Just installed new front speakers (JL TR650CSI) and I am happy with the improved audio. Think I will now change out the rear speakers (JL TR650CXi) and install an amp (JL A43000). This amp will accept speaker out inputs.
However, what is the simplest way to tie into the speaker outputs. Is there an adaptor that plugs into the HU wire harness. Or do I have to splice into the individual wires? Any comments appreciated...

 

yep....you want two harnesses...Metra 71-9003 and 70-9003. This allows you to tap into the leads without cutting. Should be about $40/total

 

Yes... exactly what I need. Where could I find these?

 

Sorry... Posted too quickly. Seems they are available everywhere. Thanks...

 

yep....Metra is widely sold. you'll find the normal one at Best Buy and Circuit City, but the reverse one they'll have to order. Just remember...you still need to run power to the amp from the battery.

 

What are your thoughts on the 6.5 speakers for the rear?
How about this JL amp. It is a discontinued model and can now be purchased for approx. $200.

 

A4300 is a nice amp. I think 6.5's work but you'll lose bass. If you aren't planning for a sub, why not put a proper 6x9 in there? CDT makes some nice ones....sold on ebay in their own shop.

I did Quart 6.5's in front and Kicker 6x9 subs on a RF Power Series 4channel and it's enough to fool people into thinking I have subs back there.

 

I've been asking folks about doing this since I decided to upgrade....put components in the front and 6.5" subs in the back. Since you've done it, what do you think? The only other way I could think to put a sub in is a flat sub under the drivers seat (if I can find one that would fit).

 

I went round and round about the sub under the seat. The Elemental Designs SQ 10 is 3.25" but the box at .33 cu/ft is too much for under the seat due to bars.

I'm more than happy with the 6x9's (CDT sells some as the Kickers I have are long discontinued). The only issue is one you'll have with anything mounted there...free-air subs lose control with massive bass. I have mine running bridged 2ohm mono. Easily 200w each. I can make them 'fart' with certain types of music.

I'm considering selling the Kickers and putting some midbasses there instead (I've got 8" MBQuarts). I'll put a pair of ED SQ10's in a shallow box in the bottom of the boot...made of 7ply birch and removable. This will yield much better low-end response for ALL types of music and also not weigh much (subs are only 8lb each...maybe 30lb total with the box).

 

So you like it, but are going to change it. hmmmm?

Do you recommend I go that route or go with 4 speakers... even if it means no subwoofer?

 

depends on what you like. My car is loud and I listen to reggae. If you listen to classical, the setup I have is perfect. I want more bass than most.

 

I thought I was set on buying the JL A43000 amp and installing the JL TR650CXi for rear speakers. However, I am now thinking of going for the 6 channel amp (JL A6450) to allow for a possible sub install at a later date, and replacing the rears with JL 6W3V3-4 as opposed to the TR650CXi . I do not listen to my music very loud nor do I want a heavy bass...
Would this seem reasonable...

 

yep....that's a great amp

 

I mostly listen to blues (Tab Benoit, Keb Mo, Buddy Guy, SRV, Van Morrison, etc.). Volume can vary with mood, but with the top down on the highway I'd be lying if I told you I didn't crank it up.

 

What about the 6 1/2 mid-bass vs. the 6 1/2 speaker? Or should I simply follow your lead and install some 6x9 's. I'm not sure if I will ever install a subwoofer. I need the rear area for moving around my stuff... Would these be a reasonable compromise.

 

yes.....CDT mid/sub in 6x9 = perfect. You can set the balance with the amp and also fader. You'll want to cross them over at about 85hz or so lowpass.