Base Sound System Upgrade/Build

[Blksn955.o]

I see some people are mixing brands of speakers or even putting boat speakers in the rear. Is this okay to do? I’m no expert, but in the home theater world this is a big no-no because of timbre matching. I would think that could be an issue here as well.

I would not mix brands or even model/series within a brand with the exception of the sub. Even in home theater setups the sub is often different.

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[VictoryLights]

I would not mix brands or even model/series within a brand with the exception of the sub. Even in home theater setups the sub is often different.

Correct. This is my understanding. My plan is to replace all 6 base speakers with the same model/series and then evaluate whether I need/want a powered sub.

 

[JenB]

I went back and forth between setting them up as components or doing 4 coaxial speakers and ended up going coaxial for now! It's nice that you can "flash" the programing on the Key pretty easily and then I could reset it up as a bi-amp in the future if I want!

How do you “flash” the system and what does that mean? I read that the dealer would do that if they install the sound bar, but I am more interested in taking the approach of replacing the speakers and installing an amp. If I just replace the stock speakers do I need to flash the system? Thanks in advance to anyone explaining this

 

[philjmatt]

How do you “flash” the system and what does that mean? I read that the dealer would do that if they install the sound bar, but I am more interested in taking the approach of replacing the speakers and installing an amp. If I just replace the stock speakers do I need to flash the system? Thanks in advance to anyone explaining this

Ah sorry there is a bit of confusion here, I was talking about the aftermarket AMP I installed, not the factory one! There would not need to be anything done to the factory system if you were just replacing the speakers!

 

[philjmatt]

Correct. This is my understanding. My plan is to replace all 6 base speakers with the same model/series and then evaluate whether I need/want a powered sub.

I tried this at first and the sound was much more clear from the aftermarket speakers which was a nice improvement! For my personal taste it wasn't quite "powerful" enough though, especially the sound from the rear. It's possible you'll find it more than enough though, and it's very easy to change out the 4 4" speakers! The 6.5"s require a little more work to get to, and an adapter ring to be purchased or made to be installed though.

 

[flip]

I tried this at first and the sound was much more clear from the aftermarket speakers which was a nice improvement! For my personal taste it wasn't quite "powerful" enough though, especially the sound from the rear. It's possible you'll find it more than enough though, and it's very easy to change out the 4 4" speakers! The 6.5"s require a little more work to get to, and an adapter ring to be purchased or made to be installed though.

Commercial ring for 6.5? Link? Grasias.

 

[philjmatt]

Commercial ring for 6.5? Link? Grasias.

I ended up making my own out of some HDPE, but I found these before doing that and they look like they would be a perfect fit for the Bronco as well!

Metra 82-5605 Speaker Mounting Brackets

 

[JenB]

Ah sorry there is a bit of confusion here, I was talking about the aftermarket AMP I installed, not the factory one! There would not need to be anything done to the factory system if you were just replacing the speakers!

Thanks. For my education, and in case I want to install an aftermarket amp, could you explain? I‘m assuming based on your reply that the sound bar is powered, which requires the flash—I do like good sound so am not ruling out installing a better amp.

 

[redone17]

I’m finding the Infinity 4” in all 4 corners are a nice increase to the overall volume and clarity - especially with the top down. But, at higher volumes and bass-heavy music it’s a bit distorted/waffle-y.

Seems like an amp and kicker panel upgrades down the line. But, I’m happy with it for now. Warning:

 

[uncledoodoo]

 

[Hobgoblin]

Show and Tell time. You have the show part covered...

 

[buzpro]

GIGANTIC .... even the very limited rear view is now GONE

 

[Pressurized]

I’m finding the Infinity 4” in all 4 corners are a nice increase to the overall volume and clarity - especially with the top down. But, at higher volumes and bass-heavy music it’s a bit distorted/waffle-y.

Seems like an amp and kicker panel upgrades down the line. But, I’m happy with it for now. Warning:

I would probably look at putting a high pass crossover on those if you are listening at enough volume to distort the bass. The factory 4" had them...

I'd suggest something in the 300hz range at 4ohms. This should eliminate the distortion, but it will also reduce the overall bass when you are listening at lower volumes.

All the more reason for an under seat sub.

Here's 4 to cover all the 4":

https://www.amazon.com/Blocker-Cros...s+blocker&qid=1628721158&s=electronics&sr=1-4

 

[smrpilot]

I've had my eye on the Fusion XS series for the 4" and 6.5" speakers. They're 4 Ohm, IP65 (Marine) and reviewed pretty well, not too cheap, not too spendy. Just want something that sounds decent, and won't fall apart the first top off dusty day. They're on the Crutchfield site. Gotta get the Bronco built first. So I guess I'll wait and armchair this a bit longer.

 

[sLopeFx]

Just got my Big Bend last Friday and am diving into upgrading the factory audio system, it is definitely a must as the 6 speaker system is at best, not great. I've attached the wiring diagram for the 6 speaker outputs from the Audio Control Module "ACM" and the workshop manual on how to access it to this post. Picking out speakers and amps now!

Excellent! Thanks for sharing this and please let us know what you went with and your thoughts!

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