Factory Integration

[DimDeezy]

Got a 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe 3.5SR. Got the Bose 9 Speaker System. Want to throw a little more bass into the car, but I don't want to change the headunit out. I'm thinking about getting 2 Alpine SWS-1023D and Alpine MRP-M500, putting out 250 RMS to each sub (Like I said, I just need a little more). I have also been looking at the Alpine VehicleHub Pro VPA-B222, for a factory integration. Here are my questions: Has anybody heard anything about factory integration systems? Is it worth it to get it or just change out the headunite? Do you think I should change out all the speakers or just leave the Bose speakers? I'm also thinking of putting the subs in the trunk behind the wheel well, with custom built fiber glass boxes. What do you think? Thanks.

Chris

[AppleBonker]

Adding two (or just one) subs would be easy. Many people have done it. All you would need is a line output converter which can be found nearly anywhere. As far as the placement goes, I'm a big fan of the rear corners of the trunk (where my sub sits, actually). Two subs will take up a decent amount of space though, and our trunk space is limited to begin with.

Personally, I think the VPA-B222 would be a waste of money. At that point, might as well just throw in a new head unit and skip the B222. A solid head unit will offer all of that, and then some, with better controls. And, at not too much more expensive.

As far as the speakers go, the Bose system is tuned to work all together. If you want to swap speakers, it would be ideal to swap the head unit and then get an amp. That becomes a costly venture.

[DimDeezy]

Thanks for the feedback. I think I'm going to look into a headunit. I've been searching around & though I'd like to keep everything within the same manufacturer, I know sometimes its not the best. I'd like to still get the amp & sub as stated previously (Alpine SWS-1023D and Alpine MRP-M500) & I'd like to get an Alpine headunit, but I'm not sure if they are the best (Just know they are overpriced...so I've heard). I'm possibly looking into getting 2 Type-R's. My buddy has one in his car & it hits pretty good, but I don't want so much that it rattles my trunk off, lol. I'm also not looking to swap out the Bose speakers, I think they sound pretty good. Any suggestions?

Chris

[AppleBonker]

I've always been a fan of Alpine headunits, so I may be a bit biased. I am on my third or fourth in a row now. I'm currently rocking the INA-W900. There is an upgrade to that model coming out in the somewhat near future, fwiw. I've been quite happy with mine though. There is a member on here (his username is Broadfield) who is a board sponsor and sells A/V gear. He can get this stuff for you at an awesome price (with full warranty). When you get close to buying, you should talk it over with him.

Personally, I think the Bose speakers are the weakest part of the entire stereo. Just be warned that the Bose system is tuned as a whole (between the head unit and the amp in the trunk). Pulling any one part of that system out will make it sound worse. How much worse? That's up to your ears to decide.

What about a single Type-R? Why do you feel you need two?

[DimDeezy]

Thanks for the referral, I'll give Broadfield a holler. As you could probably tell, I'm new to the forums & mod industry, lol. I don't think its that I neeeed two Type-R's, but more of a want. My last car I had two 15" Rockfords in the trunk, which was a little ridiculous on my part. So I'm trying to plan this out, since it's a brand new car, to be the best system I can find for a good price. Know what I mean? I mean I know to find the best, I'll have to fork up a little bit of green (though not always). You make a valid point about the Bose speakers, I'll have to look into speakers as well, I'm thinking. Thanks

Chris

[AppleBonker]

I've spent far too much money trying to find the best. No need to explain to me. Just be warned that a pair of anything is going to basically consume the entire trunk. That is the downfall...