I want to install an in dash dvd/gps head unit in my 98 SC300; however, I really do not want to change the rest of the setup much and I'm having trouble finding the direct answers I need. My questions are:

-Can I run the head unit and somehow tap into the stock amp to run my stock speakers and stock sub? (I think this is no).
-Can I run the head unit to my stock speakers and run an aftermarket amp to the stock sub? (Best Buy said they could, but it would sound like crap.)

I really want to avoid losing the stock sub and having to put any speakers in my trunk. I'm thinking my main choice would be to replace the stock sub with an aftermarket free-air sub. Let me know please! Thanks a bunch guys!

 

Yes, its possible to do both. To really get the most out of an aftermarket head unit, save up to buy some nice speakers and an amp. ANY aftermarket speakers will sound better than stock. If price is a concern, you can buy a nice set of components for around $150, an amp for both the speakers and free-air sub for $200. And a Kicker free air sub for less than $50


Component Speakers

a.) Polk Audio db6500 ( ) $170 but you can find them on eBay for less.
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-gVxk8xv...07db6500&wm=cl

or

b.) Infinity Reference 6010cs: $100
http://www.amazon.com/Infinity-Refer.../dp/B0009K1XIE

Amps

Profile 65W 2ch Amp for components: $63
http://www.amazon.com/Profile-AP400-.../dp/B0002CNQ3O

Profile 200W Sub Amp : $75
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000KGY78A/...p;linkCode=asn

Subwoofer

Kicker C104 : $45
http://www.amazon.com/Kicker-Comp-C1.../dp/B0002DFK0U.

Installation

Amp Install Kit : $20 +shipping
http://cgi.ebay.com/DHD-GOLD-4-GAUGE...QQcmdZViewItem

Interconnects and Speaker Wire : $50

Stinger Nitro 17' RCA Interconnects x 3
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/STING...08797723QQrdZ1

Speaker wire is optional. You can get away with the existing speaker wire and save on installation.

Hope that helps!

//Darius

 

good post darius... i was thinking of doing something like this

 

Thanks Vince! It cost close to nothing but the payoff is HUGE!

//Darius

 

Thanks Vince! It cost close to nothing but the payoff is HUGE!

//Darius

 

That is a great post, thanks. I've already decided to run the stock components for the meantime and go with a single 10" Alpine Type E sub with an Alpine amp. It should be installed by the weekend, so we'll see how it turns out.