help on choosing new sound system?

Question

Alright, I admit I have no idea when it comes to cars, or audio. But what I want is hard hitting bass, but still a clear sound to the music. I listen to mostly rap but also country, rock and other genres. I have an old 1992 Jetta. I'd rather not spend over a grand but if I have to wait to save up more money I will (I have no clue how much this will cost, I hope its only around $500 if possible). But i've tried doing some research and these are the products I've found. I don't know anything about watts, ohm, wires or anything else... so your input is greatly appreciated!! I'm assuming once I buy everything I can just have someone local install it... I'm not sure how much that will be either. Anyways this is what I've found already

http://www.amazon.com/Hifonics-Brutus-BRZ1200-1D-D-Class-Block/dp/B0036B8URK

http://www.amazon.com/BRAND-KICKER-07CVR12-4-VOICE-SUBWOOFERS/dp/B002XF5IUW/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1318707168&sr=1-5
http://www.amazon.com/Kicker-11DS65-2-Audio-Component-Speakers/dp/B004K5890Y/ref=sr_1_1?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1318707338&sr=1-1
http://www.crutchfield.com/p_113HD548U/Kenwood-KDC-HD548U.html?tp=5684
http://www.amazon.com/PK4Z-Gauge-Power-Amplifier-Installation/dp/B000Q6DLTK/ref=pd_bxgy_e_img_b


with everything here, it comes out to somewhere around $630 I think (that's with 2 of those subs)

Here's another option maybe? http://www.crutchfield.com/p_700DX1K112/Kicker-1000-watt-dual-12-Bass-Package.html?tp=442

Thanks guys!

Side note: Since my car is so old, I'm wondering if there will be any places to install the speakers in? Does it matter what type of car you have?

Answer 1

If you want subs to "bump" you'll need more than 2 400 Watt rms compVRs to do it, especially from a closed trunk. I've had a hifonics amp that got so hot my cloth passenger seat got small circular burns in it. If you want to go ahead, you'll need an amp for each sub, and make sure you wire them in a 2 ohm configuration, else you have blown subs. Forget the door speakers, they'll handle the bass when you turn it up. Any best buy with mobile installation can install this stuff, installing an amp can be tricky if you've never done it. If it were me, i'd wait till you can buy a quality single sub and amp as opposed to buying bulk sub par subs and amps. BTW electronically you're car should be fine without modifications there, but i'm not totally sure since your car's a 1992 model.



PS: if you install as is you may end up with an awkwardly off balance sound that you can't get real loud leaving you wondering if it may have not even been worth the money, in my opinion anyway. I'd keep saving and doing research... 1 great sub is better than 2 sub par ones.

Answer 2

Two kicker cvr's is plenty to start with if powered correctly and set up correctly, however, i would also recommend Getting one high quality sub and one high quality amp. 10" or 12" sub for accurate bass. Alpine type r, jl audio w series, something along those lines. You'll want a mono amp that meets the sub's RMS handling wattage, or exceeds it slightly (10%-20%). Don't skimp on wiring, good quality wiring protects your amplifier and doesnt overheat. I'd go with a sealed enclosure for more accurate bass. The subwoofer you buy will have enclosure recommendations in the manual.



It does matter what car you have but a 92 Jetta should be normal installation at best buy. Although if you don't care the job being professionally and neatly done in that car, do it yourself and save $150. Best buy is probably the most expensive place to have it installed, i think their prices are on their website.



An amplifier and a battery are two completely different things. The amplifier only draws power from your battery in order to operate. Your alternator charges you battery when the car is running so it doesn't die. All the power driving your speakers comes from the amplifier. If the car has a good battery (and by good I mean properly functioning and holding a charge) and properly working alternator, you should be fine.

Answer 3

Alpine Type-R SPR-17S - Car speaker system is a great set of components. Make sure you power them to the recommended wattage. Unfortunately, most amps that can push at least 110 watts at 4 ohm's are more expensive than these speakers. I am running a set off of these only using 55 watts rms and they sound great. Clear and accurate.