Car Stereos: Need new system, infinity basslink, 2000 chevy malibu

Question
Hi my name is Robert and I have been driving my late uncle's 2000 Chevy Malibu for the past couple of years.  I've been content with the sound quality until recently when both front and back speakers on the right side of my car blew out.  My friends say I turn up the bass too much for a stock system and suggested I get one that can handle louder volumes of music.  I do not know anything about sound systems, but from what I can see, I need a new set of speakers and would like to upgrade it to a great sound system while I am at it.  My friend mentioned a deck too so I don't have to use CD's anymore.  So I guess I could upload songs into my deck or something?  I am not even sure what I need, a sub? an amp? Maybe just replacement speakers or better speakers?  I do not know where to start.  I would appreciate some advice, Thanks!

Answer
Robert, I would start by replacing your factory speakers.  First, factory speakers are the weakest link in the system.  Replacing them with some aftermarket speakers (like MB Quart, or Infinity), will definitely make a big difference, and you will not have to worry about blowing the new speakers, because they can handle much more power.  If new speakers do not cure your taste for sound, the next step is a powered subwoofer.  The easiest way to add substantial bass to your system is to buy a powered sub enclosure (such as Infinity Basslink and Basslink II).  They are all inclusive, and they are fairly easy to install.  That should blow you away for sound.  Factory stereos are actually the strong point of OEM systems.  They are usually built by the top manufacturers in the world, and you aren't careful, you may end up with an aftermarket radio that sounds worse than the factory one.  The only reason that I recommend upgrading your stereo to aftermarket is if your stock radio does not have the options that you desire.  If you have an Ipod with all of your favorite songs loaded on it, then you may want to upgrade to a stereo that you can hook your ipod up to.  If you do decide to upgrade the stereo, the safest bet on a quality sounding unit is Alpine.  Alpine's cheapest unit sounds better than most stereos OEM and aftermarket.  Hope this helps, Scott