New car hi-fi build! [Archive] - The Art of Sound Forum

Marco

02-09-2018, 10:48

I'm having a new sound system installed in the Brabster, some of which has been recycled from my old car. The biggest difference will be the dedicated mono amp, to drive the sub, which should help produce some PROPA BANGIN' CHOONZ!:D

Front End:

Kenwood DNN6250DAB head unit:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/sD9DdR.png

Full spec here: https://www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk/car/nav_mm/nav/DNN6250DAB/

Amps:

JBL GTO-804EZ (80W) - 4 Channel Amplifier:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/TGv5m2.jpg

Full spec here: http://www.caraudiodirect.co.uk/jbl-gto-804ez-4-channel-amplifier

JBL Club 5501 (550W) high-performance mono amplifier (for sub):

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/UnHqXX.jpg

Full spec here: https://uk.jbl.com/car-amplifiers/CLUB5501-.html?cgid=car-amplifiers&dwvar_CLUB5501-_color=Black-GLOBAL-Current#start=1

Speakers:

JBL GTO 609C front-door speakers with matching crossovers and tweeters:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/xq90/909/Omv5wP.jpg

Full details here: https://uk.jbl.com/car-audio-systems/GTO609C_.html?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgK2Nz9SQ3QIVZr7tCh 2f2AE5EAAYASAAEgKnLfD_BwE

JBL GTO 529 rear-door speakers:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/byHCNI.jpg

JBL 1214BR subwoofer:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/pd2MHs.jpg

Full spec and review here: https://www.adamrayner.net/jbl-gto1214br/

Cables:

Klotz MC5000/Neutrik Pro-Fi interconnects, 3 x 5m pairs:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/MKDa25.jpg

Full details here: https://www.studiocare.com/klotz-neutrik-5m-dual-phono-cable-made-with-klotz-mc5000-cable-and-neutirk-pro-fi-connectors.html

Klotz SCH-4040 speaker cable (20 metres in total):

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/nEdbli.jpg

A small amount of Dynamat, sound deadening material, will be applied to the door panels and subwoofer housing. Just enough to dampen the cabin and boot, without adding much weight.

The 'boot build', housing the amps, and sub [after being externalised from its existing ported box], will look similar to what's shown below (now turned into a sealed enclosure), and recessed into the boot area, in order to ensure that space for suitcases, etc, isn't compromised. My own install will have (switchable on/off) 'Ice Blue' LEDs instead, to match the 'Brabus' illuminated door sills on the car, like this:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/924/2rOuOJ.jpg

All else will be black, not green, as is shown in the pic:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/922/8eYA2f.png

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/924/48Iqse.png

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/640x480q90/922/SKyajQ.png

Should be fun! Pics of the full install, from 'work in progress' stage until final build, will be sent to me from my installer and posted in due course:cool:

Marco.

struth

02-09-2018, 10:54

Sure you will still get in to drive it after all thats in it?:lol:

Marco

02-09-2018, 11:11

Ha - I think I'll just about manage!:D Should be cool, and I'm hoping it will sound fab:cool:

The sub box, housing the sub, will be similar to this, in order to maximise the air-volume inside the wheel well, which will result in the best sound quality:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/ZOQkSd.jpg

Marco.

rmcin626

02-09-2018, 11:48

Impressive

Marco

02-09-2018, 12:29

I'm hoping so, mate! :eyebrows:

The installer is also 'voicing' the system with the following mixed selection of music, (I sent him the YT links, which for testing, he'll then replay on Spotify, with the Kenwood head-unit paired to his smartphone), just to get the system sounding as best as possible with different types of music, as I have rather varied tastes:

Electronic/Pop:

YELLO - Ocean Club :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l43FRmtOt0k

YELLO - Friday Smile: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQL0IkqdPLc

ALABAMA 3 - Cocaine Killed My Community: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WyHBL1dfqI8

Dance/Club Mixes:

TIESTO - Bright Morningstar:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzUUAtxZfi0

PETE TONG SET - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bFK8YN5iWL4

PAUL OAKENFOLD SET: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sv8UzPkUvfw

Blues/Folk:

JOHN MARTYN - The Sky is Crying:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8TkqF-mTF8&list=OLAK5uy_mBIXXiX6Vi_BTBUtFlct7P2ewG6SlKGVA

JOHN MARTYN - Glory Box :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWZo860Ixxk&list=OLAK5uy_mBIXXiX6Vi_BTBUtFlct7P2ewG6SlKGVA&index=8

STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN - Tin Pan Alley :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oydj5H9C-no

ROBIN TROWER - Bridge of Sighs: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sBQXeb5iJCg&list=OLAK5uy_lf4ySBmx6L3Od65asyi4gLa-Ni_1Z7WQY

Rock:

LED ZEPPELIN - Moby Dick: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AwIPiw4_Ba8&t=0s&list=OLAK5uy_ntyqJcpoyvD3FL5oolvHW6wwA5js-xWW4&index=9

LED ZEPPELIN - Bring it on Home: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pAO0ib8a0dU&list=OLAK5uy_ntyqJcpoyvD3FL5oolvHW6wwA5js-xWW4&index=9

AC/DC - Hells Bells :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShqkBC9zmWM

AC/DC - For Those About To Rock :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fKhTk0IynHM

Male/Female Vocals:

JOHN SMITH - Winter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IeRDdzJgeD0

EVA CASSIDY - Autumn Leaves: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXBNlApwh0c

JOHNNY CASH - If You Could Read My Mind: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RilnRVHhziY

Classical:

CARL ORFF - Carmina Burana :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GXFSK0ogeg4&index=12&list=PLz9q8tuDHcRfQ--1tUrZj4xC1pShtz9cD

MAHLER - Symphony No2 'Resurrection': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JlORKi6A_SE&list=PLz9q8tuDHcRfQ--1tUrZj4xC1pShtz9cD&index=14

TCHAIKOVSKY - 1812 Overture: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbxgYlcNxE8&index=36&list=PLz9q8tuDHcRfQ--1tUrZj4xC1pShtz9cD

PROKOFIEV - Dance of the Knights :https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DUmq1cpcglQ&index=47&list=PLz9q8tuDHcRfQ--1tUrZj4xC1pShtz9cD

There's some pretty meaty bass-lines among that stuff, and in particular I've asked him to use the cannons, during the 1812 Overture, to test the sub! I want to *feel* as if I'm sat inside a WAR ZONE!!:D

:gig:

Marco.

willbewill

02-09-2018, 12:49

Ha - I think I'll just about manage!:D Should be cool, and I'm hoping it will sound fab:cool:

The sub box, housing the sub, will be like this, in order to maximise the air volume inside the wheel well, which will result in the best sound quality:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/ZOQkSd.jpg

Marco.

Not sure how far you'll get on that after a puncture...:lol:

Marco

02-09-2018, 12:59

Lol... There'll be a separate area created, where if necessary, I can access the 'space saver' spare wheel:)

Marco.

User211

02-09-2018, 13:31

Any idea what the bars are for in front of the sub cone? Protection? Or just to look mean?

Pigmy Pony

02-09-2018, 14:23

I see you haven't included any of your Take That albums in those lists. Do you only play that stuff when enjoying some 'alone time', just you and your box of tissues?

Marco

02-09-2018, 15:50

Tee-hee... Well, shweety, it's not unknown for me to appear in the wee small hours, lock myself in the car, and have a wee 'chug' to Michael Bublé:eyebrows:

Marco.

fatmarley

02-09-2018, 18:19

Miss my old car hifi. There's something about driving at night with a bit of drum & bass or heavy metal pounding out. Not sure about Michael bubbly though.

Pigmy Pony

02-09-2018, 19:14

Yeah, I can see why Marco would be 'into' the old Mickey Bubbles - if you squint he looks a bit like Gary Barlow. And I imagine Marco will be doing a lot of squinting while knocking one out. :D

Marco

02-09-2018, 19:17

Any idea what the bars are for in front of the sub cone? Protection? Or just to look mean?

Probably the latter, or to act as some form of mad carrying handle. I may ask Sean (the installer) to leave them on (if he can affix them to something), simply to help protect the cone from accidental contact, once it's been mounted horizontally into its enclosure in the wheel well. Just need to make the recess a little deeper:)

Marco.

Marco

02-09-2018, 19:20

Miss my old car hifi. There's something about driving at night with a bit of drum & bass or heavy metal pounding out. Not sure about Michael bubbly though.

Damn right - especially at speed in a fast car! Pure adrenaline rush, muchacho...:hairmetal::hairmetal::eyebrows::eyebro ws:

Mickey Flubbles was of course a piss take.

Marco.

Marco

02-09-2018, 19:23

Yeah, I can see why Marco would be 'into' the old Mickey Bubbles - if you squint he looks a bit like Gary Barlow. And I imagine Marco will be doing a lot of squinting while knocking one out. :D

You taught me well!:lol:

[Although I haven't quite mastered your uncanny knack for catching the 'cream', with the fingernail of your middle finger, before it hits the windscreen]. Respect.

Marco.

struth

02-09-2018, 19:38

I'd Ban them ;)

Marco

02-09-2018, 19:40

Sorry, ban who or what?:hmm:

Marco.

struth

02-09-2018, 19:41

loud car stereos... ban em all !!:lol: and whip any users..

Marco

02-09-2018, 19:59

Well, dahling, I'm always up for a dull slap from a nice stiff slipper:spank::eyebrows:

Next time I visit, I'll let you hear the car system, and you can tell me what you think.

Marco.

struth

02-09-2018, 20:01

Well, dahling, I'm always up for a dull slap from a nice stiff slipper:eyebrows:

Next time I visit, I'll let you hear the car system, and you can tell me what you think.

Marco.

lol.... sure i will hear you coming from next street. :ner:

User211

02-09-2018, 20:26

Well sussed out car systems can sound better than many home setups I think and for a lot less money.

Enjoy it dude.

Marco

02-09-2018, 21:30

Cheers, mate. I will - and you're right:)

Sean, the installer in question, is top-notch. He's 'into' what he does in a big way, the same as my mechanic/technician mate, who tunes the car's engine. And so has the right kit and experience to wring every ounce of SQ out from the car system, especially the sub, which IMO is one of the hardest things to get right, unless you're simply after some bad-ass bass boom (count me out).

In terms of the sub, I want sphincter-tight low-end tunefulness, seamless integration with the rest of the system's sound output, and palpable weight, depth and scale with all the types of music I play! Hey, you know what I'm like;)

Marco.

Marco

02-09-2018, 23:30

Just for reference, and for those who don't know, this is the car that the new stereo will be going inside:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/1024x768q90/921/1dkChi.jpg

The interior in question:

http://imagizer.imageshack.us/v2/640x480q90/922/yox3k4.jpg

The new head unit will be going below the existing pop-up display (shown above, middle), which will be made to 'mirror' the same display as that of the new Kenwood touch-screen one. Quite cool.

The sat-nav system, built into the new head unit is also so much better and more up to date!:)

Marco.

brian2957

03-09-2018, 02:10

Well, dahling, I'm always up for a dull slap from a nice stiff slipper:spank::eyebrows:

Next time I visit, I'll let you hear the car system, and you can tell me what you think.

Marco.

