Posted by Tim (IP: 205.188.200.31) on January 27, 2000 at 23:55:14:
In Reply to: Puttin' Tunes in your Mav... posted by John B. on January 27, 2000 at 11:36:34:
: I hit the big 50 in a couple of weeks. My wife (she's the greatest) wants to get me a CD player for my Mav project. Can anyone recommend an in-dash unit (preferably) that will fit well without hacking up the dash? I'm also interested in hearing how you've installed speakers (what size? where? how? what brand and model? degree of satisfaction?), especially in the front. Thanks again in advance for sharing your wisdom and experience.(You know, I don't remember ever seeing anything posted about sound systems before. Don't you guys listen to music or are Mavs too noisy to hear music in? ...just kidding!) John B.
I had a nice, long, detailed message written a moment ago before AOHell bumped me offline, so here's a recap.
CD Player--best bang for the buck-Pioneer (I currently own two DEH series with total satisfaction)-cost-about $180+
--for a little more-Alpine-great stereo but will run about $300+
Rear Package Tray Speakers--NOTHING other than 6X9 JBL GT series speakers. I would get the old model (they just came out with a new one), it is the best speaker money can buy. It'll last forever and has a sound range from Barry White to Luciano Pavarati. The old ones will run about $125/pr and the new ones are $199/pr.
Up Front--Personally not sure as to what size will really fit (many others on the board do know though), but for either a 5.25" or 6.5" I would go with Infinity Reference series or JBL GT's (again, the old models). They will cost about $99/pr. I have both brands and am very pleased with each.
Whatever you do you will need an amp! Your complete system may sound all right without an amp, but it won't sound really right until you do get an amp. Kenwood Exelon series amps are good, but pricey, about $400. I personally like both my Sony and Sherwood amps. They are less expensive and plenty for what I am assuming you are looking for (good all around sound). I am also assuming that you aren't looking for ground-shaking bass, but if you are--MTX, at least 10". If you do want this, which I don't think you do, you will need as much amp as you can afford or you'll be pis_ing in the wind. Circuit City has all of the above mentioned items, and they will meet or beat competitor's prices, I believe up to 90 days after you make a purchase (a good friend of mine is the Car Stereo Sales and Installation manager at the local Circuit City, so I spend a lot of time playing with all of the new toys). Everything I have mentioned is simply my humble opinion, and I'm sure others may argue, but I will stand by my choices. If you take anything from this, PLEASE understand that the 6X9 JBL GT speaker is the most incredible speaker on the market, and very affordable at $125 a pair. Good luck with whatever you decide on. Tim