Here you will find the different packages that we offer for general audio integration. You will be able to find packages as simple as adding a sub and amp to an existing factory radio, to a fully upgraded 10 speaker stereo system stereo. Be sure to read up on each package offered to get a good understanding whether the package will or will not work in your specific vehicle and in the application you would prefer.
Can I just replace my speakers?
You can do what ever you please, seeing as how it is your vehicle. However, there are a few reasons to replace factory speakers that may help you decide if you need to, or not. If they are blown (defective), rattling or making noises at high volumes or if an aftermarket amplifier is added and the speakers need to be replaced in order to handle the power now being delivered. In many cases, if the output volume is sufficient and the speakers are not blown, we can simple add a subwoofer and adjust the front speakers to not have as much bass. This will allow the speakers to perform at higher volumes more efficiently as long as the audio signal is not distorted.
If the bass we add drowns out the front speakers then we would highly recommend adding a speaker amplifier to even the system out. Adding a speaker amplifier to the factory speakers can also be beneficial. If the bass is sufficient with the speakers just operating off of factory stereo power then it should suffice. When we add an aftermarket radio or processor to the stereo we will gain more tuning capability of the front speakers. If it is the route of an aftermarket radio, the system will almost certainly gain volume output overall.
How big should I go?
A general rule of thumb, for most vehicles, is that the factory electrical system can hand 500-1000 Watts of additional power without other electrical components greatly suffering. The variation in power is to the different sizes of alternator and motors in each vehicle, as well as the size of wire and battery that it came with. These packages were designed with this in mind and around vehicles that will most likely retain the factory electrical system. So, ultimately its up to you and how much money you may want to spend on your new audio system.
Will I need a bigger battery?
When it comes to adding any additional power to the vehicle we always recommend upgrading the battery to a AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat), possibly adding a second battery and upgrading the factory electrical just to allow for plenty of conductive surface area. Once we have added the audio components and tuned everything, the electrical system will be fine without these elements but adding them to the foundation of your system can help tremendously in many ways. You may not necessarily NEED a bigger battery but exchanging a lead acid battery for an AGM battery can make a world of difference when upgrading.
What should I upgrade?
The size of speaker used in the examples are 6.5" speakers representing it's size, 5.25" speakers and 6X9" speakers. As you can see we opt to use component speakers in the front doors of every installation. This is due to the fact that utilizing a components set of speakers will separate mid bass from high frequencies in the sound stage a bit for a more natural blend to the listeners ear. This separation can not be achieved with a set of coaxial speakers, which is why we highly recommend a 2-way component set up front, at least. This application also works great for stereos that already have existing component speaker locations.
We will start with our first package which simply adds a subwoofer to the existing stereo system, and possible trading out the radio for something more efficient and with more audio tuning capability. Music is measured in 3 main frequencies ranges when it comes to generally speaking about audio. We refer to them as Highs (Tweeters), Mid-range (Speakers) and Lows (Subwoofer). All music is recorded within these ranges and requires speakers, tweeters and subwoofers to fully reproduce what we hear in our favorite songs.
A large misconception many people have is that subwoofers are only to get huge earth shattering bass, while this is somewhat true, this is simply not the case. Subwoofers are needed to reproduce those low end notes that music produces to even a sub-sonic level, which is considered to be below human hearing (20Hz). The bass gives the listener the opportunity to feel the music. Even that music you mays listen to that doesn't seem to have bass still needs it to fill out the rest of the audio spectrum in the song. Feel free to contact us if you have further questions on this subject!
A few things to know...
We will mention some terminology in our packages to help describe just how they are setup. We will go over a few of these terms real quick just incase you aren't as familiar with them as we are and we will also try to provide links to the words we feel aren't common terminology. When you see a word in bold in the body text, it most likely has a link to the definition.
All wire used at LIS Audio for audio installation is OFC (Oxygen Free Copper) which is the most reliable and most efficient to use in mobile electronics applications. Many audio components will be mounted to the vehicle upon installation and it is important to specify what you do and do not prefer to have mounted. We will cover this subject during consultation. There are also different options for materials as well, such as using Birch wood instead of MDF, feel free to ask if we have more options than you may be familiar with.
When we finish the installation we tune the system to the point of just below distortion using tuning software and tools. The point of distortion can change du to the media and or source player being used to play the music you listen to. If the files are online and streaming from YouTube for example, then the quality of music will be much lower than that of a high resolution audio streaming app like Tidal. These will also be a few more points we will touch on upon consultation and once again after installation.