Do you think all the Scottish Mafia can fit in :gig:

Nice car BTW :)

Edward

03-09-2018, 05:38

Does your setup include DSP and in-car correction for time alignment, beaming and other good stuff? Never done it myself but apparently can lift a great car system to extraordinary levels.

struth

03-09-2018, 06:31

It's gonna be like an aircraft in there

Pigmy Pony

03-09-2018, 06:45

It's gonna be like an aircraft in there

And you'll have to be in the garage 2 hours before leaving. With a 20kg baggage allowance.

Primalsea

03-09-2018, 06:46

That’s mental, Marco. Dog’s dangles that will be, when finished, it will!

Pigmy Pony

03-09-2018, 06:52

You taught me well!:lol:

[Although I haven't quite mastered your uncanny knack for catching the 'cream', with the fingernail of your middle finger, before it hits the windscreen]. Respect.

Marco.

Hitting the windscreen? These days it'll barely come out at all unless I promise to put it on a Werthers Original. :(

Don't forget to do something about those number plates, speed cameras don't like cardboard.

Seriously cool motor though, definitely a keeper. After a journey in that, the destination's gonna be a comedown!

jandl100

03-09-2018, 07:22

Gloss black.
Silver trim.

It's a bling machine! :D
Marco has finally seen the light. :thumbsup: :yay:

Pigmy Pony

03-09-2018, 09:19

Next thing he'll be starting to say 'innit' at the end of every sentence.

jandl100

03-09-2018, 09:29

We need to club together and buy Marco a gold medallion and a chest wig.

.... maybe he's got them already?

brian2957

03-09-2018, 09:56

Yup , he wears them when he comes up here . Don't want to elaborate on what else he wears :)

Pigmy Pony

03-09-2018, 10:01

His medallion looks impressive from a distance, but it's just one of those you get at Christmas, with chocolate inside. Cheapskate!

Marco

03-09-2018, 10:26

You guys!:lol:

In any case, it's all about the angle of the dangle, innit:eyebrows:

Jezza, dat's not bling; dat's bad-ass black, baby - almost from top to toe. Trust me, the silver trim wouldn't have been there, if it hadn't existed in the first place - it'd have been..... BLACK!!

Lookin' forward to bangin' out some Prodigy 'Smack My Bitch Up':

https://youtu.be/W2TFvw7zlAs

:guitar::guitar: :fingers::fingers:

:rave:

:D;)

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

03-09-2018, 10:33

Oh that's a shame, it ended before it got to the good stuff! I'll have to dig out my old DVD copy - not seen this in years.

Marco

03-09-2018, 10:36

Hi Edward,

Does your setup include DSP and in-car correction for time alignment, beaming and other good stuff? Never done it myself but apparently can lift a great car system to extraordinary levels.

Yes it has all of that, but the installer will mainly be using his own professional equipment, for optimising the sound, in conjunction of course with the functionality of the Kenwood head unit and JBL amps.

Marco.

Marco

03-09-2018, 10:38

Oh that's a shame, it ended before it got to the good stuff! I'll have to dig out my old DVD copy - not seen this in years.

Fukkin' awesome track mate, played through a good hi-fi or car stereo system, capable of SHIFTING AIR! It's a total RIOT on my 15-inch Tannoys:eyebrows:

I suspect that the car system, when it's finished, will also do it justice;)

Marco.

Marco

03-09-2018, 10:41

That’s mental, Marco. Dog’s dangles that will be, when finished, it will!

Hopefully, Paul! I'm getting rather excited about it. Should be ready for the weekend:)

Marco.

Marco

03-09-2018, 10:50

Seriously cool motor though, definitely a keeper. After a journey in that, the destination's gonna be a comedown!

Cheers, dude. It puts a BIG smile on my face every time I get behind the wheel. Here's a pic of her outside Marco towers.

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/cKyIMo.jpg

I guess it would be rude not to put a killer sound system in there?:D

Marco.

andyrlb

03-09-2018, 11:56

You wish to hear music whilst driving that ? Tut tut [emoji6]

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Marco

03-09-2018, 12:02

Lol - enjoying the roar from those tailpipes is why I've done without a decent stereo for so long, as that was already music enough to my ears!:D

However, there's no harm in having both. It's easy to switch... I think the stereo might end up being louder, though;)

However

Marco

04-09-2018, 23:02

Just had these pics in from my installer:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/j7opbX.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/Pag2Nk.jpg

Looking good. Those will eventually house the JBL door speakers, which will be brought forward and fitted behind the factory grilles. More pics to follow:)

Marco.

alphaGT

05-09-2018, 02:53

Are you doing anything for the power? One of those super caps between the battery and the amps? They really help to keep the lights from dimming on the down beat when you’ve got that 500 watt amp wound up. Some good 4 gauge OFC to the amps also makes a noticeable difference, especially in the back so far from the battery. I’ve seen rigs that actually have a second battery installed, with an isolator, so it can charge from the alternator but will not drain the battery that starts the car. I don’t think your rig is really big enough to need all that? But the super cap is nice to feed that bass amp.

Perhaps your installer already has all this under control, if he’s as passionate about car audio as you say I’m sure he’s on top of it. Kick ass rig! Those JBL’s will slam! I know it’ll be impressive. One of my first jobs was working in a car audio shop, as an installer, it was great work, I enjoyed it.

Russell

Marco

05-09-2018, 09:13

Hi Russell,

Interesting idea... However, I seem to remember reading somewhere (but unfortunately can't find it now) that the mono amp operates in Class D, and therefore is designed not to strain the car's electrical system, even when played loudly.

I could be wrong on that though, but it that's true, then I don't think I'd need the super-caps you mention. The idea certainly appeals though, if you can suggest another way I might gain, sonically, from having them installed?:)

The 4-gauge OFC has already been sorted.

Marco.

Marco

05-09-2018, 11:24

Ok, I've just spoken with my installer, and he had this to say about the power cables:

"I will run a 1/0 to the mono amp and a 4awg to the other. this system will not drain much power at all". Seems good to me!

Check out these bad-boys...

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/fHzOJR.png

Oi loikes a nice bit of girth...:eek::eyebrows:

https://www.bladeice.com/product/sky-high-car-audio-10-awg-ofc-power-cable/

And he had this to say about 'super-caps':

"We never use power caps Marco they have a negative effect on the system as they drain more power then they put back in. if we have a problem with lights dimming a better battery is the way forward like xs power batteries, this is the correct way".

Fair enough. He's the man!:)

Loved this comment, on the above BladeIce website, from Mark v:

By far the best upgrade i have ever made in my long interest in car audio.. My system was held back by this fundamental failure on my part not using pure copper cables.. Get it all. Lugs, speaker cable and give your system a steroid boost to a completely new level…i will be back for more

Oh yes, baby...

Marco.

alphaGT

05-09-2018, 16:51

Sounds like your installer has it all under control! Way back when I put stereos in there were no “better batteries”, to speak of. Only the second battery option. So being able to beef up your battery may be something to do in the future? Next time you need one.

And those cables look the business! And yes a Class D amp should be much easier to drive. My bass rig has a 500 watt class D Orange amp that’s about the size of a lunch box, weighs 11 pounds and is very easy on the power from the wall. And it’ll jerk my 8x10 cabinet around like a toy!

Russell

Marco

05-09-2018, 19:32

Hi Russell,

Yeah, batteries are a whole different ball-game now! There's a pretty 'fancy' one already in the car, one of these AGM jobbies: http://www2.exide.com/gb/en/product-solutions/transportation/product/exide-start-stop-agm.aspx so we'll see how it goes.

The installer certainly has things under control, Here are some pics of 'work in progress'. Nice neat cable runs, and I like how he's incorporated the speakers into the doors, bearing in mind that they'll be going behind the factory grilles...

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/MzCu5G.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/VYdhw9.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/qcq7LN.jpghttps://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/924/Bv1WkP.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/921/Wf9yvh.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/924/riUen1.jpg

:cool:

Marco.

alphaGT

09-09-2018, 11:34

The industry has changed a lot since I was an installer. Back then, stock AM radios were as big as a suitcase. On a Cadillac we joked that they put the radio on the assembly line and built the car around it! I had busted knuckles and cuts and scrapes from the raw metal under the dash boards, and most doors had no spaces for speakers, and all wire was hard wired, no connectors anywhere. All connections had to be cut and soldered.

Your installer definitely knows what he’s doing! That’s a nice clean install, I’m sure will last longer than the car. The truth is we spend more time listening to music in the car than anywhere else. So, if we had to spend a lot on a stereo, perhaps that’s where we should put it? Years ago I had a 45 minute commute each way, and installed a Sony indash with Minidisc player in it, a 4 Channel amp of 50 Watts per, with some nice Boston Acoustics speakers in the stock locations, and it was quite good! Today, I live 4 miles from where we hold band practice, and that’s about the only place I go on a regular basis, so no real need for a killer stereo. But it doesn’t mean I don’t want one!

Russell

Marco

09-09-2018, 15:49

Hi Russell,

Your installer definitely knows what he’s doing! That’s a nice clean install, I’m sure will last longer than the car.

Cheers, mate. Sean's a real car audio enthusiast (and expert), so loves what he's doing, and it shows. Here's a couple more pics, this time showing the Klotz interconnects having been routed in situ for the amps, near the sub enclosure:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/ONNAn0.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/olYvz8.jpg

Run of interconnects and speaker cables going into the boot space, for amps and sub:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/aCKRoq.jpg

He's doing the boot build next, which will be the sexiest bit! Looking forward to that and having the car all ready for next weekend:)

The truth is we spend more time listening to music in the car than anywhere else. So, if we had to spend a lot on a stereo, perhaps that’s where we should put it? Years ago I had a 45 minute commute each way, and installed a Sony indash with Minidisc player in it, a 4 Channel amp of 50 Watts per, with some nice Boston Acoustics speakers in the stock locations, and it was quite good! Today, I live 4 miles from where we hold band practice, and that’s about the only place I go on a regular basis, so no real need for a killer stereo. But it doesn’t mean I don’t want one!

Ha... In terms of the bit in bold, that is very true. I don't do commutes into work any more, as I work from home (when I feel like it, lol), so the 'killer stereo' will be used when I'm going up north (or down south) to visit friends and family, when it can mean I'm in the car for 4-5 hours. Plus also for when my wife and I go for nice drives in the country, and want to listen to some quality tunes!

It'll also be to have a giggle, when taking a few of my (music-loving hi-fi) mates out for a cruise, in which case the stereo is liable to get cranked up, loud and proud, playing some heavy rock or dance music. In that respect, I'm looking forward to 'warming up' the sub!!:fingers::D

Marco.

JohnJo

09-09-2018, 16:03

Hi Marco, nice thread.

I think the care and attention that has went into fitting those door speakers says a lot about the quality of the install, very nice work!

Wonder will the whole lot need running in, especially the speakers?

Marco

09-09-2018, 18:14

Hi Jon,

Thanks, mate. I've always been a believer in doing a job once, and doing it RIGHT (no half measures), therefore it's important to employ an expert who really knows what he's doing, and Sean's certainly that:)

In terms of running in, most of it (save the cables and mono amp) were installed in my last car, so it should be pretty much run in. In future, I can see myself spending quite a bit of time in the car!:D

Marco.

