DodgeCivic

Hey guys new to the forum, just bought a 2012 LX Coupe used from a Dodge dealership (hence my username.) Sorry if this has been answered, I did a quick search of the forums and didn't really find the answer I'm looking for.

So I want to upgrade my sound system. I don't want a ***** crazy upgrade or anything, I'm looking for something simple and minimal to add a little extra "oomph" to the stock sound. For example, I love the stock sound system in my friend's 2005 Ford 500 so I'm obviously not looking for anything that will be rattling my trunk or even loud enough to hear outside of the car. Just something that will help me enjoy my commute to work a little more.

I'm wondering what the most minimal upgrade (price & work) is that I can do that will get me the most improvement on my sound? Sorry to say I don't really know jack **** about car sound systems so excuse my ignorance.

I know that I can just change the two front speakers/tweeters, and I'm wondering if there's any modding that would have to be done or extra amps installed etc? Or if it's just a matter of getting to the speakers and replacing them with new ones? (or if even replacing just the front speakers is a good option or not.) I have a few friends that have installed sound systems before so i'll probably be able to convince them to help.

I've also seen some people suggest getting one sub and a box + amps for it. I actually have 2 12" subs I bought about 10 years ago (not sure of the brand, maybe MTX) that have been sitting unused in my parent's basement. Considering the fact that I would still need a box + amps etc I was wondering which of the two options would be cheaper, easier and/or better sounding than the other? And if the first option would be better does anyone have any suggestions on speaker brands? (Under $100 would be great, closer to around $60 would be ideal.) Appreciate any help you guys can give.

Kennykid2002

iTrader: (1)

For a newer car, and a minimal work, what I suggest is.
Get a 4 channel amp, run it from the stock head unit, and install it under the driver's seat, run new speakers.
And if you have the budget, get an optional under seat powered subwoofer under the passenger seat.
(Something like this http://www.fusionelectronics.com/car...tive-Subwoofer)

Very discreet, and you'll be able to enjoy your music within the car, without disturbing anyone else, AND have trunk space.

I would sell your old subs to get money to upgrade your equipment.

DodgeCivic

Is it possible to upgrade the front speakers without installing a new amp? And would that be sufficient for what I'm looking for? I feel like having a sub (8" or not) right under my seat would be a bit overkill for what I'm looking for.

Kennykid2002

iTrader: (1)

You could always go the cheapest route and just replace all the stock speakers with aftermarket.

Personally, I would just spend a little more and get the amp.

DodgeCivic

So replacing all the stock speakers is possible without getting a new amp? What kind of difference in sound will the amp provide and will the sound system and/or speakers mess up without a new amp? Any suggestions on speaker brands?

Kennykid2002

iTrader: (1)

Yes, it will be powered by your stock head unit.
The amp makes a world of difference in clarity and tone.

My usual go-to overall average best bang for buck speakers in terms of cost and efficiency are either Inifinity or Rockford Fosgate.

An 8 inch sub under the seat will not be overkill, it'll add enough depth to the lower end of the music spectrum.

n8marsh

I love my underseat subwoofer. Gives the bump without filling my trunk.

DodgeCivic

so in theory I can first upgrade my front component speakers, then later when I'm more inclined and saved up more money I can install an amp and the 8" underseat sub later? Has anyone had any experience with Pyle or Autotek speakers?

Kennykid2002

iTrader: (1)

Yep.

I don't mess with Pyle or Autotek.
You can easily get nicer speakers for their price.

DodgeCivic

any suggestions in that price range or even slightly higher? Maybe ones with good bass considering I won't have a sub for awhile?

Kennykid2002

iTrader: (1)

^
Scroll up, I suggested two good brands.

DodgeCivic

yeah I saw those, but you mentioned that there were better brands in the Pyle/Autotek price range

mattandchris

refer to post on this site...."Are new speakers worth it?".....by CIVICNOOBIE

DodgeCivic

That was a very informative post, thanks guys!

After all the input and more research I've decided that for now I'm just going to upgrade the front speakers and get a slim 8" sub for underneath my seat later down the line. I think I've managed to narrow my choices down to the Polk Audio DB651s and the DB6501.

Any thoughts on if going for the component system vs the coaxial is going to be worth double the price? Also, do you guys think adding some Dynamat insulation to the speakers will be worth it?

Kennykid2002

iTrader: (1)

Great choice, the DB series are what I'm running.
Though, they do lack somewhat in bass.
But if you're planning to get a sub in the future, it will definitely make up for it.

A little bit of dynomat inside the door is not bad, it will help minimally, not significantly.
It's purely optional.

If your car has tweeter sails on the door, I would go with components.
If your car doesnt have tweeter sails, go with the coaxials.

DodgeCivic

Out of curiousity, are there other speakers that would have better bass? And if Tweeter Sails are what I think they are then yes my car has them, although they are actually on the corners of the dash in front/to the side of the seats as opposed to on the door/other side of the side view mirrors.

My friend just suggested that I just get a sub and amps etc and keep my stock speakers if I'm just going to get a sub down the line anyways, he's saying that new speakers won't make that much of a difference to be worth it.