Decisions decisions

[Dannys M3]

I know others have asked themselves countless times which components should I get and how much should I spend. So far the unanimous choice for under the seats appears to be the SWS-8. My selection for the amplifier was based on reading one of Technic's posts about Arc Audio amplifiers. I must have changed my mind a million times on which Arc Audio Amp. Thats where I sit right now. I am waiting for a harness, door/rear speakers I have not decided on yet. If I've missed anything all suggestions are welcome.

[Dannys M3]

I can't believe its been a year already and I've been collecting components. Anyhow I think I can stack two amps in this space. I'll cut the factory bracket and weld on two platforms. I also purchased the CD trunk trim. I'd like to thank Technic for all his help. I'll update this after everything is installed.

[quality_sound]

You should have used the Arc Minis. I had 3 (2 125.4s and a 500.1)under the hatch floor in my old GTI and still had the spare and they never got all that hot. Plus, you could fit at least 4 of them in the same space as the KAR amp so you could have more power and be able to stagger the power. For example, I had 75 to each tweeter, 75 to each mid, 250 to each midbass, and 500 to the sub with no rears.

In your setup you really only need 6 channels unless you want to run the subs in mono and then you only need 5.

[Dannys M3]

The KAR is also a class H and will not get hot. I'll be bridging the second amp for the SWS speakers.
BTW I used to be stationed at Bitburg (bitte ein bit), been to K town. Had some great times there back in the mid 80s.

[quality_sound]

Originally Posted by Dannys M3

The KAR is also a class H and will not get hot. I'll be bridging the second amp for the SWS speakers.
BTW I used to be stationed at Bitburg (bitte ein bit), been to K town. Had some great times there back in the mid 80s.

I know it's a G. I have a connection with Arc and have spent many, many hours at their shop, working on demo cars, and working their booth at shows. I can't complain.

It was entirely a size thing though. The KAR is a GREAT amp, but it's big. Not Foose line big, but WAY big compared to the Minis.

[808MGuy]

Originally Posted by quality_sound

You should have used the Arc Minis. I had 3 (2 125.4s and a 500.1)under the hatch floor in my old GTI and still had the spare and they never got all that hot. Plus, you could fit at least 4 of them in the same space as the KAR amp so you could have more power and be able to stagger the power. For example, I had 75 to each tweeter, 75 to each mid, 250 to each midbass, and 500 to the sub with no rears.

In your setup you really only need 6 channels unless you want to run the subs in mono and then you only need 5.

That's an interesting setup and probably cheaper than the other configuration I was thinking of. I might have to consider that to replace my DC650.6. Considering a total system overhaul right now.

[quality_sound]

Originally Posted by 808MGuy

That's an interesting setup and probably cheaper than the other configuration I was thinking of. I might have to consider that to replace my DC650.6. Considering a total system overhaul right now.

It friggin rocked too. Let me know, I still have one of the 125.4s sitting in my garage collecting dust.

[Dannys M3]

Spent Friday making brackets, and today I mounted speakers in the passenger door and did some power wiring.

[808MGuy]

Originally Posted by Dannys M3

Spent Friday making brackets, and today I mounted speakers in the passenger door and did some power wiring.

Just curious about your power wiring connection to the OEM distribution block. Did you actually test the outputs of that double connector to see if they are both hot because when I tried mine only 1 side was hot. The other side didn't have the fusible link in it to allow for another power connection. I'd be interested to know what the exact specs (what options you have) of your car is that made that output hot.

[Dannys M3]

I have not put a meter on it but there is a link in both terminals. I copied VP's idea here and my distribution block is identical to his. I don't know if having an E92 makes a difference. You get the doors with more room for speakers and we get the extra terminal?


http://www.e90post.com/forums/showth...wer+connection

[Dannys M3]

stuck the crossover in the cubbyhole of the seatbelt take up reel

[Dannys M3]

Passenger side earthquake is going out, ordered two more as replacements.

[Technic]

Originally Posted by Dannys M3

Passenger side earthquake is going out, ordered two more as replacements.

I have noticed an increase of SWS-8 failures this year.