Im pretty green when it comes to car audio. I want to know if its possible to simply add new speakers and an amp, while keeping the stock head unit? I have an rs 2.0, which comes with the "sub" in the trunk, and it looks like it has an amp under the passenger seat as is. Im not looking to go nuts with my sound, i just need it to get a little louder, but more importantly, play clearer at higher volumes.

 

hmm... note..

switching out your stock headunit will allow the stock speakers to show more of it's true potentional.

it is possible however to switch the stock speakers out.

it's just the headunit has its limitations.

 

Yes. Simply get an amp that has speaker-level inputs or use a line-out converter between the HU & new amp.

 

how much of an improvement will this be over the stock set up? I didnt want to change out the head unit because of the ipod connection that came with the car.

 

How much of an improvement will depend on the specific speakers & amp you choose. Can't really say much more without knowing your specific goals. If you're really serious about sound quality (most people aren't), the stock speaker locations are far less than optimal, so upgrading the amp/speakers may improve the frequency response and SPL, but won't do much for soundstaging & imaging. For a major improvement, consider having your new front speakers mounted in custom kick panels, rather than the doors.

 

I was looking at infinity reference componets upfront, and just decent 2 ways for the rear. As for amp, i dunno how many channels, and watts per, i would need

 

jl jl jl jl jl!!! JL!!!!!

 

where you planning on just getting interior speakers and an amp or subs too? because if you get subs than you almost have to get an aftermarket radio.

 

Well i wasnt planning on getting a sub. Although my tc has that super weak sub that comes apart of the 2.0 package.

 

Hmmm... I wonder how I missed this topic!

Just about any speaker upgrade will be better than your stock speakers (unless you go for some no name brand).

If you are not looking to go too crazy with your setup, and prefer to keep your stock head unit, that will be perfectly fine.

If you do upgrade your speakers, I highly recommend getting an amplifier for them since the output of the stock headunit will be less than adequate.

I would suggest the best bang for the buck would be a Pioneer setup. Their speakers are clean sounding, and can produce a lot of output. Their subs are good too.

Good Luck!