I just had my new Alpine MRV-200 (75Wx4, RMS) amp installed last night. This is a 4 channel unit with built in crossover. I have it connected to the stock head unit using the amp's speaker level inputs. I have Sony 1621's in the front and Polk Audios from Lucid in the rear. The amp is set to full range on the front and rear channels, and the bass boost is set to off. Gain is minimal. It was installed by a very reputable high-end shop, and the install is impeccable.

Here's the problem. While the amp sounds infinitely clearer, I don't get much bass. Where the bass used to resonate a little bit from the distortion from the stock head unit, now its more punchy and tight. I know the bass should be like this and its the desired effect, but I don't have a subwoofer and don't plan to install one. Performance is my main objective not car audio, and I don't want the extra weight from a sub box in the trunk.

I said something to the installer and he recommended I get rid of the Sony 1621s and get some MB Quart 6 inch components up front. He said the bass will be a lot better. He said the polks would be ok in the rear as they are mainly fill.

What do you all think. I guess I'm basically looking to get some bass back. Can you recommend some speakers that can help me acomplish this? I'm most likely looking to replace the fronts, unless Lucid has some magic mega-bass rears he can sell me.

Thanks everyone...

 

whats the budget? Are component sets an option, or do you want a coax speaker?

 

Keith,
Where did you have the amp installed and do you have any pictures?

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by KeithD
[B]

What do you all think.

 

IMHO, the stock HU is the problem here. I remember when I replaced the stock speakers with Focals they sounded terrible (worst than stock) with no bass at all. I replaced the stock HU with a Sony and man what a difference. Now there's enought bass to shake your legs and the sound is very clear as well. I'll be installing a PPI amp later but it really sounds quite good as is. However, if you're happy with the sound otherwise, get some bassy rears from Lucid.

 

98Honda - Any speaker is an option, but I do not want a 500/pair set of car speakers. I think the MB Quarts they were recommending 216's or something like that were $179/pair. Obviously the cheaper the better. I would think 75W/channel should be able to drive whatever I need.

mfabry- The AMP is installed in the compartment next to the spare tire. It fits between the roof well underside and the metal over the fuel filler pipe. If I get a chance I will take pictures.

Lucid - You have been PMed. I'm very interested. Will buy ASAP! Might buy some fronts from you as well if you have something nice!

mas - I don't think its the stock HU here. The Alpine amp is quality and there is tight clean bass, but it doesn't resonate anymore. Its almost like its too clean. Also my gain on the amp is very low right now to minimize distortion from the stock HU. I will say this Alpine is way better than any other amp with speaker levels I've encountered.

Anyone else!?!

 

IMO you'll never achieve real bass without a subwoofer. Your concern about the extra weight's effect on performance is a legitimate one; make the sub easily removable and it's no longer a problem.

If having real bass isn't a high priority, a good set of fronts should satisfy your needs. Look for something that extends into the lower frequencies (<80hz.).

Good luck!

 

Keith,

Have you considered Bass Shakers? Quite a bit of the feel of bass without the weight, cost, or deafening ability. See my webpage...

 

Have you tried to adjust the bass setting on the h/u or turning on the bass boost on the amp? Did the installer add a high pass filter to the speakers? He may have added an 80 - 100 Hz high pass to the speaker to cut off the lower signals. Check for a cap in series with the woofer, if one is there, you have a high pass, if not you are full range and the bass boost on the amp should fix this.

 

The amp has a built in crossover and everything is set to full range.

I've been listening more and I have bass, it just doesn't resonate because its so tight. What I'm doing is swapping my 4 channel Alpine for the same thing in 5 channel. That way if I'm not satisfied all I have to do is throw a box in the back.