Does anyone know anything about Sound Systems???? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

chevjayfsd · 10-09-2002, 02:59 PM

I am looking at 2 10" Subwoofers...How much of an amp would it take to run these??? (watts, Brand etc.

If you have any reccomendations on the brand that would be of great help too.

Thanks
Jason

meathead95 · 10-09-2002, 03:03 PM

it has been so long since i have messed with them but i have had some awesome setups back then JL Audio was the sub of choice if they still make them thats what i would buy again. as far as wattage check and see what the subs you buy are rated for and when you pick an amp see what the rms wattage is that is its true power it may say 300 watts but the rms may only be 50x2 and thats what you are actually getting.

jmil1974 · 10-09-2002, 03:18 PM

Meathead is right, JL's are excellent subs. You can't go wrong with them, Polk, or Boston. They're my favorites. I like the Polk and Bostons for speakers too-- which line depends on your budget. Head units -- I like Alpine and Eclipse. Amps -- this one is key. First off, get a quality brand. Here's the ones I would and have bought. McIntosh, a/d/s , PPI, Alpine, Xtant, Fosgate. I looove my current a/d/s the p640.2. They have great amps for one amp systems - compact, clean, powerful, accurate, the whole bit. Mc's are top notch and top dollar but you should never have to buy another amp. Similar with a/d/s. For the money, I like Alpines for mids/highs and Fosgates for subs. Phoenix GOld amps are good, especially for subs. PPI is made by the same folks as a/d/s just a notch down the price pole. Excellent amps for all speakers. Xtant, also top notch for any application. I like EQs by Alpine, Kenwood, and Audiocontrol (if you're going all out).

Match your amp's RMS output to RMS output of your speakers/subs. Using the above brands assures that rated power = real power. NOT true with all brands. Clean power is more important than max rated watts -- marketing hype. Figure out how much volume you need (preferences, loudness of truck, tightnes of cab, etc.) and choose power accordingly. Few folks need more than 100 watts per front speaker (get components for the front). Wattage for subs depends on selection of sub and enclosure. Sealed boxes tend to be more accurate and "tight" but require more power. Vented and esp. bandpass are more efficient and louder but more narrow in their abilities. A quality enclosure makes a HUGE difference as does sound deadening in the cabin.

Bottom line -- figure out your budget and priorities (loud, clear and accurate, balanced, bass, bare bones) and how much crap you're willing to do yourself and willing to put up with. If you go ebay and do lots yourself, you should be ablt to assemble a wonderful system for $1000 - $1500, possibly quite a bit less.

jmil1974 · 10-09-2002, 03:23 PM

By the way, with a quality sub, box, and amp -- one sub is all you need. I like a single 12 setup. I had one 10 in my truck a one point and it was great. I have one 12 in my Rodeo now and loove it.

Also, lots of this is preference. Listen to lots of sound setups and components and see what you like. Also try to remember that things will sound different in your vehicle than in someone else's or a sound room but it will give you an idea of the "personality" of a speaker or component.

Will you be listening more with windows up or down? Our cabs have less airspace to fill but more holes to leak from and more things tend to vibrate in 30 year old vehicles. Spend money on dynamat or something similar, you'll be glad you did for lots of reasons.

meathead95 · 10-09-2002, 05:40 PM

I think boston acoustic make wonderful midrange and high speakers as well

Alexis · 10-09-2002, 06:25 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by meathead95
I think boston acoustic make wonderful midrange and high speakers as well

ditto but i would look into Focal,

BrianStep72 · 10-09-2002, 10:13 PM

I just finished installing a new system in my truck. Here's the details.

Jensen 6 CD changer in the glovebox, changer control in the ashtry (it fits perfectly)
2 Kenwood 4" speakers installed in center dash stock location(invisible).
2 Sony Xypiod 6x9 200Watt speakers in 4" boxes installed UNDER the seat facing forward (one on each side).
I was able to use a Kenwood head unit which required NO CUTTING to my truck at all.

I'm delighted how good it sounds & how little work it was to put it. Of course, my setup cost around $500 --much less that you are proposing, but it works for me. If I ever want to pump it up, i'll put an amp under the seat.

The key was the 2 pole kenwood head unit KRC-1007. I am having to use FM for the CDs, BUT any other direct connect system would require dash cutting. I used the 'power on' wire from the headunit, so when I turn on my unit the whole system comes online.
I'm pretty happy about this setup.

