New Stereo and comps

[lucid15]

So I am wanting to upgrade my stereo and run some 6.5" comps off the stock infinity amp. I remember i didn't have the right harness last time so i want to make sure i am purchasing the right item.

Do I only need this kit? Metra 70 7003 Mitsubishi Dodge Stealth Amp Amplifier Integration Harness 70 7001 | eBay

It looks like it has everything ill need to integrate an aftermarket setup with that amp. Also what is the size for the factory tweeters? Would like to pick a component set that has tweeters the same size for a stock appearance install. Any input is appreciated.

 

[PieEyedPiper]

I'd advise you to not do that. The stock infinity amp is like a 15watt unit. Any component speakers you attach will be grossly underpowered - it could damage them.


What make and model are the components? What kind of crossover is being employed? Depending, you could also damage the speakers/or reduce quality significantly by not using a high-pass filter. 80hz is nice. Maybe even higher.

 

[lucid15]

Im thinkin about geting a pair of MB Quarts the ones around $130. My question is wiring then.. If i wire in a new amplifier can i use the existing speaker wires to allow for an easy speaker swap? Or do i have to tap into the wires that go into the stock amp? Also what size tweeter for stock location and where would the crossover go?

 

[PieEyedPiper]

I would not use the stock wiring for this, it is very fine gauge.

Here's what I've done, for example, I replaced the head unit with something more robust and a solid 5v+ preout. I ran the RCA's from the head unit directly my amp in the back. The amp is powerful, 2 X 100 RMS @ 4 Ohm or 2 X 200 RMS @ 2 Ohm (my model actually exceeds this by about 30%).
From there I ran new 14 gauge wire through the doors with a coat hanger coming from the amp and ending in the middle of interior the door.
How you deal with the crossover can be pretty unique. I've done it a few ways and I'm currently enjoying the latest revision. I used to have the xover mounted inside each door with velcro with leads going to the woofer and then up to the tweets that I have mounted in the triangle shaped mirror panels. This was a pain in the ass honestly, and it was pretty short sighted of me. Recently I build a plywood board that spans the trunk that currently anchors my amp and the crossovers. I drilled holes in each end of the board so that I only have 6" leads going to the crossovers and then the leads feed through the board, to tidy the wires, and out to the doors.

As far as rear fill I only like a little so I've retained functionality of the stock Infinity amp in conjunction with the stock rear 6x9's. Just had to use an adapter and the Infinity harness plugged right into my head unit. The crossovers are not a high pass in themselves, they do perform that task for the tweets, but the amp or head unit must be capable of applying a limit. Many component speakers can be utilized as full-range, but results are not good. Especially if underpowered.

You should choose a a set of component speakers that meet your goals and then, if you like, fit them to the stock locations in the doors and dash. Don't count out the mirror covers though, you can improve imaging and still have a clean look. The more inexpensive MBQ's have lower RMS ratings than other offerings. It's possible you might be able to get away with stock power but you might not be able to get it loud enough and when you do, you'll surely be clipping.