Expert: Jerry Mael - 2/4/2012

Question
QUESTION: Thanks first off for the assistance.
I have a factory HU with NAV. Current config all 4ohm
2 dash tweeters - Rockford Fosgate Prime R1T-S 40W Max-RMS
4 doors are Polk Audio Coax - db651s 55W Max-RMS
Factory 8" sub
System sounds great highs, mid and lows but... Lack of volume so considering the rest of the upgrade, amp and sub.

Looking at the following upgrade:
Amp:
Soundstream PX5.580 580W RMS Picasso Series 5-Channel Amplifier or
a Crunch P1 5000.5 1000W RMS
Sub:
8" Shallow mount Pioneer TS-SW841D 120 max RMS
PAC SOEM-4 high to low RCA line converter
PAC SOEM-T high to low RCA line converter

I am looking to add power but wondering what your thoughts are on this subject?
Thank you very much
Ron

ANSWER: To be honest Ron I would go for a new headunit that has nav. The RCA line converters are crap, sonic-ly. You would be putting a lot of money into what would end up being a polished turd, imo.

To be frank, I would check at http://www.crutchfield.com or call them. There are many viable solutions that will allow you to retain navigation and steering wheel controls, ect.
1-800-319-8943

The Soundstream amp would be great but so would a ZX700.5 Kicker Channel which can be had for around 250.00-300.00 (factory refurbished).
http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313&_nkw=kicker+ZX700.5&

I would audition the Pioneer and if you like it, buy it!

I am not trying to blow you off: The people at Crutchfield are top notch and interfacing to or replacing OEM electronics. If you choose to buy from them, they will provide all hardware and adapters needed...ect  ect.
Once you have a new headunit (and can run RCA's from north to south), you will have many more options that will sound much better than any converted RCA signal system.

Best of luck and let me know if you need any further assistance.


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the input - my current issue is funds and I would like to keep the truck as factory as possible. on a 500.00 budgetany reconsideration to your thoughts?

Which amp is better Soundstream or Crunch?

Thanks
Ron

Answer
Well, at that budget you'll be using adapters!
But once you get tired of the lack of dynamic head room and real punch, a new HU will be the fix.
Either of those amps can be great, but most of it depends the on the class (A, A/B or D or T classifications), how well it is setup and finally dialed in.

I think your choices are pretty good for your budget. ♫