If I'd realized just how easy and effective changing the speakers would be, I'd have managed to get them changed out ages ago! I finally found time this afternoon to put in the new Sony V1631's I'd ordered. Incredible what a difference they make, even with the stock head unit. (Head unit and cd-changer will have to wait till Sunday or Monday to do). The total change out time was well under 2 hours and if I had to do it again it would be under an hour, now that I know how everything fits together. The 1631's are a really good fit except for having to cut away part of the speaker basket. But that was no big deal and the result is quite satisfying, I must say.

Now for the new head unit (Sony XR-CA610X) and the cd-changer (Sony CDX-747X). I'm putting the cd-changer in where the tool kit was -- no lost trunk space and it fits really slick with a bit of cutting of that foam thing.

 

Good work.

But face facts, you're gunna want an amp soon.

See my link below

 

Sony 1621's took about 10 mins per side.

 

Yes, I may want an amp soon. But I haven't convinced myself. Yet. And since I just layed myself off, I'm in no hurry to spend.

1621's have the advantage of not requiring cutting the basket, I suspect. And even with the 1631's, if you knew what you were doing I'm sure the total time would be not more than 35 or 40 minutes, max. But I haven't done my own car audio in 35 years or so.

 

Well, I finished up the install today. First and foremost, I want to thank the members of this forum! Without all the great information you've made available here and on personal web sites, I would NEVER have managed it. But I now have everything working, including the dashboard controls via PAC unit. The CD changer is mounted where the toolkit used to be and it all sounds really good. WAY better than the stock system, plus now I have cassette as well, a requirement for listening to Books on Tape during commutes.

 

CR,

I have nothing but good things to say about the 1631's...even when I was running them with the stock head I was much happier with the sound. I upgraded the head to a CDX-M750, and still don't feel the need for an amp. Now if I can only get my MP3 player ready for production...

 

My experience is the same as yours -- the 1631's are a big improvement even with the stock head, but I must say that with a good head it's even better. I can't see myself popping for an amp any time soon, but you never know. But for the moment, I'm WAY happier! Thanks for the information on your web site - sure made it easier.