Soft Top - Mod for Sound (Stereo Audio Quality)

[B22-2023]

After an successful experiment with some insulating board scrap I had lying around, I added a new cut-to-fit sheet of 3/4 inch insulating foam board over the roll bar. $25 for the kind with a reflective side from HD. Cut the length to reach from the windshield frame to just over the rear speaker SSV pods.

This was over an Amazon sunshade on sale for $40, and under the soft top canvas.

Results were massively improved soundstage, clarity and bass. More on sound later.

Around town driving noise, lessened. The cabin is much quieter. Highway driving no improvement - I’d have to add a layer of that mattress foam in there to press on the canvas I think, like others who’ve gone that route.

Cabin temp control - I noticed an improved experience. Parked out in sun 100 degrees plus this afternoon, it didn’t get flaming hot as usual inside, needing to open all windows to ventilate. Just a bit warm - blast AC and go, I was really surprised.

The sound improvement was the biggest win. Hertz speakers, JL Amps & Sub, but the sound was so weak til this “acoustic paneling” was in. I thought it was my tune. Never could hear the rear pods in any realistic fade setup, voice stage was muddy, and sub bass had no musicality. Now I hear it all, passengers noticed too.

I’m looking forward to one day getting an Armadillo hard top but this has sure lessened the urgency for it.

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[Alassise]

I had the same approach but used 3in foam and 2 harbor freight blue moving carpets sewn together (like a duvet). Added (2) 1 x2 carpeted to run across the roll bar and hold the additional weight. Worked fantastic, as it also fills the soft top a bit.

Next thing is killmat to the doors (as I already did the floor) and adding a reflective screen to see if it lowers the temp a bit more. I had the same effect on road noise and music quality.

 

[B22-2023]

I had the same approach but used 3in foam and 2 harbor freight blue moving carpets sewn together (like a duvet). Added (2) 1 x2 carpeted to run across the roll bar and hold the additional weight. Worked fantastic, as it also fills the soft top a bit.

Next thing is killmat to the doors (as I already did the floor) and adding a reflective screen to see if it lowers the temp a bit more. I had the same effect on road noise and music quality.

Yours is the idea that I was first inspired by. The sewing bit threw me off though; so this was the alternative I came up with. 2 inch foam squished on top of these panels of mine, and I think I’ll be complete.

 

[Figmo]

Similar to y'all - only I went a step simpler: queen sized comforter. Folded to size and stored between top (hard top here) and sunshade.

Achieves same results but brings the added advantage of having an emergency blanket always in the vehicle when/if needed. I think the moving quilts would achieve a similar benefit.

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