Marco

12-09-2018, 21:47

Some more pics of 'work in progress'...

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/EkKJaE.jpghttps://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/aoP0mH.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/5Gpk5q.jpghttps://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/LFXfId.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/OK2uci.jpg

Front and back door speakers now in situ, and tweeters installed behind the factory grilles. Last pic shows wiring to the front-left speaker. Sean solders directly to the terminals and shrink tubes over the top, for an optimal connection.

Starting to get there... Pics of the boot build and sub-box next! :cool:

Marco.

Marco

13-09-2018, 10:03

But before then just in.... A pic of one of the finished front doors:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/0NPPvq.jpg

Rather nice, eh? Especially when you know how neat the work's been carried out behind it!

Love how he's removed the logos (and silver grille surrounds) from the JBL drive units, and fixed them onto the car's factory grilles. That's class, and makes it look like the speakers have always been there, which is exactly what I wanted. I'm well pleased:cool:

Marco.

Ali Tait

13-09-2018, 11:50

Nice job there. My motor has an eleven speaker JBL system factory fitted, best sound system I’ve had in a car.

Jimbo

13-09-2018, 12:15

My car has 12 JBL speakers :)

Firebottle

13-09-2018, 12:21

Is this top trumps? :lol:

struth

13-09-2018, 12:22

mine has what it came with ;)

Jimbo

13-09-2018, 12:27

Is this top trumps? :lol:

I am thinking of fitting a turntable in the boot as well:lol:

Marco

13-09-2018, 14:50

Nice job there. My motor has an eleven speaker JBL system factory fitted, best sound system I’ve had in a car.

Cheers, Ali. Nice one, and I don't doubt it.

I went for JBL as I like the sound of their home hi-fi speakers, and they get a good rep in the car hi-fi market too, particularly in terms of delivering high SPPV, which as you know, is very important to me when assembling any kind of sound system!:)

Here's a pic of the other front door (one of the panels still to go in):

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/6Lop8c.jpg

As I said, you wouldn't know it hadn't been factory fitted.

Marco.

Marco

13-09-2018, 14:52

I am thinking of fitting a turntable in the boot as well:lol:

Lol - don't give me any more ideas!!:D

Marco.

CageyH

13-09-2018, 16:02

Marco

13-09-2018, 16:28

Nah, it's likely just the angle of the pic. I'll soon see when I collect the car, and if necessary it can be adjusted then. What do you think of the job that's been done so far?:)

Marco.

struth

13-09-2018, 16:35

Looks good... yup it does look fractionally up on left side, but may just be an optical illusion

Marco

13-09-2018, 16:44

If so mate, it's easily fixed:)

It was me who suggested taking the logos off and putting them on the stock grilles. Just thought it would finish things off nicely. The sexiest bit's still to come though, which it the boot build, housing the sub-box and amps:cool:

TBH, I'm missing the car itself more than anything else, as I've been without it now for nearly 2 weeks!

Marco.

struth

13-09-2018, 16:46

Marco

13-09-2018, 16:48

Lol - I have been, but it's, erm, a little 'different' from mine!:eek:

Marco.

struth

13-09-2018, 17:16

I had a little car once. A micra. Was quite good and had plenty enough room to get by with. Didn't have a gearbox. Just an elastic band.

Marco

13-09-2018, 19:29

Lol.... How's yer hip/back, or whatever, since your fall earlier?

Marco.

struth

13-09-2018, 19:35

everything that shouldn't be, is swollen and vis a vis :doh:

CageyH

13-09-2018, 19:37

Marco

13-09-2018, 19:38

Get yourself down to the doctor mate, ASAP, and get properly checked out.

Marco.

struth

13-09-2018, 19:39

Get yourself down to the doctor mate, ASAP, and get properly checked out.

Marco.

I'll live.made tough in my day;) ugly, but tough:eyebrows:

walpurgis

13-09-2018, 19:41

everything that shouldn't be, is swollen and vis a vis :doh:

I'll get Matron to pop round and give you a rub down. :eyebrows:

Ali Tait

13-09-2018, 21:32

mine has what it came with ;)

So does mine lol.

Marco

14-09-2018, 05:50

It's all very well having decent speakers, but as you know, amps are also important, and what comes with your average factory fitted car stereo, in that respect, is almost as piss-poor as the speakers that normally accompany it (JBLs aside)....;)

Btw, I quizzed Sean about the 'squint' logo, and this was his reply:

"Hi Marco it's exactly the same measurement top to bottom and side to side it's just the picture I could not leave it out of line".

So that kills that one dead. Thanks for pointing it out though, Kevin:)

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 06:40

Missed this post...

2 weeks to fit a stereo? :eek:
I assume he is working on other jobs and doing this in his spare time?

It looks tidy, and should sound good when it is finished. Personally, I don’t see the point at this time in my life as I need something to play video etc. for the littl’un.

Yup, he's of course working on other jobs. I haven't just commissioned him to do mine;)

Plus, he's also a perfectionist, and even more importantly, knows how fussy I am, so is taking his time to get everything spot on, not just the neatness of the installation, but with optimising the sound (the key bit).

Videos? No worries - the Kenwood head unit plays them... Not that I (or anyone else) will be watching any, as I dislike such visual distractions whilst I'm driving:)

Marco.

P.S Grant, hope you're not feeling too sore this morning!

Pigmy Pony

14-09-2018, 06:49

My brother's partner has a screen in her Range Rover that is a bit weird - it displays sat nav etc. to the driver while the passenger can watch something else. I'm told the police and courts take a dim view of watching films while driving.

Marco

14-09-2018, 06:52

Indeed... Different for kids watching videos, of course, but I still don't like having that type of distraction going on around me. The roads are mental these days, with all sorts of clueless idiots on them, so you need all of your concentration just to stay safe.

In that respect, when I'm in busy traffic conditions, the stereo will be switched off!

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

14-09-2018, 06:55

2 weeks to fit a stereo? :eek:
I assume he is working on other jobs and doing this in his spare time?

It looks tidy, and should sound good when it is finished. Personally, I don’t see the point at this time in my life as I need something to play video etc. for the littl’un.

Whatever happened to good old fashioned looking out of the window? And there's always travelling games - 'Dead or what' is a good one. :D

I suppose 'are we nearly there yet?' is replaced by 'this is boring, I want Paw Patrol'. :)

CageyH

14-09-2018, 07:18

Pat patrouille if you please...

When the wife is asleep, the littl’un isn’t with me driving on the autoroutes, I want to concentrate on the road, so an iPad strapped on the passenger s at headrest with video on keeps her happy.

I am glad the JBL is not wonky, as that would drive me mad!

Pigmy Pony

14-09-2018, 07:30

CageyH

14-09-2018, 07:32

Pas de soucis. Ça me dérange pas.

paulf-2007

14-09-2018, 07:51

I much prefer the sound of the W12 and watching the fuel gauge falling away.

struth

14-09-2018, 09:06

Missed this post...

Yup, he's of course working on other jobs. I haven't just commissioned him to do mine;)

Plus, he's also a perfectionist, and even more importantly, knows how fussy I am, so is taking his time to get everything spot on, not just the neatness of the installation, but optimising the sound (the key bit).

Videos? No worries - the Kenwood head unit plays them... Not that I (or anyone else) will be watching any, as I dislike such visual distractions whilst I'm driving:)

Marco.

P.S Grant, hope you're not feeling too sore this morning!

Deflated but not defeated. [emoji3]

Marco

14-09-2018, 10:18

Whatever happened to good old fashioned looking out of the window?

I suppose 'are we nearly there yet?' is replaced by 'this is boring, I want Paw Patrol'. :)

Never mind that, what happened to good old-fashioned talking and interacting with your kids, in the car, rather than simply lazily strapping them in front of a video?:ner::eek::D;)

What's "Paw Patrol", when it's at home?

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 10:23

When the wife is asleep...

Sounds like you're riveting company, Kev!:lol: [And yes I'm taking the piss]

I am glad the JBL is not wonky, as that would drive me mad!

Me too. No wonky shit here, bro.....

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 10:29

Pas de soucis. Ça me dérange pas.

Mais si j'avais pété, ça t'aurait peut-être dérangé.

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 10:33

I much prefer the sound of the W12 and watching the fuel gauge falling away.

That's cool up to a point, but getting your exhaust pipes to play some ZZ Top, is another matter;)

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 10:49

Deflated but not defeated. [emoji3]

Good to hear, mate. I'd still be tempted to go for an X-ray, just to be sure.

Marco.

struth

14-09-2018, 11:02

Good to hear, mate. I'd still be tempted to go for an X-ray, just to be sure.

Marco.

only thing broken is my pride. not telling daughter...she fusses too much

Marco

14-09-2018, 11:07

Lol... Seriously though, you'd know about a break, but you don't know what you might have *fractured*, and which could break (such as your hip), next time you fall. And let's face it, as much as I hope I'm wrong, there's liable to be a next time (as you seem prone to them)....

And if your hip goes mate, it usually 'ta-ta bella', not long afterwards. I've seen it happen often.

Marco [a thorough bastard, who takes ZERO chances, when it comes to his health].

CageyH

14-09-2018, 12:14

Mais si j'avais pété, ça t'aurait peut-être dérangé.

Marco.

Pas de tout, si tu reste chez toi...

CageyH

14-09-2018, 12:17

Never mind that, what happened to good old-fashioned talking and interacting with your kids, in the car, rather than simply lazily strapping them in front of a video?:ner::eek::D;)

What's "Paw Patrol", when it's at home?

Marco.

That only works some of the time. When you have a 9 hour trip to do, it gets tiresome....

https://youtu.be/-30WNvMAcBM

Marco

14-09-2018, 12:22

Pas de tout, si tu reste chez toi...

Bien sûr mon ami, mais il est possible d'en disposer dans ta toilette, avant de partir.

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 12:25

https://youtu.be/-30WNvMAcBM

Awesome! Now bookmarked:thumbsup::D

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

14-09-2018, 15:26

Bien sûr mon ami, mais il est possible d'en disposer dans ta toilette, avant de partir.

Marco.

Mange Tout Rodney... and how come you can have the accents, that doesn't seem fair. Mind you, it wouldn't help with my feeble grasp of the French language. Last time I was in France, and we wanted to go out for a nice meal I was directed to a place called "Decheterie", and it was a right dump.

walpurgis

14-09-2018, 15:29

What's needed is somebody French. It would add a touch of authenticity and justifcation. ;)

Pigmy Pony

14-09-2018, 15:48

Well CageyH lives in France, so that's ok. Marco's just showing off. :D I wonder if his French has an English, Glaswegian, Welsh or Italian Accent? Or does he, like me, just point & grunt?

Pigmy Pony

14-09-2018, 15:53

Bien sûr mon ami, mais il est possible d'en disposer dans ta toilette, avant de partir.

Marco.

Translation:

Bang on mate, but it's possible to have a dump in the toilet, before the party.

Am I close?

Marco

14-09-2018, 17:03

Well CageyH lives in France, so that's ok. Marco's just showing off. :D I wonder if his French has an English, Glaswegian, Welsh or Italian Accent? Or does he, like me, just point & grunt?