Brian

oldyeller · 10-10-2002, 01:11 AM

Hey, it all depends on what subs you got IMO. You should get some good help over at Bunkley's on the south side of town, but they are a little high on prices. I bought most of my stuff at Audio Magic on N. 1st, but there are a couple of know it all d!cks there, just watch their sales, I had got some really good deals, but that was about 3 yrs ago when I was in college.

and I second the insulation, dynomat is good stuff.

Narkoleptik · 10-10-2002, 03:17 AM

How would/could you fit a 12 or 10 in the truck, I could not figure out a way...

My Current plans include getting the 6x9s under the seats and the replacments in the stock location under the dash... But I cant figure out how to fit the sub in it... will it fit behind the seat if I get rid of the tank?

Mudder · 10-10-2002, 03:52 AM

I was the first one around here that had a cassette car stereo. Craig FM under dash/ a 35 watt amp and two craig 6x9's with 90 oz magnets. Kicked ass in its day. LOL.....Got 2 10 in Kickers and 2 six inch horns behind the seats now with a 6x9 in each door. Ya it kicks pretty decent for an old man.

jmil1974 · 10-10-2002, 08:36 AM

YOu can make a custom box for under the seat that will hold one 10 or 12 if you have the factory seat. This box should fill both sides for enough airspace. There's a guy on the board who has drawings for one, might try a search. You can remove the tank and go single or dual subs pretty easily. I have 6x9s in my door also and plan on adding a set of 6.5" components with kickpanels from gmcpauls though I'll probably put the tweeter higher in the door. Depends on how original you want to keep your cab. Cutting bothers me not, I want functionality far more than original appearance. Definitely use an additional amp or you'll likely blow your speakers in short order (at least if you like it loud on the road like me). I currently have just the Boston 6x9s and a 40x40 Alpine amp and it's sounds quite acceptable for a setup with no subs. Don't skimp on the gear, get the name brands I mentioned and you can't go wrong. If you do ebay, you can get premium stuff at mid-level prices. You won't be sorry. Also, get good quality wiring like monster or fosgate.

Tracy Focht · 10-10-2002, 11:22 AM

If you don't mind using Kicker, shoot me an email since that's where I work.

I'll see if I can't help or shed some light for you.

tfocht@kicker.com

jmil1974 · 10-10-2002, 11:42 AM

Ahh, thanks Tracy. Didn't mean to leave you out. Kicker is a great brand, especially if you want dBs! I hear those square jobbies really move some air.

Tracy Focht · 10-10-2002, 11:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by jmil1974
Ahh, thanks Tracy. Didn't mean to leave you out. Kicker is a great brand, especially if you want dBs! I hear those square jobbies really move some air.

no problem...that's why I just threw that in, didn't want to step on anyone toes either. Great advice being given.

Yea, the L7's seem to be doing pretty good with the numbers...

Narkoleptik · 10-10-2002, 12:16 PM

I was posting because I'm VERY interested in getting some speakers into my truck, but I have the GasTank behind the seat, and I have a Truck Box with A Sub in it, but I don't think it'll fit under the seat. I was just looking for my options so I can make a good decision when I have the money to do so...

BTW, I hear those square Kickers are great speakers

brennecke · 10-10-2002, 12:21 PM

Don't forget that subs are not fullrange speakers. They'll sound much cleaner if you get a crossover and cut out the highs trying to go to your subs.
I used to have a sub amp bridged mono (2 ohms) at 90W RMS feeding two ten inch Cerwin Vegas in a sealed box. It sounded great, and was plenty lound for such a small enclosure.

jmil1974 · 10-10-2002, 12:21 PM

If I were you, Nark, I'd buy a used blazer/burb tank and go that route. That's what I'll be doing when the time comes.

Narkoleptik · 10-10-2002, 12:25 PM

Well, I was thinking...

My Truck Basically has 3 Tanks on it now...

I have the original gehind the seat and I believe it was sold with the two extra tanks on the sides of the truck... I Have the three way switch in the cab and all, just don't know if the extra two tanks are clean and able to carry and feed gas to the truck... Any info on cleaning them out and getting them up and running?

Tracy Focht · 10-10-2002, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Narkoleptik
I was posting because I'm VERY interested in getting some speakers into my truck, but I have the GasTank behind the seat, and I have a Truck Box with A Sub in it, but I don't think it'll fit under the seat. I was just looking for my options so I can make a good decision when I have the money to do so...

