Car Stereos: Car Audio, silverado z71, factory speakers

Question
QUESTION: I own a 2004 Silverado z71 reg cab.  I am wondering what size all of my speakers are and what you would recommend as far as a better system.  I am not looking for anything crazy, I just want a little more base and clearer louder music.  Is there any way I can get a bose system installed?  I have been looking at fosgate's for my sterio of choice if I cant get bose.
 Thanks,
   -Sam

ANSWER: Hi Sam,

The factory speakers are 6 3/4" in the front, and 4x6 in the rear pillars... ish.  Chevy uses a non-standard size, but most companies can sell you templates that would make those speaker sizes work.

You could install the Bose system, but I would highly recommend against it simply because of the work and expense involved, and since much much much better aftermarket equipment could likely be had for a fraction of the cost.

Beyond that, what you get is entirely up to you.  Everyone has their own opinion on what they like and what they don't like.  If you just want a reasonable upgrade, I'd suggest a good head unit, and some aftermarket speakers.  That will probably give you all the upgrade you need without breaking the bank.

Justin

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks Justin, one more thing.  What should I be looking for in the speakers I choose to get?  Also, would you recommend a compacitor?  My headlights already dim when I hit the windows so I was wondering if it wouldnt be a bad idea.  And am I going to get enouhg base from just the speakers or should I buy a small sub also?

Answer
Hi Sam,

I wouldn't recommend any particular speaker, since it's all subjective.  Visit your local car audio shop, and make the sales guy let you listen to every single speaker you're interested in.  Find one that fits your budget and sounds good to your ears.

As for capacitor, they're a good idea when the system is too strong for the electrical system in the car, but you saying the lights dim when you use the windows would suggest there's other issues going on in the car electronically that you should get worked out before adding a car stereo to it.  A window shouldn't be enough to dim the headlights.

Justin