Lol. I'm pretty fluent in French (and fully fluent in Italian), so can write and speak it (I have formal qualifications in both languages), and yes my French accent is not too bad, honed with having travelled abroad to France on holiday by car, since I was about 5 years old, which coincidentally is where I learned a lot of my conversational French!

So, no 'Allo, Allo' accents here;)

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 17:07

Translation:

Bang on mate, but it's possible to have a dump in the toilet, before the party.

Am I close?

Close-ish...

'Of course, my friend. I can get rid of it [the fart, which leads on from the previous post] in your toilet before leaving'.

Marco.

Marco

14-09-2018, 19:40

Back on topic.... The boot build begins with the addition of some Dynamat sound-deadening material, for the sub-box:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/vVqFXC.jpg

:cool:

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

14-09-2018, 20:01

Yes I read a long time ago that sound insulation is important, as road and engine noise can have a cancelling effect on bass frequencies.

Marco

14-09-2018, 20:39

Yup, plus it was plastic in that area, and we don't want boomy bass!:nono:

Marco.

User211

14-09-2018, 22:41

One of my fave speakers at Munich this year was the JBL 4367.

Bad boys that can hammer out bass at high SPL with ease. Ace with reggae and electronica. Rock, too.

Looks like you are on your way to an in-car equivalent.:)

Marco

15-09-2018, 12:13

Interesting, Justers, on the JBLs at Munich... I'm certainly after something that can 'hammer out bass at high SPL with ease', particularly with electronica and dance music - *but*, when the music demands, the system must also be capable of delivering finesse and subtlety, and treat the human voice, especially, in a convincing, natural and believable way:)

Although it might look rather bad-ass, the system will be designed to do justice to a wide range of music, as one minute I could be listening to Rachmaninov, and the next, Rammstein!!:D:eyebrows:

Marco.

User211

15-09-2018, 15:35

That JBL is on my great speaker list. Screw the DD67000, which madly pales in comparison. A close hi-fi buddy also thinks the DD67000 sucks. Sounds shite for the price.

However, the 4367 is great. I also thought Bohne made some of the best speakers at the show. They use modded JBL drivers and a short Apogee like ribbon. An 18 inch JBL driver, plus two subs also with 18 inch drivers. A bloody great 18 inch driver.

The 4367 is a great speaker all round. It just happens to be able to do what a lot can't do so well and that's really high SPL and great bass with lots of weight.

At £10K it's great value. For a new speaker, that is. It lacks vertical scale which pisses me off, bit I still rate it highly.

The Bohne BB-18 is 30K Euros. It is better I would say but that is a lot of extra wonga. 40K odd K Euros with the extra subs.

Justers. Telling it like it is:D:)

cooky

17-09-2018, 10:46

Brilliant project Marco. Just watch out for JBL influenced PRAT-pace rhythm and tickets.:)

hornucopia

17-09-2018, 12:45

No contest! (See pic).
On Thursday, we drove South from carlisle to bristol.
The "Going' North lane on M5 was solid !!! from Blackpool to Cheltenham - 150 miles?- so you NEED good tunes to pass the HOURS stuck still.
Made us give up longer CAR journeys immediately!

Marco

18-09-2018, 10:59

Brilliant project Marco. Just watch out for JBL influenced PRAT-pace rhythm and tickets...

Cheers, Frank. Should be wicked... You've seen my car, so can probably imagine what it'll be like when the job's finished:eyebrows: - hopefully for this weekend!

Should be able to bung up more pics later of the boot-build's progress:)

Marco.

Marco

18-09-2018, 11:04

Hi Chris,

No contest! (See pic).
On Thursday, we drove South from carlisle to bristol.
The "Going' North lane on M5 was solid !!! from Blackpool to Cheltenham - 150 miles?- so you NEED good tunes to pass the HOURS stuck still.
Made us give up longer CAR journeys immediately!

Lol - that's madness!:D Quite like 2CVs, actually.

Yeah, thank fook I don't venture down south too much... The traffic there is crazy, compared with the relative tranquility of North Wales! But yes, on long journeys you can't beat having some quality choons.

Plus, if your car's also FUN to drive (like mine), it's a win-win!:cool:

Marco.

struth

18-09-2018, 11:08

can only drive about 10 mins/ 15 at tops now. cant get in passenger seat at all

Marco

18-09-2018, 11:08

How about having your car modified, to cater for your disability? Lots can be done in that area now.

Marco.

struth

18-09-2018, 11:18

How about having your car modified, to cater for your disability? Lots can be done in that area now.

Marco.

the car is on last legs anyways. wont pass another mot. so it will be immaterial shortly. But if i had plenty cash i guess it would be possible. gonna need an auto soon anyway as clutch work is getting difficult after 5 mins. Be as well shooting myself

Marco

18-09-2018, 11:22

Oi - less of that! We all get old, and so don't know what the future holds. However, I plan on being the most bad-ass pensioner on the planet!:D

Autos now are great. You'll love it. Get yourself a nice wee adapted Smart car.

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

18-09-2018, 11:30

the car is on last legs anyways. wont pass another mot. so it will be immaterial shortly. But if i had plenty cash i guess it would be possible. gonna need an auto soon anyway as clutch work is getting difficult after 5 mins. Be as well shooting myself

Apologies if I'm butting in here Grant, but do you not have Motability scheme north of the border? Like Marco says, you can have all sorts done to them these days.

Anita will also need to get an automatic next time as the Morton's Neuroma and fibromyalgia make clutch work difficult.

walpurgis

18-09-2018, 11:32

I plan on being the most bad-ass pensioner on the planet!:D

Marco.

I'm ahead of you on the one mate. :)

Marco

18-09-2018, 11:34

Ha - I'll take your lead!:eyebrows:

If I ever end up with a mobility scooter, it'll be suitably pimped!!

:hotrod:

Marco.

struth

18-09-2018, 11:37

Apologies if I'm butting in here Grant, but do you not have Motability scheme north of the border? Like Marco says, you can have all sorts done to them these days.

Anita will also need to get an automatic next time as the Morton's Neuroma and fibromyalgia make clutch work difficult.

i dont get it, as of yet. they dont like giving you it unless your already dead, so they can take it back :lol: i have applied but not got my hopes up. i should get it, but pretty sure i wont.

Pigmy Pony

18-09-2018, 12:38

Their criteria makes no sense to me. Anita has it, and she could choose whether to have an amount paid to her each month or be provided with a vehicle (I think road tax and servicing is included). Knowing how unreliable schemes can be, in that they could take it away at any time, leaving you with nothing), we chose the former.

My friend's wife, who is more disabled than Anita, struggles to get upstairs, and can only walk for about 20 metres, chose the latter. Two months ago it was taken off them, leaving them with nothing and having to stump up the cash to buy something else. They're appealing, and will almost certainly win the appeal (about 9 out of 10 appeals are successful I'm told), but what a faff! I think the government dept concerned just bank on some people just giving up, that way some money is saved.

Like with a lot of benefits related things, it's the squeaky wheel that gets the oil - you just have to be a pest to have any chance.

hornucopia

18-09-2018, 14:30

Golf Cart for Mr Marco!
One of those tricked out Indonesian things would be fun-I'm sure the Chinese will be making an electric version soon enough?
My earlier comments about traffic jams has got us decided NEVER to do a CAR journey of more than 25 miles.
(Trains might be crap but.....)
I've just realised this gives me less reason NOT to get one of THESE...pic. (Apart from the fashion-inflated cost)24231

struth

18-09-2018, 14:41

Marco

18-09-2018, 15:14

It'll all change mate, come the next referendum, when you finally gain independence from that shower of shite in Westmonster!;)

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/haErQb.jpg

Marco.

Paul Hynes

20-09-2018, 13:38

A while back I decided to upgrade my vintage CLK sound system. I like a BIG sound and realised there was no way I could fit my dream car sound system in the CLK chassis so I had a Tardisdrive MKII installed to gain some extra internal space and an Infinite Improbability Drive was also installed to increase the travel mode options. This works particularly well as I can now partition the available space around the driver’s seat and even resize it on the hop, all without any perceivable increase in external footprint, and when travelling, I can appear everywhere and nowhere all at the same time or indeed any time.

The main driver’s auditorium area has now been increased in size to accommodate a replica of the Dead’s (Greatful Dead) touring concert PA system using enormous individual line source arrays for each musician and singer. It is also now possible to fit a full concert orchestra and choir in the auditorium for Carmina Burana sessions. Don’t you just love live music? Rock Musicians are now queuing for lifts just to get on the Dead stage and play their best music.

You may ask was this all worth the effort and cost, to which I would have to say yes, but with some caveats.

Firstly the cost estimate of £10T (trillion) was a little scary at first but became manageable when I hopped 20 years into the future with a gold ingot using the Tardisdrive. The politicians were still arguing about Brexit and, due to their inability to make a decision, the resulting rampant inflation allowed me to pay off the bill with the gold ingot, even with added interest on the 20 year interest only nothing to pay for 20 years finance deal.

Secondly, the technology used in the installation is impressive but the drive options cannot replace the exhilaration of flooring the gas pedal and moving forward in real time rather than just appearing at the destination (good old vintage technology, although some would argue that it does use digital engine management). Also irreplaceable is the throaty roar of the Kompressor turbo charging the engine.

Thirdly, when driving with the added high tech drives, music sessions are over before they start and I much prefer the standard Mercedes Engine installation when listening to music. Born to be Wild really works well on the Dead PA system and I can listen to it all the way through before I arrive at my destination.

The most valuable part of the upgrade to me was the ability to re-size the CLK internal space to accommodate the sound system. So overall a good result, but as always, nothing is perfect, and I am now considering my next upgrade should be a larger Mercedes engine. :eek:

struth

20-09-2018, 13:51

can i have some of what your on :eek:

:D

RobbieGong

20-09-2018, 14:03

can i have some of what your on :eek:

:D

:lol:

anthonyTD

20-09-2018, 14:05

:eek::lol::lol::lol:
Made me laugh, A healthy sense of humour' after being in this industry for as long as you have Paul is to be admired! :)
A...
A while back I decided to upgrade my vintage CLK sound system. I like a BIG sound and realised there was no way I could fit my dream car sound system in the CLK chassis so I had a Tardisdrive MKII installed to gain some extra internal space and an Infinite Improbability Drive was also installed to increase the travel mode options. This works particularly well as I can now partition the available space around the driver’s seat and even resize it on the hop, all without any perceivable increase in external footprint, and when travelling, I can appear everywhere and nowhere all at the same time or indeed any time.

The main driver’s auditorium area has now been increased in size to accommodate a replica of the Dead’s (Greatful Dead) touring concert PA system using enormous individual line source arrays for each musician and singer. It is also now possible to fit a full concert orchestra and choir in the auditorium for Carmina Burana sessions. Don’t you just love live music? Rock Musicians are now queuing for lifts just to get on the Dead stage and play their best music.

You may ask was this all worth the effort and cost, to which I would have to say yes, but with some caveats.

Firstly the cost estimate of £10T (trillion) was a little scary at first but became manageable when I hopped 20 years into the future with a gold ingot using the Tardisdrive. The politicians were still arguing about Brexit and, due to their inability to make a decision, the resulting rampant inflation allowed me to pay off the bill with the gold ingot, even with added interest on the 20 year interest only nothing to pay for 20 years finance deal.

