Replaced 2011 SEL speakers with Infinity, still "muddy" sounding

[rogersmj]

As we all know, the 2011 SEL's audio system is crap. It's my wife's car and I don't spend a lot of time in it, but I thought if for minimal cost and effort I could make some improvements I'd go ahead and do it.

 

So I picked up 4 of these, highly rated for the money, and swapped them out this weekend.

 

I wasn't expecting it to sound amazing, but I'm a bit disappointed. The sound definitely has more "body" than the stock speakers, but it still sounds really muddy in low- and mid-ranges. The dumb 3-way equalizer in MFT doesn't really help; by the time I've turned down the mids enough to get rid of the muddiness, it just doesn't sound good anymore.

 

So I'm hoping that someone who understands audio systems better than I do can offer some advice on what options might remain that would at least make the sound a little more clear and separated. I'd like to keep the cost and effort as low as possible, but I'm interested in any and all ideas. Thanks.

[rogersmj]

I should add that based on my own research, it looks like I need to install a subwoofer, then install something that would send just the mids and highs to the door speakers (that's a crossover, right?), and the lows to a mono sub amp.

 

It also seems like I would need something like the RE-Q5 to clean up the audio signals coming out of the stock head unit.

 

This is starting to sound like it's going to be expensive.

[NatG]

When I used to install audio systems in my other cars, I always started with a subwoofer and then upgraded interiors. You need to either purchase an amplifier with cross-over control or a separate cross-over device (you can get some filters that you can install in-line, which are inexpensive).

Edited August 1, 2011 by NatG

[rogersmj]

OK...could I install the RE-Q5, plus an amp and sub, but still leave the door speakers powered by the stock head unit?

 

Looking at the RE-Q5 install sheet, I'm trying to figure out how that would work. The stock SEL stereo doesn't have a subwoofer, so does the head unit even have a sub line out? Or do I have to run the main speaker lines through the RE-Q5 just to get the bass signal?

 

If I have to run all the speaker lines through the RE-Q5, what am I getting out the other end for the door 6x9s? Is that then an unamplified line-level signal, meaning I have to buy another amp to drive those speakers?

 

Just looking for some clarity on how all the pieces could fit together.

[NatG]

I am not sure if the SEL's OEM head unit has sub-out. My guess would be no.

[rogersmj]

Yeah, based on my research I think that's the case as well. Thanks.

 

So, here's my current plan...have I accounted for everything here? Am I missing any wiring, or is anything I've marked incorrect?

[NatG]

I'd install some filters on the interiors to cut off the lows. I do not have personal experience with the RE-Q5, but you can intercept the signal prior to where you install the filter.

[rogersmj]

OK thanks for the tip...something like these?

[baum]

yes like those.

 

 

keep in mind your stock radio is also only plays about 7 to 15 watts at rms (continuous level). what stereo manufacturers mislead people with is they state the max power (most factory radios are made by major manufactures).. 50 watts blahh blaahh... a radio will never hit this level.

 

the best way if funds provide would be to amp those and get a sub... however if you only add a sub amp i personally would not do the re-q5. you can achieve the same with just a line output converter (LOC).

[rogersmj]

Yeah I know adding an amp for the main speakers would be ideal, and I may do that at some point, but not right now.

 

As for the RE-Q5, I am including it because of all I've read about the stock head unit killing the bass signal as you turn the volume up. Most notably, another member did the same thing in his SEL recently, and he said it didn't sound right until he added the RE-Q5. Using the RE-Q5 also gives me an upgrade path to add that other amp for the mains later on.

 

So I think I'm going to go ahead and order all this stuff...I think the biggest challenge now is going to be building the box behind the right rear cargo trim panel.

 

One last question: the Sony amp says that 4GA wire is "recommended" for power and ground. That's a hella big wire to fish all the way from the back to the front of the car. What do I risk by using an 8GA install kit instead?

[NatG]

Rogersmj, go with a 4 gauge wire. It won't be that bad to run it to the back. Ford typically leaves enough room in the wiring channels for aftermarket power kits (since your SEL doesn't have the Sony system, you should have plenty of space).

 

With the 4, you can potentially (key word is potentially) power 2 amps, for if / when you upgrade to utilized an interior amplifier, too.

Edited August 6, 2011 by NatG