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Entry-level stereo upgrade?

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Old 05-16-2009, 10:46 AM
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Default Entry-level stereo upgrade?

I have an '06 GMC (see sig) with stock stereo that I'm getting some reverberation with the bass in the front right speaker. Are there aftermarket components that swap without extensive modifications that are of better quality? What else can be done for relatively less coin to upgrade the stereos of these trucks without alot of foo-for-aws and external gadgets? If possible, I'd like to keep the stock stereo in the dash, don't want to hack it up.

I'm not real big into stereophonics, but it sounds like H right now (to the point that I've adjusted the fade to the rear to minimize the bass reverb in the front right...), so I need to do something. Just thought I'd inquire as to what're my options. If there is a direct swap that is a DIY, I'm keen on that. Otherwise, something that wouldn't cost and arm and a leg at the car stereo store.

FWIW, I've done alot of mechanical work, next to none with stereos though...
Old 05-16-2009, 02:29 PM
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yeah i bought some 6.5 from polk audio for 70 on ebay for the fronts. they sound really good.
Old 05-18-2009, 09:26 AM
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I assume you mean 6.5" bass speaker from Polk Audio? Peering through the grill, it appears the bass and tweeter are seperate? What is the trick to removing that grill without fubar'ing it? Where the PA's a direct swap - unplug, unscrew, swap install reverse order?

Anybody else have info / advice?
Old 05-18-2009, 10:36 AM
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No they are 4way speakers with built in mids and highs. Yes they are a plug and play. You dont remove the grill you remove the door pannel
Old 05-19-2009, 10:29 AM
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Thanks for the info m.o.
Old 05-21-2009, 11:57 PM
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The main thing to note about just replacing the speakers and nothing else is that many detect a loss of sound quality even with better quality speakers for the simple fact that your factory stereo was ment to power your factory speakers, not the aftermarket ones you will buy. If you want the aftermarket speakers to live up to their potiential an external amplifier is necessary. Then to retain your factory stereo you will need to wire in a Line Output Converter to hook up the RCA signal cables for the amp. One thing leads to another and you will end up doing more and spending more than you originally planned to get the sound your after. Just think about what you want the end result to be before you start tearing into everything. Just my .02
Old 05-22-2009, 01:14 PM
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What do you want to achieve good sounds stock deck.

JL makes a unit that will bump up the factory deck to a 4V output. It's about 150.00 team it with a good amp and speakers and you get factory looks and function in a sounds awesome package.

I used the 6disc in dash on my truck, JL Line out converter, Focal K2P in kickpanels and single eclipse aluminum 10 behind the seat and it sounds great. I've done audio for years I just hate the look of modern aftermarket radios except for the Pioneer NAV unit.
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