Well I don't start many threads but just wondered what you guys think of my first ICE install.

I've not had the car long and the first thing I noticed was the poor sound from the stereo.

So I thought I would try to upgrade it on the cheap.

This is never going to win any sound offs and all I really wanted was a decent sound,

 

So I pulled out the head unit and replaced it with a Sony Xplod unit I had kicking around in the Garage but the sound was still poor. 

While I was I called in a Motor world store and they had some cheap 12 inch subs reduced to £9.99 each so I bought 2.

I then called in my local Halfords and they had some FLi speakers on offer so I picked up a pair of 6 inch for the front at £22.

I was unsure about the rear so I thought I would make my own boxes so I picked up a pair of 5.5 inch FLi speakers up for £17.

I then picked up some MDF and set to work. I dug out an old 400 watt amp and wiring kit I had kicking around in the garage and ordered some cheap carpet off ebay.  

 

So for a total outlay of under £80 plus the bits I already had I have some decent sounds in the car.

It distorts a lot if really cranked up but is fine for the volume I want with plenty of bass. 

 

This is a pic of the N/S box almost finished just need to sort out a grill.

I think it looks ok and keeps plenty of the load area free, 

 

What do you think.

 

 

http://www.ruffday.plus.com/images/20140222_164312.jpg

Edited 22 February, 201412 yr by ruffday

Had a Sony Xplod HU in my VRS when I bought it, & it was the worst sounding HU I've heard.

Had a Sony Xplod HU in my VRS when I bought it, & it was the worst sounding HU I've heard.

 

But its a lot better than the factory unit.

I like idea buddy, how about access to rear light cluster?  Did you do both sides or just one?

That's looking like a seriously tidy install that mate- Halfrauds have a sale on Audio at the minute- might be able to bag a bargain out of them on an HU

I like idea buddy, how about access to rear light cluster?  Did you do both sides or just one?

 

I would need to take the side out but its only a few screws.

And I have done both sides. Still needs a bit of work to fit the power outlet and interior lights.

That's looking like a seriously tidy install that mate- Halfrauds have a sale on Audio at the minute- might be able to bag a bargain out of them on an HU

 

Thanks.

To be honest I am happy with the head unit that is in now as it plays MP3 disc's and has a usb port.

Its my weekend toy as I drive a Superb all week for work.

Nice job!
 

As long as it's doing what you want it to do that's the aim of the game...out of interest what are those superb's like? Seem enormous to look at

As long as it's doing what you want it to do that's the aim of the game...out of interest what are those superb's like? Seem enormous to look at

 

I just wanted something that sounded ok on a very small budget.

 

Cant fault it really its a bit slow but it is only a 1.6 Greenline and my last car was a 1.8 TSi Octavia and you soon get used to the size.

TBH when I got into my Octavia it seems very small.

I have had 2 MK1 Octavia's and 2 MK2s

Edited 22 February, 201412 yr by ruffday