S2000-specific Audio/Electronics FAQ v.2.37, current edition (last updated: 6/27/07)

greets -- this is the revised and updated, and updated and updated S2000 Electroncis FAQ. (can't call it the new FAQ anymore... )
it originally started from editing up, adding to, and changing around b0mberman's original S2000 Electronics FAQ to revise it.

i've left some stuff out regarding some items, because i'm not qualified to really address them. plus there are other things we wanted to add... so, let me know what i've missed, link me when possible to things that are missing or write up questions you feel need being addressed.

if you've got stuff to add, post it below and updates will be made on occassion as contributions merit. Please do not flood my PM's if possible. let's make an effort to keep this thread as clean as possible. if you have a suggestion to add to the FAQ, note it in this thread and i will update it when i can.

*note, that since the FAQ has been established for a while, i only make updates a few times a year now...



now.... on w/ the show:

S2000-specific Audio/Electronics FAQ v.2.37

by the s2ki.com electronics forum EJ's


All references of wattage measurements in the FAQ and throughout the forum are in Watts RMS (or continuous power). Other measurements are subject to being a big more 'fudged' and can be unreliable. Please help us remain consistent when referring to power by listing RMW (continuous) power ratings, list them including the number of channels, and at what resistance (ohms). Example: 100 Wrms x 2 channels @ 4 ohms.


Notice the various "anchors" we have provided in the FAQ (ie. #Amplifiers). Each of the following questions can be found in the sub area for each anchor. Use your browser's Find function (ctrl-F for IE) to jump to these "anchors." I am including the questions listed under each anchor, so that you can find what you are looking for more easily.


#General Topics (Most common questions are answered here, including many S2000 specific questions.)

• I’m not happy with the stock stereo in my S2k, what should I do first?
• Why should I have to replace the Head Unit (HU), can't I just add better speakers to get better sound?
• Can't I just add an amp to the stock HU for my new speakers?
• Ok, this gives me some ideas, but I only have $xxx.xx to spend. What should I do? or How much should I spend?
• Can I still use my dash controls with an aftermarket head unit?
• Can I use an I-Pod/MP3 player/Satellite Radio with XXXX HU in the S2000?
• Where can I find some pictures of installs in S2000's, so that I can get a better idea of what I can do?
• Should I keep the spare tire? Won't I need it?
• What are the best speakers? Are brand X / Model Z speakers the best? Someone told me Y speakers are awesome, I want those!
• How would I test speakers I find in a store? What am I listening for? How do I listen?
• I can't find the speakers I want to hear anywhere near me? Should I really have to drive 2 hours to do this?
• I've found some speakers that are great for me, will my speakers fit?
• Can I put speakers in the floor/dash/behind the seats/in the center console and also use drivers diferent from the companies you recommended?
• Where can I put an 8" or 10" sub?
• Where can I put a 10" or 12" sub?
• What are some 8", 10", and 12" subs that will work well in smaller enclosures for...?
• How do I get the OEM HU out and install an aftermarket HU?
• I just installed my new aftermarket head unit, and now the radio doesn't seem to work?
• How can I build a fiberglass enclosure?
• Where can I mount my amplifier or amplifiers?
• What are some small amps?
• Running wires for your S2000 stereo system? How do I wire up my stereo?
• How do I get behind all those panels and everything to wire stuff up?
• How do I make spacers or speaker brackets to mount my new speakers on?
• What are some options for sound deadening?
• How do frequencies (hz) relate to the sounds I hear? How do Equalizers work and what do they do?
• I want a GPS option that doesn't require me to cut the dash, but still looks integrated?

#Brands

• What are some good brands of...? What brand do you suggest for...?

#Head Units

• How many watts does my head unit put out?
• Can I bridge the rear channels of my head unit to get more power into a single channel?
• Can I put XXXXX HU in the S2000? AKA Will a DVD head unit with a flip out screen fit in the S2000?
• My aftermarket head unit / OEM radio has suddenly stopped working. It will not power up. OEM only: the red flashing light is still lit, but nothing works. I've checked the radio fuse. Is my head unit blown?
• The battery died/was disconnected, and now my OEM Radio/Head Unit keeps showing CODE, what do I need to do? AKA How do I find my OEM radio serial number without pulling the headunit out or paying the dealer to pull it out?

#Amplifiers

• How would the wiring look in an amp install?
• What are the different classes of amps and what does that mean?
• What are amp gains? How do they work? What do I do if my HU outputs 8 V pre-amp but my amp only accepts 4 V? Aren't they just volume knobs?
• what's the best way to set the gains on my amp? how do i set the gains on my amp?
• What is bridging an amp and how does it work? And what should i expect from a bridged amp?
• What do series and parallel have to do with speakers?
• What's the difference between Watts, Peak Watts, Watts RMS, and Continuous Watts? Aren't Watts Watts? Why is this so confusing? How can I possibly know what I need to buy?

#Speakers

• What are some good speakers for me?
• What is the difference between coaxial and component speakers as they pertain to car audio?
• Should I get rear speakers? Why should I get rear speakers?
• Why should I not get rear speakers?
• I see some people with rear speakers who have really nice setups. What gives?
• If I run rear speakers though, all I hear behind me is one channel. That won't help my stereo image... What can I do?
• What blows speakers? Power or distortion?

#Subwoofers

• Do I need a subwoofer?
• But I don't listen to rap, do I still want or need a subwoofer?
• How big a sealed enclosure should I use for my subs?
• What's the minimum amount of power I should give my subwoofer?
• Do I want a ported or sealed enclosure?
• Hey, didn't BOSE make a small sub for the RSX that fits in the spare tire? Can I use that sub with the S2000? How can I use that sub with the S2000?

#Electrical (General electrical upgrades, batteries, lights, etc.)

• My lights are dimming during heavy bass, what should I do? Do I need a capacitor?
• Should I run a capacitor in my car with my amps?
• What light sizes fit all around? I want to upgrade to LED's.
• How do I stop the hyper blinker when I add LED turn signals?
• How can I rig it so I can lower my top without having to come to a complete stop?
• I want to add footwell lights to my S. How do I do it?
• My aftermarket head unit / OEM radio has suddenly stopped working. It will not power up. OEM only: the red flashing light is still lit, but nothing works. I've checked the radio fuse. Is my head unit blown?
• I've heard about this cool mod where I can open my Garage Door by flashing my headlights. Where can get info on how to do it?

#Budget

• How much should I plan to spend?
• Ok, I have my budget. What can I do with $xxx.xx?

#Shopping Online

• If I buy from an online store, will I get a manufacturer's warranty?
• What are some good online stores that carry car S2000 specific stereo equipment?
• What are some good online stores for stereo equipment?

#More Information

• Where can I get more information about car audio?

#Alarms

• Can anyone help me when installing an alarm in the S2000? Is there a how to guide out there?
• I want to install an alarm, but I don't know what wires do what? HELP!

#Radar (for info on Radar Detectors)

• What is the best portable Radar detector?
• How do I hardwire my radar detector? Where to I make my power connections?
• My suction cups don't stick well anymore, what can I do to make them stick better?
• What about stealth installed or permanent Radar Detection/Laser Detection/Laser Jamming systems?

#EJS

• Who are the EJ's?
• I wanna be an EJ!

#General Topics

I’m not happy with the stock stereo in my S2k, what should I do first?

There are many routes to go, and what your final outcome will be strongly depends on the budget you're willing to spend and how far you are willing to go.

