Impressions of stock location for tweeters?

[Mark787B]

Not even 100 miles on the 5 and I'm chomping at the bit to dig into an upgrade of the audio system. For those who've added components, did you stick with the stock tweeter location? The components that I have on hand are Alpine SPX-17 Pros FWIW...

 

[dima_rus]

I used the original location, but don't think that would be enough for me, I'm planning on adding another set of twiters at the back facing towards the front of the car

 

[Mark787B]

I used the original location, but don't think that would be enough for me, I'm planning on adding another set of twiters at the back facing towards the front of the car

Interesting... I've never had more than one set in any previous application though I've heard systems that have. More than anything I want to minimize reflections and preserve detail (and not cut door panels...).

 

[Heat]

Be sure to post back with what you do - I'll be upgrading my head unit over the summer and may do the door speakers too (probably just bypass the tweeters).

One thing I've read is that the stock head unit limits power to the back speakers, just keep that in mind as you consider speaker placement. Just swapping the head unit may give you the boost you need. And you have discovered the audio-in port next to the 12v plug, right? I have an iPod plugged into there - it's not an ideal solution but it will get me through to the summer.

 

[bootman]

I think the locations are "ok", but they need to be rotated to face the front seat.

I'm planing on replacing them in the same spot but using hardware to enable rotating them. (I'll have to modify the panels a bit.)

As far as uneven levels caused by the head unit, I'm going with a MTX RE-Q5 to attempt to solve that issue.

 

[Mark787B]

I've got an Alpine 9885 (I think that's the model) and a decent Arc 2-channel amp to power the components. I might stop right there as the components might give me enough punch and depth.

Probably a question for diymobileaudio, but I was under the impression that the ring radiator tweeters in my components would make for fairly wide dispersion and sound OK in the stock location. I think the tweets come with cups that will allow me to angle them.

 

[bootman]

I've got an Alpine 9885 (I think that's the model) and a decent Arc 2-channel amp to power the components. I might stop right there as the components might give me enough punch and depth.

Probably a question for diymobileaudio, but I was under the impression that the ring radiator tweeters in my components would make for fairly wide dispersion and sound OK in the stock location. I think the tweets come with cups that will allow me to angle them.

According to the documentation I found here you have the option of mounting them fixed or with an angling option.

Very nice speakers BTW. (thumb)

I'm going with a set of Polk SR6500 in the front and I ordered a set of trim without the tweeter cutout just in case I can't get a good fit with the stock ones.

Where are you planning on installing the x-overs?
I was thinking about putting them behind the door panel, but I'm worried about water.

 

[Mark787B]

Polk's SR6500 components are excellent too, my second choice only for reasons of price. I've been sitting on these Alpines since this model was released new now that I think about-- never installed!

I'm not sure where I'll put the crossovers; I'll have to take a look at the doors for a suitable location. However, on most of my previous installs, I've had crossovers that were on the bulky side and they wound up under the driver's side seat, with an amp under the passenger's seat. Less risk of water damage and easier access to adjustments...

According to the documentation I found here you have the option of mounting them fixed or with an angling option.

Very nice speakers BTW. (thumb)

I'm going with a set of Polk SR6500 in the front and I ordered a set of trim without the tweeter cutout just in case I can't get a good fit with the stock ones.

Where are you planning on installing the x-overs?
I was thinking about putting them behind the door panel, but I'm worried about water.

 

[Heat]

I've got an Alpine 9885...

Could you post a picture of your radio? I'll be changing the head unit in the next couple of months, just curious to see how it's going to look - right now I'm leaning towards the Alpine CDA 9886; would probably put the rear-mounted USB output so that it comes out where the auxilliary output currently is located (next to the 12V outlet).

 

[Zenderfall]

I'm not sure where I'll put the crossovers; I'll have to take a look at the doors for a suitable location.

Once you open the inside door panel you will find only one suitable location to put the crossovers. It is a big indent in the plastic (looks like crossovers were supposed to go there) right above where your elbow would be if you rest your arm on the door armrest.

After you locate it, mounting/attaching the crossover to that location will be no problem.

 

[bootman]

Once you open the inside door panel you will find only one suitable location to put the crossovers. It is a big indent in the plastic (looks like crossovers were supposed to go there) right above where your elbow would be if you rest your arm on the door armrest.

After you locate it, mounting/attaching the crossover to that location will be no problem.

I was eyeing that spot as well, just wasn't sure how much room was there.
I was even thinking of getting a foam baffle to cover them against the elements.

 

[Zenderfall]

I was eyeing that spot as well, just wasn't sure how much room was there.
I was even thinking of getting a foam baffle to cover them against the elements.

Yes, that would help a lot not to mention protection from the shock of opening/closing the doors.

 

[Mark787B]

Could you post a picture of your radio? I'll be changing the head unit in the next couple of months, just curious to see how it's going to look - right now I'm leaning towards the Alpine CDA 9886; would probably put the rear-mounted USB output so that it comes out where the auxilliary output currently is located (next to the 12V outlet).

Mine's not installed yet; in fact I'd better get around to ordering the Metra kit, harness and some Damplifier...