amps/bass?

 

The W2's were not meant to be ground pounders. You could go with 2 amps a mono and a 2 channel or u could go with a 4 channel and run entire system. Bridge 2 channel to run the subs. Alpine subs are not going to get u any better proformance then your w2's so no need for that and there amps are ok but theres better for the money basicly stay away from anything bestbuy or circuit sells. I mean there are many many options you could go with.

 

Head units - Eclipse, Alpine, Pioneer, some Clarion
Components - DLS, High End MB Quart, Rainbow, CDT, eD, Mid to high end Boston Acoustics,
Amps - eD, Zapco, Diamond, Profile(if looking to go budget), DLS
Subwoofers - Sound Splinter, old RE, eD, Adire(if you can find it), Shiva, Fi, Aura