Car Stereo Solutions
 

Okay, here's the deal: I want a good sound system in my Ford Ranger, but I'm one of the world's most determined cheapskates. I'm sure there is a ton of good gear available on Craigslist. But.....my car stereo knowledge is from the 1970's. So what I need is somebody to consult with me. Somebody who can determine what I will need, help me find it and help me install it. Speakers, amps, crossovers....... I don't need audiophile stuff. Just good sound.

Budget?

1. Alpine V-Power 200 watt amp
2. Alpine Head Unit (keep it simple)
3. Boston Acoustics components powered by amp
4. Blaupunkt self powered mini sub behind/under seat, or Infinity Bass-Link if you have the room.

About $700 worth of gear and it will sound awesome. All available via Crutchfield and they will help with the install.

Oh yeah- don't forget to add some sound deadener to the interior sheetmetal from Second Skin Audio. At the minimum do the doors and the back of the cab.

This is all great sounding, reliable, bang for the buck stuff that will rock for years...

$700 into a Ranger that might be worth $5K? Why bother? But then, I usually drive with sound off...seldom bother to use the stock 4 speakers, radio, or tape deck.

If still determined, you might check what Crutchfield offers...they have "plug in" systems for a variety of vehicles.

Supe,

http://www.crutchfield.com/S-9FpMJxNo3iG/ has always been a good source of info.

You can even put your car make and year to see what might be best, then shop deals locally if you choose.

Edit: Oops, missed carnutzz post!

You take the stuff and put it in your next car.

So long as you keep the old stock stuff, you can always put it all back in when you want to sell and move it into the next car, or sell it on fleabay. Or leave it all in like I did and make someone else happy.

I put a middle ground Alpine CD / ipod deck in my Tahoe, replaced the factory speakers, and used the factory amp, and it sounds great. I didn't spend a ton of $$.