Hello,I have a Stock 2001 Ford Taurus SES.I was wondering if it is possible to install a subwoofer and amp that will work with the stock system. I was going to get a Sony Xplod 1200 watt amp and subwoofer.How much do you think this will cost to install?THINK
Replies (24)
swez on 08/6/2008 21:20:35
Yes, you can easily add a modest sub amp and sub(s) to your exisiting system if the amp you choose has speaker line level inputs.
Here, we simply tap audio signals off the rear speakers and run them to the input side of the amp that has audio reducing circuits built into many amps these days.
If the amp does not have speaker level inputs, it will only have low signal type RCA style jacks for input. Here, a special "Audio Attenuator Circuit" device is needed to bring the speaker level voltage down to a line level voltage range the amp can used.
We recommend Class D MONO sub amps for bass. These are single channel amps that power only subs. They are more efficient, (80% eff.) with power consumed VS power available for subs. The other type of amps on the market are Class A/B amps. These are great for full range speakers and OK for subs, but consume more power and lower rated output to subs. (60-65% eff)
Cost of installs vary by geographical location and the amount of competition in a given area where you live. It pays to shop around and get a few quotes on parts and labor. Parts include power and ground cables, inline fuse and perhaps a remote amp turn on trigger line.
Why lock on a Sony amp? There are many solid brands that cost less, have more features and often cost less. (Better bang for your buck) Say more about what you want for this install and how much room you have for sub(s) in the trunk. Knowing more about how much bass you want will help us guide you to a quality setup at a reasonable budget. (1 or 2 10's, a single 12" or a pounding "street beater" bass system?)
Swez
PS Welcome to CK!
Ash on 08/7/2008 09:08:57
Right on spot there Swez.....
Don't forget to account for some simple passive crossovers (capacitors) since you will be adding a bass engine. You will want to use them on the stock locales since they will no longer have a need to dig deep into the bass register. This will help to bring more clarity to the system and is a easy minimal cost upgrade.
These type systems are becoming more popular as car manufacturers implement better components and consumers want less expensive setups. Still leaves room for later upgrades if needed.
swez on 08/7/2008 16:50:09
This may be unique to Ford Stock systems, but I find that just cutting the bass level on the tone contols do a good job at allowing the typical 6x8" speaker to do a good job on MB/MR as is. These stock radios have a wideed band "Q" for bass that is likely centered at ~80-100 Hz.
By setting the bass tone control to flat of +/- a few dB, I seem to get reasonablly good MB/MR. When adding a Bass Engine as mentioned, a little tweaking and gain settings will take care of the rest.
I noted a similar thing with stock GM units with the 5 band EQ feature. (Flat on 60 Hz., and perhaps a few dB boost @ 125 Hz., did very well too)
Just an observation and my 2 cents,
Swez
kylezm on 08/7/2008 18:28:20
Thank u for all the response.to answer some questions.I was thinking of 1 or 2 subs.I havent totally decided wat size.either 10 or 12.Im not sure how much room exactly is in it.it is a 01 ford taurus ses sedan.so at the far back of the trunk it narrows to about 3-4 ft wide.Its plenty long enough.I was thinking of having 1-2 subs firing straight back towards the bumper.I do want bass but I dont want to break or crack my windows.The stock system isnt really that bad I just want a boost.I like alot but not like where I cant stand to be in the vechile.I bought a Deluxe 8 gauge wiring kit from USA LINK for $20.00.Can u give me a few good bang for the buck type brand names for subs and amps.I want it to last but I dont want to spend alot.If u cant tell this is the first time Im going to upgrade a system.Now I do have some ?'s. Is 1200 watts or so like crazy take your bumper off type loud.What range of watts do you think is a medium-high level.I kind of want it clear.So I heard that 10s are not as distorted as 12s.
swez on 08/8/2008 02:49:23
The Sony eXplode series is not a true 1200 Watts. (Continous or RMS power is what we look at, NOT Peak or Max power) It's not a horrible choice amp series, but for the cost VS real performance, that series is not a good bang for your buck is all.
