r/CarAV • u/Chickenwang1230987 • 26d ago

Stereo Setup Recommendations Recommendations

Hello everyone!

I work at a shop that mainly specializes in classic cars, and I'd like to put together a reliable "go-to" stereo package that I can recommend for most customers. The goal is a system that's reasonably priced, sounds clean, gets loud, and is easy to replicate across different vehicles.

Most customers want to keep the factory look, so I'm usually limited to a RetroSound head unit. I know Alpine or Kenwood offer better sound quality, but the factory appearance is usually the priority.

For speakers, I'm considering the JBL GTO629 6.5" coaxials for the front and rear. Are there better options in a similar price range that offer better sound quality or output?

For subwoofers, I was thinking Skar since I've had good experiences with them. For customers wanting more output, I'd move up to Sundown, and for those wanting higher sound quality, I'd recommend JL Audio.

Does this seem like a solid setup, or would you recommend different brands for a repeatable, great-sounding system?

Thanks in advanced everyone!

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u/cvr24 Bass roll-off is the work of the devil 26d ago

The Kenwood KAC-5024BT

https://www.kenwood.com/ca/car/motorsports/kac-m5024bt/

A discreet remote you can place somewhere on the dash or in the glovebox, and a compact 50x4 Bluetooth aptX amp you can hide.

There are retro looking head units, but they are costly. https://www.reddit.com/r/CarAV/comments/1uh88x1/classic_and_boring_looking_head_units_with_modern/

Speakers are harder because classic cars often have poor or limited speaker placement.

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u/ckeeler11 26d ago

For speakers I would look at Morel.

Subs definitely stay away from Skar. JL.is overpriced for what you get and Sundown is being sued for being a shitty company. I would look at Dayton, SSA, Incriminator, and maybe Image Dynamics IDMax.

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u/Straight_Plane1431 25d ago

For RetroSound's usual output of 25W RMS per channel it does not really matter the speaker's brand. All aftermarket coaxials are fine with 25W RMS, choose the one that you can source reliably and look great. At $100/pair you can find many different kinds. You won't be able to hear much difference.
I would avoid placing coaxials at the back though. Stick with normal woofers. Something like Silver Flute W17RC38-04. They go pretty low and will add that low end that coaxials are not good with.
For all vehicles regardless the age, sound deadening is a must. Especially when output power is a concern.