C7 Audio Upgrade Tips Requested
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jul 2023
Posts: 19
Likes: 4
C7 Audio Upgrade Tips Requested
Hi All,
First off, I'm excited to join this group in my new to me, 2015 Torch Red Stingray (1LT trim, 7 speed). Loving the car in the two weeks that I have had it. I know I will likely do some performance upgrades in the near future, and have pretty much made up my mind on those, which will likely be an AFE cold intake and the AWE Touring Exhaust. Will likely keep it to these minimal performance upgrades the first year.
The sound in my car (base, 9 speaker) doesn't work for me (yes, I have tried playing with the minimal tone settings and fader), but, its just not clear, sharp and bass is just messy. My Tesla model 3 with the stock sub sounds phenomenal compared to the vette, of course, the vettes engine sounds phenomenal compared to the Tesla
!
I want to upgrade to likely two 8" subs to start, and try to keep the existing factory speakers. I would like to add maybe a 5 channel amp. In talking to a couple stereo shops, Im not sure if I need a digital DSP, and LCI or PAC converter. IF im still not happy with the sound with a new amp and factory speakers, then ill plan to start swapping out the factory speakers as well. But I only want to spend $1,000-$1,500. So, I think I may also be happy to start with a sub and amp, esp. if that means I dont need to deal with expensive signal control equipment.
Any input on the control interface required would be greatly appreciated. Sorry in advance if this has been covered, in my quick search, I couldn't find an answer and didnt see any sticky regarding audio for the C7, which I understand since this is a performance car
First off, I'm excited to join this group in my new to me, 2015 Torch Red Stingray (1LT trim, 7 speed). Loving the car in the two weeks that I have had it. I know I will likely do some performance upgrades in the near future, and have pretty much made up my mind on those, which will likely be an AFE cold intake and the AWE Touring Exhaust. Will likely keep it to these minimal performance upgrades the first year.
The sound in my car (base, 9 speaker) doesn't work for me (yes, I have tried playing with the minimal tone settings and fader), but, its just not clear, sharp and bass is just messy. My Tesla model 3 with the stock sub sounds phenomenal compared to the vette, of course, the vettes engine sounds phenomenal compared to the Tesla
!I want to upgrade to likely two 8" subs to start, and try to keep the existing factory speakers. I would like to add maybe a 5 channel amp. In talking to a couple stereo shops, Im not sure if I need a digital DSP, and LCI or PAC converter. IF im still not happy with the sound with a new amp and factory speakers, then ill plan to start swapping out the factory speakers as well. But I only want to spend $1,000-$1,500. So, I think I may also be happy to start with a sub and amp, esp. if that means I dont need to deal with expensive signal control equipment.
Any input on the control interface required would be greatly appreciated. Sorry in advance if this has been covered, in my quick search, I couldn't find an answer and didnt see any sticky regarding audio for the C7, which I understand since this is a performance car
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 2,847
Likes: 439
From: Spring Texas
Yes, you need a converter.
If you decide to tap in before the factory amp, you'll need the pac amp pro for gm.
If after the amp, you need an LOC.
If you add an amp, the factory speakers won't hold up to the additional power.
That's a pretty decent budget you've set, we can design something if you are planning to do the work yourself.
If you decide to tap in before the factory amp, you'll need the pac amp pro for gm.
If after the amp, you need an LOC.
If you add an amp, the factory speakers won't hold up to the additional power.
That's a pretty decent budget you've set, we can design something if you are planning to do the work yourself.
Intermediate
Joined: Feb 2021
Posts: 49
Likes: 15
From: Orange, CT
I am having subs installed in my C7 Vert and they specd out a Wavtech LinkDQ to tap into the stock system with 2 Audison Prima 10 subwoofers and I using my Alpine amp to power it. Not getting it installed until the end of the month, Hope it will get that kick it needs. If not I'll be doing the doors and dash speakers and a DSP amp.
Thread Starter
Heel & Toe
Joined: Jul 2023
Posts: 19
Likes: 4
@VinceC5 yes, I can. I think im want to go with some shallow 10" jls and a JL amp. Do i need the LCI2, and do I need anything regarding the voice interference. I often hear it interferes with the voice activated systems or muddy's the bass. thanks
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 2,847
Likes: 439
From: Spring Texas
@VinceC5 yes, I can. I think im want to go with some shallow 10" jls and a JL amp. Do i need the LCI2, and do I need anything regarding the voice interference. I often hear it interferes with the voice activated systems or muddy's the bass. thanks
Yes, you will have to disconnect the microphones in the doors. You can do that at the doors or at the factory amp.
Here is a suggestion for components. You can find most components on eBay if that helps your budget. You can probably go with separate amplifiers to give you better control of your door power distribution.
Last edited by VinceC5; Aug 31, 2023 at 10:07 PM.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 2,847
Likes: 439
From: Spring Texas