-1st. Head unit
Dramatic improvements can be achieved with this single upgrade. Get a highly rated, high power head unit from a major manufacturer. Several preferred manufacturers are listed in this FAQ.

-2nd. Front speakers
The quality of this choice will determine if an amp is necessary. Most nicer sounding and/or louder speakers require an amp. If the purchaser is interested in adding bass, buy a four channel to prepare for a sub.

-3rd. Subwoofer
This can be expensive and requires some thought as to the placement and type of sub to be installed. A ten in the trunk is the most popular, and with good reason.

-Optional: Rears
These are for rear fill only, and generally can be run off the head unit amp. Many EJ's don't even run rears. This can be a good solution if you are not concerned about the finer points of sound quality and all you want to do is hear music with the top down. Our recommendation for just hearing music better is to replace the head unit and add rears.

-Not Optional: Cables. If you have to add cables, and if you go the extra mile on your Head Unit and speakers, get the better cables and you won't be disappointed. After spending a great deal of money on equipment, going with cheap cables can ruin everything by introducing electrical noise.


Why should I have to replace the Head Unit (HU), can't I just add better speakers to get better sound?
The stock head unit is a very low powered CD player optimized to drive very sensitive low power handling speakers. These speakers sound poor because they are designed less for sound quality and more for efficiency and cost. When you add better speakers, they are generally less efficient, and the OEM HU cannot provide the power required to get them loud enough or to sound good.

MY02+ have decent front speakers and swapping the head unit will be your best budget conscious upgrade. This is the case for all model years with the exception of the 00 and 01, which reportedly have the worst front speakers of all model years. For these model years, you are kinda stuck with having to replace the front speakers as well.


Can't I just add an amp to the stock HU for my new speakers?
Well, sure you can, and your mileage may vary, but the stock head unit sends out a terrible quality signal, and even with an amp you will get louder bad sound, rather than achieving greater quality at all volume levels. This has been tried many times with little or no success. Some people are happy with this solution, but we generally first recommend a nice aftermarket HU with more power and modest but sensitive speakers.


Ok, this gives me some ideas, but I only have $xxx.xx to spend. What should I do? or How much should I spend?
Hit the #Budget section below. It will give you some great ideas of what you can and cannot afford.


Can I still use my dash controls with an aftermarket head unit?
Maybe. Without some sort of interface? no.
However, you can reposess the controls and add features to the controls by either adding the DCI from modifry or having DJQube (an s2ki.com user) modify it. Links to both of these can be found below in the section on shopping online. These are the most commonly used and recommended solutions.

The PAC SWI-X is also an inexpensive option. It can be bought from Crutchfield or locally with a little bit of looking. The major flaw with the PAC SWI-X is that it must be programmed for your car and HU. The nature of this programming creates a slight, but noticable delay when using the dash controls.

In order to use ANY of these options above, the Head Unit you purchase MUST have an InfraRed remote. Some Sony models are an exception to this rule, as they can use a hardwired option.

Some HU's in Alpine's new 2005 line also have a hardwire line input for remote dash controls. As of this writing (7/2005) the interface for the S2000 is mainly available in Europe, but has been sighted as in the US. Some users have imported the interface to the US from Europe with good success.

PAC also offers a programmable option for the dash controls that hardwires into the 2005 Alpine head units. It is called the SWI-ALP and is currently (as of 6/2005) available in the US. It requires an Alpine HU w/ the hardwire input, so double check before you buy.

Unlike modifry and DJQube's DCI's, the PAC and Alpine options do not add features, but instead mimic the S2000's OEM controls.


Can I use an I-Pod/MP3 player/Satellite Radio with XXXX HU in the S2000?
There are several ways to connect an auxilliary input to the radio in your car. Generally, the worst quality connection that can be made is by using an FM Modulator. This connection will pipe the sound through your FM radio and is subject to degraded quality and interferance.

Optimally, i.e. bang for buck, you should hardwire the ipod into your Head unit, the most basic method would be taking a 3.5 mm headphone or line out jack to RCA, then plugging the RCAs into an Aux in on the back of your head unit. You control the playlist via the ipod itself. Direct connections are always superior to an FM Modulator.

For the OEM radio, the PIE HON Aux adapter will work for pre-04 Head Units. VTEC4-2 provided us with more details on his post withmore info on the PIE HON adapter. On 2004 and later OEM HU, you must use the SNHOND3 (http://www.logjamelectronics.com/sounsnhond3.html)
For more details on either of these, the search should lead you to dozens of threads.

A new option available for the I-POD and the OEM HU is the Monster iCruze.
There's a couple threads with a ton of info by rworne. you can find them here and here.

Here's another new option for IPOD's in the S2000 using the OEM radio: [url=http://www.mp3yourcar.com/default.asp]Neo Ion for the IPOD
[/URL]

For non-OEM radios there are various I-Pod, XM, and other aux input interfaces available. These will be different both in design and availability from manufacturer to manufacturer and model to model.

our EJ Pete put together an IPOD solution guide for Sony HU's. thanks Pete!


Where can I find some pictures of installs in S2000's, so that I can get a better idea of what I can do?
Pictures of installs - this thread can be found as a sticky at the top of the Electronics Forum.


Should I keep the spare tire? Won't I need it?
Whenever you go to planning out your stereo, something to keep in mind is that when you use the spare tire, you have to put the flat tire somewhere. Check your owners manual, and you'll find that the flat tire is supposed to sit in the tool well with the tools removed. So, if you plan to stick a sub in that well, unless you will stick the flat tire on your front seat -- you can put on your spare, but won't have anywhere to store the flat.
Many members here have taken this matter to heart, and use the spare storage area as a location to put gear or a way to save weight.
To compensate for the loss of the spare, they will simply carry a AAA card or a can of fix a flat.

What are the best speakers? Are brand X / Model Z speakers the best? Someone told me Y speakers are awesome, I want those!
Whatever you do, whatever you think, whatever you want: Listen before you buy. This cannot be stressed enough.

There is no "Best" speaker. Everyone has unique tastes. Even if you think you are completely tone deaf, if you listen to different speakers even YOU will be able to hear a difference. In a perfect world, you should pick the speakers that you will be listening to.

Stereo gear is listened to, not viewed, or benchmarked. The best way to shop is to hit the pavement and listen to as much gear as possible. DEMO, DEMO, DEMO!

The front speakers the single most important element in your system and most of your decisions hinge on what kind of power your fronts require. Your taste in Sound is different than mine, so find some stereos in your area and plop in your crazy music and listen to how they sound. Make plans accordingly... and think a few stages ahead so your system can grow without trashing what you've already got.

For more info on speakers and which ones might be right for you, check #Speakers below.


How would I test speakers I find in a store? What am I listening for? How do I listen?
"Ok, fine. How do I demo this stuff?"

check this post out for more info on demo'ing.


I can't find the speakers I want to hear anywhere near me? Should I really have to drive 2 hours to do this?
Well, that depends upon you and how serious you are about sound. Speakers are THE most subjective and potentially most critical part of any stereo system. They are where all the electronics get converted to actual sound waves. You can have mediocre electronics everywhere and with good speakers still get good sound. But if you have mediocre speakers and good electronics, the best you'll ever get is mediocre sound.
If you truly cannot get to the speakers you want to hear, the best thing to do is to listen to what is near. Based on your opinions of what you can hear, EJ's should be able to make suggestions on what will suit you. When you gather opinions on speakers like this, think both about what you do and do not like about the sound. Even listening to home speakers can often give us clues on what you'll like in your car.


