Some background. I am a newb and greenhorn compared to most of you fine folks on here when it comes to mobile audio technicals. You guys use gear I've never even heard of and use math (gasp) to model out your sub and box combos. But up until I had kids always had gear in my cars. At least 2 amps, a sub, and passive 2 ways up front. Usually decent mid range gear. Never tuned in any professional manner, just by what pleased my ear using amplifier and head unit eqs and Xovers. Was always able to get something that sounded good to my (and other novice listeners) ears. For an idea of my level of competency, or lack thereof, I was an installer at Circuit City in a previous life. Hah! When I started getting interested in high school some of the things I did could definitely be in the Installation Hall of Shame section. I also hope you like pictures, because I take a lot of them sometimes, and can be long winded too. So apologies in advance.
With this setup I want to get a result that is a cut, or two, or three, above anything I've had before. This has been going in for the better part of 2 years between gathering gear and messing with it here and there. Those kids I mentioned earlier take a ton of time and effort to get right. Who'd have thunk it?
The Victim:
2006 BMW X5 4.8is w/ factory navigation and DSP.
The Gear:
1. China 10" Android 8 core head unit
2. AudioControl DM-810 DSP
3. (x2) JL Audio slash V1 500/5
4. JL Audio slash V1 1000/1
5. Ascendant Audio Havoc 12" (in ~1.25 cubes sealed)
6. Stinger 4000 interconnects
This is going to be my first fully active setup, with 2 setup in the rear and 3 way up front. I've been doing a bunch of reading (still have a lot more to do) so hopefully it will turn out well. Follow along, laugh, point, and enjoy. Could use any pointers/tips/tricks for sure so feel free to post those too.
Let's get started.
Jan - Feb 2019
First order of business was removing the OE equipment and installing the new head unit. Purchased off Ebay from a China wholesaler this has been a fairly reliable component, shockingly. Been using it without audio for Android based OBD2 apps, navigation, backup cam, and other useful tasks. Began by cleaning/trimming the harness of unnecessary connections. Then I bench tested the unit again in the truck.
Good deal. Now gutting the interior and running the wire harness, RCAs, and backup camera wires. Followed factory body harness all the way from the factory radio to the front of the dash. OE radio is installed under the suspension air pump next to the battery in these SUVs. The in dash nav screen is just that, a screen and input device.
While I was back there I figured I'd add some sound deadening. Used Noico butyl off Amazon. It's cheap, and works. There are better materials but what can I say? I'm cheap.
Then I added a simple backup trigger circuit for the backup camera. Uses a micro relay, some wire, and an LED. Super simple. Found out later this was completely unnecessary as the Android head unit's canbus box was more capable than I thought. It actually pulls the reverse signal off the bus and will trigger the camera for you. Oh well, at least the way I did it I am able to use the OE PDC button to bring up the rear view camera anytime I want (under 30mph). Nice for having at stop lights and seeing the license plate of that a$$ hole tailgating you.
Not the greatest resolution camera, but for $20, what could I expect. It works.