I want to add MP3 at the HU, upgrade the speakers and add XM. I like the Alpine CDA9831 and the Focal 165s BUT I can't tell, based on listening in the store, if I will be satisfied without addition of an amp and sub once this set is actually in the S2K. I would like this to be the only upgrade and I want to keep the cost modest ($1500 including professional install).

My preferred listening is rock 50-90's, jazz and blues. Most of my driving is at 30 - 50 mph, top down except when it rains. I don't like lots of bass but do appreciate the benefits on mid-range from addition of a sub. I don't care for "loud" music but do appreciate the fullness that comes from added input at the speaker. .

I would appreciate comments/ suggestions on some questions:

- 165W, 165K2 or 165K2P? My local retailers only list "Focal 165" so I don't know which model I'm listening to. From online research the main difference I see is the tweeter 51 (W), 45 (K2) and 52 (K2P) and I think the higher numbers are "brighter". Anyone have side-by-side experience can offer help? I left the retailer thinking the Focals I heard was good at mid-range and bass but could use punchier highs.

- Would you amp these speakers? In the store this combination sounds good to me without the amp or sub but definitely richer with the amp and again with the sub. If yes, do I rate the amp for the nominal power handling of the 165s (100W)? Seems like a lot of power for the size of the S cabin. I would prefer a small amp I can place under the passenger seat (concerns here are size, cool running and adequate power).

- Would you add a sub with these speakers? If yes then which sub would you use in wlaurent's enclosure? Any benefit to a driver side install vs. passenger side?

- If both the above are yes then should I rate the amp to handle rears in case I decide to add them later (like the Van Gogh 800.5 or JL 500/5) or run a 4 channel bridged for now then add a dedicated amp for the sub if I add rears later?

Hope this make sense. Thanks for the help. Kyle

 

I am not going to suggest any opinions on the speakers...too much of a personal thing. But I will offer my 2 cents on the amp and sub issue.

Go ahead and get an amp you will be much happier in the long run, and on that note get the sub too. I only installed an 8" in the trunk and it helps greatly. Plan ahead for what you might do in the next 6-12 months b/c you will not want to be taking everything apart to rewire again and again. (Or paying someone else to do so).

I have wlaurents side mount enclosure and it has been great, installed on passengers side (not that it matters).

Yes get and amp that will handle everything you plan to add...again it will be much easier in the long run.

My system is all Eclipse, I have about 65-70w to the front components, 250w bridged to the sub, and another small amp running about 45w to each of the rears. Not a lot of power but it sounds great even at interstate speeds (70-80) with the top down. (Rear speakers help out a lot with this).

 

thanks for the input kronos!

 

No prob. Feel free to PM me if you have any other questions.