That #8 gage wiring kit will limit your amp choices to about 50-60A's of current draw. As mentioned before, the best choice will be a Class D Mono sub amp that is rated at 400-500 watts RMS. That's plenty of sub power for a non-amplified stock system like this one. Consider Alpine's older series amps as they are easy to find and a very good value bargain. (Well under $200.00 and a good investment grade product)
Alpine MRP-M500 $150.00
http://www.onlinecarstereo.com/CarAudio/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=19251
As for a sub to match, the Alpine SWR series offer 10 & 12" sub models that do a very good job in small sealed enclosures. Here, the SWR-1242D or 1024D are both very good choices. They are both rated at 500 watts RMS and will give you plenty of clean thump when you want it. The best price on this sub is just over $100.00 from etronics.com. If you want the specs and some pictures, go here:
http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Product/Item/Main.aspx?search=Alpine+SWR%2D1242D&i=500SWR1242
More questions, just ask
Swez
PS We know you are new to this game and there are many tricks and deceptions used to rate amps, subs and speakers to make them look like strong products, but they are far from it.
kylezm on 08/8/2008 06:49:45
Thanks for the brand names,advice,etc.I was looking for something maybe a little cheaper
swez on 08/8/2008 11:26:10
OK, cheaper can be arranged at the expense of quality, less power and reliability.
http://www.onlinecarstereo.com/CarAudio/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=17789
Kenwood KAC-8103D: $127.00
http://www.onlinecarstereo.com/CarAudio/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=16898
Kenwood KFC-W3514DVC: $79.00
Some careful shopping can bring the prices down if you wish. Avoid going to "lame brand" names that don't stack up to brands already mentioned.
One brand that seems to offer solid performance and low prices w/ good quality would be the Powerbass line of amps and speakers. Another option is to go small in amp power. (300 watts RMS is good thump too) If done right, this will make your rear view fuzzy too.
Comments?
Swez
kylezm on 08/10/2008 07:39:27
Thank u for all your help.
Kyle
kylezm on 08/10/2008 07:55:00
Could u just give me a list of companys that are cheaper and are durable?
kylezm on 08/10/2008 08:00:20
Oh.also. I knew I should have just waited and put this all in 1.but I noticed most of the subs u picked out are 4 ohm.Is there a reason 4 that?wats the difference.And can you just buy a sub and make ur own encloseure out of plywood,etc and just cut out a hole for the air to escape or does it have to be a professional sub enclosure?
Thats all I can think of asking 4 now.
kyle
swez on 08/10/2008 08:43:40
Kyle,
Am trying to show "proven" names and products on a tight budget that we know to be worth their salt. If we knew your buget plans, for the entire system, might be able to find you a "package deal", (Amp, sub & enclosure) at the range that is affordable and reliable.
The subs mentioned so far are all 4+4 Dual Voice Coil subs. When wired properly, they give a net 2 ohm load to a Class D amp and the most power available too.
The enclosure for a given sub is probably the most important part of the job for optimal results. The size of the box is determined by the sub specs or Mfg's recommendations. Some brands do very well in small, compact enclosures. (Alpine, JBL, Kenwood) Other brands like Kicker need larger boxes to get the bass right.
Keep asking questions as needed so you don't wind up with an ill-fitted rig. We prefer to get guys before they buy and walk them through the options list until it all fits. Guys who buy mis-matched gear and then ask for help are often very dissappointed at the results and have to replace things later. (Don't be one one of those OK?)
Swez
PS Have been doing Tech Support and some installs on this forum for 9 years now. I cannot say I've never made a bad call for our readers. But they are far and few between and other team, Golds will catch them before any real harm comes. That's why this forum is so popular. We have some very deep roots and guys with expertise in many fields related to mobile audio systems. SMILE
kylezm on 08/10/2008 14:41:43
I know this may sound crazy but I was thinking $200.00.Im trying to find used stuff on ebay.I defenately wont be rushing to get this in cuz I dont want to be one of those guys that screw up and Im trying to save money cuz everytime I try to my dad yells about insurance,my car payment,etc all the while Im just trying to keep gas in my tank.I know you probably have the same kind of money problems.but anyway I will defenately be taking my time.
swez on 08/10/2008 17:33:55
Hehe, am a Dad too and trying to instill the realities of owning a car to a teenage daughter. Learning to live on a budget is hard to get a handle on and it only gets harder later when one finally gets their first credit card. (It's not free money!)
Have a suggestion for you though... sit down and ask Dad for some inputs/support about budgeting to make your car note, insurance and other expenses. Also mention you'd like to budget for a modest audio upgrade in the future and ask what he'd suggest you can do to squirrel away about $300.00 for a pet project. I don't know any good Dad alive that would not jump for joy to see his son/daughter succeed at learning to be self-sufficient and work his/her own way toward success.
