Finally installed my subwoofer upgrade

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So many projects, so little time... but I've been wanting to update my subwoofer and amp for as long as I've owned the truck - it's been six years! LOL

Originally I had a Pioneer DVC subwoofer, but realized it was a 2 Ohm model and my amp, Kenwood KAC-M3001 was really built for 4 ohm so I opted to get a different subwoofer - the KICKER CompRT 8"(20cm) Subwoofer, DVC, 4-ohm This would allow the amp to run at 2 Ohms @ 300W (giving me 50% more power than if I had used the Pioneer setup)

My son printed out a spacer on his 3D printer because the subwoofer was a bit too large at the mounting lip, but the spacer (about 3/4" thick) was perfect. I also used some stuffing in the box and covered the box with Thermo-Tec which helps to clean up the boominess and give the bass a new dimension.

You can see the spacer, with 2 squishable gaskets (in white) between the box and the speaker

This is it fully mounted, 8 screws holding the spacer, and 8 screws holding the sub to the spacer

I used the existing wire run to use my new wires and a couple of push-tab that are normally used for automotive panels to hold them in place - worked great! Ziptied them to ensure they don't move around.

Here's the mockup of the amp - I ran an 8 gauge wire from the battery to the amp, and grounded the amp to the bolt at the bottom of the cabin.

Here you can see the subwoofer box with new Kicker subwoofer fully mounted with the Thermo-Tec sound deadener

With the seat all the way up, there is PLENTY of room between the speaker and the back of the seat

I re-used the wiring from the OEM amplifier to feed the new AMP - here are the colors on both sides of the connectors

I then snipped the ends, and wired the +/- wires into some RCA connectors

Overall, very happy with the sound. I turned up the sensitivity (gain) and dialed in the cutoff around 80-85Hz and it sounds amazing! Much different bass from the OEM setup. Highly recommended!!

$600 for a premium sound system - is it possible?

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Hey there, audio enthusiasts! The Sony sound system in my Ford Raptor’s 802a package is solid, but it’s missing that crystal-clear highs and deep bass punch I crave for long drives. So, I’m diving into a fun DIY stereo upgrade to give my truck’s audio some serious love. If you’re like me and music makes those road trips epic, this project’s for you! 😎

I’m aiming to keep the total cost around $570, which covers everything, including enough sound deadening material to line the whole truck. My inspiration? This awesome thread on the Ford Raptor Forum that got me pumped to upgrade on a budget.

First up, let’s tackle road noise with some sound deadening. I’m going all-in with the Dynamat Xtreme Bulk Pack (36 sqft) to cover the doors and other key spots. For tighter areas, the Dynamat Xtreme Door Kit (12 sqft) is perfect. Recently, I learned you’ll need two of these kits for full coverage. Want a lighter option? The Dynamat SuperLite Bulk Pack (36 sqft) keeps weight down without sacrificing performance. On a budget? I’ve also got the Noico 80 mil 36 sqft Sound Deadening Mat as a wallet-friendly alternative that still gets the job done.

Now, let’s talk speakers—the heart of any audio setup. After some research, I’m sold on the Pioneer A-Series for their bang-for-buck value. You really can’t go wrong at these prices! For the front doors, I’m installing the Pioneer TS-A6990F 6x9" 5-Way Speakers, paired with Metra 6x9" Speaker Adapter Brackets for a perfect fit in my Raptor.

For the rear doors, I’m going with the Pioneer TS-A1680F 6.5" 4-Way Speakers, also using Metra 6.5" Speaker Adapter Brackets to make installation a breeze. These speakers deliver crisp sound without breaking the bank.

The front pillars need 7/8" tweeters, and I’m eyeing the Pioneer TS-T110 7/8" Tweeters for their clarity. As a backup, the Pioneer TS-T15 3/4" Tweeters are a solid alternative. For the center dash, I’m swapping in the Pioneer TS-A1370F 5.25" Speakers, which adapt well to the 3.5" slot and keep the sound balanced.

To bring the bass, I’m retrofitting a Pioneer TS-WX1210A 12" Powered Subwoofer into the existing subwoofer cabinet. Powering it all is the Pioneer GM-D8704 4-Channel Amplifier, wired up with the InstallGear 4-Gauge Amplifier Wiring Kit for a clean, reliable setup.

Since I’m a fan of Sony’s audio quality, I’m also considering the Sony HT-A3000 3.1ch Dolby Atmos Soundbar to complement the truck’s system. It’s not a direct car audio fit, but its clarity and bass could inspire some home audio tweaks to match the vibe!

This setup is shaping up to transform my Raptor’s audio for under $600! Got any tips or upgrades you’ve tried? Drop a comment, and let’s geek out over car audio!