As you read through these audio packages you will find more listed benefits and information as to the components we add and why we add them. Lets get started!
Level 1 - Sub Only Package
At this level we will keep the factory speakers installed, add an amplifier and subwoofer to the stereo system. Depending on how extensive you want the installation to be we will first decide whether to keep or replace the factory radio. If it is a newer vehicle with an upgraded audio system or navigation it is most likely we will retain the factory stereo and integrate a processor into the system for the safest and most accurate installation.
If the vehicle is a bit older and a base model, replacing the stereo maybe much more beneficial than keeping the low powered factory radio. When we decide to add more bass to the entire factory system we typically notice that the front stage (speakers) are then drowned out by the sub-stage. Adding an aftermarket stereo will allow us to tune the system even deeper and efficiently deliver more power to the factory speakers. Thus raising the entire sound stage volume.
Here is a list of products used in this package...
- Amplifier Wiring Kit
- Sound Deadener Trunk Kit
- Bass Knob/ Controller
- RCA Interconnect
- Signal Processor
- Mono or 2 Channel Lowpass Amplifier
- Subwoofer & Enclosure
Level 2 - New Speakers & Sub-Stage
We automatically start off with 2-way component speakers to achieve the better staging than a set of coaxial speakers up front. A typical 2-way speaker set has six components, a tweeter, mid-bass driver and a passive crossover. We recommend the use of auto sound deadener when it comes to the installation of virtually any audio product. With this package we would suggest adding Hushmat to the doors, since we will already be in them installing aftermarket speakers, and also address the trunk. You can read up on the many advantages of sound deadener in our blog The Benefits of Auto Sound Deadener.
The size and length of the power wire and RCA interconnects to the amplifier will depend on the type of vehicle, location of amplifier and whether we're installing a signal processor or a new aftermarket radio. If you would like to know more about wire and what we look for when choosing the proper wire, read up on our How-To Choose The Proper Wire blog.
Here is a list of products used in this package...
- Amplifier Wiring Kit
- Sound Deadener Trunk Kit
- Sound Deadener Two/Four Door Kit
- Bass Knob/Controller
- RCA Interconnect
- Aftermarket Radio/Signal Processor
- Front Speakers
- Mono or 2 Channel Lowpass Amplifier
- Subwoofer & Enclosure
- Rear Speakers
Level 3 - Powered Front Speakers & Sub
This package contains everything the last package contains but with the change of amplifier from one that works best with subwoofers to an amplifier that can power both full range speakers and subwoofers. In this case its a 4 channel amplifier that we decide to use. The amplifier 2/3 channels power the front two speakers while channels 3/4 power the subwoofer. This allows install less wire than two amplifiers would require while still amplifying a good portion of the system.
We leave the rear speakers on the factory or aftermarket radio power as to act more like rear fill. This is a very cost effective package for someone that wants to upgrade most of the system while keeping the budget friendly. If you want to utilize this package take into consideration that not all aftermarket radio's will have the same preout voltage, which could translate into a weak stereo system even after a full upgrade. Look for a unit that will have 4V or 5V preout voltage. Here is a small video of a setup utilizing this package in an Oldsmobile 442.
Here is a list of products used in this package...
- Amplifier Wiring Kit
- Sound Deadener Trunk Kit
- Sound Deadener Four Door Kit
- Bass Knob/ Controller
- Two RCA Interconnect
- Aftermarket Radio/Signal Processor
- Front Speakers
- 4 Channel All-Pass/Lowpass Amplifier
- Subwoofer & Enclosure
- Rear Speakers
Level 4 - Full Powered System
This package is very similar to the previous with the exception of replacing the 4 channel amplifier with a 6 channel. This allows us to amplify every speaker in a vehicle with a standard 4-6 speaker system, while adding a subwoofer. It is highly recommended to replace all speakers with aftermarket speakers at this point due to the fact that more power can be efficiently delivered. Adding an aftermarket set of passive component speakers to the rear is also an option for this setup.
A single amplifier setup allows us to hide most if not all of the audio in the factory positions, in cubbies or behind panels. This gives the upgraded aftermarket audio system the appearance of being factory with exceptional performance and volume output. It is also possible to have a custom subwoofer enclosure build to match the vehicle and keep the factory appereance across the entire vehicle. Here are a few couple of examples from installations we performed in a Ford Explorer and a Chrysler Town & Country.
Here is a list of products used in this package...