Offer to clean out the garage, basement do some painting, wash & vac Dad/Mum's cars or other odd jobs Dad normally does. That shows any Dad that his son is seriously willing to work hard to make a personal goal come true and meet other responsibilities as well.
Finally, time is on your side if you are willing to wait. A weak economy is on your side and prices for things like this have been falling for almost 2 years now. A little more waiting will probably bring a sweet deal to those who wait and drive a hard bargain. (Cash speaks well to sellers who are struggling to make it through the next month)
"Dad... I'm just learning the ropes now. Show me how to work through this little thing now and apply it to bigger things later. I don't know what's ahead and am depending on you to show me what I need before leaving the nest later". I don't know of any Dad that would not want to help with a statement like that from their kids.
Pay attention... this is how Dad's think! A Dad's goal is to launch his kids into a dog-eat-dog world without watching his kids becoming the bait. See what I mean?
Swez
kylezm on 08/30/2008 09:32:03
Hi.I know I havent been on here for a while but this is watsup so far.
I have decided to go with the Alpine SWR-1242D.Now I do have a ?.I was looking around on ebay,etc for a box for it.now with this subwoofer would it be better to have it sealed or unsealed.For a amp I was thinking of a Visonik V218.It is 600watts RMS x 1 channel @ 4ohms bridged.Now I was reading reviews and most people say that these alpine subs can take like 800 watts rms. What wiring kit would you recommend because I dont want it to be starving for power because I was too cheap to get a good wiring kit.8 gauge,4gauge?
swez on 08/30/2008 10:26:42
If you go with Visonik amps, consider the V1201A.
http://www.crutchfield.com/app/product/item/main.aspx?i=028V1201A&search=visonik+car+amp
Shop around and see what the best price you can get on this model.
Buy the Alpine SWR-1242D version. This will give you a net 2 ohm load to an efficient Class D amp. As for the enclosure, go sealed for space and better power handling. (0.85 ft^3) A little shopping on E-bay may net a good box or make it yourself for minimal cost and no S/H fees.
Comments?
Swez
kylezm on 08/30/2008 10:31:28
wat about the wiring?
Ender2 on 08/30/2008 17:29:15
Wiring you say?
From the Crutchfield link -
8-gauge power and ground leads recommended — wiring and hardware not included with amplifier.
Very typically, we place an "In-Line fuse holder" about 12-18" from the Battery. I would recommend one like this -
http://cgi.ebay.com/FUSE-HOLDER-WITH-AGU-5-60-AMP-FUSES-4-8-10-GAUGE-PS91_W0QQitemZ150286888451QQihZ005QQcategoryZ32809QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
We also place one about 12-18" from the amplifier (in the trunk, on the Dblock if you're running two amps which you aren't) Two fuses, more or less, guarantee your amplifier and sub "investments" are protected. I would use a 40amp fuse inside both Fuse holders as the Visonik amp runs at around 40amps at full potential.
So YES, your current wire kit WILL work, but take heed. If you plan to upgrade in the future to a possible 4 channel (door speaker) amp AS WELL as a a strong bass engine it might be worth it now to spend $30 on some 4 or even 2 gauge wire and run those to save yourself some hassle later on. I say this because car audio is addicting and you may just find yourself upgrading again later on. :)
As far as wiring the actual Subwoofers, I think this link is exactly what you need.
http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/ca/learningcenter/car/subwoofer_wiring/1DVC_4-ohm_mono.jpg
Keep us informed! :)
PS. Swez, NewB, MrB (if you're still around) What does a guy gotta do to be able to put in some Hyperlinks? I'm a CSCI Major w/concentration in Web design and can't get them to show up :P
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:03:28
do you think I need to install a capacitor as well?how much does it help?Wat brands,etc?
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:30:42
how much do you think this will cost to install?I really dont want to do it myself because I have no idea what Im doing.I asked best buy and I think they said $80(I say think because I have a short attention span and I wasnt listining.lol.)I was hoping I could find somewhere in the range of $50-100.Oh yeah just figured Id say this.I found a new 12 inch alpine type r that I bought for $110.I spent around $80 for an amp.Jensen Power 900.450 watts x 1 @ 2ohm.I hope your not going to say that I made a bad choice and that that amp is junk.I spent $20-30 on a wiring kit and $40.00 for a sealed enclosure.Heres the beauty part about the enclosure deal.The guy had a shipping mix up and he sent me one for 2 12s when I only bought one for a single 12.so I talked to him and he said since it weighs so much it doesnt pay to ship it back so he said I can keep it and he sent me the single enclosure as well!!! so if I ever do want 2 down the road I already have the box.So I got all that for only $250 or so!!!
