Upgraded Audio in my CX-7.

[CX-7owner]

(omg)

 

[CX-7owner]

(omg)

 

[otakonx]

I had a component system up front and since they were 6 1/2 they didn't sound very good because of the fact that they had to use a plate to fit the 6 1/2's to 6X8 holes. Thats why I took it upon my self to install full range speakers 6X8 in the doors, and tweeters to bring the sound image up.

Ah so stick with 6x8 or 5x7 coax? What about 2/3/4 way speakers, what's the better choice? I understand the concept of adding more tweeters but does that really help sound?

For the tweeters, I don't see any access holes where you mounted them on the door. Did you have to cut the outer plastic for them? I know I asked you that before but I think we were referring to the inside. Basically, I don't want to cut anything on this car.

 

[UpNorth]

Yes you do need to take off the whole panel, and its really just 2 screws and the rest of the door panel pops off/on(Four on passenger side), and I really didn't know anything about taking the door panels off, until found this thread about someone else taking them off - http://www.mazdas247.com/forum/showthread.php?t=123653445
Very simple and the speakers are as easy as four phillps head screws. I was VERY intimidated too, but my fears were put to sleep after I found out how easy it really is.

Thanks for the encouragement. Your comments & links are helping me think I could do this. Darn confidence may end up costing me money. (lol2) But it may be worth it since it is the season for driving around with the windows down. I appreciate your help.

 

[lisevolution]

I assure you if you take your time you can do just about anything car stereo yourself. The biggest mistake people make when doing home installs is rushing. One thing I'd make a note of is when you take the door panels off, make sure you put them somewhere they won't get scratched such as on a sheet/blanket or something. In terms of 6.5" or 6x8" Generally speaking a 6.5" round speaker with a seperate component tweeter will sound better than a coaxial speaker. The staging of the highs and the sealed cone of the mid bass woofer provide much better bass and treble response. The plate that was made for the other members 6.5" speakers probably wasn't done all that well allowing air to leak through the plate. Another option you have is to go with a 6x8" component set from someone like Alpine or JL Audio. that way you don't have to worry about the plate but still get the advantage of having true components.

 

[UpNorth]

I assure you if you take your time you can do just about anything car stereo yourself. The biggest mistake people make when doing home installs is rushing. One thing I'd make a note of is when you take the door panels off, make sure you put them somewhere they won't get scratched such as on a sheet/blanket or something. In terms of 6.5" or 6x8" Generally speaking a 6.5" round speaker with a seperate component tweeter will sound better than a coaxial speaker. The staging of the highs and the sealed cone of the mid bass woofer provide much better bass and treble response. The plate that was made for the other members 6.5" speakers probably wasn't done all that well allowing air to leak through the plate. Another option you have is to go with a 6x8" component set from someone like Alpine or JL Audio. that way you don't have to worry about the plate but still get the advantage of having true components.

Good tips, thanks. I tend to move slow with most things so this kind of project may be a good fit for me. I'll poke around online some more this weekend to better understand my audio options.

 

[CX-7owner]

(omg)