I've found some speakers that are great for me, will my speakers fit?
The S2000's door speakers are 6.5" diameter speakers. What prevents installation is usually an issue of mounting depth. Using the data found on MacGyver's site (yes, the real MacGyver ) the rear depth of the space for speakers is 68 mm (2.68") on the top and 79 mm (3.11") on the bottom. Here is a link to Mac's site.

As for rear speakers, when you're using Lucid's panel or have modified your rear panels like Lucid, the magnet diameter must be less than 3 1/16". I'm not sure about depth.

Another option for using rear speakers is by using the S-pods designed to fit in the roll hoops by user Marks2002. The S-pods can be found at Mark's site: http://www.streetsmarttechnologies.net

Can I put speakers in the floor/dash/behind the seats/in the center console and also use drivers diferent from the companies you recommended?
Yes. It's your car. If it sounds good to you, then go for it. Of course, I'd recommend you stop short of things that may compromise safety like blocking an airbag or cutting big holes in the body frame.

Where can I put an 8" or 10" sub?
WLaurent makes a very popular sealed enclosure that fits in the fender wells of the S's trunk.
From his site:

To find out more about this enclosure, check out his site. You can find some pictures of his enclosure and information about wiring right here.


Where can I put a 10" or 12" sub?
The first step in making space for your amps and subs is to remove that styrofoam piece with the spare tire tools, wrap up the tools in a towel, and put them in the spare tire. Now, you have the whole recessed area free for a subwoofer.

Note that the JL Stealth Box will fit in this space and is defenitely an option open to you.

However, Any local shop would charge you at most $150 to make a box out of MDF and with all or part of the leftover $300+, you can get any number of great subs. The general shapes that will give you the most airspace are:



...in order of increasing internal volume but also increasing complexity. I have the measurements readily available here:

http://www.geocities.com/mariobonifacio/measurements.htm

Expect to get about 0.7 cu ft, 0.8 cu ft, and 0.9 cu ft out of the three shapes--respectively.

If you think you'll need more volume than 0.9 cu ft, it'll probably be really tough with MDF and so you'd be looking at having to use fiberglass with which you could probably get as much as 1.2 cu ft.

Tips on working out some of the angles in these enclosures can be found here in this thread by Campbuds.


What are some 8", 10", and 12" subs that will work well in smaller enclosures for...?

(need some new suggestions here)


How do I get the OEM HU out and install an aftermarket HU?
Follow the instructions located here at Lucid's site.
Lucid also has another set of instructions for HU removal and wiring here as well.
Some of Lucid's info is a bit old, but most is still quite applicable.
2004+ owners will have to pull up their center console in order to remove the radio door.
DIY HU guide for AP2's (on an '06)

I just installed my new aftermarket head unit, and now the radio doesn't seem to work?
The S2000 uses an amplified antenna. Chances are, when you wired up your new HU, you didn't connect the power antenna lead (thinking that there is no power antenna in the S2000), and that is your mistake. The S2000's amplified antenna gets its power from the power antenna lead.

How can I build a fiberglass enclosure?
How to build a Fiber Glass Sub Enclosure
Thanks darkknight1999 for the instructions.

Where can I mount my amplifier or amplifiers?
This question depends on exactly what you're willing to give up. Here are some of the more popular ideas:
Vertically in the trunk on the fore wall, mirroring the hump created by the spare tire. Both sides can be used by replacing the spare tire hump with a flat amp rack (see online shopping above).

In place of the spare tire on a spare tire amp rack (see online shopping above or click below for dimensions).
Spare tire amp rack Put cursor over picture and click to enlarge.

On top of the spare tire tools

In place of the spare tire tools (with the tools wrapped in a towel in the spare tire)

Under the seats (Requires small amp)

In the center of the spare tire (Requires small amp)

On the driver's side back wall of the trunk between the spare 'hump' and the trunk hinge. Here's a guide on how to do it.


What are some small amps?
JL 300/4
Planet Audio P450
Boston GT series
Clarion 2005 models
(suggestions?)


Running wires for your S2000 stereo system? How do I wire up my stereo?
How to wire your system

Jeff wrote up a how to on running new speaker wires in the doors and through the door grommets.


How do I get behind all those panels and everything to wire stuff up?
Dave (NYC) put together a nice guide on this, and it's located further down this FAQ. or you can click here to go to his post
There are also some nice how to get into the door and install speaker instructions at Lucid's site. There are a variety of other good 'how to' instructions located at Lucid's site as well.
There are more detailed instructions on installing the Head Unit a couple questions up in the FAQ.


How do I make spacers or speaker brackets to mount my new speakers on?
Speaker Bracket How to


What are some options for sound deadening?
Here's a great thread with a variety of info.


How do frequencies (hz) relate to the sounds I hear? How do Equalizers work and what do they do?
I've put together a writeup on this subject here.

I want a GPS option that doesn't require me to cut the dash, but still looks integrated?
Here's a great how-to that energetic put together using a Garmin Unit integrated into the cupholder: http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=333184



#Brands
What are some good brands of...? What brand do you suggest for...?
There are so many "good" brands out there that it would take a long time to list. Furthermore, nobody is really going to be surprised that a $5000 McIntosh amp ends up being on the good list. This list is on retail level, high value (e.g. good "Bang-for-the-buck") components that we or close, real-life friends have had good experiences with, and include those brands that generally get recommended here most commonly (as of 6/2005). If other users choose to, they can add suggestions for brands they prefer.

...head units?
Alpine - alpine1.com
Clarion - clarion.com
Eclipse - eclipse-web.com
Pioneer - pioneerelections.com
Kenwood - kenwoodusa.com

...amplifiers?
Autotek - millenniumaudio.com/autotek.htm
Hifonics - maxxsonics.com/hifonics
JBL - jbl.com
Planet Audio - planetaudiousa.com
JLAudio - www.jlaudio.com
Phoenix Gold - www.phoenixgold.com
Kicker - www.kicker.com
Rockford Fosgate - www.rockfordfosgate.com
Alphasonik - www.alphasonik.com
MTX - www.mtxaudio.com
Boston - www.bostonacoustics.com
Alpine - www.alpine1.com
Infinity - www.infinitysystems.com
SoundStream - www.soundstream.com
Zapco - www.zapco.com

...speakers?
Adire - adireAudio.com
CDT - www.cdtAudio.com
Crystal - crystalMobilesound.com
Focal - focal-america.com
Infinity - www.infinity.com
MB Quart - www.mbquart.com
Boston Acoustics - www.bostonacoustics.com
Polk Audio - www.polkaudio.com
Dynaudio - www.dynaudio.com

...subwoofers?
Adire - adireAudio.com
JLAudio - www.jlaudio.com
Alphasonik - www.alphasonik.com
Elemental Designs - eDesignAudio.com
Kicker - www.kicker.com
Rockford Fosgate - www.rockfordfosgate.com
Infinity - www.infinitysystems.com
Alumapro - www.alumapro.com

...Cables?
Most of us here are currently boycotting Monster cables for excessive litigation practices.
KnuKonceptz - www.knukonceptz.com
Streetwires - www.streetwires.com

#Head Units
How many watts does my head unit put out?
Don't plan for more than 20 watts rms per channel--regardless of what the manufacturer says. This number is often fudged a bit for marketing purposes.

Can I bridge the rear channels of my head unit to get more power into a single channel?
For the most part, no. In fact, 99% of the time, this answer is no. However, there are some Pioneer decks that have this option and one Rockford Fosgate--however, if your spec sheet doesn't specifically say it's possible, then you probably can't. So don't count on it.