BTW, I hear those square Kickers are great speakers

Yea, the L7's or square as some call them do very well.
We also make a 8" subwoofer that will play plenty low, and only requires a .33 sealed box per driver. Those would fit under the seat......it's the solobaric D series.

wnc mountain · 10-10-2002, 08:30 PM

IMO, it makes a diference what type of music you will be listening to also. I used to install systems when I was in college and made some killer systems. I have a single 10 in my burb run off a small amp bridged, and a fourway amp running the rest(both alpine) and it sounds great to me. I am not interested in shaking the ground though, just clairity.

It is best in my opinion also to go with a multi amp system,or a high power head and one amp with an preamp electronic crossover to make the most of the power that can be made. Well worth the extra money.

oldyeller · 10-10-2002, 11:10 PM

man, you guys got me itchin for a system again! I have tried to stay away for the past 2 years, ever since I sold my rice grinder from college, but damn, I miss the sound of good tunes on a kick ass system.

hmm, now for an excuse for the ol'lady... any ideas??

10-09-2002, 02:59 PM	#1
chevjayfsd Project 7dos Join Date: Aug 2001 Location: Abilene, Texas Posts: 876	Does anyone know anything about Sound Systems???? I am looking at 2 10" Subwoofers...How much of an amp would it take to run these??? (watts, Brand etc. If you have any reccomendations on the brand that would be of great help too. Thanks Jason __________________ 7DOS - 1972 C-10 350/350 Porterbuilt/Accuair 20x8.5/20x10 Ride Low or Die PSSST - Yes it's bagged. 7dos build thread: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=610290

10-09-2002, 03:03 PM	#2
meathead95 computer illiterate Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Des Moines, IA Posts: 6,446	it has been so long since i have messed with them but i have had some awesome setups back then JL Audio was the sub of choice if they still make them thats what i would buy again. as far as wattage check and see what the subs you buy are rated for and when you pick an amp see what the rms wattage is that is its true power it may say 300 watts but the rms may only be 50x2 and thats what you are actually getting. __________________ 72 2wd blazer 72 swb 4x4

10-09-2002, 03:18 PM	#3
jmil1974 Ain't we cute? Join Date: May 2002 Location: Friendswood, TX Posts: 700	Meathead is right, JL's are excellent subs. You can't go wrong with them, Polk, or Boston. They're my favorites. I like the Polk and Bostons for speakers too-- which line depends on your budget. Head units -- I like Alpine and Eclipse. Amps -- this one is key. First off, get a quality brand. Here's the ones I would and have bought. McIntosh, a/d/s , PPI, Alpine, Xtant, Fosgate. I looove my current a/d/s the p640.2. They have great amps for one amp systems - compact, clean, powerful, accurate, the whole bit. Mc's are top notch and top dollar but you should never have to buy another amp. Similar with a/d/s. For the money, I like Alpines for mids/highs and Fosgates for subs. Phoenix GOld amps are good, especially for subs. PPI is made by the same folks as a/d/s just a notch down the price pole. Excellent amps for all speakers. Xtant, also top notch for any application. I like EQs by Alpine, Kenwood, and Audiocontrol (if you're going all out). Match your amp's RMS output to RMS output of your speakers/subs. Using the above brands assures that rated power = real power. NOT true with all brands. Clean power is more important than max rated watts -- marketing hype. Figure out how much volume you need (preferences, loudness of truck, tightnes of cab, etc.) and choose power accordingly. Few folks need more than 100 watts per front speaker (get components for the front). Wattage for subs depends on selection of sub and enclosure. Sealed boxes tend to be more accurate and "tight" but require more power. Vented and esp. bandpass are more efficient and louder but more narrow in their abilities. A quality enclosure makes a HUGE difference as does sound deadening in the cabin. Bottom line -- figure out your budget and priorities (loud, clear and accurate, balanced, bass, bare bones) and how much crap you're willing to do yourself and willing to put up with. If you go ebay and do lots yourself, you should be ablt to assemble a wonderful system for $1000 - $1500, possibly quite a bit less. __________________ 69 C10 2WD LWB Fleet 350/350 power front disc conversion (6 lug disc kit from gmcpauls) and new engine, PS, A/C, fresh fluids, SHE DRIVES! FOR SALE $3900

