iJeffG

Greetings, I have a slightly different spin on the "help me design my system" question, and hoping to appeal to the realist in you SQ gurus.

I just picked up a 2015 F150 Lariat, with the 7 speaker "non-Sony" audio system. I have Sync and Navigation if that matters for knowing the HU capabilities. The audio system absolutely sucks in this thing. The Sony system required a >$6000 upgrade package which I could never justify. Glad I didn't because I am hearing horror stories about that audio system as well. One unique element of my question is that I am LEASING the vehicle, so need to minimize harness mods.

I've spent several days going through F150 and audio forums, and worried I may be getting hung up on the hyperbole. I need to improve the system (bass is loose and lacks depth, mids are muddy, highs are muted and dull)

I am looking to spend as little as possible to get a "decent" sounding system. I enjoy B&W's sound signature at home. I prefer quality over quantity...Tight bass over boomy and loud. I listen to classical, some jazz, acoustic-only recordings of guitar and piano, and thee typical 70's/80's rock.

I will only be upgrading the front soundstage (and if necessary adding a subwoofer)...and need to use the stock speaker locations. 6x9's in doors, and 3/4 or 1" tweeters in the a-pillars. My system also came with a 3 1/2 center speaker, which I am willing to update as well.

I'm looking for good tight "mid bass" (don't need below 50Hz kind of stuff). Crystal clear, but non-fatiguing tweeters, and a nice full mid-range that does female vocals justice.

Since it is a lease, I would like to stay below $500 for everything...I consider myself pretty handy, and wouldn't mind tackling the install myself to save cash.

I'm enjoying the research, but as I said, I'm worried I'm ending up comparing Tesla to a Maybach...instead of a Prius to a Fusion PHEV. Looking for YOUR help to hold back on the enthusiasm for perfection. I want the 80% great solution...

Thanks in advance for your feedback and suggestions.

iJeffG

Has anyone played with a JBL MS-8. I see a used one available locally...wondering if that, alone, might prove sufficient/?

dan02gt

The MS8 is a great processor and has a built in amp that could run your mids and highs, but it will probably eat most of your $500 budget.

For tweeters I like silk dome (can't stand how bright and fatiguing most metal domes are) and have been really happy with my JL components. On a budget the Sonic Electronics 6.5" components might be the ticket: http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...-VSP65KIT.html

You will definitely want a sub. The powered Kicker Hideaway may fit behind the back seat and is pretty reasonable. http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_...11HS8-HS8.html

Also Kicker should be releasing their Soundgate setup for the 2015s. It's a very nice upgrade for the money.

iJeffG

Thanks, Dan.

If I could get an MS8 for under $150...what would I be looking at for a self-install. Am I disassembling 1/2 the interior, just the console, or the whole dash??

Am I doing that anyway if I want to add an amplifier?

dan02gt

$150 for that MS8 is a good deal.

Take a look at 1Chad's 2015 build. You would be doing something similar.

https://www.f150forum.com/f30/2015-f...o-sony-314241/

'15 Lariat

Jeff, I would think it would be a Grand idea to seek approval from Ford & Leasing Dealer; as the truck is their property !!!

Wyo11Scab

iTrader: (1)

People upgrade in leased vehicles all the time. Just put it back to stock when you return it. With what you want to do I don't see very many wiring mods.

428CobraJet

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