I have had my S for 3 yrs now and am finally frustrated enough to upgrade the stereo. I don't dirve the car alot so it hasn't been an issue but I am now ready.

I have Alpine's in the doors and am considering Lucid's rear speakers.

The question is, At what point is an amp necessary?

If I upgrade the headunit with say a 25W rms model will it be enough to drive the speakers to a level that is acceptable. I don't blast the stereo but at high speed with the top down will turn it up.

I know this is a personal opinion but would appreciate some input.

Thanks,

Jim

 

I say, listen to your stereo once you upgrade it. The extra power you get from it will definitely be noticeable. If you like that, stay with it. Just know that if you were to add an amp to your system that you would get another significant jump in both volume and quality of sound. That's the simplest and cheapest way to do it. You may find that with rear speakers and a more powerful head unit you'll be happy for another 3 years!

 

Go to a store and listen to different speakers running off just a deck and some running off an amp.

Don't forget to factor in top-down noise

 

for me listening to speakers, externally amped was a revelation. it's hard to quantify it to people, when you listen to it you'll appreciate what it means. try to find someone in your area with a decent setup (even if it's not the same car) and you'll hear the difference immediately.

 

One of the first things you need in your car before anything else is a good amp and some speakers that can handle the amp. Loud music is vital to driving.

 

I agree with Gamecocks2k.

 

But not if you engage in conversation occassionally.

 

better amp= more power

 

My system automatically lowers in volume when I talk

 

(But not if you engage in conversation occassionally)

That's what the mute button is for.