I'm interested in replacing the factory head unit and speakers on my OZ Lancer. Probably won't be adding amps/subwoofers (don't know that I want to get that involved). I'm just looking to improve on the sound of the existing system (a little more RMS with better quality speakers).

Any suggestions on what head unit/speakers to go with? I've seen people talking about the Alpine CDA-7893 (27 watts RMS). Think this head unit would be decent for my needs? Speakers to match? Any input would be appreciated.

 

It depends on your needs really. Alpine's are great head units but be careful because alot of them do not have internal amps. The new Kenwood Exelons are pretty decent as well, as are the pioneers. For speakers i've always been partial to Polk or infinity. But the new Pioneer speakers are pretty good as well. Best bet is to go into a car audio/video shop and mix and match different head units with speakers in the display until you hear what you like. Everyone here will have there own opinion to what they like but it might not suit your listening needs...just my 2 cents

 

Damn Those Stock Speakers! When I Had Them Replaced Them ****s Our Only 15 Watts Each Speaker

 

What size are the speakers? I believe they are 6 3/4". Is that correct? I've been doing some browsing at Crutchfield.

 

Yup

 

About that Alpine 7893...you might want to check the wattage....I believe it is more like 260 watts into 4 channels...I believe....

When upgrading a stereo you can go into many different directions.

Amps and subwoofers cost money...yes....But do you want sound quality or everything mixed into 1 speaker.

I would personally reccomend buying 2 way speakers(Mb quart, Focal, Crystal, JL, anything else) and putting in a small amp with a 10" sub. It won't be the loudest thing on earth but it will give you a good sound yet not sacrifice trunk space.....which is very important to some people.

 

Thanks for the input.

Lunitic,

I want to learn more about car stereo installation in general. Does anyone have any good resources for this? My only install experience is with my old car...I bought a new head unit and speakers from Crutchfield and installed them myself.

I'm guessing that the whole amp/subwoofer setup complicates the installation pretty significantly. That's another reason (along with money) that I was shying away from doing all that.

If I were to replace the head unit, all 4 speakers and install an amp and subwoofer it would be too expensive to do all at once. Any suggestions as to the order in which things should be done?

Also, I really know nothing about amps. What's the difference between 2 channel, 4 channel, etc. Would I use a 4 channel+1 to power all 4 speakers and the subwoofer? I guess I would also have to rewire everything if I were to get into amp installation. Isn't this correct? I'm really lost when it comes to all this stuff. Thanks for the help.

 

first, replace speakers. The head unit's not that bad, stock.

Something decent. Three way if you can afford it, two way if not. Some good examples are:
Polk Two Way, $89.99
Blaupunkt two way, $79.99
Pioneer three way, $99.99

just as examples. hit http://www.crutchfield.com and poke around.

Then do your head unit. After that the rest is icing.