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:33:23
ALSO the amp is new.just to throw that on as well.
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:37:28
That fuse holder came with my wiring kit I think.This is the kind I bought
http://cgi.ebay.com/1700-1000-WATT-AMP-KIT-8-Ga-GAUGE-WIRE-FREE-TWEETER_W0QQitemZ280264059817QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item280264059817&_trkparms=72%3A1163%7C39%3A1%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Im not using the tweeters either.I didnt want them anyway.
swez on 09/14/2008 08:18:58
The Jensen amp noted should be fair to power your Alpine sub. The net RMS power is more like 350 watts @ 2 ohms.
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_10300_Jensen+Power+900.html?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=froogle#
This new box you are getting, do you know the physical dimensions of it? (Width, Depth Height and thickness of wood)
Swez
PS $80.00 to install amp, sub and wires is about right.
kylezm on 09/15/2008 11:29:28
I already have the box.Heres the measurements
13 1/8 inch wide
about 11 inch opening
12 15/16 tall
10 3/4 deep
about 3/4 thick
kylezm on 09/15/2008 15:39:59
Hey I have a ? I know everybody says that if you buy an aftermarket head unit it will make more power.I was thinking maybe a little later that I would do that,but heres the thing how am I going to do that on a taurus?I found this kit would this work?It seems like alot of money for a radio kit.
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.autotoys.com/pics/met5716new.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php%3Fproductid%3D1608&h=383&w=521&sz=25&hl=en&start=1&sig2=8A01Nt3LWSRwO2ioIYjLLA&usg=__T6BqDvHtb7UjL67tfrvN8wl9sDc=&tbnid=sj3b7y5r4TungM:&tbnh=96&tbnw=131&ei=4CnPSO27JpH2ebfz3eEI&prev=/images%3Fq%3D01%2Bford%2Btaurus%2Bradio%255C%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den
Replies (24)
swez on 08/6/2008 21:20:35
Yes, you can easily add a modest sub amp and sub(s) to your exisiting system if the amp you choose has speaker line level inputs.
Here, we simply tap audio signals off the rear speakers and run them to the input side of the amp that has audio reducing circuits built into many amps these days.
If the amp does not have speaker level inputs, it will only have low signal type RCA style jacks for input. Here, a special "Audio Attenuator Circuit" device is needed to bring the speaker level voltage down to a line level voltage range the amp can used.
We recommend Class D MONO sub amps for bass. These are single channel amps that power only subs. They are more efficient, (80% eff.) with power consumed VS power available for subs. The other type of amps on the market are Class A/B amps. These are great for full range speakers and OK for subs, but consume more power and lower rated output to subs. (60-65% eff)
Cost of installs vary by geographical location and the amount of competition in a given area where you live. It pays to shop around and get a few quotes on parts and labor. Parts include power and ground cables, inline fuse and perhaps a remote amp turn on trigger line.
Why lock on a Sony amp? There are many solid brands that cost less, have more features and often cost less. (Better bang for your buck) Say more about what you want for this install and how much room you have for sub(s) in the trunk. Knowing more about how much bass you want will help us guide you to a quality setup at a reasonable budget. (1 or 2 10's, a single 12" or a pounding "street beater" bass system?)
Swez
PS Welcome to CK!
Ash on 08/7/2008 09:08:57
Right on spot there Swez.....
Don't forget to account for some simple passive crossovers (capacitors) since you will be adding a bass engine. You will want to use them on the stock locales since they will no longer have a need to dig deep into the bass register. This will help to bring more clarity to the system and is a easy minimal cost upgrade.
These type systems are becoming more popular as car manufacturers implement better components and consumers want less expensive setups. Still leaves room for later upgrades if needed.
swez on 08/7/2008 16:50:09
This may be unique to Ford Stock systems, but I find that just cutting the bass level on the tone contols do a good job at allowing the typical 6x8" speaker to do a good job on MB/MR as is. These stock radios have a wideed band "Q" for bass that is likely centered at ~80-100 Hz.