Can I put XXXXX HU in the S2000? AKA Will a DVD head unit with a flip out screen fit in the S2000?
If the HU is a single DIN unit, then it may be possible. If the HU has flip out video screen (ie. DVD), it generally cannot be installed without major modifications because the screen will hit the bottom of the roll in the dash above the HU. If the flip down face of the HU drops below the bottom level of the HU, it cannot be installed as it will interfere with the radio door.

There are a number of S2000 specific Head Unit related topics in the General Topics section of this FAQ.


My aftermarket head unit / OEM radio has suddenly stopped working. It will not power up. OEM only: the red flashing light is still lit, but nothing works. I've checked the radio fuse. Is my head unit blown?
See under the #Electrical section

The battery died/was disconnected, and now my OEM Radio/Head Unit keeps showing CODE, what do I need to do? AKA How do I find my OEM radio serial number without pulling the headunit out or paying the dealer to pull it out?
If you own a 2002+, check out this thread: http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=139596
Otherwise, you will need your serial number for the HU. If you know the original car's dealer, you can call them and provide the VIN number, often they will be able to tell you the CODE. You may be required to provide proof of ownership to the dealer.
If you do have to pull the HU, there are some very nice instructions in this FAQ that tell you how to get the HU out in a few minutes. Most EJ's could pull and replace an OEM HU in less than 10 minutes, the average Joe doing it for the first time based on a
DIY should take around 30 minutes or possibly less.

#Amplifiers
How would the wiring look in an amp install?
Here are 2 great links:
http://forums.s2ki.com/forums/showthread.p...threadid=155135
http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=261466

What are the different classes of amps and what does that mean?
The most common types of amps that you will see in car audio are AB, D, and T. These are just ways of defining the method the amp uses in amplifing the signal. AB is a traditional analog method, while D and T are digital based amps. Class D amps are only useable for subwoofers. For more details and specifics, visit this section of the Basic Car Audio site: http://www.bcae1.com/ampclass.htm

What are amp gains? How do they work? What do I do if my HU outputs 8 V pre-amp but my amp only accepts 4 V? Aren't they just volume knobs?
The area of gains and inputs are really a very commonly misunderstood subject. Hopefully, this post help clear up some of the misunderstandings people have about amp gains and what they do.


what's the best way to set the gains on my amp? how do i set the gains on my amp?
Check out the procedure outlined in this post.


What is bridging an amp and how does it work? And what should i expect from a bridged amp?
In oversimplified layman's terms, when you bridge an amp, you're harnessing the power of two channels to drive a single channel. You can sort of imagine this as gaining power by setting the channels to push and pull with each other to combine their power, instead of each pushing and pulling alone. This does however put more strain on the amp and thus you will be limited on the speaker impedences (resistances) allowed. This is what is being referenced when an amp is said to be 2-ohm mono stable. When you bridge two channels in an amp, you will end up with only one channel. In general, the amp will run hotter under these conditions, but the power produced by the bridged amplifier will generally be more than two times the power of a single channel alone, and can be up to four times the power of the single channels. For more details and specifics, visit this section of the Basic Car Audio site:
http://bcae1.com/bridging.htm

What do series and parallel have to do with speakers?
There are two ways to connect multiple speakers to an amplifier: series and parallel. Which connection you use will determine how the amplifier is loaded, and it will effect how much power the amplfier produces.

To wire two speakers in series:

Amp(+)~~~~~~(+)Speaker 1(-)~~~~~~(+)Speaker 1(-)~~~~~~(-)Amp

Total Resistance of speakers wired in series = R1 + R2 + ...

To wire two speakers in parallel:

Amp~~~Speaker 1~~~Speaker 2
(+)~~~~~~(+)~~~~~~~(+)
(-)~~~~~~~(-)~~~~~~~(-)

Total Resistance of speakers wired in parallel = 1 / [ (1/R1) + (1/R2) + (1/R3) + ... ] or if you only have 2 resistors (speakers) Rt = (R1 x R2)/(R1 + R2)

For more information check out: http://bcae1.com/srsparll.htm

For some complex wiring guides you can also check out: http://www.jlaudio.com/tutorials/wiring/

WLaurent also has included some information about wiring and various pictures of wiring combos in his photo album right here.


What's the difference between Watts, Peak Watts, Watts RMS, and Continuous Watts? Aren't Watts Watts? Why is this so confusing? How can I possibly know what I need to buy?

Marketing is what makes it confusing and combined with the fact that most people want to avoid technical specifications, it leaves a lot of room for uncertainty. Hopefully, this portion of the FAQ will help clear up some of the confusion. More than likely, it will leave you with quite a few questions as well.

-----------------------------------------------

#Speakers
What are some good speakers for me?
We can help narrow down your search by offering suggestions on quality speakers to look at and poor quality speakers to avoid. Keep in mind that your speaker selection is dependant on the ammount of power you are sending to them. Here are some suggestions on speakers to go and listen to:

(coming soon)

HU Power:
...
...
...

Small amp 50-75 WRMS
...
...
...

Bigger amp 75 WRMS - 125 WRMS
...
...
...
Large amp 125 WRMS +
...
...
...

(this section needs to be completed still)


What is the difference between coaxial and component speakers as they pertain to car audio?
Generally, coaxial speakers consist of a midbass woofer running full range, wired in parallel with a tweeter mounted above the center of the woofer. The tweeter might be monted at an angle and will have an in-line capacitor which acts as a high pass filter.
Component speakers, on the other hand are made up of a woofer, tweeter, and an external passive crossover. The crossover, at minimum, will consist of a capacitor (bass blocker) which will connect to the tweeter, an inductor (high blocker) which will connect to the woofer, and an L pad which will also connect to the tweeter (controls how loud the tweeter is). Most of the time, this Lpad is adjustable.

The advantages of coaxial speakers are:
Because the two drivers are already hard-wired together, the only speaker wire that needs to be run is from the source to the speaker. With component speakers, you will need to wire the source, woofer, and tweeter, all to the crossover.
Coaxial speakers on the market tend to require less power to achieve the same volume.
Coaxial speakers are usually cheaper.

The advantages of component speakers are:
More flexibility in the tweeter's mounting location (e.g. get it out from behind your leg)
The adjustable L pad on the tweeter means you can tune the sound to your taste
Aside from high passes and low passes, the crossover will usually also contain networks to smooth out the response of the drivers.
Components are generally higher quality speakers which usually produce better overall sound.
Components generally handle more power, which allows for higher volumes to overcome wind and road noise.

Should I get rear speakers? Why should I get rear speakers?
Because you have the stock system and can't hear the music. Rears will help by adding cone surface area and using untapped power. As more highs get eaten up than lows, rears also provide some midbass support.

Why should I not get rear speakers?
Two big reasons--imaging and phasing.

Imaging
All of audio has to do with playing tricks on your brain--that is, fooling it into thinking that you're listening to a live band on a stage in front of your car. With speakers behind you, it either removes the image, or brings it toward the back and when the image isn't where it's supposed to be and that's the first clue to your brain that what you're hearing isn't real.

Do note that imaging will not matter for most of you once your car starts moving.

As such, don't be afraid to go along with the desire for rear speakers as a means of achieving more volume and the clarity that comes with it.

Phasing
Remember back to physics class where we learned that when two waves are out of phase, their sum wave is zero. The same goes for sound waves: If the wave from a 200 Hz note from your left speaker hits your head out of phase with the wave from your right speaker, you will hear...nothing.

Want to see this in action?

