Aftermarket sound system/speakers in Vancouver

[Hypno Toad]

Hi all,

This is my first time posting. I just picked up a Versa SL about a month ago here in Vancouver. At the time the dealer did not have any vehicles with the Canadian "Technology Package" available, and I wasn't able to wait any longer, so I got the SL with the standard 4 speaker/single CD player. I have to say I wasn't expecting much from the setup, but even so I have to say I'm quite let down with the sound quality. Everything sounds very muffled and tinny, no matter how I tune the settings.

I'm wondering if anyone here is from Vancouver and can recommend somewhere that can install a new mp3/stereo/aux jack unit as well as higher quality speakers? I don't have the cash to do it right now, maybe in 6 months or so. Is it even possible to replace the sound system and speakers? This is my first self-bought car, so I really know next to nothing about aftermarket gear. Used to drive an old '95 Maxima with a brilliant 6 speaker setup (think it was Bose), so needless to say I'm pretty underwhelmed.

Can anyone recommend gear or somewhere to take it (either in Vancouver, Burnaby or Richmond)?

Thanks!

[Ever Victorious]

Actually, go to the Frequently Asked Questions sticky at the top of the forum. There are links on how to replace both the head unit and the speakers yourself. You can save a lot of $$ on installation by doing this. I don't know about most places that sell the equipment, but if you order a complete Head Unit and speaker setup, Crutchfield will include (for free) a wiring harness, dash kit, speaker wire adapters, and, if needed, speaker adapter mounts.

[Hypno Toad]

I hadn't actually considered doing it myself. That might be an option, however I'm not sure if I have the desire to start taking my car apart myself.

If I don't decide to do it myself, any Vancouverites or surrounding area folks that might know where to get this done? My knowledge doesn't extend much beyond the Best Buy car stereo section.

[HareBrained]

That's a tough one because it is important to use a knowledgeable and reputable shop. If you're getting a replacement system (headunit and speakers in stock locations), at least Best Buy will stand behind their work and you have someone to fit with should something go wrong.

To find a shop, visit the shop and tell the guy what you're looking to have done. First, he shouldn't try to steer you toward more expensive equipment or a more elaborate system. He should respect what you want, and the resources that you have. Second, he should tell you that the speakers are the single most important component in making the system sound better. He should take you to his speaker display to begin listening. Third, the speaker board should be presentable. All the speakers should work and the equipment should be in good working order. If the board is bad, there's a good chance he's not going to pay attention to the details of your install. Assuming you find speakers, he should have shown you his best speakers for the price you can afford. He should have a good idea of what you're going to spend on each of the components given your stated finances. In my world, I wouldn't even start shopping until I knew I had $500USD to spend on a headunit and front speakers. If the sales guy is showing you speakers that are 100% of your money, go elsewhere. Fourth, ask to see the install area. It should be well lit and clean. There should be a table saw and a few other wood working tools, in addition to a nice mechanics tool chest. If he's not properly equipped to handle something more complex, then he may not be able to handle your work. Fifth, decide on the features you want in the head unit and stick to it. There are many head units that have very low prices but lots of bells and whistles. When comparing two similarly priced headunits, generally speaking, the one with less features should have better components. Bells and whistles don't come free, and all headunit are a compromise, so where did the manufacturer cheap out to include the automatic tissue dispenser? Sixth, you should be comfortable with the people your dealing with. If they're rude and disrespectful, walk out. You should be treated the same whether you're spending $1000 or $10000. Seventh, the store should have at least one "high" line. If the store doesn't carry something you'd never buy, than consider going somewhere else. The better brands are worried about who's representing their products. They also don't want to pay for mistakes from inferior installations. No high-line products may point to poor support. Eighth, ask questions you already know the answers to. This will show how much BS they're willing to heap on you. Ninth, you don't need 50,000 watts. A good amp with 25watts per channel is more than enough for 99% of normal listening. 50 watts should be max. More is just power you'll never use.

Lastly, if needed, you can drive down here and I'll install it for you. I love working on cars and have installed my own competition systems (they didn't win anything but they were in the judging.)

[marleyfan]

I recommend Ralph's. Theyve been in business a long time and know what they are doing...especially if you don't. If you are unsure and you want the job done right then pay to get it done.