I thought I'd share my experience with what I think is a reasonably inexpensive audio upgrade. I started out with a base stereo in my 1lt 2007 C6. Like many others, I wanted an IPOD direct connect solution. I wasn't looking to add navigation or video, so that took me down a path different than most here. I started by pulling the stock head unit and replacing it with a Clarion DUZ285SAT using a GMCO as the interface. This gave me the direct IPOD connection that I was looking for but caused some popping noise between tracks while hooked up to the stock amplifier. This weekend, I added some JL Audio TR650csi components in the doors using the precut speaker plates from nakidparts. I decided to see how it sounded without the factory amp in the mix, so I ran new speaker wire directly from the Clarion head unit to the speakers. Of course unhooking the factory amp from the GMCO disabled all the factory speakers. All I can say now is that now I know just how bad the factory base system sounded. The sound I have now is so much better. The system has more volume than the amped base system had. It is way more clear and has good separation. I had planned long-term to add an amp and sub, but at this point, I am not sure I will. I was pretty suprised how hard the base hits just from the components. All of this was done for less than $500.00.

 

Thanks for buying my plates and congrats on your upgrade!

Don't abandon the idea of an amp altogether though. An outboard amp will add a great deal of depth and power that the amps built-in to a head unit just can't provide. Admittedly adding an amp isn't an easy or inexpensive thing to do, but for sound quality, it's hard to argue.

Enjoy!

 

The speaker plates made it a really easy job. I may do an amp and sub later, but right now I am pretty happy with it.