I just purchased a S2, and I LOVE IT. (except the stereo) Does anybody have a suggestion for a system? I want front speakers, a new head unit (video isn't really needed) and a sub. I want the system to have good volume since the S2 is soo noisy. (at least compared to my other vehicle) I really don't want a bunch of cutting to have to take place. I would like to retain the remote controls. Volume and good imaging are important. Also a good installer in the metro houston tx area. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

head: Aloine 9855
Ipod: Kca i420
infinity kappa perfects 6.1
alpine mrv f345
and satilite radio.

 

What type of music do you listen to?

 

This setup cost me about $2000 and it sounds great. Volume and imaging are both excellent (even on the highway with the top down). I was pleasantly surprised with imaging, never really expected much in the way of imaging in car audio, but I think that keeping the speakers in the front makes a difference.

front speakers, Eclipse SC8254
http://www.eclipse-web.com/component/sc8254.html

head unit, Alpine CDA-9855
http://iweb.alpine-usa.com/pls/admn/item_i...ry=20&p_main=10

subwoofer, trunk stealth box by JL Audio
http://mobile.jlaudio.com/products_stealth...php?fit_id=1405

amplifier (apparently discontinued) Eclipse PA5422 (doesn't have to go in the trunk, can fit in the space next to the spare tire well, behind the drivers seat)
http://cartoys.com/cartoys/showdetl....oduct_ID/23588

dash control interface:
http://www.pac-audio.com/products/swi.htm

One audio dealer insisted that a trunk subwoofer wouldn't be worth the money, but it makes a huge difference, even with a suitcase in the trunk.

The only thing I haven't been happy with is the dash control interface will occasionally change modes (like CD to FM) for no apparent reason. Still trying to track down that problem.

 

How can you guys give suggestions with asking what he likes in music taste??

Oh and the stealth box is way over priced

 

The source material doesn't really affect the accuracy of reproduction, does it? I suppose if someone had very specific musical tastes that resulted in only certain frequency bands being important, that would make it possible to cut corners.

But what is wrong with recommending a setup for a good all-around system? That's what I need, since I listen to all kinds of music.

 

Oh really... so then you like your high's to be really high and over powering, like say in a set of MB Quarts... or maybe you like the mid range to be stronger like say Alpine's mid range speakers... or maybe you like your music more flat range... Cheapo speakers... or maybe you like them full/crisp sounding like Focal's or Sea's.

So tell me how can me asking what type of music someone likes can't help me make a good recommendation??

By asking what type of music will lead me to ask other questions depending the persons answers.

Next time you need speakers try going to a store and have a good listen with your favorite music, if you can't hear the difference in the speakers... then your not listening and in that case Walmart has some great audio equipment for you.

 

I think the type of music matters. Just like EQ settings are different to taste.

if a person prefers classical compared to rock the sub response will be a huge factor. just my 2 cents.

 

I was just answering your own question "how can you make recommendations without asking about musical taste?" You do it by recommending equipment that does everything well.

I'm well aware of the difference in sound between speakers. However, that addresses the question of what tonal qualities the person prefers, not what type of music they like. They're not necessarily related, and tonal quality is hard to convey in words. The real answer may be to suggest several brands with good quality and have the person go to a store and decide for themselves what they like.

Come to think of it, isn't that what's going when someone asks what equipment they should buy? A bunch of people respond with what they like, preferably with explanations why and comparisons to other gear and/or the stock system. Now the original poster has a list of equipment that they can go audition. How often does someone ask this question and immediately rush out any buy the first recommendation they see?

rcantu, do you think that the sub response would be more important for rock, or classical? I think it's important to have deep, controlled bass for both.

 

You need to hang out here in this forum a little while... you may learn something. You need to ask questions not just throw out random items of what 'might' work for them.

You need to learn to ask questions and then listen to the answers before you just blurt out some random info on some product that may or may not work for that person.

Speakers sound different, not just to different people but the sound that comes of them, the sound they make is different. Therefore in order to properly help a person and point them in a direction that could actually help them make a good choice for 'their' needs. Not your's.