- Amplifier Wiring Kit
- Sound Deadener Trunk Kit
- Sound Deadener Door Kits
- Bass Knob/ Controller
- Three RCA Interconnects
- Aftermarket Radio/Signal Processor
- Front Speakers
- 6 Channel All-Pass/Lowpass Amplifier
- Subwoofer & Enclosure
- Rear Speakers
Level 5 - Full Powered System, Two Amps
The dual amplifier stereo systems are very popular audio setups. With this package we are still utilizing a 5/6 channel setup but with two amplifiers to maximize performance. Using two amplifiers, as opposed to one, to run the entire system allows for less heat rise across the amplifier thus making the audio perform better and sound better. You can see a package similar to this one in this Acura RL and Chevy 4500, granted they both had a bit of custom work done as well.
With the addition of the second amplifier we will also need more wire, if the amplifier is the same size or very close, to that of the first amp we will need to double up on power wire. We will either add a second amp wiring kit or add a distribution block with power wire and additional RCA's. Again, this depends on the size of the amplifier. If we exceed our 500-1000 Watt limit while adding a second amplifier then we will need to start looking at upgrading the factory electrical wire, starting battery and possibly adding a second auxiliary battery.
Here is a list of products used in this package...
- Amplifier Wiring Kit
- Sound Deadener Trunk Kit
- Sound Deadener Door Kits
- Mono or 2 Channel Lowpass Amplifier
- Three RCA Interconnects
- Aftermarket Radio/Signal Processor
- Front Speakers
- Distribution Block
- 4 Channel All-Pass/Lowpass Amplifier
- Subwoofer & Enclosure
- Rear Speakers
- Bass Knob/ Contoller
Level 6 - Full Active Powered System
This package steps into being a bit more intricate than the average factory stereo system. We swap the 4 channel amplifier for a 6 channel for a bit more control and tuning adjustability. This system is run active and is highly recommend to pair with a DSP (Digital Sound Processor) to get the best tuning possible out of the newly installed system. We will also add another RCA to send signal to the entire system.
The applications for this package are generally used in vehicles that we are replacing factory upgraded audio systems in or for clients that want a bit more sound quality to their aftermarket system. At this level we can also offer factory integration options that open up the speaker grilles to the cabin to allow for more audio output from speakers and subwoofers. Check our out custom Rear Deck Lid Perforation package for sedans to see if it is beneficial for your applicaiton.
Here is a list of products used in this package...
- Amplifier Wiring Kit
- Sound Deadener Trunk Kit
- Sound Deadener Door Kits
- Mono or 2 Channel Lowpass Amplifier
- Four RCA Interconnects
- Aftermarket Radio/Signal Processor
- Front Speakers
- Distribution Block
- 6 Channel All-Pass/Lowpass Amplifier
- Subwoofer & Enclosure
- Rear Speakers
- Bass Knob/ Controller
Levle 7 - Full Audiophile Package
This package is further expanded from the last and allows for even more tuning and sound stage adjustment. You will see that in some factory upgraded sound systems there is a center channel front speakers in the dash. The package we built here is great fro the factory sounds systems that have 10 speakers. Using the DSP with this packages allows us to properly integrate into those stereo systems that have DATA and information systems running through them.
We offer more extensive upgrade options but, since custom fabrication is involved to achieve more output volume or sound quality than is offered here, it is best to contact us directly to set up a free consultation. We have options that will let you have an entire interior swap and upgrade the audio system while remaining to appear as if it came from the factory, all the way up to full show car interior build outs. Check us out on Facebook, YouTube and Instagram to keep up with our latest and greets projects!
Here is a list of products used in this package...
- Amplifier Wiring Kit
- Sound Deadener Trunk Kit
- Sound Deadener Door Kits
- Mono or 2 Channel Lowpass Amplifier
- 3"/4" Center Channel Speaker
- Four RCA Interconnects
- Aftermarket Radio/Signal Processor
- Front Speakers
- Distribution Block
- Bass Knob/ Controller
- 6 Channel All-Pass/Lowpass Amplifier
- Subwoofer & Enclosure
- Rear Speakers
- 3"/5.25" Speakers
This will allow us to further assess your vehicle and understand what it is you are looking to achieve with your system specifically. These packages may change slightly per vehicle and are dependent upon your preference and budget. The best way to get an accurate price of the package you maybe interested in is to setup a free consultation. Thank you for reading and hopefully you now have a better understand of how we efficiently and accurately build packages to suite your needs! Feel free to contact us using the contact box below if you have any questions or would like to setup a free consultation!