10-09-2002, 03:23 PM	#4
jmil1974 Ain't we cute? Join Date: May 2002 Location: Friendswood, TX Posts: 700	By the way, with a quality sub, box, and amp -- one sub is all you need. I like a single 12 setup. I had one 10 in my truck a one point and it was great. I have one 12 in my Rodeo now and loove it. Also, lots of this is preference. Listen to lots of sound setups and components and see what you like. Also try to remember that things will sound different in your vehicle than in someone else's or a sound room but it will give you an idea of the "personality" of a speaker or component. Will you be listening more with windows up or down? Our cabs have less airspace to fill but more holes to leak from and more things tend to vibrate in 30 year old vehicles. Spend money on dynamat or something similar, you'll be glad you did for lots of reasons. __________________ 69 C10 2WD LWB Fleet 350/350 power front disc conversion (6 lug disc kit from gmcpauls) and new engine, PS, A/C, fresh fluids, SHE DRIVES! FOR SALE $3900

10-09-2002, 05:40 PM	#5
meathead95 computer illiterate Join Date: Jan 2001 Location: Des Moines, IA Posts: 6,446	I think boston acoustic make wonderful midrange and high speakers as well __________________ 72 2wd blazer 72 swb 4x4

10-09-2002, 10:13 PM	#7
BrianStep72 Registered User Join Date: Sep 2000 Location: Maryville, TN Posts: 163	I just finished installing a new system in my truck. Here's the details. Jensen 6 CD changer in the glovebox, changer control in the ashtry (it fits perfectly) 2 Kenwood 4" speakers installed in center dash stock location(invisible). 2 Sony Xypiod 6x9 200Watt speakers in 4" boxes installed UNDER the seat facing forward (one on each side). I was able to use a Kenwood head unit which required NO CUTTING to my truck at all. I'm delighted how good it sounds & how little work it was to put it. Of course, my setup cost around $500 --much less that you are proposing, but it works for me. If I ever want to pump it up, i'll put an amp under the seat. The key was the 2 pole kenwood head unit KRC-1007. I am having to use FM for the CDs, BUT any other direct connect system would require dash cutting. I used the 'power on' wire from the headunit, so when I turn on my unit the whole system comes online. I'm pretty happy about this setup. Brian __________________ 1941 Chevy Coupe Streetrod 1964 Chevy Nova SS 1964 Chevy C10 Stepside Pickup 1972 Chevy C10 Stepside Pickup 1987 Chevy IROC Z28 Camaro 1LE+TPI - racecar 2004 Chevy Tahoe 2013 Chevy Silverado Tow Rig -------------------------------------- http://www.bowtieracing.org

10-10-2002, 01:11 AM	#8
oldyeller Captain CAAAVVVMMMAAANNN! Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Anna Texas Posts: 726	Hey, it all depends on what subs you got IMO. You should get some good help over at Bunkley's on the south side of town, but they are a little high on prices. I bought most of my stuff at Audio Magic on N. 1st, but there are a couple of know it all d!cks there, just watch their sales, I had got some really good deals, but that was about 3 yrs ago when I was in college. and I second the insulation, dynomat is good stuff. __________________ 72 LWB Fleetside C10 Custom 350/350 97 GMC Yukon 4X4 SLT Anna, Texas check out the project old yeller

10-10-2002, 03:17 AM	#9
Narkoleptik 69 GMC LWB FLEET Join Date: May 2002 Location: Tucson, Az, USA Posts: 108	How would/could you fit a 12 or 10 in the truck, I could not figure out a way... My Current plans include getting the 6x9s under the seats and the replacments in the stock location under the dash... But I cant figure out how to fit the sub in it... will it fit behind the seat if I get rid of the tank? __________________ TUCSON, AZ

10-10-2002, 03:52 AM	#10
Mudder Registered User Join Date: Feb 2001 Location: East Central, MO Posts: 11,336	Hmmmm I was the first one around here that had a cassette car stereo. Craig FM under dash/ a 35 watt amp and two craig 6x9's with 90 oz magnets. Kicked ass in its day. LOL.....Got 2 10 in Kickers and 2 six inch horns behind the seats now with a 6x9 in each door. Ya it kicks pretty decent for an old man.