Go home and put two bookshelf speakers right next to each other, both facing forward of course. First, listen to just one speaker, then while the music is playing, connect the second speaker correctly (in phase). You should notice a big increase in bass response. Then, repeat the test with one speaker out of phase; You should notice a significant reduction in bass output. If you are chicken about playing with the wires with the sound turned up, you can do it with the speakers connected and use the balance control to turn one speaker on and off.

So what does this have to do with a car install? True, some notes will be out of phase but you can still obviously hear the music. Yes you can, but along the path, the system response will have many little valleys that you may not be able to consciously hear as missing notes, but you will still be able to recognize the sound as distortion.

Adding rear speakers only adds to the problem. If your brain has enough problems combing two sources with different pathlenghts, imagine the problems it will have with combining four sources with different pathlengths.


I see some people with rear speakers who have really nice setups. What gives?
Some of the deficiencies of rear speakers can be adjusted for with proper tuning. Some head units do allow for phasing adjustments (time correction), and with proper level tuning, rear speakers can be made to sound 'ambient' which enhances the sound of your fronts, but does not dominate the soundstage.

To set the proper time correction (if your head unit supports this), follow the instructions in the manual, or ask for help.

My general advice when setting the level of your rear speakers is to do the following steps:
1. Roll the fader all the way back. Slowly creep it forward until you cannot hear the rear speakers any more. Take note of this setting.
2. Roll the fader all the way forward. Slowly creep it backwards until you can just barely notice the rears. Note this setting.
3. Set the fader to somewhere between settings 1 and 2. This will give you a nice ambient fill sound, but should leave the fronts as the dominiant sound source.


If I run rear speakers though, all I hear behind me is one channel. That won't help my stereo image... What can I do?
There's a ton of info on this topic in the following threads:
http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=140461&st=0#
http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=186516

What blows speakers? Power or distortion? I've heard too little power can blow speakers, how is that true?
This thread covers the relationship between power and distortion, and how speakers are blown. Pay particular attention to MacGyver and modifry's comments.

Regarding too little power blowing speakers? The best answer for that question can be found at this page on Basic Car Audio Electronics.



#Subwoofers
Do I need a subwoofer?
In the first order of needs, no. You will be able to make out words and music fine with just a component set. The ear is most sensitive to music within the 500 Hz to 2000 Hz frequency range. But if your only goal is to be able to hear the music, you could just run a pair of pro audio 5 1/4" speakers in mono and full range and be done with it. However, your music will sound fuller and thus more realistic with subwoofers.

There are a number of S2000 specific sub related topics in the General Topics section of this FAQ.


But I don't listen to rap, do I still want or need a subwoofer?
Yes. In fact, I'd argue that big subwoofers are actually less important in rap music when compared to other music. One reason is that the bass hits in rap are usually in the 60 -100 Hz range, a place where many 6.5" midbass woofers aren't afraid to visit. The bass is used more to keep time rather than add to the harmony of the music. Also, as you're far more likely to hear a synthesized bass tone in rap rather than a bass guitar or tuba, your brain has no reference upon which to judge whether the bass is coming from a live source or not. By adding a subwoofer, your music is much more likely to come alive and provide you with a realistic sound.

There are a number of S2000 specific sub related topics in the General Topics section of this FAQ.


How big a sealed enclosure should I use for my subs?
For the purposes of the S2000, the answer will almost always be, "As big as can fit."

For generic subs, expect about 1/3 to 1/2 cu ft for an 8" sub, 2/3 cu ft for a 10" sub, and 1 cu ft for a 12" sub.

Want an even more specific answer? Look up the Vas, Fs, and Qts in your sub's manual or online. Plug everything into this equation:

Min Volume = vas / (2 x QTC²) - 1

A little less than this amount and you should be fine because of cabin gain but don't get too small or else your sub will sound boomy. Bigger is also okay within the limits of the S2000's trunk.

You can also refer to the manufacturer's specification sheet. They will generally list either or both a sealed and ported enclosure size.


What's the minimum amount of power I should give my subwoofer?
The minimum is dependent upon the sub's sensitivity, the size of your enclosure, the sub's T-S parameters, and your listening style. That said, 250 watts should be more than enough for most sub/listener combinations.

Do note that one thing the minimum power is not dependent upon is the power handling of your sub (listed as either nominal power handling or RMS power handling on your sub box). This number has a lot to do with the maximum amount of power you should give but absolutely nothing to do with the minimum amount.

At your local car audio shop where they work on commission and would like you to spend as much as possible, they may ask you, "Why would you only want to give a 600 rms sub 250 watts? You should at least give it 500 watts or else you'll be starving it."

You tell him, "Because that's all me and the sub need. It would be like me saying 'My S2000 is capable of going 120 miles per hour so I never drive it slower than 75--even in my driveway.'"

Do I want a ported or sealed enclosure?
Sealed enclosures are more likely to sound tight with a smooth response. There may be some rolloff in output for very deep bass. Sealed enclosures can also be made quite small and are space friendly. Sealed enclosures will generally require more power, as the sub has to counter back pressure in the enclosure and will loose some efficiency.
Ported enclosures will generally be a bit more boomy, with a peak centered around the port frequency. They are generally more efficient and require less amplifier power to obtain the same output levels as a sealed box. A ported enclosure can also represent a potential for damage to the sub if music is fed to the sub that is below the tuning frequency of the port. A ported enclosure also requires more volume, both for the sub and for the additional port volume.

More on choosing the right enclosure can be found in JLAudio's tutorials.

Hey, didn't BOSE make a small sub for the RSX that fits in the spare tire? Can I use that sub with the S2000? How can I use that sub with the S2000?

Yes they did make that sub, and yes it can be made to work in the S2000. Generally, they have been found fairly cheap on RSX oriented forums (around $50-$100 iirc). Just don't get your hopes up too high. It is a small low power sub. So you are forewarned -- this sub pretty much sucks. Don't expect much out of it, but if you're not looking for much, this may be an inexpensive and effective solution. Just keep in mind the 'ole phrase "No highs, no lows, it must be BOSE" wasn't just made up to be bad PR.

There are a lot of threads out there that cover this sub, installation, and troubleshooting. Here are a few of the key threads that I remember:
http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=170922
http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=238265
http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=123602
http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=133468



(due to a post size limitation, the rest of the FAQ is continued in my next post in this thread, so jump down a little or click here.)


This post has been edited by PJK3 on Jun 27 2007, 07:47 AM

#Electrical
My lights are dimming during heavy bass, what should I do? Do I need a capacitor?
Chances are you simply need a battery that can better suit your needs. Generally, we used to recommend Optima Yellow Top batteries, however there have been a number of concerns of late with the Yellow Tops and quality. There are actually several other threads on the issue with multiple reports of dying Yellow Top type 51R and 51 batteries. You will also find them much harder to find now, as Optima does not seem to be manufacturing them anymore.

Some have suggested moving to Exide and Stinger batteries.

Whatever battery you choose, you will need a type 51R for the S2000, and it is a direct OEM replacement. There have been mixed reports on the type 51 working and not working, your mileage may vary. I had a type 51 in my car for a while, and it did just fine for fit, however the battery posts were mighty close to several parts of the body. I did not keep this battery very long as it was a Optima Yellowtop and failed after about 6 months.

Should I run a capacitor in my car with my amps?
The general concensus here is that capacitors are more marketing than go. If you are looking at very high power systems (above say 800 Wrms), then you may want to consider one, after you've addressed your battery.