By setting the bass tone control to flat of +/- a few dB, I seem to get reasonablly good MB/MR. When adding a Bass Engine as mentioned, a little tweaking and gain settings will take care of the rest.
I noted a similar thing with stock GM units with the 5 band EQ feature. (Flat on 60 Hz., and perhaps a few dB boost @ 125 Hz., did very well too)
Just an observation and my 2 cents,
Swez
kylezm on 08/7/2008 18:28:20
Thank u for all the response.to answer some questions.I was thinking of 1 or 2 subs.I havent totally decided wat size.either 10 or 12.Im not sure how much room exactly is in it.it is a 01 ford taurus ses sedan.so at the far back of the trunk it narrows to about 3-4 ft wide.Its plenty long enough.I was thinking of having 1-2 subs firing straight back towards the bumper.I do want bass but I dont want to break or crack my windows.The stock system isnt really that bad I just want a boost.I like alot but not like where I cant stand to be in the vechile.I bought a Deluxe 8 gauge wiring kit from USA LINK for $20.00.Can u give me a few good bang for the buck type brand names for subs and amps.I want it to last but I dont want to spend alot.If u cant tell this is the first time Im going to upgrade a system.Now I do have some ?'s. Is 1200 watts or so like crazy take your bumper off type loud.What range of watts do you think is a medium-high level.I kind of want it clear.So I heard that 10s are not as distorted as 12s.
swez on 08/8/2008 02:49:23
The Sony eXplode series is not a true 1200 Watts. (Continous or RMS power is what we look at, NOT Peak or Max power) It's not a horrible choice amp series, but for the cost VS real performance, that series is not a good bang for your buck is all.
That #8 gage wiring kit will limit your amp choices to about 50-60A's of current draw. As mentioned before, the best choice will be a Class D Mono sub amp that is rated at 400-500 watts RMS. That's plenty of sub power for a non-amplified stock system like this one. Consider Alpine's older series amps as they are easy to find and a very good value bargain. (Well under $200.00 and a good investment grade product)
Alpine MRP-M500 $150.00
http://www.onlinecarstereo.com/CarAudio/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=19251
As for a sub to match, the Alpine SWR series offer 10 & 12" sub models that do a very good job in small sealed enclosures. Here, the SWR-1242D or 1024D are both very good choices. They are both rated at 500 watts RMS and will give you plenty of clean thump when you want it. The best price on this sub is just over $100.00 from etronics.com. If you want the specs and some pictures, go here:
http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Product/Item/Main.aspx?search=Alpine+SWR%2D1242D&i=500SWR1242
More questions, just ask
Swez
PS We know you are new to this game and there are many tricks and deceptions used to rate amps, subs and speakers to make them look like strong products, but they are far from it.
kylezm on 08/8/2008 06:49:45
Thanks for the brand names,advice,etc.I was looking for something maybe a little cheaper
swez on 08/8/2008 11:26:10
OK, cheaper can be arranged at the expense of quality, less power and reliability.
http://www.onlinecarstereo.com/CarAudio/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=17789
Kenwood KAC-8103D: $127.00
http://www.onlinecarstereo.com/CarAudio/ProductDetail.aspx?ProductID=16898
Kenwood KFC-W3514DVC: $79.00
Some careful shopping can bring the prices down if you wish. Avoid going to "lame brand" names that don't stack up to brands already mentioned.
One brand that seems to offer solid performance and low prices w/ good quality would be the Powerbass line of amps and speakers. Another option is to go small in amp power. (300 watts RMS is good thump too) If done right, this will make your rear view fuzzy too.
Comments?
Swez
kylezm on 08/10/2008 07:39:27
Thank u for all your help.
Kyle
kylezm on 08/10/2008 07:55:00
Could u just give me a list of companys that are cheaper and are durable?
kylezm on 08/10/2008 08:00:20
Oh.also. I knew I should have just waited and put this all in 1.but I noticed most of the subs u picked out are 4 ohm.Is there a reason 4 that?wats the difference.And can you just buy a sub and make ur own encloseure out of plywood,etc and just cut out a hole for the air to escape or does it have to be a professional sub enclosure?
Thats all I can think of asking 4 now.
kyle
swez on 08/10/2008 08:43:40
Kyle,
Am trying to show "proven" names and products on a tight budget that we know to be worth their salt. If we knew your buget plans, for the entire system, might be able to find you a "package deal", (Amp, sub & enclosure) at the range that is affordable and reliable.
