So this one is going to be a slow moving build but I thought I’d at least share what I’m doing with you guys. This isn’t an SQ build in the strictest definition. While I am interested in having good tonality, true imaging & sound-staging is not a priority. Honestly, the main priority is to be able to enjoy music while being heard over the engine/exhaust and with the windows down and, on very rare occasions, with the top off.
Here’s the car:
As stated in the title it’s a 96, with the LT4 Grand Sport motor & 6spd. I’ve already installed a muffler delete exhaust kit and intake parts are currently being shipped.
Currently the system consists of a Pioneer AVH-4400BH running to a PPI ion 5ch amp which powers Dayton AMT tweeters, Dayton 4.5” carbon fiber mids & Dayton 6.5” subwoofers.
If you’re familiar at all with these cars then you’ll know that there really is almost NO room to put anything. I originally wanted a completely stock appearance so I modified the front Bose enclosures to fit the mids/tweets and fit the subs in the factory rear enclosures and dropped the amp in the cubby behind the passenger seat. Photos will be following but the results were not what I expected so a complete redo, new install will be forthcoming. My BIGGEST complaint is the lack of bass while driving. I’m not sure if it’s cancellation from the exhaust or if the subs just can’t keep up. Everything is fine while at idle or with the engine off.
So here’s current install
Head unit
This took a LOT of trimming and adjustments to fit properly and to get the screen to not bind opening & closing.
Here’s the OEM Bose enclosure with a 4.5” mid & 2”? tweeter. As you can see the tabs are broken off on one side so mounting them back in had to get a little creative with some metal plumbers strapping.
Here’s the new mids/tweets in the modified enclosure. It looks kinda ragged but they sealed up nicely using the factory speaker gaskets. And believe it or not the enclosure is actually ported (the rounded part under the tweeter), which is also why I thought I’d try this way first. Not TOO bad but you can only get so much out of a 4” speaker. Drivers side is pictured but the passenger side looks exactly the same... down to the broken tabs.
On to the subs... The OEM rear location is actually a sealed area of the rear fender.
I mounted the Dayton in place of the OEM driver and you can also see the port attached to the baffle. Unfortunately I have no idea of the actual size of the enclosure so I can’t tell what it’s tuned to. Not sure if that contributes to my lack of bass but I’m doubtful because, again, it sounds great when not driving.