What light sizes fit all around? I want to upgrade to LED's.
The owners manual contains much of this information.
There are some great links for LED related upgrades (including comparison photos) in these threads:
Thread on using LED's for license plate illumination, as well as for other lights
LED replacement for rear turn signals including load resistors and includes a comparison of several popular bulbs.
Some cautions on LED replacements

To help with LED turn signal upgrades, check the post from modifry in the question below:


How do I stop the hyper blinker when I add LED turn signals?
We can thank modifry for this solution


How can I rig it so I can lower my top without having to come to a complete stop?
SC_Highlander has this little writeup on how to do this... We aren't responsible if you use this poorly and damage your car. This should be used with the upmost caution, so please read the entire thread carefully.

I want to add footwell lights to my S. How do I do it?
InsaneInNC whipped up a little guide on how to do this, so check it out. There are other guides out there as well if you search for them, but this one was done very clearly and uses modifry's footwell light controller, which makes it a super easy install.

My aftermarket head unit / OEM radio has suddenly stopped working. It will not power up. OEM only: the red flashing light is still lit, but nothing works. I've checked the radio fuse. Is my head unit blown?
Check the Accessory fuse. Even if it looks good, replace it. 99.9% of the time, that is the problem.

I've heard about this cool mod where I can open my Garage Door by flashing my headlights. Where can get info on how to do it?

Garage Door Opening by headlight flashing.



#Budget
How much should I plan to spend?
Plan for steeply diminishing returns to investment with each minor improvement costing exponentially more than the last. A journal of speaker improvements reads like a hierarchy of needs. In the first order of needs, you're just concerned with hearing the music. Beyond that, you start becoming concerned with making the music sound "real."

Ok, I have my budget. What can I do with $xxx.xx?

The EJ's roughly put together this suggestion list. There are an infinite number of permutations, so you must determine on your own what is important to you and align it with your budget.
Most of these numbers (especially the more value oriented) do NOT consider installation, but assume you can 'do it yourself'. If you cannot do it yourself, be prepared for additional installation costs.
I have tried to include a 'I like rear speakers' solution at each price point as well.

What would you do with...
...a budget of $50?
Just add rear coaxial speakers.
This will involve cutting the rear panels behind the seats, running your own wires, and installing some inexpensive speakers.

...a budget of $250?
Replace the head unit
This will generally mean buying a fairly modest HU. For this price, you will find it difficult to keep the dash controls.

...a budget of $400?
Replace the head unit and upgrade front speakers (coaxials)
This will easily include a decent HU, allow you to install some relatively nice speakers, and possibly retain the dash controls.

...a budget of $500?
Replace the head unit and upgrade front speakers (components) or a new HU and add S-Pods
This will easily include a decent HU, allow you to install some nice component speakers, and possibly retain the dash controls.
If you prefer rear speakers, this will generally mean buying a fairly modest HU, and adding a set of S-Pods. For this price, you will find it difficult to keep the dash controls.

...a budget of $700?
Replace the head unit and add a small amp and front component speakers, or add a nice HU and upgrade speakers all around with S-pods.
This will easily include a decent HU, allow you to install some quality component speakers, and retain the dash controls, and add a modest amp for power.
If you prefer rear speakers, this will generally mean buying a decent HU, upgrading front speakers to nice components, and adding a set of S-Pods. You should be able to keep the dash controls.

...a budget of $800?
Replace the head unit and add a small amp and nicer front component speakers
This will easily include a decent HU, allow you to install some high quality component speakers, and retain the dash controls, and add a strong amp for power.
If you prefer rear speakers, this will generally mean buying a decent HU, upgrading front speakers to nice components, and adding a set of S-Pods with nice speakers. You should be able to keep the dash controls.

...a budget of $1000 to $1200?
As before but now, switch out the amp for a 4-channel amp and add a sub
This will easily include a nice HU, allow you to install some quality component speakers, nd retain the dash controls, and add a strong 4 channel amp (or possibly 2 amps) for power, plus a decent sub.
If you prefer rear speakers, this will generally mean buying a nice HU, upgrading front speakers to good components, and adding a set of S-Pods with nice speakers, and adding a 4 channel amp to power them all. You should be able to keep the dash controls.


...a budget of $1400+?
$1400 is freedom. First, take out $200 for the install parts such as a DCI, wiring, and so forth and you're left with $300 each for the other components. $300 seems to be a magic number in car audio. A lot of the really awesome individual components--be it deck, amp, component speakers, or sub--cost about $300. Spend a little less and your options become severely limited. Spend a good amount more, and there aren't any real improvements until you get the level around $700 or so.

...no specific budget but with a desire to score on all the value monsters out there?
Check the deals of the week thread in the Electronics forum for some good deals. Also look to see what others are currently buying and what kinds of bargins they are getting.


#Shopping Online
If I buy from an online store, will I get a manufacturer's warranty?
If you buy from an authorized dealer, then yes (Make sure the manufacturer recognizes them as an authorized dealer). If you buy from an unauthorized dealer, then no. However, many unauthorized places will give a one-year warranty with their products but make sure to ask around as some places will give as short as a two-week warranty. Sometimes, even if you buy from a non-authorized dealer, you will be warrantied by the manufacturer, but this is not guaranteed and will depend on the situation. Your mileage may vary.

What are some good online stores that carry car S2000 specific stereo equipment?
Marks2002 makes the S-Pods for the S2000; PAS2KNut makes a spare tire amp rack and a flat cover for the trunk; Modifry makes the DCI (Dash Control Interface) to keep your dash controls with aftermarket HU's; and DJ Qube also makes a Dash Control Interface for keeping dash controls with aftermarket HU's.
Information on all these products can be found at this link here.
WLaurent makes sub enclosures for the S2000 that fit into the side wells of the trunk. They can hold just about any 8" sub, and a limited number of 10" subs. His products can be found here at this site.



What are some good online stores for stereo equipment?

Some people here have used these stores with different degrees of success, if you're hesitant, it wouldn't hurt to ask around about a certain store before buying.

Specific vendors cannot be referenced here due to sponsorship issues.

#More Information
Where can I get more information about car audio?

So I've whet your appetite for car audio but you still think this isn't quite enough?

If there's something about car audio/stereo that you're not quite sure about or if you'd just like to know more - check out Basic Car Audio for information that ranges from the very basic all the way to the very advanced.


#Alarms

Can anyone help me when installing an alarm in the S2000? Is there a how to guide out there?
William Laurent (WLaurent) long ago sold an alarm specific to the S2000 based upon DEI's Hornet 700T. When he was selling it, he wrote a GREAT guide for installing the alarm. The guide is specific to the system he sold, but it's very helpful in a number of ways. It includes color coding and wire location for most of the wires you need to connect an alarm.

Here is another thread related to that alarm that involves some excellent troubleshooting, and can be very helpful for other alarm installs.

I want to install an alarm, but I don't know what wires do what? HELP!

Here are 2 guides on wire colors and locations. For the most part they seem identical, but the first are for '04-'05 (not sure about '06). The second are for '00-'03 cars, and the only difference I can spot are some of the locations, size and color notes for specific plugs. It seems that the wire colors and rough locations remain the same from '00 to '05.


S2K'ing-IN-Spokane provided links to a chart that outlines 04/05 wiring colors and locations. It is printable and readily readable.
Wiring Diagram Part 1 and Wiring Diagram Part 2


Here is a chart that has been provided by another user (not personally verified) that lists DEI's wiring guide for the S2000. It should be helpful, but when in doubt use a multi-meter to verify or ask for clarification.
This was provided for mostly '00-'03 models.

