Question about RE-Q and front speakers

[minnesnowta]

I have a 2009 MS3 sport (non-bose).

So far, I have tapped into the rear passenger speaker cable with wire-taps and have hooked them up to a RE-Q and added a small 8'' sub. I am still fairly unimpressed with the sound quality, so I am considering replacing my front speakers but I get the impression that simply replacing them will not do much to the sound quality.

So the question I have is can I tap into the front passenger/driver speaker wires and run them through the RE-Q and add a small amp to drive some new front speakers? The RE-Q has high-level inputs for l/r sub and l/r front and 4 RCA outputs: 2 for a sub and 2 for speakers. You can check out the install diagram here and see what I mean: http://www.reqsound.com/manual/MKC002562_re-Q_Installation_sheet.pdf

It seems possible, but I am doubtful because the RE-Q seems to be marketed as only a bass-restoration device, yet there are outputs for an amp for speakers. Is it worth it to hook up a small 2-channel amp to the RE-Q for front speakers?

(Sorry if this has been discussed before, I tried searching but apparently I am an idiot and can't figure out how to use the search tool)


Also, I know they offer the RE-Q5, but I don't really need to have 3 sets of RCA outputs since I don't plan on doing much with the rear speakers. Since I already have the RE-Q I just want to know if that will suit my needs.

 

[CHICO2003]

I have an REQ-5 (the fact that I have Sirius means the aux jack wouldn't work without a special 'switch') so the extra $20 for the -5 was totally worth it. I'd suggest you reconsider if you're interested in listening to an MP3 player.

Anyway... I had a shop install mine so I can't really get all technical with you. What I can tell you is that I have 2 amps, one powering my sub and the other powering the front and rear speakers. In addition to smoothing out signal, the main benefit this provides are the preout jacks for amps. So, if I heard your question correctly, yes you can absolutely use an amp to power your speakers.

As far as the sound quality goes... I was pretty unimpressed as well. Granted, i was comparing it to my former system (which had the same exact speakers and sub, but with an aftermarket HU) That alone apparently made all the difference. That said, the stock speakers are a joke and need to go right away. You'll definitely notice a big difference... especially if they're powered by an amp. Good luck

 

[minnesnowta]

I ended up just swapping the stock front speakers with Infinity Reference 6832cf's and after doing some fine-tuning, it actually sounds really nice. Thanks for the info though, I may amplify the fronts in the future!