The subs mentioned so far are all 4+4 Dual Voice Coil subs. When wired properly, they give a net 2 ohm load to a Class D amp and the most power available too.
The enclosure for a given sub is probably the most important part of the job for optimal results. The size of the box is determined by the sub specs or Mfg's recommendations. Some brands do very well in small, compact enclosures. (Alpine, JBL, Kenwood) Other brands like Kicker need larger boxes to get the bass right.
Keep asking questions as needed so you don't wind up with an ill-fitted rig. We prefer to get guys before they buy and walk them through the options list until it all fits. Guys who buy mis-matched gear and then ask for help are often very dissappointed at the results and have to replace things later. (Don't be one one of those OK?)
Swez
PS Have been doing Tech Support and some installs on this forum for 9 years now. I cannot say I've never made a bad call for our readers. But they are far and few between and other team, Golds will catch them before any real harm comes. That's why this forum is so popular. We have some very deep roots and guys with expertise in many fields related to mobile audio systems. SMILE
kylezm on 08/10/2008 14:41:43
I know this may sound crazy but I was thinking $200.00.Im trying to find used stuff on ebay.I defenately wont be rushing to get this in cuz I dont want to be one of those guys that screw up and Im trying to save money cuz everytime I try to my dad yells about insurance,my car payment,etc all the while Im just trying to keep gas in my tank.I know you probably have the same kind of money problems.but anyway I will defenately be taking my time.
swez on 08/10/2008 17:33:55
Hehe, am a Dad too and trying to instill the realities of owning a car to a teenage daughter. Learning to live on a budget is hard to get a handle on and it only gets harder later when one finally gets their first credit card. (It's not free money!)
Have a suggestion for you though... sit down and ask Dad for some inputs/support about budgeting to make your car note, insurance and other expenses. Also mention you'd like to budget for a modest audio upgrade in the future and ask what he'd suggest you can do to squirrel away about $300.00 for a pet project. I don't know any good Dad alive that would not jump for joy to see his son/daughter succeed at learning to be self-sufficient and work his/her own way toward success.
Offer to clean out the garage, basement do some painting, wash & vac Dad/Mum's cars or other odd jobs Dad normally does. That shows any Dad that his son is seriously willing to work hard to make a personal goal come true and meet other responsibilities as well.
Finally, time is on your side if you are willing to wait. A weak economy is on your side and prices for things like this have been falling for almost 2 years now. A little more waiting will probably bring a sweet deal to those who wait and drive a hard bargain. (Cash speaks well to sellers who are struggling to make it through the next month)
"Dad... I'm just learning the ropes now. Show me how to work through this little thing now and apply it to bigger things later. I don't know what's ahead and am depending on you to show me what I need before leaving the nest later". I don't know of any Dad that would not want to help with a statement like that from their kids.
Pay attention... this is how Dad's think! A Dad's goal is to launch his kids into a dog-eat-dog world without watching his kids becoming the bait. See what I mean?
Swez
kylezm on 08/30/2008 09:32:03
Hi.I know I havent been on here for a while but this is watsup so far.
I have decided to go with the Alpine SWR-1242D.Now I do have a ?.I was looking around on ebay,etc for a box for it.now with this subwoofer would it be better to have it sealed or unsealed.For a amp I was thinking of a Visonik V218.It is 600watts RMS x 1 channel @ 4ohms bridged.Now I was reading reviews and most people say that these alpine subs can take like 800 watts rms. What wiring kit would you recommend because I dont want it to be starving for power because I was too cheap to get a good wiring kit.8 gauge,4gauge?
swez on 08/30/2008 10:26:42
If you go with Visonik amps, consider the V1201A.
http://www.crutchfield.com/app/product/item/main.aspx?i=028V1201A&search=visonik+car+amp
Shop around and see what the best price you can get on this model.
Buy the Alpine SWR-1242D version. This will give you a net 2 ohm load to an efficient Class D amp. As for the enclosure, go sealed for space and better power handling. (0.85 ft^3) A little shopping on E-bay may net a good box or make it yourself for minimal cost and no S/H fees.
Comments?
Swez
kylezm on 08/30/2008 10:31:28
wat about the wiring?
Ender2 on 08/30/2008 17:29:15
Wiring you say?
From the Crutchfield link -
8-gauge power and ground leads recommended — wiring and hardware not included with amplifier.