10-10-2002, 08:36 AM	#11
jmil1974 Ain't we cute? Join Date: May 2002 Location: Friendswood, TX Posts: 700	YOu can make a custom box for under the seat that will hold one 10 or 12 if you have the factory seat. This box should fill both sides for enough airspace. There's a guy on the board who has drawings for one, might try a search. You can remove the tank and go single or dual subs pretty easily. I have 6x9s in my door also and plan on adding a set of 6.5" components with kickpanels from gmcpauls though I'll probably put the tweeter higher in the door. Depends on how original you want to keep your cab. Cutting bothers me not, I want functionality far more than original appearance. Definitely use an additional amp or you'll likely blow your speakers in short order (at least if you like it loud on the road like me). I currently have just the Boston 6x9s and a 40x40 Alpine amp and it's sounds quite acceptable for a setup with no subs. Don't skimp on the gear, get the name brands I mentioned and you can't go wrong. If you do ebay, you can get premium stuff at mid-level prices. You won't be sorry. Also, get good quality wiring like monster or fosgate. __________________ 69 C10 2WD LWB Fleet 350/350 power front disc conversion (6 lug disc kit from gmcpauls) and new engine, PS, A/C, fresh fluids, SHE DRIVES! FOR SALE $3900

10-10-2002, 11:22 AM	#12
Tracy Focht Registered User Join Date: Dec 1999 Location: Stillwater, OK 74075 Posts: 2,936	If you don't mind using Kicker, shoot me an email since that's where I work. I'll see if I can't help or shed some light for you. tfocht@kicker.com

10-10-2002, 11:42 AM	#13
jmil1974 Ain't we cute? Join Date: May 2002 Location: Friendswood, TX Posts: 700	Ahh, thanks Tracy. Didn't mean to leave you out. Kicker is a great brand, especially if you want dBs! I hear those square jobbies really move some air. __________________ 69 C10 2WD LWB Fleet 350/350 power front disc conversion (6 lug disc kit from gmcpauls) and new engine, PS, A/C, fresh fluids, SHE DRIVES! FOR SALE $3900

10-10-2002, 12:16 PM	#15
Narkoleptik 69 GMC LWB FLEET Join Date: May 2002 Location: Tucson, Az, USA Posts: 108	I was posting because I'm VERY interested in getting some speakers into my truck, but I have the GasTank behind the seat, and I have a Truck Box with A Sub in it, but I don't think it'll fit under the seat. I was just looking for my options so I can make a good decision when I have the money to do so... BTW, I hear those square Kickers are great speakers __________________ TUCSON, AZ

10-10-2002, 12:21 PM	#16
brennecke Registered User Join Date: Apr 2000 Location: Missouri Posts: 469	Don't forget that subs are not fullrange speakers. They'll sound much cleaner if you get a crossover and cut out the highs trying to go to your subs. I used to have a sub amp bridged mono (2 ohms) at 90W RMS feeding two ten inch Cerwin Vegas in a sealed box. It sounded great, and was plenty lound for such a small enclosure. __________________ Never tire of doing what is right II Thess. 3:13 Northeast Missouri 71 LWB original 350 3/speed Soon to be 500

10-10-2002, 12:25 PM	#18
Narkoleptik 69 GMC LWB FLEET Join Date: May 2002 Location: Tucson, Az, USA Posts: 108	Well, I was thinking... My Truck Basically has 3 Tanks on it now... I have the original gehind the seat and I believe it was sold with the two extra tanks on the sides of the truck... I Have the three way switch in the cab and all, just don't know if the extra two tanks are clean and able to carry and feed gas to the truck... Any info on cleaning them out and getting them up and running? __________________ TUCSON, AZ



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10-10-2002, 08:30 PM	#20
wnc mountain More hobbies than money! Join Date: Jan 2002 Location: Raleigh, nc, usa Posts: 655	IMO, it makes a diference what type of music you will be listening to also. I used to install systems when I was in college and made some killer systems. I have a single 10 in my burb run off a small amp bridged, and a fourway amp running the rest(both alpine) and it sounds great to me. I am not interested in shaking the ground though, just clairity. It is best in my opinion also to go with a multi amp system,or a high power head and one amp with an preamp electronic crossover to make the most of the power that can be made. Well worth the extra money. __________________ '70 cst10/swb 350, 3 on the tree, factory buckets. '70 GMC lwb 350/350 ps,pb '72 c-10 lwb 350/350 a/c, ps, pb '72 Blazer project

10-10-2002, 11:10 PM	#21
oldyeller Captain CAAAVVVMMMAAANNN! Join Date: Mar 2002 Location: Anna Texas Posts: 726	man, you guys got me itchin for a system again! I have tried to stay away for the past 2 years, ever since I sold my rice grinder from college, but damn, I miss the sound of good tunes on a kick ass system. hmm, now for an excuse for the ol'lady... any ideas?? __________________ 72 LWB Fleetside C10 Custom 350/350 97 GMC Yukon 4X4 SLT Anna, Texas check out the project old yeller

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