I know sound is very subjective but is there a consensus as to how good/bad the factory stereo is on an SLT Quad Cab Big Horn with the standard stereo?

I am not an audiophile but would like to have a good sounding system without having to replace the head unit and destroy the look of the dash. I have driven a 2010 F-150 and the standard unit in an XLT is not very good and most F-150 guys agree with my impression. Hopefully the Ram is a bit better in this regard.

NC

 

The factory stereo is nothing fancy, so if you are asking the question then the answer is probabally that you won't like it.

Only way to know for sure is to test drive one.

 

I have the optional Alpine Nav system with the factory sub. It sounds ok if you play something with that sub bass line (rap/techno), but you can't really hear it much with classic rock stuff.

I think it said somewhere "450 watts".

Right.


And I was overwhelmed by the three band graphic equalizer.

 

Hey, that's 50% more control than having just 'bass' and 'treble'!!

Rob

 

Greg...I hear your concern, as I have the same and will be taking action on mine soon too.

Check this out....
http://mobile.jlaudio.com/products_c...php?page_id=79
then imagine just replacing the speakers for better sound quality and a small amp for a little more pump. I may even throw a small 8" woofer somewhere jsut for a tad thump...but not overwhelming. Problems solved for me.

 

That is a cool solution. Thanks for posting it.

NC

 

I'm a bit of an audio phile, so take what I have to say lightly...

I would gut and replace the entire system. Modern head units really don't negate the look and flow of the dash like they used to. Especially if you keep the 2din opening.

If you're looking for an idea on speakers... I'm in the process of locating a Hertz dealer close to me if that gives you a clue. I've seen their speakers in action and I'm very impressed.

 

I'm more than happy with my factory Alpine system. In my younger days, I typically put in aftermarket systems, but in reality, how much better sound do you really need. Do you have that discerning of an ear?

 

I have a 2009 crew cab big horn and everyone who ever rides in my truck says it has a great stereo. I am totally happy with it.

 

my dad has a 2009 f150 and the upgraded alpine system with sub is like night and day compared to the ford. i hate the system in his truck a lot! im sure you'll be happy with the upgraded one. but if not you can just upgrade the speakers with aftermarket ones and that will also help considerable. also mopar has teamed up with kicker audio and there are speaker upgrades through mopar if you would be interested in going down that route.