Talk to me like I'm stupid!!! Car stereo advice.?

D

Daniel D

New member
Now that I've got your attention I need some help with a stereo system for my golf cart. My plan is to have a nice stereo with a sub and also a drop-down dvd. Components I have right now are some Pioneer 6.5's (225 max) and 6x9's (330 max) new, just been sitting around, and a Delphi 10" dvd player. The dvd has preamp outs so I figure I'll need an amp to raise that signal.
What I want to do is build a sub box but I'm not sure what size I should run for the sub (8", 10", 12"). I'm assuming the same (2, 3, 4 channel??) amp can power the sub, dvd player and possibly the stereo (do I need it for the stereo or will the stereo's own amp be enuff). Also I have heard about capacitors and crossovers in the system, is this something I need?
All this is to be done on a tight budget ($400 for amp, sub and wiring) and install done by myself. Installed enuff car stereos when I was younger (we didn't have all these amps and subs back then) and have enuff knowledge of cars and 12v systems not to pay for the labor. The fab up off a sub box should be easy enuff as carpentry is a past time. The biggest thing I need is what system will marry up together and sound good, look good, and perform well. The advice will be greatly appreciated.
 
Well if all you want to do is add a subwoofer then you would need either a 2-channel or monoblock amp. If you want to get an amp to power a sub and all of your speakers then you would get either two amps or a 5-channel amp. That would be pretty difficult with that budget, however.

I don't know what model DVD player you are using but many of those units will plug into the stereo with a FM modular or FM transmitter. If you were to hook the pre-outs to the amp that would work with the DVD player but would not work for using your stereo.

The sub. amp. wiring, and sub enclosure could be done with a $400 budget with quality equipment. What you are going to need to decide is what type of sound you are looking for and what you are looking to get from your sub. There are many subs and each is going to be designed for a certain type of sound. Some will be designed more for loudness and SPL while others may be designed for sound quality. So that along with some other factors will determine what sub would be best for you.

The enclosure would be fairly easy for you to build with some carpentry experience but it is more then a simple "box". You need to make sure to design it to the correct internal volume and use proper bracing. If it is a ported design then you would also need to tune it to the correct frequency. Programs such as WinISD can be used otherwise use the sub manufacturer's recommended enclosure specs. Also, make sure to use 3/4" MDF for the construction of the enclosure.

My advice is to go to a local car audio shop and ask them there. They will teach you what you are going to need for this install. You don't have to buy the stuff from them but at the very least you can learn what you will need.

Good Luck!!!
 
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