Aftermarket steros
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 31
Likes: 5
From: Columbus Ohio
Aftermarket steros
I was wondering what was a good aftermarket stereo to replace the factory stereo in my 82. I am especially interested in something with Bluetooth or aux. I don't feel Like spending a small fortune, maybe a couple bills. Also how much of a pain is it to replace the speakers?
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2015
Posts: 2,365
Likes: 428
From: Cape Girardeau Missouri
Do you have an original two-shaft radio now? If so be aware that there are very few new options if you want to keep that mounting. Otherwise you either cut up your existing panel to allow a DIN sized unit or get a new panel with a proper DIN opening.
It is possible, I believe, to replace the dash speakers without removing the dash. I replaced mine when I had the dash out for other work and it was easy. There is also a large selection of available speakers that fit perfectly.
The mounting bracket for the rear speakers [seems] to only work with the OEM units. The magnets on most 6x9 speakers are far too large in diameter to work with the factory mounting brackets. If someone makes an alternate bracket to work with typical 6x9s I am unaware of such. For a good job you either make (or buy) speaker enclosures or fabricate a mounting bracket.
It is possible, I believe, to replace the dash speakers without removing the dash. I replaced mine when I had the dash out for other work and it was easy. There is also a large selection of available speakers that fit perfectly.
The mounting bracket for the rear speakers [seems] to only work with the OEM units. The magnets on most 6x9 speakers are far too large in diameter to work with the factory mounting brackets. If someone makes an alternate bracket to work with typical 6x9s I am unaware of such. For a good job you either make (or buy) speaker enclosures or fabricate a mounting bracket.
Instructor
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 199
Likes: 35
From: USA
I just completed this effort in my 82. I went with RetroSound Model 2 Stereo ($329), RetroSound S-692 6x9 rear speakers($69), Kenwood KFC-4675-C 4x6 front speakers ($45). Installation of the front speaker was relatively easy. Installation of the rear speakers were somewhat a pain, only because I tried to install Kenwood 6x9's that were supposed to fit but didn't. The stereo itself wasn't difficult, but it took a bit of time to adjust the shafts and ***** to get the correct fit. Do take out the cluster gauge and adjust the stereo to it on a table first before trying to install it in the car. The stereo sounds much better than the old one, but it's not a Bose or JBL system you'd find in todays high end vehicles. With that said, I do like the new Bluetooth technology. Do order the wiring kit from Crutchfield (Metra 70-1677-1 and Metra 72-4500), makes it a lot easier.
Last edited by rmm82; Aug 16, 2016 at 06:55 PM. Reason: added wiring notes
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2000
Posts: 6,664
Likes: 162
From: columbia city in
https://1982corvette.shutterfly.com/pictures/365#365 I looked into buying a stereo head unit that I would not have to cut the dash.It was expensive and it they may not have been that great . Some are better now.for my car it will never be in a museum so I cut the dash .It gives you lots of choices.The speakers are easy to replace in the front .the covers come right off ,but you can not put a speaker in there with much of a magnet theres no room .put them in the kick panel .polk has a speaker that works great .The rear speakers you can put in 6x9 but you have to work at it .you also could put in a box that will house the amp and the speakers .do a search and you will find lots on this topic
Melting Slicks
Joined: Dec 2015
Posts: 3,181
Likes: 732
From: Texas City, TX Texas
I got an Alpine CDE-SXM145BT with Sirrius XM replay feature. If you have satellite radio subscription, this is nice because you can rewind, and then fast forward the songs that play. it was less than $150 I believe. CD, AUX, Bluetooth, etc., and lots of stuff I don't know how to use! Will recognize iPhone/iPod as well. It is not installed yet, but I have the same unit in my Ranger, and will be getting one for my '65 Buick as well. I really like it.
Last edited by Richard Daugird; Aug 17, 2016 at 01:54 PM.
1st Gear
Joined: Aug 2016
Posts: 1
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