Secondly, the technology used in the installation is impressive but the drive options cannot replace the exhilaration of flooring the gas pedal and moving forward in real time rather than just appearing at the destination (good old vintage technology, although some would argue that it does use digital engine management). Also irreplaceable is the throaty roar of the Kompressor turbo charging the engine.

Thirdly, when driving with the added high tech drives, music sessions are over before they start and I much prefer the standard Mercedes Engine installation when listening to music. Born to be Wild really works well on the Dead PA system and I can listen to it all the way through before I arrive at my destination.

The most valuable part of the upgrade to me was the ability to re-size the CLK internal space to accommodate the sound system. So overall a good result, but as always, nothing is perfect, and I am now considering my next upgrade should be a larger Mercedes engine. :eek:

Paul Hynes

20-09-2018, 15:17

Hi Grant,

Yeah sure, just move to the outer rim of the known universe and become a hermit.

Hi Robbie,

How are you keeping lately?

Hi Anthony,

I like making people laugh. I might take up humourous writing for a living if I get fed up with working in electronics.

Last time we talked I asked you about a couple of ECC82/12AU7 type tubes with a really fat sound and a lonnnnnggggg sustain. Unfortunately I have lost the note I took of the tube type you recommended. I would like to purchase a couple for my Dead PA mixing console. Can you PM me with a price and details of how to pay?

Keep on chuckling my friend.

Regards,
Paul

RobbieGong

20-09-2018, 16:10

anthonyTD

20-09-2018, 16:32

I'l pm you Paul. :)
A...

Hi Anthony,

I like making people laugh. I might take up humourous writing for a living if I get fed up with working in electronics.

Last time we talked I asked you about a couple of ECC82/12AU7 type tubes with a really fat sound and a lonnnnnggggg sustain. Unfortunately I have lost the note I took of the tube type you recommended. I would like to purchase a couple for my Dead PA mixing console. Can you PM me with a price and details of how to pay?

Keep on chuckling my friend.

Regards,
Paul

Marco

21-09-2018, 23:44

LOL, Paul - very good! :D

Nice seeing you check in again. Hope you're well. Any nearer yet in making your dream move to North Wales? I've got a crate of rather fine wine here waiting for you:eyebrows:

Are you not into car hi-fi, then? Done well, it can be *very* good indeed, and better than many home hi-fi systems. That's certainly my aim with this one! :cool:

Anyway, some more pics of work in progress, with the boot build, this time in terms of the enclosure for the subwoofer, which will be housed inside the well for the spare wheel:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/hCKGHV.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/dl30D8.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/g1ZJRv.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/jEE7iz.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/9gGRdy.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/L4wWaE.jpg

To quote Sean (the installer): "We are building the enclosure in layers. It's tuned to 32Hz, and we have done it in 2 different size rings, to maximise the air volume within the space available. It has been glued on each layer, and clamped, then screwed together. Then we router to the next ring, so that they fit exactly together".

Looks good. Should have it all finished for the middle of next week:)

Marco.

struth

21-09-2018, 23:51

Great attention to detail is always a good sign.

Marco

21-09-2018, 23:58

Absolutely, Grant, This dude's an artisan and true perfectionist. He promised me something special, and he's delivering it! The project has been a while in coming together, but as they say, the best things in life are worth waiting for:)

Marco.

Paul Hynes

22-09-2018, 12:04

Hi Marco,

I am fine thanks. I hope you and Del are keeping well and enjoying yourselves.

North Wales is on hold for a while, as we need to finish renovating the house here before selling it to ensure we have enough cash to buy a similar house in Wales. I will look forward to sharing a bottle of the good stuff but you may have to leave it down in the wine cellar for a few years yet.

I do appreciate a good sound system anywhere and the car is no exception. Unfortunately I cannot fit my line source arrays in the car and would need a double decker bus with the first floor taken out to fit them. That is not going to happen, as I would miss the CLK performance when driving. Also I just cannot picture myself driving a bus listening to Born to be Wild.

I agree with you and your Merc upgrade is awesome. I will keep tuning into this thread to see how it progresses.

I am working on a 12v system for my guitar using valves although progress is slow as I am still busy at present. If this is successful I may adapt it and install something similar in the CLK, although it might be a little tricky playing guitar whilst driving. :mental:

Keep up the good work.

All the best.
Paul

Marco

22-09-2018, 19:48

Hi Marco,

I am fine thanks. I hope you and Del are keeping well and enjoying yourselves.

Cheers, mate. We're both doing our best to age disgracefully!:D

North Wales is on hold for a while, as we need to finish renovating the house here before selling it to ensure we have enough cash to buy a similar house in Wales. I will look forward to sharing a bottle of the good stuff but you may have to leave it down in the wine cellar for a few years yet.

Ah well, like your good self, fine wines age well! I look forward to sharing a glass or three with you, once you eventually complete the move:cheers:

I do appreciate a good sound system anywhere and the car is no exception. Unfortunately I cannot fit my line source arrays in the car and would need a double decker bus with the first floor taken out to fit them. That is not going to happen, as I would miss the CLK performance when driving. Also I just cannot picture myself driving a bus listening to Born to be Wild.

Lol - now *there* is an image! :hairmetal:

I agree with you and your Merc upgrade is awesome. I will keep tuning into this thread to see how it progresses.

Nice one. It'll all be coming together soon, so plenty more pics to come, including my own when I get the car back!

I am working on a 12v system for my guitar using valves although progress is slow as I am still busy at present. If this is successful I may adapt it and install something similar in the CLK, although it might be a little tricky playing guitar whilst driving. :mental:

Ha - that's what the chauffeur's for, old chap! Intriguing project for your guitar... I'd like to see some pics, when you consider it appropriate, posted in the DIY room, as I suspect a few folks here would be interested:)

Marco.

walpurgis

22-09-2018, 20:22

We're both doing our best to age disgracefully!:D

Marco.

I've actually managed that. :)

Marco

23-09-2018, 06:45

S'only way to be, mate... Less of this pish..... :wheniwasaboy:

...and more of this: :partytime::partytime:

:yay::yay:

Marco.

alphaGT

23-09-2018, 07:48

Paul Hynes

23-09-2018, 12:08

Marco

23-09-2018, 19:21

It’s looking good Marco! And yes, JBL is one of the biggest names in the world today. When it comes to pro sound, nothing tops JBL. From bar bands to coliseums JBL holds the lion’s share of the market. And rightfully so, the bands I’ve been working with for the past 20 years have been through a lot of speakers! Until 8 years ago we went top shelf and got JBL’s and they still perform like new.

Cheers, Russell. I've always been a bit of a JBL fanboy, plus in my view the brand delivers a lot of bang for your buck, which is what my whole 'hi-fi ethos' is founded upon:)

I thought you’d be on the road by now? It must really be the custom install! And from your pics it looks it! I can’t wait for the listening impressions!

Lol - it's definitely a custom install, where there's a lot involved in getting the job done right, so that it not only sounds superb, but looks 'factory'.

The last bit was vitally important, and is what has taken most of the time, as I didn't want to be driving a nice car, with a stereo that looks as if it's been 'stuck on by a schoolboy' - no matter how good it sounded!;)

Marco.

Marco

23-09-2018, 20:27

Marco,

It must be your Italian ancestry that keeps the passion going. I have French ancestry and this is probably where my liking for good food and wine comes from. I will place a visit at the top of my list once we move and will look forward to some good music too.

Nice one, Paul. I've always been passionate about things I love, and good food and wine are right up there at the top of my list, after friends and family (and music):)

I guess the authorities would not take kindly to my playing the guitar while driving. However fully automated cars are on the horizon so this may be a good project for the future.

I'd rather stick pins in my eyes than own a fully-automated car... Cars are for DRIVING and ENJOYING (and having FUN with), not just sitting in!! <Rant over>;)

Looking forward to the pics. An old friend of mine kept asking me to design a valve based in car system back in the 1980s but I was just too busy to take the project forward.

I would be happy to post some pics in the DIY room once I feel the performance of the guitar stuff has something to offer those with an interest.

A valve-based car system would be super cool and no doubt rock! Good stuff. Just post the pics when you're ready:cool:

Marco.

Marco

25-09-2018, 13:52

Sub-box now built:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/vahva1.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/zfBOA2.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/Bl8GzR.jpg

Next up, the templates for the amps:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/ci9EEz.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/y1cwOT.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/2G0sQy.jpg

:cool:

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

25-09-2018, 14:49

Looking good, and so it should - some boy bands form, break up and re-form in less time. And no, I'm not criticising Take That, I know how protective you are of them. :) Soon you'll be able to take your tunes on the road (what's that rock band's name, Rammitin?) So that's something for Wrexham to look forward to.

Seriously, should sound mega. I'll look forward to hearing it in Cranage Hall's grounds next year - won't need the sat nav to find the place :D

Marco

25-09-2018, 17:48

Looking good, and so it should - some boy bands form, break up and re-form in less time. And no, I'm not criticising Take That, I know how protective you are of them. :)

Yeah, Gary Barlow has always got me going, or is it gagging....

Soon you'll be able to take your tunes on the road (what's that rock band's name, Rammitin?)

Ha - otherwise known as Rammstein:D

Seriously, should sound mega. I'll look forward to hearing it in Cranage Hall's grounds next year - won't need the sat nav to find the place...

Now there's an idea!:bulb:

And I could wear one of my 'special outfits' too, and sell tickets.

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

25-09-2018, 18:05

Yes I heard you bought a mankini that matches Alan's pants :D

YNWaN

25-09-2018, 18:29

The installers look to be doing a very fine job but the last time I listened to JBL car drivers I much preferred those by Focal - just a thought....

Marco

25-09-2018, 22:13

Cheers, Mark. It must be good, for you to comment!:)

I hear you about the Focals, and don't doubt you're right, but I already had the JBLs in my previous car, which I liked and were paid for, and I wanted to use them in this car. In fact, most of the kit, aside from the separate power amp for the sub, was in my old Merc estate.

Ok, some more piccies, this time one of the sub-box with its base fitted, and also in situ within the wheel well, along with some of the cables being used:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/tQ8XBr.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/M6bMHo.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/F7pTCS.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/RvwcbF.jpg

The boot will be finished being boarded up tomorrow, and the amp rack should be in:cool:

Marco.

Marco

25-09-2018, 23:16

Yes I heard you bought a mankini that matches Alan's pants :D

NOTHING on this earth mate, matches Alan's pants, so that would be a fruitless exercise. They stand alone in their world of loudness. I believe that your latest pair, however (with built-in butt pads and a 'peek-a-boo' front-access panel), are quite something to behold?:booty:

Marco.

Pigmy Pony

26-09-2018, 07:25

NOTHING on this earth mate, matches Alan's pants, so that would be a fruitless exercise. They stand alone in their world of loudness. I believe that your latest pair, however (with built-in butt pads and a 'peek-a-boo' front-access panel), are quite something to behold?:booty:

Marco.

They were the Mk 1 model - The Mk 2 (which I've just taken delivery of) also have a rear-access panel, so I can be a giver and a receiver at the same time! And they have a Mercedes 3 point star logo on the front and a JBL (Jamjar Bum Love) logo on the rear.

