Hey guys. 1st off Ill say that I know about absolutely nothing about stereo equipment. Im good with wiring (Im an electro-mechanical technician) and can buid you an engine, but when it comes to head units/amps/speakers, Ive never had much interest and dont know all that much. That being said, I think the factory sound sytem..well sucks quite frankly. I dont need a "booming" stereo, I dont want to add any larger subs or put a box in the trunk, I just want something where I can actually hear a bit of bass and crisper sounds. I dont really want to spend more than ~$500ish of thats possible, could anyone point me in the right direction? Thanks

 

I was amazed at the difference a good head unit made.

I got a used Alpine w/Modifry from the FS forum here on S2Ki. The sound difference was really amazing to me, but the Alpine did push the speakers beyond their limits quite easily.

To upgrade the speakers, I just got these installed:

http://www.crutchfield.com/App/Product/Ite...00&i=107MMC6500

You'll want an amp to drive them, so HU, amp and components might be pushing your budget a bit but would be just what you say you're looking for.

 

Last weekend I installed some Alpine Type R component speakers with an Alpine amp (F-250) in my S and it has greatly improved the sound. I'm on a factory HU as well. The sound is crisp and clear to me, but I am going to be adding 1 10" sub in the trunk to fill out the lows. So far my speakers were $130, amp $75, and all the wiring necessary for like $20. Sub is looking like $90, box $100, amp $??, and some dynamat for the trunk. Should be right around what you're looking to spend. I'd suggest giving that a shot.

 

upgrade your speakers......