Very typically, we place an "In-Line fuse holder" about 12-18" from the Battery. I would recommend one like this -
http://cgi.ebay.com/FUSE-HOLDER-WITH-AGU-5-60-AMP-FUSES-4-8-10-GAUGE-PS91_W0QQitemZ150286888451QQihZ005QQcategoryZ32809QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem
We also place one about 12-18" from the amplifier (in the trunk, on the Dblock if you're running two amps which you aren't) Two fuses, more or less, guarantee your amplifier and sub "investments" are protected. I would use a 40amp fuse inside both Fuse holders as the Visonik amp runs at around 40amps at full potential.
So YES, your current wire kit WILL work, but take heed. If you plan to upgrade in the future to a possible 4 channel (door speaker) amp AS WELL as a a strong bass engine it might be worth it now to spend $30 on some 4 or even 2 gauge wire and run those to save yourself some hassle later on. I say this because car audio is addicting and you may just find yourself upgrading again later on. :)
As far as wiring the actual Subwoofers, I think this link is exactly what you need.
http://akamaipix.crutchfield.com/ca/learningcenter/car/subwoofer_wiring/1DVC_4-ohm_mono.jpg
Keep us informed! :)
PS. Swez, NewB, MrB (if you're still around) What does a guy gotta do to be able to put in some Hyperlinks? I'm a CSCI Major w/concentration in Web design and can't get them to show up :P
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:03:28
do you think I need to install a capacitor as well?how much does it help?Wat brands,etc?
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:30:42
how much do you think this will cost to install?I really dont want to do it myself because I have no idea what Im doing.I asked best buy and I think they said $80(I say think because I have a short attention span and I wasnt listining.lol.)I was hoping I could find somewhere in the range of $50-100.Oh yeah just figured Id say this.I found a new 12 inch alpine type r that I bought for $110.I spent around $80 for an amp.Jensen Power 900.450 watts x 1 @ 2ohm.I hope your not going to say that I made a bad choice and that that amp is junk.I spent $20-30 on a wiring kit and $40.00 for a sealed enclosure.Heres the beauty part about the enclosure deal.The guy had a shipping mix up and he sent me one for 2 12s when I only bought one for a single 12.so I talked to him and he said since it weighs so much it doesnt pay to ship it back so he said I can keep it and he sent me the single enclosure as well!!! so if I ever do want 2 down the road I already have the box.So I got all that for only $250 or so!!!
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:33:23
ALSO the amp is new.just to throw that on as well.
kylezm on 09/13/2008 14:37:28
That fuse holder came with my wiring kit I think.This is the kind I bought
http://cgi.ebay.com/1700-1000-WATT-AMP-KIT-8-Ga-GAUGE-WIRE-FREE-TWEETER_W0QQitemZ280264059817QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item280264059817&_trkparms=72%3A1163%7C39%3A1%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14
Im not using the tweeters either.I didnt want them anyway.
swez on 09/14/2008 08:18:58
The Jensen amp noted should be fair to power your Alpine sub. The net RMS power is more like 350 watts @ 2 ohms.
http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_10300_Jensen+Power+900.html?utm_source=froogle&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=froogle#
This new box you are getting, do you know the physical dimensions of it? (Width, Depth Height and thickness of wood)
Swez
PS $80.00 to install amp, sub and wires is about right.
kylezm on 09/15/2008 11:29:28
I already have the box.Heres the measurements
13 1/8 inch wide
about 11 inch opening
12 15/16 tall
10 3/4 deep
about 3/4 thick
kylezm on 09/15/2008 15:39:59
Hey I have a ? I know everybody says that if you buy an aftermarket head unit it will make more power.I was thinking maybe a little later that I would do that,but heres the thing how am I going to do that on a taurus?I found this kit would this work?It seems like alot of money for a radio kit.
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.autotoys.com/pics/met5716new.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php%3Fproductid%3D1608&h=383&w=521&sz=25&hl=en&start=1&sig2=8A01Nt3LWSRwO2ioIYjLLA&usg=__T6BqDvHtb7UjL67tfrvN8wl9sDc=&tbnid=sj3b7y5r4TungM:&tbnh=96&tbnw=131&ei=4CnPSO27JpH2ebfz3eEI&prev=/images%3Fq%3D01%2Bford%2Btaurus%2Bradio%255C%26gbv%3D2%26hl%3Den
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