Marco

26-09-2018, 11:19

They were the Mk 1 model - The Mk 2 (which I've just taken delivery of) also have a rear-access panel, so I can be a giver and a receiver at the same time!

Wow, are the MK2s out now? I didn't know that! :yay:

Did you have them on back order (no pun intended) from Cavities R Us?

Marco.

Frazeur1

26-09-2018, 13:31

I have heard that the Mk2 version comes with automatic lube attachment option. Quite the bargain.

Marco

26-09-2018, 17:21

Amps now boarded up and in situ inside boot, plus some shots of fat-ass power cables:eyebrows:.....

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/rc8VYD.jpghttps://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/TesSaX.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/Xai8wL.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/DDfAya.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/aEnNgZ.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/hp2Vjx.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/ickDlP.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/BgafBz.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/7C0fHy.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/ATa93U.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/i7VOcO.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/pepKQO.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/9muswm.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/MNGgnO.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/oboKv5.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/F0vE5Q.jpg

Decided to have the amps mounted on top, on a dedicated rack, rather than in cut-outs on the boot floor.

I think it'll look better that way when it's finished, and also easier, if necessary, to access the amp's controls. In terms of finishing it, a covered panel, in the same black fabric as the boot floor, with cut-outs to fit over the amps, will be placed over the amp rack. The sub-box will be covered in the same fabric, so that everything blends in aesthetically.

'Ice blue' (switchable on/off) LEDs will then be installed in the amp rack, to illuminate them at night, and also around the sub :cool:

Marco.

struth

26-09-2018, 17:56

Looks like factory built

Marco

26-09-2018, 21:24

Cheers, mate. It'll look even more like that when the finishing touches are applied!:cool:

Collecting the car on Saturday. Can't wait!!:carrot::carrot:

Marco.

User211

26-09-2018, 22:30

U is needing to upgwade alweddy init.

https://youtu.be/srY_6wZTzZE

Saturday? Enjoy bro:)

Marco

27-09-2018, 07:37

Hilarious!:lol: I think the dude on the right's just had 'wee moment'...:D

Yo homie, thatz straight-up funky, bit dat shitz not fo' me. Dis mofo, he just wants a groovy thang ta bust up his choonz.

:hairmetal::fingers::hairmetal:

Marco.

Marco

27-09-2018, 20:35

Amp rack panel now cut out to match the amps and car exactly:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/tRNWlT.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/QSqZ1x.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/04B19E.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/j5tVt6.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/3mrTbT.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/RxPfF9.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/3sdNqe.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/dFKKMl.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/5Gu7el.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/pe4XgS.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/wBw2oF.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/gsaptR.jpg

:cool:

Marco.

struth

27-09-2018, 21:45

Must be about a done job

Marco

28-09-2018, 09:19

Not quite mate, as you'll see from the following pics (had to be all finished off and secured neatly into place):

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/ZPpOFk.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/yfKHvw.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/gAHsND.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/okwhgP.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/Q0p8a7.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/Qhj8uC.jpg

Check out that bad-ass sub-box:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/PoE3sZ.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/K1l6pq.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/MvIQ1a.jpghttps://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/PJwhZm.jpg

BOOYAKASHA, baby!!!:D

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/pN8kDL.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/ysCx0B.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/VCrlG0.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/Hlc3qD.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/NqSXsZ.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/xTnCKQ.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/2aeYey.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/XFRfCE.jpg

Nice difference now, eh? Boot space has been well-utilised, I think.

Just got the black finishing panel to be fitted now, over the top of the bare MDF, so that everything blends in nicely, then the blue LEDs... After that, it's fire her up and tune the sound!!

:rave::gig:

Marco.

Marco

28-09-2018, 09:29

This pic shows how neatly Sean has routered the amp-rack panel, to match the contours of the car (and boot space) exactly:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/8wGkHi.jpg

He's a very neat worker:)

Marco.

struth

28-09-2018, 09:36

Marco

28-09-2018, 09:44

its a nice job... top class. just be careful, as all that bass can cause hearing and brain issues. (second thoughts you only need worry about the hearing bit:D
Was reading the other day that the cops "can" give you 3 points and £100 fine if its too loud while driving .... bet they rarely do tho.
is there a cover for the bass driver before the top cover goes over?

Exactly mate, there's hee-haw in there but stale air!:eyebrows:

Yes there is a cover, see here:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/aEnNgZ.jpg

Won't be playing it super-loud mate, as I value my hearing! In any case, the cops would have to catch me first!!:lol:

Marco.

struth

28-09-2018, 09:46

was that just a fake jbl speaker pic on top then? one of the finished pics looked like the speaker top was right at top..

Marco

28-09-2018, 10:00

Ah I see what you mean... No, that's the (real) JBL sub - the one I've always had, simply externalised from its original cabinet, and now fitted into its own dedicated enclosure within the boot space.

The sub is recessed, so there's quite a bit of a lip to prevent anything damaging the cone. I'll just use the cover shown in the previous picture to put on top, when the car's not being used, just to keep any debris out:)

Marco.

struth

28-09-2018, 10:01

Ah I see what you mean... No, that's the (real) JBL sub - the one I've always had, simply externalised from its original cabinet, and now fitted into its own dedicated enclosure within the boot space.

The sub is recessed, so there's quite a bit of a lip to prevent anything damaging the cone. I'll just use the cover shown in the previous picture to cover it up when the car's not being used, just to keep any debris out:)

Marco.

ah, i see.. cool :)

Marco

28-09-2018, 22:54

Kenwood head unit now in situ:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/krQUcA.jpg

Now here's an interesting one... Below is a picture of the original control panel for the factory fitted stereo, and crucially (in terms of what I'm about to highlight), just below that is the switches panel for the heated driver and passenger seats:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/D1do64.png

In my car, there is also a button in the middle, for defeating the warning buzzer for the parking sensors.

So, now that the original control panel for the stereo has been removed, in order to incorporate the (bigger) Kenwood head unit (as shown in the first picture), Sean also had to remove the switches panel for the heated seats, etc, which was underneath.

Therefore what he's done, is made up a template (of the required dimensions) and constructed a whole new housing for it in MDF, then fitted it into the glove compartment instead, so that it wasn't redundant, and covered it in the same black felt:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/WZ350x.jpg

Pretty neat, eh? I rarely use those controls anyway, and if Del ever wants to activate the heated seats, she can do so simply by popping open the glove box:)

Lastly, this is a sample of the black vinyl being used to cover the amp rack and boot space around the subwoofer, which is currently just bare MDF:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/bzLS6C.jpg

Should look good when it's finished!:cool:

Marco.

Marco

28-09-2018, 23:31

For anyone interested, here are the various stages showing how that was made:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/1gUa46.jpghttps://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/wQyjPX.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/c0vIOX.jpghttps://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/TSfAnc.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/q2lyUW.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/UN6Dq0.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/1iXzMG.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/EHHP1u.jpg

He doesn't do things by halves, does he?:D

Marco.

alphaGT

29-09-2018, 15:04

Amazing Marco! He’s quite the craftsman, besides knowing his stuff about car audio. Be careful putting your groceries in the trunk, your milk will churn to butter by the time you get home!

And today is the day, I’m excited for you, and can’t wait for some serious listening impressions.

Russell

Pigmy Pony

29-09-2018, 17:27

I believe cornflour mixed with water and poured onto the subwoofer cone can be quite entertaining, but I have a feeling Marco would be reluctant to try that :)

Marco

30-09-2018, 09:28

Lol... As daft as I am, I might skip that one, Steve!:eyebrows:

Anyway, some of the final touches have taken a little longer than expected, so will now (hopefully) be collecting the car tomorrow. Hey, I've waited this long, so I'm not going to rush the guy right at the end, especially when I'm happy to wait to get things spot on!:)

LEDs have now just been laid out to test (quite hard to photograph):

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/pwtxHh.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/924/0ZCIXY.jpg

Cool, eh? Should look good when they're fitted properly and the amps and sub have been covered in black vinyl:cool:

Marco.

Marco

30-09-2018, 20:53

Ok, Sean's decided to use suede, rather than black vinyl, to cover the boot panels, as he thinks it look classier:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/TEh8wc.jpg https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/o0110e.jpg

I'd agree. Getting closer now... Just the rest of the boot to cover, then get the amps back in, LEDs on and we're good to go!:cool:

Marco.

struth

30-09-2018, 21:04

i can feel your excitement rising:eyebrows:

Marco

30-09-2018, 21:10

Yesh!:D

Once done, should look pretty much factory fitted, don't you think?:)

Marco.

struth

30-09-2018, 21:11

Yesh!:D

Should look pretty much factory fitted, when done, don't you think?:)

Marco.

Better than that I think. Custom built by factory I think. Give me a couple of speakers and im happy tho, but easy to please :)

Edward

30-09-2018, 21:16

struth

30-09-2018, 21:18

Pigmy Pony

30-09-2018, 21:43

CageyH

01-10-2018, 08:40

I really liked this install, right up to the blue LEDs. :ner:
Personally, I would not bother with them, but everybody has different tastes.

Marco

01-10-2018, 08:52

They can be switched off, lol. Just thought it'd be quite a cool thing at night, helping to illuminate the amp controls in dark conditions, should I wish to adjust any of the settings:)

The other thing is that the system might be getting demonstrated at car hi-fi shows, such is how pleased Sean is with the install, so at such events with the boot open, slammin' some choons out, the amps and sub would look good illuminated with LEDs:cool:

Also, remember what the plan was from the beginning (fast-forward to 3.44):

https://youtu.be/Dy90al-vtCY

LEDs were always part of the plan, although I've since decided to mount the amps differently.

Marco.

Marco

01-10-2018, 08:59

Better than that I think. Custom built by factory I think. Give me a couple of speakers and im happy tho, but easy to please :)

Cheers, mate. The main thing was I had most of the stuff already just lying there, from the last car, so I guess it'd have been rude not to make good use of it:cool:

Marco.

Marco

01-10-2018, 09:05

You gonna have to do a tour around the UK showing off this new build to the regulars. :cool:

Also an excellent way of conditioning all that new cable and new parts so it comes on song.

Let me know when you plan on turning up on my doorstep. :champagne:

Lol, like I said, there's a chance I may demonstrate the system at certain events, so that could happen at bake-offs here too, or even at the likes of the hi-fi show at Cranage Hall.

I noticed a car hi-fi installation company demonstrating their wares outside the entrance to the hotel, either this year or last (can't remember which), so it would be a chance to get Sean some more business, and he's well up for that.

You'd have to come up to Cheshire though, although you might hear it from London!:D:eyebrows:

Marco.

Marco

01-10-2018, 14:57

Ok, the boot build's finally finished and I think looking really good (don't think the space could've been utilised any better):

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/923/PidT0r.jpg

Going to collect the car later, so full report once I've had a good listen!:cool:

Marco.

struth

01-10-2018, 15:00

marvelous you got something to cover the driver with when not needed.

Marco

01-10-2018, 15:17

Jimbo

01-10-2018, 15:35

Lol - yesh, my favourite frock!:eyebrows:

Looks like the sound system has always been there, doesn't it? I can see that the car needs a bloody good wash though, so that's the first thing I'll be doing tomorrow!