Here is an early alarm install thread that was written by 2 of the most knowledgeable EJ's for the S2000. It was originally written for AP1 models, but is likely applicable to all cars to current. As always, double check and be certain. This thread covers the specific locations for a lot of the various modules, polarity issues, and details on wiring up the alarm.


#Radar
What is the best portable Radar detector?
The general concensus on the board here is that the top 2 contenders are the Valentine V1 and the Passport 8500 X50. Both are highly rated by and perform similarily when tested by non-biased testing companies.
There are some key differences between units however, and I will briefly try to outline the highlights below.

Specific benefits of the V1:
The V1 uses front and rear radar detection arrays to provide directional arrows that approximately locate the direction of the source of radar. The V1 will track the direction of and alert for multiple bogeys simultaneously. The V1's wired remote duplicates most of the controls on the main unit.
Drawbacks of the V1:
Cost, this unit is very expensive at $400, and can only be purchased new from the OEM. This unit will alert for several sources, but gives little information regarding signal strengths or specific numbers of each type.

Benefits of the 8500:
The 8500 is notably cheaper than the V1, with a readily findable street price of $250 from an authorized retailer (non-ebay). The 8500 will track multiple bogeys providing signal strengths and signal types for up to 8 different sources simultaneously.
Drawback of the 8500:
The direction of the radar source is not displayed. This unit only uses 1 radar detection array, and can only detect from the rear via reflected signals.

Benefits/Drawbacks in common:
Both are highly sensitive, providing notable alert times.
Both will detect and track multiple bogeys.
Both are programmable.
Both have front and rear laser detection arrays
Both have remote alert displayes that can be hardwired in line.
Both can be difficult to hear in a loud convertible environment.
Both displays can be washed out in bright sunlight, especially with the top down.

Valentine 1
Escort 8500 X50

How do I hardwire my radar detector? Where to I make my power connections?
How to hardwire a radar detector (Escort 8500 or Valentine V1)
Direct link to the wiring instructions for an 8500
old V1 hardwire How-To thread: http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3213
This one is not the best guide since the guy who wired this one didn't do a very good job of hiding the wire along the top of the windshield... but, still a nicely placed remote display, etc.
S2000.org Hardwiring Radar Detector DIY.
This is a very good guide with a lot of well taken clear pictures.


My suction cups don't stick well anymore, what can I do to make them stick better?
This technique works for me and the suction cups that came with my 8500.



What about stealth installed or permanent Radar Detection/Laser Detection/Laser Jamming systems?
Generally, the recommended system for detecting radar, laser, and jamming laser is the Passport SR7/ZR3/SRX. It is typically professionally installed, and can cost substantially more than a portable detector. The capabilities of these units are generally regarded to be superior to portable, but little hard evidence has been shown to prove this claim. Regardless, they are clearly superior for stealth purposes, however their costs are quite higher, with full protection costing well over $1,000 retail.

More Info can be found here

The SRX is usually only installed by new car dealers. The SR7 is an aftermarket system that only detects radar and laser. The ZR3 is an addon to both the 8500 and/or SR7 that will detect and jam/shift LIDAR. The SR7 + Shifters is a combo package of the SR7 and ZR3 units.


#EJS
Who are the EJ's?
The EJ's are a group of guys that hang out in the Electronics forum and generally answer the questions that come in from other users. Most of them have Electronics Junkies badges, and we can usually be recognized that way.
Guys who you'll commonly see participate and can trust are:
NFRS2000NYC-Dave
PAS2KNut-Jim
Darkknight1999-John
WillieGee- Bill
modifry-Bob
MacGyver-Dan
WLAURENT-William
b0mbrman-Mario
PJK3-Phil
ruexp67-Pete
Mikes2k-Mike
Flitcroft-Josiah
jwa4378-John
(i'm sure i'm missing some...)

I wanna be an EJ!
Check out this thread. Just be aware, that this badge isn't handed out to everyone. You should be a regular in the forum, and it helps if you show a willingness to help out others in the Electronics forum.


----
FAQ version 2.37, last updated by PJK3 on 6/27/2007)

version 2.0, original post. update from b-man's old post
version 2.1, updated some info, rearranged order to be more logical, added some questions/topics, removed potentially problematic vendor info
version 2.11 fixed some broken links
version 2.2 added some more links, updated a question or two, added questions per anchor lists
version 2.21 added a couple more questions, updated anchor list, changed the split point location
version 2.22 fixed some more links, fixed some spelling
version 2.23 added some new questions and expanded some others (sound deadening, icruze, etc.)
version 2.23a updated icruze info/links
version 2.24 added full length answer on voltage and power
version 2.25 added question and link to writeup on frequencies and equalizers
version 2.3 split up some of the larger portions of the FAQ into separate posts to help clean up clutter and make the FAQ more readable.
version 2.31 added a couple minor questions that come up on occasion.
version 2.32 added question regarding power antenna, general linkage updates, etc.
version 2.33 added a couple more questions and how-to guides. fixed a broken link.
version 2.34 added a few more questions and a how-to guide. fixed an error in the formulas for calculating resistance in parallel.
version 2.35 added stuff to the alarm sections, fixed several broken links, updated some outdated URLs for images, etc. also updated some of the 'external' FAQ threads.
version 2.36 added more info on IPOD and MP3 player/aux info, added info on Bose RSX sub, updated some HU and sub section, added V1 specfic hardwire guide. Changed Optima Yellow Top blanket recommendation. Also, finally fixed Mac's long since broken links.
version 2.37 added some updates to Alarms, added a better AP2 HU install guide, added another Radar Detector Hardwire thread, some info/links on LED replacement lights, and the DIY on adding a garage door opener to the headlight highbeams flash switch.




This post has been edited by PJK3 on Jun 27 2007, 07:25 AM

I think we need to start with the most basics of basics and ease into the more technical areas. This way we don't loose our reader right from the start, when all s/he wanted to find out was how to hook up an ipod.

edit: I think you did a great job phil. we certainly need and update.

i can email you the .txt file i used to make this one and you can cut it up if you'd like...


?

edit: i'll pm you some suggestions i might have

Hey Philip

I have a number of quicky diagrams regarding speaker wiring in my gallery that you are free to use.

http://www.s2ki.com/forums/index.php?act=m...lbum&album=3365

Hopefully you can link to it - it is public

The list of 8" subs that work well in small enclosures is huge depending on what people want to spend. I can make a list of ones I have tested if you like (there is actually some comparison charts in that album you can use if you like).

I think it looks great! Fantastic job!

But I think including any comerical links is against S2ki.com advertising rules.

These are commercial questions. We can't answer "what product do I buy if I've got $500?" if we can't name a product. If the rules say that answering that question is not allowed then the rules need to change.

Nice work, everyone, especially PJK3. Much appreciated!

This post has been edited by dierk on Jun 2 2005, 07:35 PM

I will make a sub section (ill send it to you phil) on how to take off every panel inside the car, and every panel required to remove in order to do an install. I know this will save people a lot of time and energy.....you guys think I should make one??

do it!

If they haven't been mentioned already, these are some more 8" subs that should work well in very small enclosures:

JL 8W3V2D2
Image Dynamics ID8D2V3
Resonant Engineering RE8

In the first section, the "links" to all the gear manufac. websites are broken. Might be nice to make them real links.

I know you have it covered in the section on "How to test speakers in a store" however, the you are missing the FAQ that comes before it: "What is the best speaker for me?" I would break that out into a different section, like this:

What is the best speaker for me?
There is no "Best" speaker. Everyone has unique tastes. Even if you think you are completely tone deaf, if you listen to different speakers even YOU will be able to hear a difference. In a perfect world, you should pick the speakers that you will be listening to.

