How's this sound? (pun not intended)
 

I've got an '04 MC (non-s) and am looking to upgrade the audio system (not the HK system, the base one). I wanted to get opinions on how this will sound and if I should change something before I order it:

Head unit: Stock with DICE for iPod (I want a stock apperance to thwart thieves)
Equalizer: Kicker KQ9
Amp for front & rear speakers: Infinity Reference 475a
Front speakers: I'm trying to decide between Infinity Reference 6010cs and Infinity Kappa 60.7cs
Rear Speakers: Infinity Kappa 693.7i

Basically DICE connected to the stock HU, the front signal from the stock HU -> equalizer -> amp -> speakers

Anyone? Would I be able to get a decent enough signal from the stock HU to get good sound out of all these parts?

Yes, you will get good sound from the head unit - and from your other choices. If you use that particular amp though you will need to get a hi to low signal converter. It doesn't accept speaker level inputs.

Which is one reason I chose the Kicker KQ9 (in this hypothetical setup) - it accepts high level from the head unit and outputs low level for the amp. I get all the converters I need plus more accurate EQ than from the stock head unit (9 bands vs "bass" and "trebble").

edit: so then this should work well? good stuff

ah! I didn't think to check on the EQ specs.

The HU will do quite well in that set up.

I would recommend going with the Kappas in the front since you've already decided on the Kappas in the rear. I say this because it appears that Kappas are 2-ohm where as the Reference601s are 4-ohm. I would think it would be a real PIYA to try to properly equalize the front and rears if you were mixing 2 and 4 ohm speakers.

Also having different sensitivity ratings among different speakers might annoy you too. I realize the Kappas are going to cost more, but I think having a similiar speaker in the front and back will produce the best quality for you.

Otherwise it looks like a good setup. Don't forget to take pics of it when you get it installed.:thumbsup:

Will do. Classes start back Wedneday and with my hefty course load this semester it might be a while, but I will take pictures when I finally get around to it.