Hey folks,

I just purchased an '04 Ram QC and would like to update the audio a little. I'd appreciate ANY feedback that you might have a second to give. Please know that I'm trying not to be lazy on this. I've read so many speaker posts and have begun swapping out some already. I read a post on just simply changing out the stock speakers because it sounded like you took a blanket off of them. I did, and I totally agree. The new 6x9s are so clear. I'm working on changing out the 6.5's.

My question or group of questions is this. I'd like to add some more bass to the system. I don't have the 7 speaker infinity deal, I believe I've only got the 4 speaker system. I don't need competition 12s, I'd just like one or 2 eights under the backseat. I've seen all of the hotbox and probox recommendations and their really cool but I believe I can build a single or double box if need be. My questions are these:

If I pick up a single or a pair of 8's, do I have to have an amp?

Regardless of an amp, am I correct in understanding I should run it from the front speaker wires as they stock-wise get the more bottom end sound.

and, for someone clueless like me, does it really matter what speakers I'm looking for? Even If i can swing this rag-tag system without an amp, I just don't think I've got a super budget to work with.

Like I said, I would appreciate any help you can offer as I'm in the dark on a good bit of this stuff.

 

My recommendation is to go with a ready made subwoofer box made specifically for your application. I'm 44yo, and have been into car and home audio since I was a teenager. The problem with making your own box is that you need to be very mathematically precise about matching the air volume of the box to the subwoofer in question. JL Audio makes an excellent, single 10-inch subwoofer that fits under the rear seat of your quad cab. Check it out at http://mobile.jlaudio.com/products_s...hp?fit_id=1440 . And yes, you will need an amplifier to power just about any decent subwoofer on the market. I've had Kicker subwoofers, Nakamichi subwoofers (custom box), and also JL Audio. The JL Audio is the best combination of sound quality, cost, reliability, and will look great due to its' custom-made configuration (carpet should also match). Also, please note that subwoofers are not just for kids who listen to rap. All music contains bass, and a subwoofer will really liven up the sound and free up your other speakers to produce the hi-range and mid-range they were intended for.

Also, quality components DO make a difference. Any reputable car audio shop will be able to offer you alternatives in different price ranges and explain the sound quality advantages. In the long-run, I think you will be happier with the JL Audio setup. Also, don't skimp on the wires or the amplifier feeding the signal to the subwoofer. Once again, your local car audio shop should be able to recommend a suitable amp for your particular subwoofer. I know you said you were on a budget, but I would suggest waiting to get quality components rather than wasting your time on something that may not sound as good or lack reliability. Done right, your upgraded audio system will give you years and countless hours of enjoyment.

I installed a moderately good system in my '96 Chevy Impala SS that consists primarily of Kenwood Excelon components and an Earthquake 10-inch subwoofer. I would consider this to be a mid-range system. In my 1970 Plymouth 'Cuda, I installed Focal and Crystal speakers & Phoenix Gold amplifiers. I would consider this a higher-end system. I can really tell the difference between the two, and now wish the 'Cuda system was in the Impala (since I drive it more).

Anyway, good luck. I'm sure you will receive a lot of differing opinions on this topic.

 

Rumpumpkin,

thanks for the advice. I'll check out the JL setup. I hope it doesn't sound like I was trying to demean anybody because of age or interests I just was trying to make it clear that I'm just a guy who wants a good sounding truck, not something to put into competition or get a ticket for after the cops hear it.

Thanks again for the help

 

well first off, any sub you get u WILL need an amp no matter what, especially if u are using the factory deck. If you went to an aftermarket deck you might be able to get away with running one 8" because of the built in amp but from the sounds of it that isnt what u want. Personally i like alpine, i have 2 type E 10" running off of a pheonix gold 250 watt mono block amp all running off my factory deck and sounds amazing. Half the time i have the remote bass **** at like 1/4 turn maybe less sometimes.

For the box if u are handy and have the tools to build a box and time id say build your own, i built my box for under 100 bucks and looks better then any box that you can buy, i think personally, and in the end you have to satisfaction knowing you did the work and can be proud of it, ill post up some pics of my subs under the seat for u to see.

[IMG]local://upfiles/37504/1883FA32501C4DD8BCD0D7ACAF2F017B.jpg[/IMG]

[IMG]local://upfiles/37504/61127A2DC7CF48AD877558B7AA51B33D.jpg[/IMG]

 

That's a nice looking setup Natan. Just don't wanna get rid of the floor extender I have

 

ya see i didnt have the floor so now worries for me. I just use the box for hauling and thanks for the comments, always nice to get