A repeat client from here in Fargo recently dropped into Audio Garage to inquire about upgrading the stereo system in his 2004 Volvo S60R with new speakers and an updated radio. He wanted to improve the clarity of the system and update the technology to something more modern. After inspecting the vehicle, we put together a system that would deliver the performance and features the client wanted.
Volvo S60R Speaker Upgrade
We mounted the 6.5-inch woofer from a Kappa 60csx component set in the lower door location and added a 2-inch Kappa 20mx just behind it. We treated the doors to a layer of MESA mat sound damping and Dynamat Dynapad to reduce noise transfer into the vehicle and improve the performance of the new speakers. The tweeters are in the stock speaker locations near the interior door handles.
An AudioControl D-6.1200 six-channel amplifier with a built-in digital signal processor powers the front speakers. Each channel of the amp feeds one of the door speakers and tweeters so that we have full control over the crossovers and equalization going to each driver. Once dialed-in, the music will sound smooth and natural – like a high-end home audio system.
Subwoofer Upgrade Adds Authority and Impact
Our audio upgrades left plenty of trunk space for the client.
We used the preamp output of the AudioControl amp to feed a subwoofer signal to an Infinity Kappa one 6 monoblock subwoofer amp. The amp is mounted behind the carpet on the left side of the trunk and provides up to 600 watts of power to the Kappa 1200W 12-inch subwoofer, which also resides in the trunk. We used a compact wedge-back enclosure for the sub so that it tucks nicely into the corner of the cargo area.
The D-6.1200 amp is mounted to an aluminum bracket that we fabricated. The amp is located on the left side of the trunk and takes up almost no space.
New Source Unit Upgrades Technology
The source unit was upgraded with a Kenwood CarPlay model.
The last part of the upgrade involved integrating a Kenwood DMX907S multimedia receiver into the dash. This double-DIN radio includes both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. The client can use voice commands to make phone calls, send text messages or choose the music he wants. He can also request turn-by-turn navigation instructions using Google Maps or Waze.
Fargo’s Car Audio Upgrade Experts
After completing the installation and the calibration of the DSP in the AudioControl amp, we had the sound system in this Volvo S60R sounding amazing. The client was amazed by the output capability and clarity of the system! We showed him how to connect his phone to the new radio so he could use its voice recognition features. If your car stereo doesn’t have the features or performance you want, drop by Audio Garage in Fargo. You can also reach us by e-mail using our contact page.
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