What components should I get for my car audio system?

[Ryan]

Okay so I have a 2005 Mitsubishi Galant- I want to replace my head unit with a new one that has a 3.5 mm jack to play music from my phone/iPod. It should obviously have a CD player, AM/FM radio as well. I don't think I need new speakers- the sound is pretty good when I play CD's in my current system. The tuner is most likely the problem.

I want my music to be louder- it's barely loud right now. Do most head units come with built-in amps? Or do you recommend me getting a separate amp? If so, what should the specs be? I don't need a specific brand, I already know the brand that I want. I'm just looking for specs.

I also want to get subs for some more bass (I like my house music, haha.) What kind of subs (again, specs only please) would you recommend for my system? Nothing too crazy but good enough to wow my friends.

Once again- not looking for brands and model numbers, but I only want specs and/or recommendations for other pieces to add to this system.

So I want:
-New Head Unit w/ 3.5 mm jack, AM/FM tuner, CD Player (Amp built in?)
-Amp (If the head unit does not come with one)
-Subs (Nothing too fancy, just decent enough to sound good.)

What specs? (For example, 4 channel amp, what wattage for different components, etc.)

Thanks!

 

[DA1l2B]

Check these sites out...it is a good reference.

http://www.bcae1.com/
http://www.rockfordfosgate.com/rftech/rftech.asp
http://www.caraudio.com/forum/showthread.php?t=198477
http://www.termpro.com/articles/articles.html#How

- Also check this out http://www.youtube.com and all related videos...Look for the guy in the blue collared shirt. Type “car audio systems” in the search engine. He gives a lot of very good info.

If your headlight dims with the bass notes, the “BIG 3” might work. If not an H.O. alternator will be needed, or else be prepared to pour a lot of $$$ for batteries.

This site explains the "BIG 3" upgrades.

http://forum.sounddomain.com/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/312025/page/1

I've designed my car for SQ (Sound Quality) not SPL (Sound Pressure Level) my imaging is very good. The bass sounds as if it is up front and my 12 inch sub (picture as shown) in the trunk. I LOVE how it all worked out.

GOOD LUCK and have fun…

List of items for my ride:
Head Unit: Alpine DVA - 9861
Processor(s):
- EpiCenter (by: Audio Control)
- Apex (by: Kove Audio)
- EQ (by: Clarion - EQS746)
Amp: JL Audio 300/4 and 500/1 (constant 800 watts)
Cap: One Rockford Fosgate1 farad Cap
Front: MB Quart 216
Rear: Boston Acoustics (6x9) SX65
Sub: 1 Eclipse 12" Alum. 4 ohm DVC (Dual Voice Coil)
Battery: DieHard AGM Battery, Platinum P-4 - Group Size 34/78DT
Alternator: 220amp by: PowerBastard.com

1/0 ga wire to D-block
Using a dual fused D-block in the engine bay
- ANL 200 amp fuse (used for H.O. Alternator)
- ANL 300 amp fuse (used for power wire to amp)
- Hyper Ground System (by: Sun Automobile U.S.A. Inc.)
- “BIG 3” upgrade