Speaker upgrade

I like those focal speakers myself. How much did all that run you total ? If you don't mind me asking.

 

No first-hand experience with the BA speakers, but they're supposed to be good. No rears in my AC, so can't speak to those and I went with component speakers to ensure a good match between woofers and tweeters.

An amp probably isn't required, but will provide better/more sound. For best results, however, a line-out converter should be used to filter the signal from the deck into an amp.

Sound insulation also is not required, but it tightens things up considerably while limiting outside noise.

"...not a thumpy-thump music guy" means you can probably skip a subwoofer, though I don't consider myself a thumpy-thump music guy and I prefer the fuller sound provided with a sub.

"Class D" is a type of amp that offers several advantages (e.g., smaller size, higher efficiency, and less power lost to heat) over other types.

Replacing speakers isn't very difficult, while adding an amp is a little more involved. I know you want to "do it once, do it right," but you should try upgrading the speakers to see if that works for you. If it does, you're done. If not, you can always undertake the more involved process of adding an amp. Crutchfield is a good place to get an idea of what's available/suitable for you application. Armed with that info, visit some local shop(s) to listen to various combos, and decide what sounds good to you.

I don't mind at all, but it's been a while. I shopped Amazon, eBay, Craigslist, etc for a few months leading up to the install to find the best deals on the components I wanted. IIRC, I paid APPROXIMATELY the following...
- $65 for the Line Out Converter (new, but on sale)
- $150 for the Amp (used, but in like new condition)
- $300 for the Speakers (new, but open box)
- $125 for the Sub (new, but on sale)
- $225 for Sound Insulation (still have a bit left for another project)

 

I'm just getting back to this after a crazy week or so...Thanks for the input - very helpful.
I notice most people aren't swapping out the tweeter. What's the reason there? More expense, little return?

Where does the sub-woofer live?

For sound deadening, are you pulling the carpet out and getting all that area front & back? Or just the doors? Looks like you spent the most of the insulation - was that the Hush Mat brand?

Any special tools, spare parts I should get to pull the panels?

Thanks again Norton - very helpful

 

I'd guess some don't bother with tweeters because the biggest ROI is probably woofers. As you said, more expense with a lower return.

I went with a self-contained, slim sub designed to fit under a seat. Mine is under the driver seat, while the LOC and Amp are under the passenger.

I pulled most interior panels and the carpet, in addition to door panels, when I did mine...

 

Thanks Norton - you saved me a bundle on sound deadening insulation - no way I'm ripping all that out. I gotta drive to work in the morning...

OK - maybe the doors while I'm in there but yeah, seats stay as-is for this one.

Talking to some HAM friends - the tweeter would be a great location for a HAM radio speaker...not sure how that would sound though.

But all that aluminum might reflect...
Sorry - wrong forum.

 

Norton, You're crazy!