I wanted to start a thread specific to audio systems. This has been discussed a bit here and there, but I think the topic deserves it's own home. I know many will not be installing anything, especially the R builders, but I want a basic, good sounding stereo in my 818S. I've done some research and wanted to share my plans and spur some conversation.
Opinions on audio are varied... some people are more than satisfied by a base factory system, while others spend more than an entire 818 kit! So, first, I wanted to provide a baseline for my expectations. In my current Z, I have the following: an Alpine 9857 headunit, JL Audio 300/4 amp, XR650 components in the front doors, and a 10W0 sub in the trunk. I have door pods for the woofers and a small (~0.5 cu ft) corner loaded box for the sub. This system is far from a monster, but I think it was well thought out and reasonably priced. After tuning, it sounds good... really good.
For my 818, I want to keep in the spirit of simple and lightweight and install an appropriate system, yet still have decent sound quality in an open car. Therefore, my plans are to use a single DIN digital media headunit, such an Alpine UTE-42 or Sony DSX-200X:
90296.jpg
I have no need for navigation, DVD, phone integration, etc... Just a good sounding source from an iPod or USB stick.
For amplification, the headunit needs to be supplemented, but I don't want a big heavy multi-channel amp. I think an Alpine power pack is ideal; small and light, and an honest 90 Watts per channel when bridged into 2-channel operation:
90895.jpg
For speakers, I will be using components. Looking at the 818's door/kick panels, finding a good location for the woofer could be a challenge. Ideally, I would use 6 1/2" or 5 1/4", but may have to go with 4" woofers. I don't think this will be finalized until a get my kit and start messing around with location possibilities.
The really tricky part will be where to put (or even use) a subwoofer. I would not consider a typical large/heavy MDF sub box in an 818, but I do want something to round out the bottom end. Right now the two options I'm considering are a slim underseat unit like a Soundstream USB.8A:
90903.jpg
or a tube like a Bazooka if an adequate location can be found.
So, what are your thoughts and plans?