Big Tunes on a Small Budget

[AceX]

Big Tunes on a Small Budget



Lets face it guys, the economy sucks. Consequently alot of us are looking at more budget-appropriate approaches to everything, even our beloved trucks. One of the first things that guys remove from their to-do list is a rockin' stereo, but it doesn't have to be that way. I've compiled a parts list that will give you exceptional results and won't leave you eating Ramen noodles from now on...

First thing on my line-up is the one that we get the most questions about, so I will have two items to pick. First is for the guys who won't cut their dash; Retrosound USA has the ideal solution. Their "Model One" offers an all-in-one solution to the problem of fitting a modern radio into a knob style opening. The radio has a 240watt internal amplifier which can drive a set of small speakers if you wish as well as a pair of RCA outputs for an external amplifier, front and rear USB inputs for MP3/flash drive (no iPod needed) and SD cards (like in your digital camera), an easy to read LCD screen, and a full function 18-button remote. This unit is very easy to use and install and has a very stock look, adding to the security because let's face it, no one is ripping out old knob style radios... The "Model One" will set you back $300 after shipping.

For those of us that have a slightly larger hole in our sheet metal, the Pioneer DEH-4200UB. This deck offers everything that you could want in a modern CD-receiver. A 200watt internal amp, 3 sets of RCA outputs, and the easiest iPod connection ever. At just $200, its a very good buy and can be used by anyone with a pulse.

Now that you will have something to feed a signal to your amp, we need to choose an amp and in my opinion, for the budget minded build there's none better than the Kicker ZX550.3. This amp delivers reliable, stable, clean power with good looks to boot. It has a dedicated sub channel, putting out 400watts @ 2ohm and 85watts @ 2ohm for the speakers. Although not the most compact amplifier, it gets the job done, and at just $250, it won't leave us with only lint in our pockets.

Lastly I need to move onto speakers which is an area that I'm going to advise you to get out there and listen to various brands and prices. If that's not an option, I personally recommend the Pioneer TS-D1720C component set. These will sound amazing in some nice kick panel enclosures which you can make yourself very easily, or order form Capt Kaos at 73-87chevytrucks.com. At just $110 for a set, you can't go wrong with this very budget minded component set.

Lastly, we need a sub that the masses can drop right into their truck and once again, Pioneer TS-SWX310 which is a 12" shallow subwoofer which has already been built into a prefabbed box that will fit in our trucks without any issues. All you will have to do is hook up the power connections from the amplifier and secure it and you're golden. At a measly $140+shipping, this is an awesome solution for getting some low-end grunt into the system.

Now, to wire all this in a kit is best. All you will need to do si get a proper fuse and you're set. The Stinger SPK5641R is the most complete kit with enough power/ground wire, terminals, speaker wire, remote turn-on wire, a fuse holder, and even zip ties to help keep everything organized. What more could you ask for.

Now, as to where to find all these wonderful parts, everything but the "Model One" radio can be found on sonicelectronix.com and woofersetc.com I would encourage you to go to an authorized retailer with at a 'brick and mortar' location. Any questions can be posted in the 'Truck Audio' section of the board or sent to my personal email; ace95835@gmail.com and I will answer as quickly and completely as I can.





Links;

http://www.lmctruck.com/icatalog/cc/full.aspx?Page=106

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...H-P4200UB.html

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...08ZX550.3.html

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...TS-D1720C.html

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...TS-SWX310.html

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...41R+-RED-.html