Replace just the speakers

[dndlion]

Will replacing just the speakers improve the sound much on the basic system? If so, any suggestions on brand and about how much it would cost.

[Chief Mario]

In addition to new more powerful speakers you'll need an amp, sub and get rid of the center speaker or just leave it unhook if you want the stereo effect. Good luck!

[seddon]

I just replaced my front door speaker in my BA system with a set of DLS Iridiums I had laying around and completely sealed and deaded the doors with mdf brackets. It sounds so much better it unbeliveable. Didn't do the rear shelf but I have the fader almost all the way up front and what a difference.

[preppykid]

Did you have to rewire, or did you connect the new speakers to the same wires?

[seddon]

I just tapped the existing wire into my speakers didn't want to cut the factory plug

[Racer-X]

Speakers will ALWAYS give the most dramatic improvment to your system. providing you buy quality speakers.

[mrray13]

Originally Posted by IAS

Speakers will ALWAYS give the most dramatic improvment to your system. providing you buy quality speakers.

I disagree. For the most part speakers are only as good as the signal going to them. With a properly crossed over aftermarket amp, the factory speakers would sound very good, while very good aftermarket speakers can sound like crap with a factory OEM amplifer on them.


Now, I'm not saying that's a solid rule, as factory amps and speakers will vary from level of system to level of system, brand to brand. But for the most part, what goes into a speaker is what comes out of it.

[SNV]

I could be wrong but the OP looks to have an LS. So he does not have a center speaker. Nor should he have a factory amp. He should have the non BA system. Them speakers flat out suck. Other members that have posted claim to have got a better sounds by swapping out the stock speakers. Some of us aren't looking for a bass heavy system. When I swap mine a will do speakers and add an amp. I am not really worried about having a sub. I'm really not into a rattle haha.

[Racer-X]

the OP asked about replacing speakers to imprive the sound in his existing system... not adding parts to the system. so in his situation yes upgrading the speakers (as opposed the headunit) will ALWAYS give the more noticeable improvement.

[dndlion]

Originally Posted by IAS

the OP asked about replacing speakers to imprive the sound in his existing system... not adding parts to the system. so in his situation yes upgrading the speakers (as opposed the headunit) will ALWAYS give the more noticeable improvement.

I think this is the way I may fo, do you have any suggestions on speakers and approximate cost?

[Cj_]

I am in the process of replacing just the speakers on my non-BA system. Usually I go Infinity (personal choice) but had some Alpine 6x9's already so am installing those and Alpine 6 1/2 + tweeter combo. About $220 total.

Sound is typically more sharp than some other brands.

IMHO, I always replace the speakers first. If that isnt enough for you, then add an amp. The stock speakers are very cheap.

Cj

[dndlion]

How much should I pay for installation?

[Topdown]

Originally Posted by dndlion

How much should I pay for installation?

unfortunately thats kind of a loaded question.

Shops usually have a per-hour rate, but to be really honest, guys that have skills like IAS (based on the work/pictures I have seen here on C5 alone) are worth more than the average installer and are 100% worth the cost. that cost might seem like too much, until someone not as skilled hacks up a harness or your door and leaves you with the feeling that you got hosed.

Its not often that I have someone else install for me, but when I do, its worth the cost of a highly skilled installer.

[dndlion]

Originally Posted by Topdown

unfortunately thats kind of a loaded question.

Shops usually have a per-hour rate, but to be really honest, guys that have skills like IAS (based on the work/pictures I have seen here on C5 alone) are worth more than the average installer and are 100% worth the cost. that cost might seem like too much, until someone not as skilled hacks up a harness or your door and leaves you with the feeling that you got hosed.

Its not often that I have someone else install for me, but when I do, its worth the cost of a highly skilled installer.

Do you know of any in this area??