Car Stereos: What is the right equipement for good sound, infinity speakers, kenwood kdc

Question
To start with what I have right now is a 2005 GMC Envoy, with Infinity Speakers 60 watt in the front and 90 watt in the back all are 2 ohm. Soon (within the next 2 weeks)I plan to install a new Kenwood KDC-HD548U. Here is where I need help! Within the next 2 months I want to add amps and a sub. Depending on who I talk to I get different answers from EVERYONE. Anything from I don't need an amp for my front speakers to I do need it. And I need a 5 channel amp to (for better sound) I need a 4 channel, and a Mono for the Sub. Sounds like typical salesman's talk pushing their product. I was (or am) considering 2 10" subs in 1 box. All I am looking for is GOOD, Crisp sound. I don't like the loud thumping, just good sound with a variety of music types. Two specific questions I have. First is do I want(or need) an enclosed or ported box for the subs. And Second is will the factory speaker wires support the power from an amp or should I run new wires all the way to the speakers. Next ANY advise you can give me on the rest will be greatly appreciated!

Thank you in advance for your help and your time
Curtis

Answer
Hi Curtis,

To answer your first question, for good, clean, crisp bass, you want a sealed box that fits the specifications of the subwoofer you're buying (as far as cubic feet of airspace go.)

To the second question, the wires your car already has are likely just fine to carry what should be < 100w of actual power.

As for amps, I'll avoid brand names, since everyone has a different opinion, and the best answer I can give for that is to just go and find what you like.

Now as for whether you need them or not, it all depends on how loud you want it to get.  Most decks tell you they do 50wx4, but that's just weenie salesman speak.  Based on the amount of power a deck receives from a car's system, the most any deck can actually put out is usually in the 15-20w per channel range.  But for many people, that's still plenty loud.  Simply enough, does your system get loud enough (while maintaining sound clarity) now?  If not, you need amp(s).  A new deck won't be able to put out much more power (if any) than the factory system currently does, so use that as your basis.  If you decide you want it louder, you'll need a 4 channel to run those speakers that can do 4x2ohm stable.

As for whether you need a 5-channel or a 4 channel plus a mono block, that's entirely up to you again.  Both will work just fine.  I usually buy a 4 channel plus a mono block just so I have the ability to buy amps with different specs that meet my system's requirements.

Find a local car stereo shop that will let you listen to the equipment, and won't pressure you into things.  They do exist, and give them your business over the people who try and muscle products and items down your throat.  The world has too many sleazy salesmen in it. ;)

Justin