08 custom stereo install

Discussion in 'Modifications & DIY how-to' started by slade1274, Aug 17, 2010.

  1. slade1274

    slade1274 Member

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    Here is my understated installation focused on retaining as much of the stock appearance and functionality of my 2008 STi while providing sound quality that can impress critical audiophiles. It was done to the finish quality that is the demo vehicle and showpiece for my installation business in the Atlanta area.

    I am a dealer for Hertz/Audison, so much of the equipment is theirs with the exception of the subwoofers in order to meet my installation goals.

    Head unit: Pioneer DEH-P4100DVD
    Sound Processor: Audison BitOne.1
    Amplifier: Audison 5.1K five channel
    Tweeters: Hertz ML280
    Midbass: Hertz ML1600
    Subwoofers: Stereo Integrity BM
    Sound deadener: SDS (sound deadener showdown)

    I did choose to loose the spare tire on this install after much deliberation. I concluded that as most of my driving is in town, the use of the cargo space was second priority to the performance of the audio system. The hatch floor was raised by less than an inch, allowing full use of the cargo hooks.

    The head unit was replaced with a double din DVD unit with great iPod control. I purchased the JDM bezel to fit the aftermarket unit flush for a factory look. The control unit in the lower cubby is fixed via a “floating mount” and is for the digital signal processor that allows for individual driver equalization and time alignment to help adjust the system for all the reflections and location compromises in a vehicle installation.

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    The tweeters use the original sails that are modified for the larger format tweeter using fiberglass and body filler. They are finished in an ultrasuede to match the stock armrest.

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    Again, the goal of the hatch was to retain the stock hatch functionality, so it is impressive to think I have 2 12” subwoofers in there….

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    By removing the panel cover, you reveal the subwoofer enclosure, welded steel amp/processor rack, and decorative LED edge lit plexiglass.

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    The visual design goals are a complete success as is the retained functionality. As far as how it sounds, I decided to enter a sanctioned MECA sound competition for the trained ears to judge. What better one to enter than the 2010 ECN up in Spartanburg, SC! I am pleased to say that my class was the largest at the show with 6 entries; and the system did take first place honors in said class.

    Feel free to contact me for a look and listen.
     
  2. josh booth

    josh booth Active Member

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    Good job looks great....
     
  3. BKiller

    BKiller Active Member

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    Looks great. Never heard of Hertz or Audison though??
     
  4. FTZ

    FTZ ^.^

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    I have been reading about Audison a lot lately. I don't think they are big here in the US, but are one of the major players in the UK. Very nice install slade1274. I would like to redesign my system (again) to maximize space a bit more. I currently only have 1 10" Kicker Sub, and 2 Amps, and enough room for a Full Sized Suitcase, but would like build a box in the Spare Tire well and have a clean flush mount like yours.
     
  5. integroid

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    Yeah, Audison does make some very nice equipment. How is the imaging and stage with the tweeters up high? I would love to take a listen to it someday. It looks great!
     
  6. jesus888

    jesus888 Member

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    Makes me want to buy a hatch... mmmmm.... nice work mang.
     
  7. Alex

    Alex Community Founder
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    Where were ya when I was shopping for speakers :)

    The fit and finish of your install looks absolutely wonderful. I too would love to hear the setup.
     
    #7 Alex, Aug 17, 2010
    Last edited by a moderator: Aug 17, 2010
  8. slade1274

    slade1274 Member

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    Thanks for the feedback guys- imaging is fantastic with the use of the BitOne. It has full 31 band EQ to each driver, independent phase adjustment, time alignment, and crossover settings. It takes about an hour to get it dialed in using a combination of and RTA and specific frequency test tones.

    Oh, and Audison/Hertz is an Italian company that has been around Europe for quite some time. They are making great inroads with the US market currently and are among the best out there. Their breadth of line is fantastic with products that perform as good or better than competition at every price point.
     
  9. Alex

    Alex Community Founder
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    Yes, yes. I wanted to listen to Hertz before I purchase DLS, but I was unable to find a dealer here in GA. :unamused:

    I'll have to look up the Audison amp lineup as I am in the market for a new amp :)
     
  10. slade1274

    slade1274 Member

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    Depending on your power needs, they just launched the new SR line which is fantastic.
     
  11. Alex

    Alex Community Founder
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    150w per channel x 2 + 300w or so to the sub in the rear?
     
  12. integroid

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  13. Alex

    Alex Community Founder
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  14. Matt

    Matt Think before you post
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    I'm looking to upgrade my audio in my car. Who did your install?
     
  15. integroid

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    Read much?
     
  16. Matt

    Matt Think before you post
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    him being a dealer doesn't necessarily mean installs as well. ;)
     
  17. integroid

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    Wirelessly posted (Mozilla/5.0 (Linux; U; Android 2.2; en-us; Sprint APA9292KT Build/FRF91) AppleWebKit/533.1 (KHTML, like Gecko) Version/4.0 Mobile Safari/533.1)

    He clearly said "my installation business" ;)
     
  18. Matt

    Matt Think before you post
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    touche. But I was still looking for a name of a shop...so I could do some research.

    ;)
     
  19. Alex

    Alex Community Founder
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    Matt doesn't "read so good" sometimes :rofl:
     
  20. RSConvert

    RSConvert ɹǝuɹnʇpɐǝɥ uʞnɟɐɥnɯ ɐ sʇı
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    Wow very nice and clean.
     
  21. slade1274

    slade1274 Member

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    sladeaudio.com


    Unfortunately I don't maintain the site as well as I should....

    I currently do work out of my garage to minimize overhead; but have done install work quite a bit for shops in the past. I wish I had more of a portfolio of the past work I've done, but I can say that my knowledge of the industry was enough to earn the right to be an authorized independent dealer for some high end marques.. That being said, the proof is in the pudding. I am always open and available for discussions and to view/listen to my work so you can judge for yourself. Google can't help you... or me... in this instance.
    :eek:

    PM me and we can get together... I plan on being on the run this Saturday if'n you are as well.
     
  22. jeb

    jeb Member

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    Hope you kill the subs with that panel sitting on top of them. The install looks awesome though, I'd love to give it a listen sometime
     
  23. slade1274

    slade1274 Member

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    :confused:

    The backside of that cover panel is recessed and it vents through perforated aluminum sheet and then pass through carpet. They aren't high excursion woofers so I have plenty of room for the 14mm X-max. ;)
     
  24. wrxin8or

    wrxin8or Mullitt
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    Don't worry about him. jeb is a professional drunk poster...
     
  25. slade1274

    slade1274 Member

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    2:07am should have been a clue.... Prolly would have caught that after my morning cup of coffee- thanks!
     

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