ROLLNNN

Can anyone recommend a good, affordable custom audio shop. I'm looking to do a build in a clk. Full audio setup: Install head unit with steering wheel control, speakers, subs, amps in a custom SQ enclosure. Interested in show quality and look. Any suggestions in the LA/OC, but closer to 562 area would be appreciated....

Chief Wiggum

BP Autosound
714-690-0118

Newport Autosound
949-548-1160

All Star Tire
562-531-0041

ROLLNNN

Thanks Chief!

Im actually going to BP this week to check them out. All Star did the build in my w203, but they are a little overpriced. I'll look into Newport.

Thanks for the recommendations!

Chief Wiggum

You might also want to speak to John Tanaka of JT Audio and Accessories.
www.jtaudioacc.com
714-817-8282
Don't be freaked out that he works out of his house. He built several SEMA and CES vehicles over the years, plus several other show vehicles.

ROLLNNN

He's actually the first person I contacted for the build. But he said he's too booked up to be able to do mine in time for SEMA....

Chief Wiggum

Since you're not going to be retaining the factory amplifier, don't buy the Axxess Interface XSVI-9005-NAV or AX-ADSVI-MB2, just get either an Axxess Interface ASWC-1 or Pac Audio SWI-CP5 steering wheel interface and Metra 40-EU10 antenna adapter. Those interfaces provide accessory power, but accessory power can be obtained elsewhere, such as from the cigarette lighter.

ROLLNNN

Great info man. Luckily i did an audio setup in my w203, so i still have the axxess aswc-1 which worked great in my car. Ill be using this in the w209 also.

I can still use the factory speaker wires right? I just have to reroute them to the new amp?

Chief Wiggum

Here's the wiring diagram for your vehicle.

Yes, you can use the speaker wires from the factory amplifier, as long as you're not going to be in excess of 50 watts RMS from your new amplifier. What amplifier(s) and speakers are you intending on getting?

Regarding your ASWC-1, prior to installing that into your new car, check www.axxessinterface.com for any software updates. Although the vehicles are same year and manufacturer, it's always best to ensure you have the latest software version.

ROLLNNN

I will definitely check for updates before i install the axxess thing.

As of now, I will be running a full Focal Flax setup. 2 12" subs, 6.5 components and 6.5 coax. PD900.1 & PD600.4 amps. Running off an older Kenwood dnx8120 excelon.

Chief Wiggum

Nice equipment. One thing I'd recommend for you to consider, would be using XTC speaker baffles in the front doors. This will not only protect the mid-bass drivers from water, but will also provide an enclosure for better mid-bass response. You can pick up a pair from Parts Express, Crutchfield, or Amazon for under $10. Make sure they're the large frame to fit your Focal speakers.

Mike from Tune-Time Stereo and Alarm in Redlands is premiere retailer for Focal. If you haven't decided on an installation facility yet, you might want to pay him a visit. It's a bit far, but his knowledge and experience in the car audio industry so make your visit worth it. He has to use a voice box due to his battle with throat cancer, so be a little patient when talking with him.

ROLLNNN

those xtc baffles look great. Ill have to grab a set.

Thanks for the recommendation. I have 2 more local shops that I will be meeting with. If i am still unsure, then i will make my way out Tune Time. But Redlands is pretty far for me.

Thanks again for all the info!

Chief Wiggum

Also in your area would be:
Speaker Works
1030 N. Main Street #A
Orange, CA 92867

MV Designz
562-690-0500
Mike Vu is responsible for several of the Alpine demo vehicles and the Al & Ed's Chevy SSR demo vehicle. He does some amazing fiberglass and paint work. His shop used to be in Santa Ana, but he moved since the last time I talked to him.

ROLLNNN

Thanks Chief. I've met with 8 installers so far, but have a few more to speak to next weekend.

Quick question, i think i might just run my stock radio, would you recommend using cache coe8 or some other product?

Chief Wiggum

Cache COE8 is a knock off of the Kicker SUM8. The SUM8 works really well and provides a clean full range signal output. If it were me, I'd much rather use the Kenwood head unit you already have. It has 5 volt RCA outputs, 13-band EQ, 24-bit Digital/Analog converter, etc. It would cost you more with an additional processor to achieve the sound quality of the Kenwood you already have. Metra already offers a dash kit and since you're bypassing the factory amplifier, you're not going to need an Axxess Interface XSVI-9005-NAV or AX-ADSVI-MB2. The hardest part of your installation is building around your air tank and compressors.

ROLLNNN

I'd like to use my Kenwood, but it's been sitting in a box in my garage for over a year. i guess i can, maybe i should get it checked out first. I just don't want to install it and find out there is something wrong with it...

Chief Wiggum

I'm pretty confident your Kenwood is still in good working condition, but it would be good idea for the shop you decide on to bench test it first. Also, once you decide on a shop, you should see if the shop can get you sponsorship for power cables, interconnect cables, and installation hardware. Scosche Industries tends to be the most willing to work with shops and individuals.