Hey,

Just wanted to get some thoughts from you guys that have already paved the way...

Headunit:

Looking at Kenwood DDX 516 but don't think I want to go down the more expensive road of the double din so was also looking into the JVC El kameleon KD-AVX77 or the Kenwood KIV-700 w/ bluetooth. Anyone any of these units or have any thoughts?

Speakers:

Do you suggest a 3 way component for the doors or 2 way? I do want to move the tweeter in the a pillars because the imaging sounds so much better with the vettes I have heard that did this?

Not looking to spend a bunch...JL, Diamond Audio, Alpine, Infinity Kappa's all seem pretty nice. Any thoughts or suggestions?

Sound deadening?

Any and all suggestions? Brand, how much sq.feet would you recommend purchasing? Heat is not an issue...only sound...

Amps:

Have no idea...been too long since I bought one...my last was a Diamond D5 that I liked but not sure what your thoughts are...2 amps? 1 amp? What is a cost efficient amp/amps that you recommend...

Thanks again guys...been out of the game too long and not sure what to get...

 

KIV700 is no longer available unless instock with someone somewhere who has extra inventory

If you want single din I would go with one of the brand new Kenwood models coming out. I am expecting pricing and more detailed info on the single and double din units anyday


If double din is the option there is many ways we can do it for you. Best thing to do is call me and we can decide what you want to do based on what you want to spend.


Here is the new info on Kenwood single din units

I am going to be running some real good preorder deals on all kenwood in next week or two. I will not be able to post pricing due to KEnwood MAP guidelines so its always best to call me live

here is the new Kenwood single din info

The flagship model in the Kenwood Excelon CD receiver lineup is the KDC-X995 ($380.00 suggested retail price). Three key technologies are built into the unit for the first time; HD Radio, Bluetooth and Pandora internet radio link, making the KDC-X995 a standout model that truly fits the audio enthusiast lifestyle. The upgraded audio and data service features of HD Radio take full advantage of the audio performance and large display of the Kenwood. Pandora internet radio can now be controlled and viewed via the front panel of the KDC-X995, adding to driver safety and convenience. Through wireless connection via Bluetooth, full names and numbers from a cell phone’s address book can be seen on the five-line variable color LCD display, which has easier visibility and faster scrolling of multiple names and numbers as well as music files. Selectable text sizing allows the option to choose larger text or a higher quantity of text depending on user preference. This flexible, multi-lingual display gives the KDC-X995 the ability to easily operate external media devices such as USB, iPod, iTouch, iPhone, and content from satellite radio or Pandora internet radio (optional iPod or satellite radio accessories and Internet access may be required). A unique master control center with volume **** duplicates many of the functions of the iPod for more intuitive operation.

The KDC-X995 can also integrate with existing steering wheel controls through a special wired interface (optional adapter might be required), maintaining driver safety and convenience. The KDC-X995 has three 4.0 volt preamp outputs with low-pass and high-pass filtering on board.

The KDC-X895 ($290.00 suggested retail price) offers built-in Bluetooth and a dedicated front panel key that is reserved for hands-free cell phone operation. Adding to the safety factor is a three-line display that can be switched to a larger font, two-line format for easier reading of phone numbers, music and source data. Variable color illumination of the display and backlit keys allows the user to match the color of the KDC-X895 to the dashboard lighting of almost any vehicle. With front panel mounted USB and stereo auxiliary input, the KDC-X895 can conveniently connect to a wide variety of portable devices such as iPod, iTouch, iPhone, thumb drive and portable mass storage. The KDC-X695 ($250.00 suggested retail price) has the performance and functionality of the KDC-X895 with the exception of variable color illumination and is equipped with a 13 segment, single-line display.

For iPod enthusiasts, the KDC-X595 ($220.00 suggested retail price) is a perfect choice. The variable-color, three-line LCD display can be switched to two-line view for larger, easier reading of text or the display can be operated in three-line mode so that all artist, song title, album title and other data can be seen. A front-panel USB input allows the user to plug in an iPod, iTouch or iPhone using the device’s original cable and immediately enjoy the digital content. Completing the Kenwood Excelon CD receiver lineup is the KDC-X395 ($190.00 suggested retail price) which has the functionality and performance of the KDC-X595 with the exception of variable color illumination and is equipped with a 13 segment, single-line display.

The KDC-X995, KDC-X895, KDC-X695, KDC-X595 and KDC-X395 come with a two-year manufacturer’s limited warranty and are available only through authorized Kenwood Excelon retailers.


Model Sugg. Retail Price Availability
KDC-X995 $380.00 March, 2011
KDC-X895 $290.00 February, 2011
KDC-X695 $250.00 February, 2011
KDC-X595 $220.00 February, 2011
KDC-X395 $190.00 February, 2011

 

Thanks for the reply...hopefully maybe the new models can support streaming on my EVO phone for pandora. Crazy thing with Kenwood, after writing them, was that some of the models that have bluetooth embedded already did not support the A2DP profile I need to stream audio. They said to buy a unit without and add the KCA-BT300 bluetooth adapter that does? So, if these new ones can display album art and support the A2DP bluetooth profile...I am much more interested then.

 

For sound deadening contact Rick @ RAAM audio, his 1 box & 3 yards package is easily the best bang for buck combo around, but contact him through the forum to get the best prices.

For single din radios I've always been partial to Kenwoods, sounds like Dennis will hook you up there

If you want to get fancy, check out the HUmount.com illuminated face plates (click here for night pic or here for day pic).

I'd stick with normal 2-way components in the doors. Much easier to tune and C5 is kinda tight in there.

 

Thanks!!! I was exactly thinking of those illuminated faces but could not remember where to get them...thanks so much for the help!!!

 

on all three accounts. A tip if you end up going with a Kenwood eXcelon (which I do suggest) - shy away from using its fancier DSP effects such as "highway sound" and "supreme+". I found my music sounded much more natural with these features disabled.

 

the JVC will not fit into a humount faceplate either


I had someone try this and it didnt work out to well

 

Thanks for the advice so far...any suggestions on a good pair of components that are not overly expensive?

c5bearsfan...do let me know if you do start offering the a pillar with molded tweeters...

Any other suggestions guys?