Has anyone here had any experience with this head unit? I have done a search on the web and found a few posts on the unboxing of the Japanese version on one site, and one car audio mag review, but almost nothing else.

I'm also looking for suggestions on a good SQ 12" subwoofer. I'm not looking for SPL, and I plan on powering it with the Zed Leviathan.

I know I have made a lot of posts on this topic, but I have been on deployment for 7 months and will be returning home in 3 days, and I plan on making a big change to the audio system on my car. I just want to be sure it will be something I'll be happy with, because I plan on keeping this car until the wheels fall off!

Thanks for putting up with my posts, and for your help everyone!

John

 

dayton reference HF sub at partsexpress.com
$138 and sounds awesome for that price!

check the reviews.

 

Don't waste your time with a SQ system. It simply won't happen in this environment.

 

FJF, I have read you say that before. I would agree with you, this car is murder on sound, especially on the freeway. I must say that I have spent a lot of time reading your post on numerous topics to include sound dampening, and audio choices. After reading your discussion about rear fill, it influenced my decision to drop the rear speakers. I thank you for your knowledge.

What I am looking for is something that sounds good, and is quality stuff. My first audio build in my Ford Ranger lasted me 3 years, got moved to a Ford Focus for 2 years, then into a Ford Escape for another 2 years.

I was looking at a JL 12W6v2 that can be had for just over $300, and it has a lot of favorable reviews.

The head unit I started this thread about is Pioneers Stage 4 system. Some of the reasons I chose that is because I have the HD tuner, XM tuner, and iPod cable from the AVIC that I do not want to get rid of, and they are compatible with the 99. Another reason is because I do not want to install the AVIC. I live in an apartment complex between a Target and the freeway. In one week, thieves stole 5 GPS units including mine. Which is why its replacement (AVIC-Z110BT) will be for sale soon.

 

The JLs are fabulous drivers; they just won't do much in this car. You see, we're dealing with an effective 1 octave range in the low-end. We have 2 choices; we can either try an overpower the car or we can work with the car. Trying to overpower the car is possible, but do you really want to add the amps, the batteries/alternator and literally tear your car apart? Probably not. This leaves working with the car. Due to the Evo's low-frequency emissions, bass sounds best rolled-off at ~45Hz. I prefer a steep 24dB/octave filter. This leaves us with about an octave, maybe an octave and a half. Once we figure the rest of the noise into the equation, you'll hardly notice the quality of the drivers, themselves. I guess I'm trying to say that it's a waste and a huge exercise in frustration.

If the HU works for you, by all means. I'd suggest concentrating on tuning features, if you're going to try and do a SQ rig in this car. Good luck.

 

OK, so now I have settled and ordered the following items:

HU - JVC KD-AVX77
Front - Focal 165A1
Rear - None (Can my stock speakers be hooked up to the Amp?)
Sub - JL 12w3v3-8 in a Perfect Fit enclosure
Amp - Zed Audio Leviathan

Everything should start arriving within the next 3 days, then I'll begin the task of install!

I'm planning on swapping the HU and the gauges in the MR, putting the HU in the lower cubby. As for the Amp, I'm thinking it will only fit in the trunk behind the seat. I think that is about it, nothing too fancy, just enough to enjoy while I am in my car.

Next big project is to convert my CDs for the iPod.

 

Wow that is going to sound amazing. I love the focal and zed audio.