Not sure where to start on upgrading my '05 Xb. I have all stock radio/cd player and speakers.

Where should I start? Upgrade the speakers first? Or is the radio complete crap?

Any recommendations?

I mostly listen to 70's rock and to voice only podcasts through my Ipod. Heavy bass is not really needed.

Any thoughts are appreciated.

 

i cant vouche for the xb radio but in general upgrading ANY factory head unit will be an improvement in sound as most have EQ's built into them anymore to help get better sound. but upgrading speakers as well will help. if you're looking new speakers or head unites here's a few sites i use that are pretty low cut prices compared to shops:
hifisoundconnection.com
sonicelectronix.com
hookedontronics.com

 

1. I would replace all 6 speakers first. Sound will greatly improve as the Stock speakers are cheap cardboard + it will be night + day when you change them.

2. Change the radio. The updated new radio will sound much better + have all the needed extra music + subwoofer connections if needed.

3. add a small 4 channel 700 watt amp under passenger seat for the 6 speakers. More power = cleaner sound, less distortion when raising the volume on your new aftermarket speakers.

4. Add a subwoofer + amp

I recently up graded my outdated 2004 aftermarket radio in my xB last month, cause i wanted a Aux input for MP3 player etc. + a USB port, which can play music with a memory stick or I-phone/ I-Pod.

Believe it or not i found a great buy last month from Crutchfield Stereo. I only usually use them for only info as to what fits im my car or reviews, since they are kind of expensive + find it cheaper elsewhere.
But they had a good buy + this what i puchased
JVC Arsenal KD-AHD79 with HD radio CD receiver $129 with Three sets of high-powered 5-volt preamp outputs not the usual 2.5 volt, two Aux ports ( rear + front), USB front port etc. Rated on the internet best buy for budget headunits. Warranty: 2 years

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_105KDAH...4#overview-tab
And remember you get all this with free shipping, free installation guide, free $15.00 Stock adapters to plug in your new aftermarket headunit and a free $15.00 receiver adapter box to fit your new receiver in place of the OEM radio spot + free excellant technical support if needed while you try to do the install. Just double check the Tech hours.

You can also look a the crutchfield site to see what speakers/radio fit in your car. But, may wish to purchase on another site since they sometimes are more costly @ crutchfield. If need you can buy the aftermarket speaker adapter plugs or the correct aftermarket new speaker adapter @ Crutchfield if needed for the xB.

I would suggest to buy the "Bass blockers 800 Hz" to install on the new aftermarket small dash speakers to avoid blowing them out + protect your speakers from bass distortion and enjoy cleaner sound with Bass Blockers http://www.crutchfield.com/shopsearc..._blockers.html

Crutchfield customer service: You can make believe you wish to purchase something + they will guide or answer your question = FREE Technical INFO for your install and you can buy elsewhere cheaper. LOL

If you have any further questions, we are here also to help.