2011 WRX Build Log

[ChrisB]

Here is the ride:


The system consists of JL Audio C5-650 components in the front doors, a Digital Designs 1508 in the trunk, Lunar Amplifiers L450 and L1500 powering it all, and a DIY USB interface. Currently, I am running a Pioneer DEH-80PRS and the only reason that HU is still in the car is due to the fact that I would have to revamp the whole dang system to go with something else while keeping my install goals in tact. In other words, I hate the DEH-80PRS!

The JL Components:
Woofer Baffle made out of Birch


The tweeter was a perfect match for the factory pod:


Here is the 1508:


Yeah, I screwed up and had to use a ring to mount the sub. No matter, the box will be rebuilt when I have more money because I tuned the enclosure too low. In the Digital Designs recommended enclosure, the sub had a huge modeled spike between 50 and 60 Hz. Well, I tuned it low to smooth out that bump. With the exhaust drone, I kind of wish I had that bump.

Here is my DIY interface to keep the factory USB connection in the center console:


I used a little epoxy to keep those pins secure:


Here is the factory 3.5mm kit from http://ae64.com/:


Lastly here is how I set the radio up:

[BigAl205]

Cool...I like the OEM flip-top cubbyhole

[papacueball]

Nice, Chris. How do you like the JL woofers?

[ChrisB]

They are OK, but I wish they would play a tad bit lower with more authority. But alas, I am limited by the doors of the WRX. Go much more than a 3/4" spacer and the woofer will hit the door plastic. Any speaker with a depth of more than 2.75" will more than likely make contact with the window using a 3/4" spacer. Catch 22 here, lol.

[Geo]

Can't tell if you have any - but running some sound deadening in the doors is HIGHLY recommended. I've never noticed as much of a difference in any car I've had as when I deadened my WRX's doors. I lke your USB mod. Have you ever seen the sub boxes at http://www.audiointegrations.net/08subaru.html ? I know they wouldn't work with your DD sub, but with an elemental designs sub they gave me all the bass I needed and I got to keep all the storage space. Good luck and keep us updated!

[BigAl205]

Hi, Geo. Welcome aboard.

[benny]

Slayer FTW!

[SublimeZ]

Nice work!

[TIMMAY!!!]

Nice car and nice system!

[chithead]

Good choice in equipment, minus the headunit. I agree completely regarding that one. The older P800/P880 were WAY better. Not sure what Pioneer was thinking with the 80DRS...