We can help narrow down your search by offering suggestions on quality speakers to look at and poor quality speakers to avoid. Keep in mind that your speaker selection is dependant on the ammount of power you are sending to them. Here are some suggestions on speakers to go and listen to:

HU Power:
...
...
...

Small amp 25-50WRMS
...
...
...

Bigger amp 50WRMS +
...
...
...

(The categories are just examples. This is not exactly my area of expertise so feel free to change it up and add actual speaker suggestions.)



In the subwoofer section, I think it bears mentioning the whole issue about the spare tire and the toolwell. Most people will readily give up the toolwell but want to keep the spare when in fact one without the other is kinda worthless. This should be made clear.


I have seen a few questions lately about bulb selection, and I remember a while back some questions about LED bulbs. Perhaps Modifry and Mac can work up some of their solutions and we can include that in the FAQ also.

Oh yeah, a section on alarms, prox sensors, etc.

nice think maybe the powers that be EJs... can generate a list of speakers that fit well
mainly for the rear, i mean i can go do it myself but Macs site is down right now and i forgot what the exact measurements are
the speaker sizes just confuse me

and maybe what the biggest speaker you can get into the front, which ones will fit in rear
prob a lot of work but i guess slowly adding to it would work

this is my main issue now, finding some higher end stuff that will fit without issues
i ordered a mb quart pce 213 comp set for front.. now want something of that nature in the rear

ok..... in semi-random order:


Strat -- i appreciate the comment. as best i know, i haven't commercially linked anyone or anything. (Pete, your comment is noted, but these were not linked deliberately.) these are manufacturer websites, and a couple of the sites are simply stores we are familiar with... we are simply mentioning them for reference. people ask us this stuff all the time, and now that Lucid is out of the picture, there's really no one sponsoring the site who sells audio gear like this that i know of... so, our linking isn't competing with any current sponsors.
i WOULD like to link to manufacturers... i'm not sure if that's legal or not.
if you feel you should, point it out to Erik, and he and i can discuss whatever is necessary...


Dave -- subs section. good deal man. just don't go Alpha nuts on us.


Willie -- you're right. i need to reorganize this differently... i'll put some common questions at the top w/ the references going deeper in for more details.


Dave -- install/panel section... i think that's a great idea.


Pete -- great idea on adding that question... also, regarding tool well and spare tire, that does need to be clear.


A bulb section will need to be made by someone other than me.


Who can do a section on alarms and proxes? i don't think i'm really best at that.




don't expect any changes to see the surface of this thread until this weekend... the net at work is even more outlandishly slow than normal, and unlike yesterday, i'm busy today.

This post has been edited by PJK3 on Jun 3 2005, 08:19 AM

Links to MacGyver's site result in a 404 error. Looks like his site isn't hosted there anymore or something. I noticed this the other day when clicking thru from another post.

Every car specific audio forum I've been to has a link to clear directions on how to remove the factory head unit and door panels in the FAQ. So I was quite surprised when I couldn't find good info on either one. Posting this link would have saved me (and after searching, quite a few others) a lot of time. http://www.lucidauto.com/guides/radio/default.htm

Most also have good FAQ stickys on how to remove the seats, center console and place dyanmat all around the interior. I am in the process on installing my stereo and could have used these with out paying the $2.99 to a website for clear directions like I did I will try to take pics and make one for this forum. Also it is not clearly stated in the FAQ what size our tweeters are. Although is does say 6.5" fronts and give dimensions, 2 lists of quality front speakers that are known to fit both without and with modification would be helpful to save people from taking each speaker out of the box and measuring it. I believe the speaker size should be near the top of the FAQ IMHO instead of buried at the bottom since it is such a common question for noobs. The info there is great but I read through it twice and it left much to be desired when I finally was in the store or had the tools out in the car. Thanks everyone! You guys are great here!

This post has been edited by FinancialPlanner on Jun 3 2005, 12:54 PM

Here are some sites I would add. I have had good experience with their products. I think the performance to dollar ratio of these is also very good.

Other good online car stereos.
www.woofersetc.com
www.sounddomain.com
(edit- mods please delete this part if it violates the rules)

Amps
Zapco http://www.zapco.com

Speakers
Dynaudio http://www.dynaudio.com
Oz Audio http://jti-innovation.com/oz/index.htm

Subwoofers
Alumapro http://www.alumapro.com
Oz Audio http://jti-innovation.com/oz/index.htm

Tim

This post has been edited by darkknight1999 on Dec 30 2005, 07:09 PM

This is looking good! I have a few things to add but I'll post them in a little bit... Gotta eat first

*sigh*

by the rules of the site, as i understand them, i will remove such references and information. i was hoping that by not providing active links (such as i recently saw a reference to for sigs in Site Info), i could skirt this issue. i know you're not enforcing this, nor are you calling me out, but at this point, i don't think Erik likes me all that much anyway. i don't want to stir trouble up. heh, i'm lucky they've let me keep my avatar.

Strat, this is just in general and is in NO way aimed at you and/or Ricks. you've always been 100% cool and straight up in my book. and Ricks has always been a great person to deal with and an incredible supporter and sponsor for the S2000 community.

[rant]
this is just one of the things that really irritate the piss out of me about S2ki.com. sure, we're a 'community', as long as it doesn't interfere w/ the bucks. as soon as friendly advice crosses the line into money, *BAM!* we're in business land and all the community BS is flushed.

this FAQ will be LESS than it could be for the greater population simply for the sake of money. it's not like i'm making a dime out of these people, nor are they probably even aware of the reference...

i will not pony up my $25 until i get my value out of it. S2ki.com and the community are not one in the same, never forget it.
[/rant]

i will be removing the manufacturer links and keeping them stored locally till told otherwise or whatall.

Strat, in order for this to fly, you'll have to also edit your post and the quote. thanks...

*edit* i'll be stripping the info out in the next revision, probably posting it tonight.
*edit2* linking in the referenced site info thread.

This post has been edited by PJK3 on Jun 3 2005, 05:35 PM

Weird. I would think linking to sales oriented websites (eStores) would be more of a problem than links to manufactures websites.

Posting a link to a specific Honda dealer would be in conflict with a board sponser (Hardtopguy) but a link to Honda.com would simply be a good way to answer some questions.

Most manufactures that I have seen don't sell directly. However, .PDFs with manuals, warranty information and product information are all redily available.

In order to use ANY of these options above, the Head Unit you purchase MUST have an InfraRed remote. Some Sony models are an exception to this rule, as they can use a hardwired option.

Alpine's new 2005 line also has a hardwire line input for remote dash controls. As of this writing (6/2005) the interface for the S2000 is only available in Europe, but is allegedly going to be available in the US soon. Some users have imported the interface to the US with good success.



SWI-ALP is available NOW in the US. I have one (shipped from HP in South Cal) right now 4 feet away from me. Being installed this week. No need for infrared for it, tho the Alp HUs that are compatible to it are IR.

Pete, i agree, and i was mainly playing safe. still, i haven't heard anything official from either John or Jim on what i can and cannot link to in the FAQ. until i do hear anything, i'll try to put in links for manufacturers and omit the recommended stores.

can you link up or post some evidence of this thing being released and available?

Should I be insulted my word isn't good enough...

Well since a picture is worth a thousand words, here you go. -Thats my hand holding it.

Ordered from HP Distributing (800-375-2927) for $59.