My 08 2.5i Install Thread

So after swearing off aftermarket stereos after my stint with them in college and grad school, I had driven a few vehicles with stock stereos. Then in my last car (03 SpecV) I did a modest system: Pioneer Pernmier HU, Hertz components, Xtant amp, Image Dynamics sub. I removed and sold it all before I sold the car, and swore aftermarket off yet again.

 

Then with the Legacy, I was okay with the stock system, until it came time to open the sunroof and windows for my daily drive, at which time the stock stuff got old quickly.

 

I started with the idea of just front coaxials, but was quickly swayed to do coaxials all around when the total price during a Crutchfield special was under $100 shipped for all 4 Alpine SPS-17C2 coaxials, including wiring.

 

My door speakers, installed:

 

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k271/phenryiv1/For%20Sale/Spacers004.jpg

 

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k271/phenryiv1/For%20Sale/Spacers009.jpg

 

Full thread: http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=82808

 

The doors still need to be deadened, but the spacers fit and the sound was better then stock.

 

After a few weeks of driving, it became clear that the stock HU simply could not push the power needed to be clear over an open sunroof, so I started the hunt for a new HU. (So much for keeping it stock!) I did some research on the HUs available, and even started an opinion thread (http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=87278). In the end, I did return the Pioneer DEH-P4000UB for the 5000UB and am glad that I did. The install was a little rocky (http://legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=88020), but it looks and sounds good now.

 

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k271/phenryiv1/Legacy/Stereo051308005.jpg

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k271/phenryiv1/Legacy/Stereo051308006.jpg

http://i90.photobucket.com/albums/k271/phenryiv1/Legacy/Stereo051308008.jpg

 

I scratched the bezel to the air diverter control, but I can live with it for now.

 

While I was in there, I added the USB cable for the tumbdrive and added it to the pocket over the radio where it can duck away once it is connected, and I hooked up some Knu RCAs to go to a sub. I also attached my remote wire for the amp.

 

I have an Infinity BassLink ready to install to add some bottom end, but I am waiting on the hidden subwoofer boxes to finish up to see how I proceed for adding the bass. I need to get the doors deadened ASAP and get the bass taken care of. I will keep the thread updated.

 

Feel free to pass on feedback, suggestions, and comments.

Almost a month later and I am really digging the HU. I was apprehensive about pulling the stocker, but I am now glad that I did. The look is not as clean, btu the sound is much-improved.