Marco.

Have you tried the Autoglym Aquawax on your motor yet - amazing stuff and can be used when car is slightly wet. Also great on side windows. Expensive but better than any other wax I have used and so much easier to use than traditional wax.

Marco

01-10-2018, 16:14

Hi Jim,

Not tried that yet mate, but will bear in mind next time the car's waxed. I rate the Autoglym stuff highly, so have no doubt it's good :cool:

Marco.

Marco

02-10-2018, 12:48

Guys,

Just a quick one to say that I've collected the car and the install looks fantastic and sounds SUPERB... The clarity, weight and solidity of the sound is just fantastic! Currently, I'm just running things in and fine-tuning the sound a little, so will pop back with more of an update later:cool:

Marco.

struth

02-10-2018, 13:52

Wrexham police are hunting a black mobile disco:lol:

walpurgis

02-10-2018, 13:58

Wrexham police are hunting a black mobile disco:lol:

Public have been warned not to approach the driver. ;)

RobbieGong

02-10-2018, 14:07

Wrexham police are hunting a black mobile disco:lol:

:lol:

mightymonoped

02-10-2018, 14:18

We're all looking forward to the full in-depth review later, on Crimewatch. :D

RobbieGong

02-10-2018, 14:49

We're all looking forward to the full in-depth review later, on Crimewatch. :D

Yep !! Black pimped out ride with a banging system more suitable for a club hall, typical inner city wrong 'un - you cant miss him.... :lol: :D

Pigmy Pony

02-10-2018, 17:17

Yep !! Black pimped out ride with a banging system more suitable for a club hall, typical inner city wrong 'un - you cant miss him.... :lol: :D

Especially when he's completed the next project - Ride height controlled with the flick of a switch, so it'll bounce up and down. Hope the CD player can cope. And oversize white t-shirt and a hairnet to complete the look. And a bit of Cypress Hill. :)

Frazeur1

03-10-2018, 13:39

I kind of like the bling lights around the subwoofer driver and amplifiers, although I am not sure who is going to see them, unless Marco plans to hide or keep someone in his trunk! :eyebrows:

Marco

03-10-2018, 14:11

Haha, dudes - lovin' it!:D

I've taken a few pics of my own of the set up, which I'll post later. Been fine-tuning the sound of the system [lots of settings on the head unit and amps to get right], to optimise things, and listen up y'all biotches, SHE IS SOUNDIN' SOOOO SHWEEEET...Dis iz da real deal, mofos:eyebrows::hairmetal:

I've been playing some of Kiss Fresh, on the DAB radio [which is superb], see here: https://planetradio.co.uk/kiss-fresh/player/ and the bass on some of the tracks played is verging on intestine-rearranging - a feckin' total HOOT, girlfriend!!:eek::lol:

And with CDs, with the likes of Tiesto and Pete Tong dance mixes, it almost takes you straight to Ibiza! :rave::gig::rave::gig:

Anywayz bros, more laterz.... You betcha!:exactly:

Marco.

RobbieGong

03-10-2018, 14:43

Haha, dudes - lovin' it!:D

I've taken a few pics of my own of the set up, which I'll post later. Been fine-tuning the sound of the system [lots of settings on the head unit and amps to get right], to optimise things, and listen up y'all biotches, SHE IS SOUNDIN' SOOOO SHWEEEET...Dis iz da real deal, mofos:eyebrows::hairmetal:

I've been playing some of Kiss Fresh, on the DAB radio [which is superb], see here: https://planetradio.co.uk/kiss-fresh/player/ and the bass on some of these tracks is verging on intestine-rearranging - a feckin' total HOOT, lolz!!:eek::lol:

And with CDs, with the likes of Tiesto and Pete Tong dance mixes, it almost takes you straight to Ibiza! :rave::gig::rave::gig:

Anywayz bros, more laterz.... You betcha!:exactly:

Marco.

Lol - Livin' life and lovin' it - cant say fairer than that :thumbsup:

Marco

03-10-2018, 18:38

Lol, Rob. Shame you weren't nearer. I think you'd enjoy the results I've achieved:)

Anyway, some of my own pics (as promised):

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/pco0no.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/922/5fotrl.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/v3Uvst.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/GloOr4.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/923/Ld5Vdc.jpg

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/XdALAL.jpg

Sean's really done a great job. He's highly recommended, guys - not just for installing car hi-fi either, but anything involving car electrics/lights, wiring looms. Hey, he'll even build you some great bespoke speaker cabinets out of whatever type of wood you like! :cool:

Marco.

struth

03-10-2018, 19:10

Marco

03-10-2018, 20:34

We're already ahead of you, mate!;)

Here are Sean's details for anyone interested in using his services:

Sean Jennings
Studio 13 Car Audio & Design
Unit 18 Oldport
Gobowen
Oswestry
SY10 7JU
Tel: 01691 657545
Mobile: 07772 132868 / 07780 100529
Email: seanjennings1@hotmail.co.uk

Marco.

JohnJo

03-10-2018, 20:59

Looks great Marco, enjoy!

RobbieGong

03-10-2018, 21:11

Marco

03-10-2018, 21:56

Cheers, Rob. Trust me; it sounds it, too!:eyebrows:

A not inconsiderable investment also (£1700), although still very reasonable considering what you've witnessed take place, throughout this thread, is the culmination of almost 4 weeks of solid work for Sean. I've seen some car audio firms charging almost double for that type of work. Sean and I, however, are both absolutely delighted with the results:cool:

Just need to get hold of a suede brush now, to keep the amp rack nice!:D

Marco.

Marco

03-10-2018, 22:26

Looks great Marco, enjoy!

Cheers, John. Will do! There are still a few tweaks yet to be done. Sean's mentioned something about adding some bespoke porting, which will get even more out of the sub! So watch this space soon for some further shenanigans:eyebrows:

Marco.

Marco

03-10-2018, 22:29

I kind of like the bling lights around the subwoofer driver and amplifiers, although I am not sure who is going to see them, unless Marco plans to hide or keep someone in his trunk! :eyebrows:

I'm going out now to take a night pic of the blingy LEDs... Hopefully the guy we 'clipped' earlier, and tossed in the trunk, won't obscure the glow!:D

Marco.

Marco

03-10-2018, 22:39

Just thought I'd add a pic of the Brabster itself, to finish things off:

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/xq90/922/RVfKPF.jpg

Now the stereo inside is (almost) as BONKERS as the engine!!:eyebrows::eyebrows:

Marco.

rmcin626

03-10-2018, 22:56

Looking good Marco, inside and out

Marco

03-10-2018, 23:12

Cheers, mate. Rumour has it Stevie Gerrard wants one (a newer version)!:D

Marco.

struth

04-10-2018, 02:07

Yeah strictly speaking you should change to green leds

Marco

04-10-2018, 06:12

Lol, defo, just that I'm not big on green, mostly, as a colour. Btw, good luck tonight against, Rapid Vienna. You'll be fine, I think, especially as it's at home. We've got Salzburg away, and have two hopes: no hope and Bob Hope!

Marco.

struth

04-10-2018, 07:55

Marco

04-10-2018, 08:35

They've got an awesome home record in Europe, and against some big teams too, so if we can get even a point, I'll be delighted, especially with the injuries we have:)

Marco.

Frazeur1

04-10-2018, 10:30

I'm going out now to take a night pic of the blingy LEDs... Hopefully the guy we 'clipped' earlier, and tossed in the trunk, won't obscure the glow!:D

Marco.

Well damn Marco, now with all that "dead" weight in the trunk, you are going to have to re-equalize your tuning settings! Looks great man, super job, enjoy!

rmcin626

04-10-2018, 12:26

Hopefully both teams will get decent results

CageyH

04-10-2018, 14:07

https://imagizer.imageshack.com/v2/1024x768q90/921/XdALAL.jpg

Marco.

You seem to have a pedal missing on your car? :scratch:

Marco

04-10-2018, 14:19

Pigmy Pony

04-10-2018, 14:56

Are you not going to get one of those seat covers made of beads? You can get them in a colour to match the centre console.They're supposed to be good for your circulation.

Marco

04-10-2018, 15:18

CageyH

04-10-2018, 16:30

Lol... Are you looking for a clutch, daftee? It's automatic!:eyebrows:

The small left-hand pedal is the handbrake (yes that's where they're located on Mercs - the release lever is just under the steering wheel, to the right), the middle one is the main brake, and the right-hand side pedal is the accelerator:)

Marco.

I realise that.
However, for me there is a pedal missing, which detracts from the pleasure of driving.
I am not old enough for an automatic yet.

Pigmy Pony

04-10-2018, 16:39

If I pop anything on the seat it'll be a JML Intestinal Gas Purifier [the deluxe version with waterproof inlay]. Remember the one you returned because of that suspicious stain on the arse flange?

Marco.

I'll tell you what I told the supplier - it was already like that! And besides, I don't even like sweetcorn. :(

Marco

04-10-2018, 17:48

I realise that.
However, for me there is a pedal missing, which detracts from the pleasure of driving.
I am not old enough for an automatic yet.

Lol - neither am I! However, the vast majority of Mercedes C-Classes (and above) are automatic. If I'd had the choice of a manual car, I'd have taken it, but there was so many other things I loved about the Branster, which sold it to me, that the automatic gearbox wasn't a deal breaker:)

Marco.

Marco

04-10-2018, 17:56

I'll tell you what I told the supplier - it was already like that! And besides, I don't even like sweetcorn. :(

Yeah, I know, but I heard the stain looked more like oxtail. One of their customer service staff could've sniffed it, to determine its likely origin, but for some inexplicable reason they were reluctant to do that:hmm:

Marco.

User211

04-10-2018, 18:41

Lol - neither am I! However, the vast majority of Mercedes C-Classes (and above) are automatic. If I'd had the choice of a manual car, I'd have taken it, but there was so many other things I loved about the Branster, which sold it to me, that the automatic gearbox wasn't a deal breaker:)

Marco.Autos totally come into their own when you have adaptive cruise control.

Adaptive cruise is just brilliant. I will never buy another car without at least adaptive cruise.

What is it people may ask? Well basically you set the car to stay at the distance you want (I think it is really time domain based) and a radar tracks the car in front of you. All you do is steer the car. The braking and gear changes are done for you and the car maintains the distance.

The system also makes it hard to drive into someone, even when disengaged, as it warns and automatically applies the brakes if it senses you are likely to hit it.

Boring you say? Not when you are stuck in huge queues, or in heavy town traffic, or in some dross overpopulated A road, or have a huge motorway journey.

Town and queue driving is a bitch with a.manual, especially in sportier cars, where the clutches are usually heavier.

No denying a manual gives a better sense of real uninterrupted control, though. But these days double clucthe, adaptive cruise and various different ways to change gear (steering wheel buttons, levers etc), the gear stick itself (mine has two gear stick modes - a sort of 'fuck off intervention' mode and a 'resume auto mode quickly' mode) are making manuals a seriously questionable option.

mightymonoped

04-10-2018, 18:46

Autos totally come into their own when you have adaptive cruise control.

Adaptive cruise is just brilliant. I will never buy another car without at least adaptive cruise.

