I have a 1985 model with the Bose system. I replaced the original HU several years ago with a pioneer unit and now have replaced that unit with a Pioneer AVIC-X910BT double din unit (believe it or not I bought this unit 5 years ago and just got around to installing it).

The unit sounds fine at low to mid volumes but does not sound good at all at higher volumes (eg on the highway with the roof off) so I'm thinking of repairing or replacing the Bose speaker/amp units.

Based on the many posts I've read, the consensus seems to be that it's better to pull out the amps and speakers and replace. I have a few questions:

- do I need to install an amp in addition to the pioneer HU?
- what size speakers are optimal? Again based on various posts, 6x9 coaxes or small subs seem to be best for the back and 6.5 coaxes seem to best for the front. Although I've read some posts that imply 6.5s for the front would be too big. I'd like to keep existing grilles if possible
- what brand of speakers would you recommend? I've read lots of good things about the JBL GTO 638 and 938. I've also seen some posts with negative comments on JBLs but many are 10+ years old. I'm more of a pop and soft/classic rock guy so don't need super heavy bass
- can I use the existing wires? I think so but am not sure
- any other recommendations? My budget is not unlimited but it's certainly reasonable.

Many thanks.

 

just take out the bose speakers and put in what you want. Your radio has the amp in it

 

This info is for an 89, not sure if yours is the same.

Front: I used Kenwood 5 1/4" 2 ways mounted in the original boxes using a wooden adapter plate. Set as far back as I could I had to turn the factory covers over because they would hit the tweeter. I will eventually make some new grills. Notice these are not centered in the openings because the magnet would hit the box if centered.

Rear: I used Kenwood 6X9 4 ways mounted in the original boxes with another adapter plate. You must first remove the smaller boxes in there and disgard. Same goes for the factory covers here, have to turn them over to avoid hitting the speaker until I can make new ones.

I also mounted a Kenwood 400w power amp under the starboard seat and ran all new 16 gauge speaker wire to all four corners. The volume will go higher than I can to hear and clarity is OK, a small bit of "tin horn" sound but it's really not that noticeable, especially considering the interior is not a concert hall.

Rick

 

You don't need an additional amp.
Run new wiring. It's not hard, it's cheap, and necessary. I bought 50 feet of 16awg from Amazon for $8. It was the perfect amount of wire. I probably had 6 feet leftover.
Get any old speakers that you like and will fit. I'm not familiar with your year, I have a 1994 and used 6.5" Infinitys and 4" Sound Ordnance up front.

Install a powered sub while you're rewiring. For under $200 it'll be worth it.

 

Many thanks all. And thanks for the pic Shootnstars. Very helpful.

 

There will be aftermarket speaker adapter plates soon for fitting 6.5" speakers in the doors soon. Im working with a vendor on the forums here now to get them made for my car by them. I will be taking pics for them of installing them and after installed which they will have up afterwards.

After that they will be selling them.

 

Thx. Any idea of timing?

 

I guess a week? That's up to the vendor. Speakers get here tomorrow which as jl audio c3-650's and the plates any day now is all I know. I will have the pics and install done the day they arrive weather permitting and have the pics back to them that day. From what I understand it should be pretty instant after that.

But I cant speak for them for sure that's just my impression.