Sound advice on Speakers

[steviebsf]

Hello spider people,
I simply would not be driving my (fourth) spider without this forum. thanks to mods & members - you rock. fitting for this post i think.
I have messed around with sound in spiders for years and finally think I have some solid advice on a great sounding economical approach:

- The single must have in my opinion is component speakers. Where you place them exactly is debatable, but since you can direct the tweeter, and higher frequencies at the listeners. it makes all the difference in the world. Especially at 65+ on the freeway with the top down - still clear as a bell. I've installed a few different configurations and have had good results using good tweeters, as separates, or part of a set. Component speakers are priced from $40 or so and up. I'd stay away from the very bottom but I found a great pair of 6.5" alpines with build in cross-overs on sale for $50.

Placement: I cut the sheet metal above the map pocket for the 6.5" mid/bass*** and cut a hole in the top front of the map pocket for the directional tweeter. because of the high frequency it does not have to be enclosed to sound good and leaves the map pocket fully functional. To my surprise, these even sounded good without an amp, just the 55w from the deck, although i'll be buying an amp after the engine transplant is complete.

Room to improve: Get a deck with good output options (direct to amp, sub, etc) and add as you see fit. After the deck & speakers are in, everything else is icing on an already tasty cake.
- I've run a small tube sub in the trunk with good results.
- I'm currently experimenting with some 5" subs, from another project, mounted with some risers for clearance on the narrow sloped face directly behind the seat. Sound is improved but the jury's still out on placement.

Experiment with what you have. good sound does not have to cost an arm & leg.

This is just one mans opinion in a forum of many. I can only hope this (humble) post helps someone improve their fiat experience as so many posts have improved mine.

Drive safe (but fast)!

*** if you are worried about the back of your speakers you can get foam baffles from Crutchfield.
http://www.crutchfield.com/S-Gar3tVWCuv ... depth.html
steviebsf

Posts: 3
Joined: Mon Aug 08, 2011 5:21 am

[mgbgtn]

I have a 92 Miata as a daily driver with a pair of 2x3" speakers in the head rests that work well with the top down. That way you get stereo in each seat.