I'm looking into doing a little bit of audio work in my '11 RA, and got a Kicker 700.5 five-channel amp for Christmas. I'm not going to run a full 1,000+ watt system like I did in my Eclipse because I still want to do a lot of performance work on this car, which in the end might be hard to balance out. I'm thinking about relocating the battery to the trunk along with a single 10" sealed sub, and running front component speakers and rear 2 way speakers in the cabin, probably keeping the stock head unit since I have iPod capabilities already and I don't need navigation.

With audio comes upgrading the battery, and in my Eclipse I got away with using an Optima Redtop running four 80w speakers with the fronts being components, and had an Alpine Type-R 12" running at 800-900 watts. Only when it reached maximum power did I notice the lights starting to dim, never used a capacitor.

So, if I want to run a setup with about 400w combined on all five channels, and want to get the most performance out of the car, any suggestions for a battery? I'm thinking of just going with another Redtop battery, and maybe looking into enhancing the engine grounding, like the "big 3" upgrade. Also, any opinions on battery relocating?

 

I am no pro, but from an electrical standpoint all batteries are 12V. If you want to make a difference you would want to get a wire with a lower gauge. That might help for your setup if you are pulling more power.

If it still is under 1000 watts I think standard wires are fine with a standard battery. MY 2 cents. I am only 80% sure, hopefully someone with more experience can help.

Battery relocating to the trunk is always an option like the EVO's

 

in my 2011 ra i got 2 12in Memphis audio subs with a 1000watt kenwood amp n my battery is fine my volt gauge dont drop hardly at all im gonna put more power into my car im turning it into a show car

 

But combined with the losses from moving the battery to the trunk - you may need to upgrade the alternator too.

 

That depends... if it's the same alternator that the X has, then I should be fine. I've seen an MR with an 800w audio system and he only upgraded the battery, has the stock alternator and no capacitor. Hasn't had an issue.