Simple sound upgrade for under $300

[TN888]

With the help of members here and doing research thru winter I upgraded my sound volume. I wasn't looking to get a rock concert noise, just gimme more volume than the boat came with. I know it's nothing fancy compared to some stereo threads here, but for under $300 it sure makes a huge difference.

Even though it's basic parts/install wth I'm gonna post pics. Maybe the moderator can resize them if there too big from photobucket.

4 Polks
Clarion 1410 amp
inline fuse
RCA cables
8 gauge wire
PVC board & carpet stolen from my dealers scrap container.
$300 total

 

[ShesCrafty]

Well done!

 

[ShesCrafty]

Keeping with the theme - here's my ~$300 audio upgrade... also not trying to host a rock concert.

In the '15 212x, I already had the 6 Polks running through the CMD6 head unit amp. And to me, they sound very nice. But, I wanted a low profile sub to handle the lows (no need for hard thumping) and let those 6 coaxials do what they're made to do.

So, I did what many might view as 'the unthinkable' - I set up a Kicker Hideaway (not marine grade) in the port side compartment... high and dry, where the captain's chair might be mounted. I used marine lumber to keep it off the carpet and added a vent forward from there, in that useless little cubby under the cushion.

I'll give periodic updates on how the car audio gear holds up on the water.

 

[redthumper9]

Nice work.....from the both of you!

 

[ShesCrafty]

Nice work.....from the both of you!

Thanks! Oh, and it sounds amazing... From 'conversation' level all the way up!

 

[jcyamaharider]

What??? there is a conversation level when your stereo is on? j/k

Nice job!!

 

[spaz1868]

I am more in this target market. I don't want to spend too much...my wife does not like it too loud so I am just aiming to improve the stock sound. I have decent tower speakers so I replaced the stock speakers with polks. I also have an amplified bass tube to put in at the same location as @SleepyJean to provide some lows. Smoking deal of $100 for the 4 polks and $100 for the bass tube. So for $200, I should have some decent tunes on the lake. If I am rafting up with my friend who has the ALL JL system, I will let him provide the tunes.

 

[redthumper9]

I'm envious.....I wish a $300 system would satisfy me. $300 wouldn't get close to buying my cables!

 

[RightStuff]

Nice work and thanks for sharing pics.

BTW, you are never allowed to talk to my wife. I just can't let it happen...

 

[Ronnie]

I am more in this target market. I don't want to spend too much...my wife does not like it too loud so I am just aiming to improve the stock sound. I have decent tower speakers so I replaced the stock speakers with polks. I also have an amplified bass tube to put in at the same location as @SleepyJean to provide some lows. Smoking deal of $100 for the 4 polks...[/ATTACH]

Where can I get 4 polks for $100?

 

[spaz1868]

Where can I get 4 polks for $100?

Found these on Craigslist locally. They are in brand new condition when I got them. They sound great in our boat, much improved from the stock speakers.

 

[TN888]

I got my Polks from Sonic Electronics. Somewhere around $65 pair

 

[scot71]

Keeping with the budget build idea. I put in these Kenwood KFC-1653MRW speakers, and I think they sound really good. Nice bass for a 6.5" and really good highs. For only $120 for 4 of them. I'm very happy with my purchase.