So I'm not impressed the the stock audio, and didn't think I'd be either.
But I'm not enjoying my music, mostly hard rock, which doesn't sound good at all.
So what are my options??
I stopped by my local audio shop and got a quote of $1300 for new head unit and speakers. Does that sound right?
I have the steering wheel controls and dont want to lose them either.
Also, does anyone know of a good shop on LI, NY?

 

refer here to get an idea of retaining your steering wheel controls.

$1300 may seem alright, but it depends on what he quoted to sell you for that much!

 

Thanks... I saw that thread.
A bit confusing, but it seems those models are hardwired for the MFSW.
I'll be going to another shop for 2nd opinions. I'll bring this up.

Just trying to see what others have done to their systems.

 

Just replacing the head unit does alot, as in my opinion it is the head unit that is the weakest link in the stock setup. The stock speakers do sound alot better with more power going to them. In my MC, I got a new head unit (alpine 4x50), a fosgate 200 watt mono amp, and a single 10" sub. This sounded great to me, at about half the cost of what you were quoted.

My MCS has the stock head unit with JL Audio speakers in the doors (6.5"), and they don't sound much different. It really is the head unit that should first be upgraded.

 

http://newministuff.com

Start with stereo's, AKA head-units. Mike should send you everything you need to swap it out, and if you don't like it (not loud enough), then you can do speakers, which are also easy.

If then you're still not happy, you can pay a shop to wire up some amps for you, but since you already have a new stereo & speakers, they wouldn't charge you for any of that work, potentially saving you plenty of $$.

http://Crutchfield.com is good too, if you want to stay in the US.

 

Thanks Minitor... helpful info.
BTW how do you like your Grafikdezine car???
I'm thinking of using him for stripes and tinting. Do you think the tinting on your car is too dark or just right.

 

Love the car. It is less "comfortable" than my MC, but if I wanted comfort then I never would have bought it. I think the 35% tint is just right. I have 20% on my MC, and it is real real dark. Nice if you want the blacked out stealth limo tint look, but makes it darker inside. Check out my post to see what I have done so far with it:
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ad.php?t=57181

 

[quote=coopercrazy]I stopped by my local audio shop and got a quote of $1300 for new head unit and speakers. Does that sound right?

That's very high, even for a botique. To save some bucks, buy on line and bring it to a shop that is willing to do installs, even if you haven't bought your stuff from them.

So here's a quick budget using online pricing:

$210 -- $350 for a decent Alpine 4x50 head unit
$250 -- for great front speakers
$100 -- for rears (some owners don't bother replacing the rears)
$120 -- for installing head unit and front speakers.

As you can see, we're way under $1300 here.

At least three shops in NJ and a private guy on Long Island have quoted me on an install only. PM me and I'll be glad to refer you.

hs

 

hugh, thanks.

 

Crutchfield sells 'install cards' as well. They back reputable dealers in every area, and when you buy a card (for a specific install), they include a list of installers in your area.

I'm not a crutchfield rep or anything... They are just a VERY reputable company, and I get a lot of my DIY audio gear from them. Highly recommended .

Install Cards:
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-t0L2lDZ...pvs=T&g=191350

Oh, and "installation labor is warranted for the life of your vehicle", meaning if the installer wires up something wrong, Crutchfield or the installer will fix it.