I think I'll get a Alpine CDA-9807 unit and Lucid's DCI. I'm not an audiophile and mainly getting it for MP3 capability, but will the sound improve?

Anyone have this setup?

 

In general the sound will improve. However, you may not notice it much as it's hard to hear it with the crappy speakers that come in the car.

In general what you need is more power and better speakers. The Alpine HU will offer more power, but not a LOT more power. However, the HU and DCI is an EXCELLENT start. If you find that it is still not enough volume, you can look at options. You are not limiting any choices by going the way you have suggested.

 

so you think i should get speaker too? the ones at the bottom, right?

 

Well, when you buy them you get both the one at the bottom and the little one in the door.

Better speakers without more power going to them, may be better, but better speakers WITH more power will definatly help.

I suggest you replace the HU and see if you are happy. If you are, stop. If you are not, get an amp and new front speakers. If you are happy then, stop. If not, then add rear speakers. If you are happy, stop. If not add a subwoofer. If you are happy stop. if not, well you pretty much get to start over.

It can turn into a black hole you end up tossing money into. That is one of the nice things about going in stages. You get to appreciate all the changes as you make them, and really understand where your money is going to. Of course once you are satisfied, you get to stop.

 

Definately upgrade in stages. My stages were: 1 ft speakers, 2 rear speakers, 3 better rear speakers, 4 HU, 5 amp, 6 subwoofer.

I was happy at each level, and am finally done. Many people are satisfied with just a few upgrades. When/if you do buy speakers, get the best components you can afford. I think you get what you pay for with speakers.

 

Oh yeah...I also have the 9807 and DCI. I personally don't like the automatic volume function of the 9807. I've tried high and med settings, and will probably turn this function off. Whenever I hit V-tech it gets too loud too fast, and the DCI can't compensate fast enough. Otherwise I like both.

I'd reccommend at least upgrading the fronts with the new HU.

 

Well, everyone has good suggestions so far. But, I definitely suggest getting the head unit first, since you're already on the MP3 bandwagon. It's no use having a great sounding system if you don't have easy access to all the music you want to listen to.
If you get the head unit first and price is a major concern, go with a high-powered head unit so you can skip getting an amp for the near future.
With a high powered head unit, the next logical step would be speakers that can handle the power. Rear speakers will help too, but they can come at a later date.

 

wow, everyone's so helpful. I think what I'll do at a bare minimum is replace the head unit and DCI. If it's not enough, I think I'd like some more bass. Now i'm pretty little, so I have plenty of space behind my seat. Maybe rear speakers? Do I NEED a subwoofer/amp?

I don't need LOUD, just hearable at speed with top down. The faceplate advertises 23 watts RMS/50 peak x 4 channels. You think that's enough? I'm so new to all this.

 

Whats up Steph,......

First of all, I have the 9807 and its great. Youll love it. The DCI and the HU will hold you over for a little while......big difference over stock. However, later on, get some better speakers for the door and a little thump for the trunk.
I actually dont live too far from you, so if you need me to help you install it, give me a call....(Ive mastered the S2000 layout more or less).....DO NOT let those best buy or circuit city demons touch your car.....Hope it helps.....

 

cool! maybe you'll let me hear it first?