[TartanJack]

Based on several parallel discussions on this and other forums . . .
Let's have a specific discussion on what would/should be a great simple system upgrade for the least work/expense for our xB2s.

Here is the main parameters:
1.
MUST be able to use the BASIC stock Pioneer headunit on 08/09 (10?) models. This is what many of us have, uses ALL stock controls and iPod/AUX connections, and would be the best to build using if possible.
It's specs listed in the back of the in-vehicle stereo manual are:
Power source- 13.2 V DC (10.5 V to 16.0 V allowable)
Tone Controls:
- (Bass) Frequency: 80 Hz Level: +- 10dB
- (Treble) Frequency: 10 kHz Level: +- 10dB
Maximum power output: 40 W x 4
Load impedance- 4 Ω

2.
Not impede the cargo area (many need it to carry stuff and can't have a "box" back there). Plus, it would be better to still allow as much of the open cargo space as possible to be used to carry/transport stuff (that is why many got an xB2 over an xB1, tC, Mini or many of the other hatchbacks out there-> we NEED the cargo space . . . )


3.
Must allow FULL access to spare. Ideally, keeping the foam part too.

4.
It can be done on a driveway, home garage, or the like with limited/common tools.

5.
Keep the cost down, as much as possible.
(Many of us are "project poor," meaning we have other more important money drains-> kids/family, school, fixed or lower incomes, etc. and can't afford to spend $500-$1000 on speakers.)

What would make a good, balanced, clear, crisp sound using that as the "heart" of the system?

 

[TartanJack]

I'll start with a great (from what I understand) amp/woofer to use with the stock, base stereo:
The Bazooka 8" box that mounts on the right SIDE of the rear cargo area.
BAZOOKA Mobile Audio - VSE-SCI-145L-07 - SCION XB Vehicle Specific Enclosure
BAZOOKA Mobile Audio - NEW Vehicle Specific Subwoofer for SCION XB!

The MSRP is around $350, but many are selling it closer to $200.

The install instructions are downloadable from:
www.bazooka.com/pdf/current/145L_instruction_Last_rev.pdf (Cut and past whole into your browser to get the auto-download pdf. Otherwise, it won't open at all)
And is HTML viewable through:
Powered by Google Docs


It uses connectors to plug into the basic headunit, no RCA connectors required.


What would be good door speakers to match with the Bazooka and still work with the 40 x 4 stock headunit output to give mid and upper sound?

The stock speakers are:
Front 6.75" (or so)
Rear 6.5"

6.5 speakers should fit in both and 4Ω will work just fine.

 

[Parkers09xB]

In my xB I have...

Head Unit: Pioneer T1808 (Base '09)

Front doors: Alpine SPS-600C speakers. Installed by CarToys (for various reasons at the time, but will never go back). Yes, they have more power than what the stock '09 head unit can dish out, but I think they do great! Every aspect of the music was improved after the installation. Got them off eBay brand new for an unbelievable price.

Rear doors: Alpine SPS-600 speakers. I installed these myself and it was easy. Just needed one washer for each speaker to avoid drilling new holes in the doors (Alpine mounting brackets were in the box and what I used to mount them). The sound was a big difference from the stock ones, but not as much as the front doors. At least by this point the quality in the front and back was matched, meaning the EQ was easier to set. Purchased from SonicElectronix.com.

**Again, the Alpine Type-S speakers are more powerful than what the T1808 can achieve, but I know I'm not the only xB2 driver that is happy with them.

Subwoofer: Bazooka BAT850FH. This is an 8" 50-watt powered subwoofer. I installed this myself using the included FAST-9999 harness that came with it. What that harness does, is for all the powered Bazooka tubes 100 watts or less, you can use it to hook up the sub directly to any factory head unit - no RCA cables needed, although it has those too. It is 6 wires that connect to the front left speaker (+/-), front right speaker (+/-), radio ignition, and radio 12v. The FAST-9999 plug doesn't require a power wire going to the battery, but you still ground it like any other amp. The other end is a quick-connect plug that goes directly into the back of the tube. For the price I paid I'm more than happy. The sound level is right where I want it with the perfect amount of smoothness. Bass is controlled with the Bass level on the head unit, and the level knob on the tube (head unit @ +3, tube @ about 2 o'clock sounds best in my opinion for all types of music). Some will definitely want more bass, in which I'd recommend the 100 watt tube which comes in 6.5", 8", and 10" models. As for taking up cargo space, just unhook the two straps wrapped around the tube, pull the power cable out, and lift it out. Picked this up at Crutchfield.com and used a coupon I found online.

I'm extremely happy with my sound system! I think it sounds great and I get compliments on it all the time.

 

[Chrevis]

If you're looking at putting a sub back there, then that Bazooka one you posted would be the only one that would fit in your criteria.

 

[Hellen4Wheels]

I have that Bazooka 8" 100 watt stealth unit for the cargo area and it rocks! Since it plugs directly into the HU, it drives all the speakers. There is an adjustment on the sub and you can adjust the levels on the HU. I love it!

 

[TartanJack]

I'm thinking of this thread as for the many quiet readers looking for ideas for simple audio improvements on a tight budget, not just me. Keep ideas coming- the more the better . . . !


So, the Bazooka amp/woofer is ideal bass for the T1808 basic Scion headunit. GREAT!
Now, what door speakers match it well?
Those who already have the Bazooka side-mount, what ya'll tried and how does the sound balance?

 

[JRINCON17]

So let me get this straight, if we add the zooka, it powers the other speakers cause of the amp correct?

 

[Hellen4Wheels]

I have the Polk db 6.5" speakers in all four doors. They had very little bass, but a good mid-range before the sub/amp. Now, they rock the lower range as well. You can see them rocking since I have them installed with their own grills instead of behind the plastic door covers. The Bazooka cargo sub/amp plugs directly into the HU then the original harness plugs into the back of it.

 

[JRINCON17]

Hellen you should sell zooka for a living ! Im sold

 

[alfundo]

I believe what Helen is saying, and I agree, is that the sub doesn't power the speakers but the sub opens up the speakers so you hear much crisper mid and high range since they are no longer muddied by the bass...that was my experience anyway. i have yet to try any other door speakers. the amp only powers the sub.

 

[JRINCON17]

sounded like the other way, hellen??????