What is it people may ask? Well basically you set the car to stay at the distance you want (I think it is really time domain based) and a radar tracks the car in front of you. All you do is steer the car. The braking and gear changes are done for you and the car maintains the distance.

The system also makes it hard to drive into someone, even when disengaged, as it warns and automatically applies the brakes if it senses you are likely to hit it.

Boring you say? Not when you are stuck in huge queues, or in heavy town traffic, or in some dross overpopulated A road, or have a huge motorway journey.

Town and queue driving is a bitch with a.manual, especially in sportier cars, where the clutches are usually heavier.

No denying a manual gives a better sense of real uninterrupted control, though. But these days double clucthes and various different ways to change gear ( steering wheel buttons, levers etc), the gear stick itself (mine has two gear stick modes - a sort of 'fuck off intervention' mode and a 'resume auto mode quickly' mode) are making manuals as seriously questionable option.

+1

ACC is the best thing since sliced bread. Takes a considerable amount of physical and mental stress out of long journeys.

Having had it in my last car, it was the one essential in my next car.

Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

User211

04-10-2018, 18:50

Anyway if there is another MIBO ever, I demand a good workout of that systemo dude. Bitches and hoes in da back seats, naturally.;)

Marco

04-10-2018, 18:53

Boring you say? Not when you are stuck in huge queues, or in heavy town traffic, or in some dross overpopulated A road, or have a huge motorway journey.

Thankfully, not situations I find myself in often, Justers... I have no issues whatsoever with the automatic gearbox on the Brabster, as it's as sweet as a nut:)

What's far more interesting (and entertaining) is the sheer power/torque and rapid acceleration available on kick-downs!:eek::D

Marco.

Marco

04-10-2018, 18:59

Anyway if there is another MIBO ever, I demand a good workout of that systemo dude. Bitches and hoes in da back seats, naturally.;)

Oh that's a defo! If not, it could happen at Cranage, as I'm keen for Sean's expertise to become more widely known around these parts, and by then with some tweaks he's got planned, the car system should be even more of a giggle:eyebrows:

Marco.

Jimbo

04-10-2018, 20:00

+1 for ACC, got it on my Golf and its superb.

FidelityArt

04-10-2018, 21:39

Well done Marco.

I was very impressed with the sound stage in the little Mini at Cranage.

Probably my next HiFi upgrade will be the in the car.

User211

04-10-2018, 22:12

+1 for ACC, got it on my Golf and its superb.It has a number of marketing name variants and implementations.

Some will suck, some will be average, some will be impressive, and some.will fuck your mind a bit.

As in all walks of life.

Frazeur1

04-10-2018, 23:35

I didn’t think I would like adaptive cruise, but got it on our Subie and after a short bit of getting comfortable with it, I am all in on it, really nice feature.

struth

05-10-2018, 02:16

Just more to go wrong and also give people a false sense of security Wheniwasaboy lol

struth

05-10-2018, 02:18

Yeah, I know, but I heard the stain looked more like oxtail. One of their customer service staff could've sniffed it, to determine its likely origin, but for some inexplicable reason they were reluctant to do that:hmm:

Marco.

Liked the billy Connolly story of the chocolate stain on the bedcover in the hotel. Where when the room service guy sees it billy starts licking it. lol

Marco

05-10-2018, 08:11

Well done Marco.

I was very impressed with the sound stage in the little Mini at Cranage.

Probably my next HiFi upgrade will be the in the car.

Hi Chris,

Cheers, mate. Yeah, so was I. Do you remember which company it was that did the demo? :)

Marco.

Marco

05-10-2018, 08:14

Just more to go wrong and also give people a false sense of security Wheniwasaboy lol

I tend to agree, and apart from the fact that with the type of driving I do, I'd likely never use it, for me it's another step towards fully computer-controlled, driver-less cars, which is *so* NOT my thing!:nono:

However, as ever, if you like it, you like it:)

Marco.

FidelityArt

05-10-2018, 16:42

Hi Chris,

Cheers, mate. Yeah, so was I. Do you remember which company it was that did the demo? :)

Marco.
Source Sounds, Marco.

https://www.sourcesounds.com

Marco

05-10-2018, 18:25

Ah thanks, Chris:)

Marco.

User211

05-10-2018, 18:39

I tend to agree, and apart from the fact that with the type of driving I do, I'd likely never use it, for me it's another step towards fully computer-controlled, driver-less cars, which is *so* NOT my thing!:nono:

However, as ever, if you like it, you like it:)

Marco.

What? So you never get stuck in queues? Never go on long motorway drives? Never get caught on windy roads unable to overtake?

The trouble and reality with driving is unfortunately, for a large percentage of it, it simply isn't that enjoyable. So ACC takes away the pain.

But when you're free, by all means enjoy proper driving. I do.

I understand your viewpoint Marco, but when you get a car with it in, you will understand. It IS the best thing since sliced bread. Especially if you commute 2 hours a day (which I don't believe you do).

Jimbo

05-10-2018, 18:49

Once you get used to ACC it becomes addictive. I switch mine on at the first opportunity. Mine is used with a manual gear box and it is still sooooo relaxing especially on long A roads and motorways. It's like power steering and electric Windows, once you have had them you would never want to be without them. Personally I would put ACC as one if the best driver usable functions that has been introduced on cars in the last 10 years.

Marco

05-10-2018, 18:53

What? So you never get stuck in queues? Never go on long motorway drives? Never get caught on windy roads unable to overtake?

Let's address those individually:

1) Rarely, because I live in a fairly quiet area and never travel at the busiest times
2) Rarely, unless I'm going up to Scotland to visit friends and family (max 3 times a year) or driving down to Dover, to cross over to France (max twice a year).
3) Never... That is, in this car, I've never been unable to overtake anything, and when the weather is *really* bad, I simply leave the car at home.

The trouble and reality with driving is unfortunately, for a large percentage of it, it simply isn't that enjoyable. So ACC takes away the pain.

Well, the reality with me is that the vast majority of my driving *is* enjoyable, quite simply because that's how I use my car. It's for pleasure only, not work (much). Therefore, there is no "pain" to take away:)

Life is rather different here than it is in Bristol, or indeed in any large city (nothing at all against Bristol). Birmingham will be the same for Jim. The sort of traffic you guys face on a daily basis is a world away from what I have to deal with.

I understand your viewpoint Marco, but when you get a car with it in, you will understand. It IS the best thing since sliced bread. Especially if you commute 2 hours a day (which I don't believe you do).

I understand yours too, and for the type of driving you do, ACC makes a lot of sense. It's completely different for me though, as my car exists simply to have fun in (and do the occasional bit of shopping). No commuting to work here, dude:cool:

Marco.

mightymonoped

05-10-2018, 18:57

What? So you never get stuck in queues? Never go on long motorway drives? Never get caught on windy roads unable to overtake?

The trouble and reality with driving is unfortunately, for a large percentage of it, it simply isn't that enjoyable. So ACC takes away the pain.

But when you're free, by all means enjoy proper driving. I do.

I understand your viewpoint Marco, but when you get a car with it in, you will understand. It IS the best thing since sliced bread. Especially if you commute 2 hours a day (which I don't believe you do).

Horses for courses I suppose, I always switch it on on long runs or motorways, especially when subject to the 50 mph M6 National embarrassment or average speed camera stretches. When I'm free to enjoy the road, I flick the car into 'Sport' mode and enjoy the freedom. I like having my cake and eating it [emoji4]

Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Marco

05-10-2018, 19:07

Horses for courses I suppose, I always switch it on on long runs or motorways, especially when subject to the 50 mph M6 National embarrassment or average speed camera stretches. When I'm free to enjoy the road, I flick the car into 'Sport' mode and enjoy the freedom. I like having my cake and eating it

Me too, which is most of the time! When I'm on motorways, subject to the speed restrictions you describe (which isn't often), I simply set the cruise control to 50mph, job done. I also use the cruise control on long motorway journeys (when the roads are clear), setting it usually to around 80mph, and as its automatic, simply sit back and just steer the car.

Why would I need anything else?:)

Marco.

User211

05-10-2018, 19:16

Me too, which is most of the time! When I'm on motorways, subject to the speed restrictions you describe (which isn't often), I simply set the cruise control to 50mph, job done. I also use the cruise control on long motorway journeys (when the roads are clear), setting it usually to around 80mph, and as its automatic, simply sit back and just steer the car.

Why would I need anything else?:)

Marco.But it isn't job done. Cruise control in my wife's Merc is just so stoneage. It can't track the car in front an adjust the speed. So you constantly have to mess around with the stem. Even in average speed checks, where it probably sucks the most.

Being freelance I don't always have long commutes. I just do at the moment.

There is a 10 mile stretch of the 40 mile commute that is awesome, though. No ACC in use there. At all. Sport mode, manual shifts, lid down if possible, respect factor for car's engineering high.

Marco

05-10-2018, 19:28

But it isn't job done. Cruise control in my wife's Merc is just so stoneage. It can't track the car in front an adjust the speed. So you constantly have to mess around with the stem. Even in average speed checks, where it probably sucks the most.

Lol... If everyone is doing 50mph (or less), and you leave adequate distance between the car in front and you, there's no issue with using a cruise control. Ultimately, I'd still prefer MY judgement to be in control, than rely on a computer, which can and does fail.

Anyway, stop trying to make me like what YOU like!:ner:;)

We're quite different people, living in very different areas, and with rather different driving requirements. S'all good:cool:

Marco.

User211

05-10-2018, 19:44

People fail. Trust me driving a car manually on public roads in the future will almost certainly be banned. It will be seen as too dangerous.

It will take a few years but I bet it happens.

Marco

05-10-2018, 19:47

Sure, but I'll either be too old to drive or pushing up daisies by then - and thank fook, too! ;)

Think how much of a fun hoover that will be. You love performance cars, like me, so what's the point in having one, if you can't drive it, and are just sat there like a zombie?:scratch:

Marco.

User211

05-10-2018, 19:59

Yeah it sucks.

But by then VR will be so bloody good you won't care.

Good chance we're living in a simulation now, but I won't go there....:)

Marco

05-10-2018, 20:11

Yeah it sucks.

But by then VR will be so bloody good you won't care.

A 'plastic world' isn't my bag, dude. I like to *feel* like I'm living, so if/when that shit comes to pass, I hope I'm well out of the game by then.

Good chance we're living in a simulation now, but I won't go there....:)

Yeah I know where you're coming from... Why do you think I often mention 'the system' or 'the elite'?;)

It's all about imposing/drip-feeding mind control.

Marco.

CageyH

05-10-2018, 20:22

All this talk about ACC, power steering and electric windows makes me wonder.

What gadgets do I have installed on my car? Not many...

Accelerator - check
Brakes - Check.
Clutch - check.
ABS - no.
Power steering - no.
Servo assisted brakes - no.
Traction control - only my right foot.
Stability control - a combination of my right foot and arms/hands.
Car stereo - no. You would not hear it over the exhaust and intake howl, couple with the semi-helical box noise, no chance.
Cruise control - no.
Automatic gearbox - no.
Electric windows - no, they are thin plastic.
Central locking - I don't have any door locks.
Automatic roof - I automatically put it on when I need to.
Oh, I do have a heated windscreen probably as I don't have a heater blower that works on the windscreen.
Pure, basic driving as it should be.