Upgrading sound system in 07 - Updated, and installed

[JadedEMOlush]

Thinking of replacing my factory JBL speakers in my 07 SLE.

Do you think I will notice a difference buying high end 6x9's for the rear without replacing the amp?

The sound is good, decent bass, but a bit muddy. i remember replacing my 6x9s in my 99 and 02, and it made a big difference, but i also changed the amp.

Do you think installing the rear speakers can be a do it at home project? I'm pretty handy.

Just dont want to go through all the trouble replacing them and have the same or worse sound.

Can I replace the speakers with 2 way 6x9s in the rear deck, or can I go for the three ways... I know there are two way JbL speakers in the rear now.

Thanks.

[Down2TheC]

Move please...

[PhreakdOut]

Move please...

I'll do it this time.

[theprodigy79]

Thinking of replacing my factory JBL speakers in my 07 SLE.

Do you think I will notice a difference buying high end 6x9's for the rear without replacing the amp?

The sound is good, decent bass, but a bit muddy. i remember replacing my 6x9s in my 99 and 02, and it made a big difference, but i also changed the amp.

Do you think installing the rear speakers can be a do it at home project? I'm pretty handy.

Just dont want to go through all the trouble replacing them and have the same or worse sound.

Can I replace the speakers with 2 way 6x9s in the rear deck, or can I go for the three ways... I know there are two way JbL speakers in the rear now.

Thanks.

Yes, you will get an improvement by swapping just the speakers and leaving the rest alone (assuming you get a decent set of speakers), however they will always be a bit muddy so long as you are playing full range through them... The factory radio has no cross-over settings, and puts full range through all speakers except the dash high-range speakers. I wouldn't purchase very 'high end' speakers if you intend to run them off the factory setup in the long run, as many will actually sound worst if not powered properly through their desired frequency range...

The rear "package tray" is an exceptional pain-in-the-@ss to take apart, however it can be done at home if you have the tools, time, patience, and a bit of handyman capability...

I would, personally, stick with two-way 6x9s for the rear... three-ways tend to be a bit too bright and harsh for my liking...

I saw no mention of replacing the front speakers... Even though these are actually better speakers than the rear from the start, I'd still focus on them first and foremost since these are the speakers that make the most difference to YOU. These are your front stage, so I'd replace them with a nice set of two-way 6x9s (or convert them to 6.5"s using MDF trim pieces) and leave the in-dash speakers alone. DEFINITELY do not get three-ways for up front unless you intend to remove the in-dash speakers... Also, the doors are a cinch to take apart, so it's actually not all that much additional hassle...

Good luck,

-James

[swindler]

Speakers have the greatest impact on the tonal quality of your sound. So there can be a significant change in replacing speakers. And almost certainly better. (I've replaced all seven of my speakers.) Heck, there's even a noticeable change when you go from one high quality set to another. But a new amp is the way to really step up the sound.

theprodigy79's suggestions are right on in terms of what to do and their relative importance.

[JadedEMOlush]

Thanks for all your help!

Wow, WHAT A DIFFERENCE. I installed Alpine Type R's in the front and rear. Did not touch the speakers under the front windshield.

Difference of nite and day as far as sound quality. Highs and mids are crystal clear... as if I was running a high level amp.

ZERO distortion, and say goodbye to the muddyness

Tight bass... and an all around solid sound. In fact I may have to install some Dynamat in the rear deck.

Any questions, feel free to give me a ring. The whole process took about an hour.