BlwnBlckSL

I'm sure a couple of you guys noticed the stock Bose system is not up to par, any suggestions on a replacement for the speckers and amps? I've been told to put a JL Audio Clean Sweap w/ Subs Amps and Component Speakers with stock head unit(nav screen) Has anyone had this set up installed and how goood is it? I had my SL550 for 23 months with below average set up on a $103,000. vehicle.

Lincoln

You do realize that if you use the Cleansweep that you need to use the volume control from the Cleansweep instead of the volume control on the head unit/steering wheel. Accidentely changing the volume on the HU means that you will have to "re-tune" (usually done by the installer not the end user) the Cleansweep to get the sound quality back to where it should be. The Cleansweep/Fosgate 360/Alpine Imprint all work OK and do the bascially the same thing but all "require" the use of an "aftermarket" volume control. If you really want clean sound and ease of use you need to replace the head unit.

The reason for the volume control on the OEM integration piece is that the factory HUs change their equalization depending on where the volume control is set and these devices only correct for one setting from the factory HU output...if you move the factory control you may or may not move to different EQ curve from the HU.

IanSL55

I switched to Reus audio when I first got the car and it's been all gravy since (even w/ the top down). They do require you to sacrifice a little trunk space, but it's a system that is specifically designed for the SL and proves it every time I power it up.

Look them up, they do installs across the nation.

~ Ian

IFLYMYE55

any pics of the system?

Infamous Jiggs

I have a full system I am taking out of my SL55. It replaces the storage bins behind the driver and passenger seats. Still looks factory as I remade the bins to house 2 8inch jl subs. used for the signal is a Audiocontrol lc8. I am looking to sell the whole system for 2000 All you would need to do is have someone install it. It is all tuned already.

Lincoln

I haven't heard a Reus system in an SL but I do know that Reus offers multiple levels of upgrades and you really need his top level upgrade if you truly want something special. I think he quoted us $15K for the top level on a new Range Rover. That's a ton of money to spend to keep the factory HU when for less then $5K you can build a new system around an aftermarket HU that still sounds considerably more accurate then a Reus using an OE HU. My most recent direct experience with the JL Cleansweep and Alpine Imprint OEM integration pieces was an effort to upgrade a lower level Reus system in a new 997TT. In the end we took out the Reus amp, disconnected the Reus tweeters and only their subwoofer remains. The car now has an Alpine 505 HU (the new double din touchscreen with Imprint module), a JL 600watt 4 ch amp, DynAudio System 340 speakers and a Reus subwoofer...now it sounds accurate!!!

Edit: I don't want to sound like I'm bagging too much on Reus, what they did on the 997 was a definite improvement and not extremely expensive but it wasn't enough for that particular person. He could have spent more with Reus and upgraded to more complete system or go the easy route and change the HU. Some cars "need" the factory HU to function properly and Reus is a good option for those willing to pay the price.

IFLYMYE55

what is in the system that cost 2k the unit you quoted is 150 and the subs are maybe 200

Infamous Jiggs

Alpine pdx 1.1000 amp alpine pdx 4.450 all of the custom panels that were made for it to look stock then wrap it in leather.

If someone wants just the box with the two subs and the panels I will sell it for 750.00

clayman55

That would be great.

Infamous Jiggs

IanSL55

I'm no audio expert, but the best thing Reus did to my SL was lift the center of sound out of the foot wells. Now, even with the top down I get good audio. I also don't recall how much I paid but it wasn't anywhere close to $15,000 (maybe $4,000 if that?).

Regardless of the approach, the stock SL audio is so **** poor I would have to think that ANYTHING would be an improvement.

~ Ian