Questionok, so I am buying all my equipment to upgrade my car system online. I need to know what kind of kits and wires I will need to get the best sound for my parts without going to some store to pay top dollar and have them installed. I have all the basic units, its just I have no wires or connectors required to install them yet. I am getting the following:
1 pioneer premier DEH-P390MP head unit
2 6x9 pioneer premier TS-A932P speakers
2 5.25 pioneer premier TS-A532P speakers
1 pioneer premier TS-W3001D4 12" sub
1 sonic sub box 1SL 12-1.4 a sealed box for the sub
1 kenwood KAC-9103D 1800 watt mono amp for the sub
1 alpine MRP-F250 400 watt 4 channel amp for the interior
1 lonzar LQ12CAP power cap for the kenwood amp
1 phoenix gold ICBM-7244CRP power cap for the alpine amp
so my question is what do I need in the way of wiring to hook this stuff up right? amp kits, gauge wires, preout rca cables, harness, connectors, etc...thanks in advance.
AnswerGood choice on all, you've done your homework. I will warn you, if you get alternator whine, it may be due to the Pioneer HU. Some go bad this way.
Adjust the gain on the MRP-F250 so it pushes 35 watts RMS X 4 for optimal performance from all speakers. Set the KAC-9103D for 900 watts RMS (*see below).
The cap won't do you any good if the electrical system isn't up for the task. Caps don't add more power, they only condition the voltage but the amp needs amperage as well.
If you experience headlight dimming, an alternator upgrade is the only cure. I would suggest at least doing the Big 3 - that is to replace (or add to) the power wire between the battery and alternator, the ground from the battery to the chassis and the ground strap from the engine/tranny to the chassis with at least 2 AWG wire.
The power plant of the car is the alternator. The ONLY purpose of the battery is to start the car and run accessories with the engine off.
I'd go with a 2 AWG amp kit simply for future upgrades. Plus bigger wire never hurts. Some kits will include most everything required to install (RCA cable, REM wire, fork terminals for the wire, etc.).
You can get a factory wiring harness adapter and a stereo install kit from here http://www.metraonline.com
*Here is a guide that will help you set the gain correctly on both amps http://www.datafilehost.com/download.php?file=6d26c621
You'll need a multi-meter (AC voltmeter), Microsoft Excel and a way to burn an audio CD from an MP3.
If you don't have Excel, use this link http://www.box.net/shared/nkkw1dhk4g
