mthake

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It's not even a Monsoon! The factory Stereo in my Convertible is terrible. I want to keep it as stock as possible.

Is there any way to upgrade while not changing the audio characteristics of a stock stereo. Such as the Monsoon or Bose?

mthake

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You can see the rear speaker location, not many options available here..

Avaric3

iTrader: (3)

You don't want to change the "audio characteristics of the stock stereo"?

Then don't change the stock stereo...

What exactly is it that you don't like and wut parts do you like?

WhiteBird00

iTrader: (4)

That car has a Monsoon system. Otherwise, it would not have separate tweeters in the doors. All 2000-2002 Firebird convertibles came with the Monsoon as standard equipment. You will find option code X20 on your door label.

mthake

well, that's good news. I guess they just don't have the Monsoon logo on the radio anymore? Are there amps located with the car? I think this car may have had a custom stereo installed previously, and it was removed to sell... I need to investigate to see if its hooked up properly. I do have the X20

Anyways, if that's the case, I'm probably needing new speakers. I cannot turn up the base, as the speakers will start to pop and or vibrate.

And on the previous question. I like to stock appearance, the steering wheel controls, and a good factory stereo sound.

02DroptopZ

iTrader: (3)

Google "Kee Audio", they used to be a sponsor here and I think they still are.. They make a very nice quality replacement speaker package specifically for convertibles.

mthake

I checked them out and look good. How can I verify that I have a true Monsoon stereo? It says Delco Pontiac, where Monsoon is typically displayed. I just wonder if a cheap replacement was thrown in there to sell it.. not to mention the monsoon amp, where is that located?

02DroptopZ

iTrader: (3)

I believe all T/A’s came standard with a Monsoon system. Strangely, I don't think any T/A's had the Monsoon label (same exact unit, just no label).

To find the amp, pop your trunk, remove the spare tire cover (the trunk lining to the right), and take a peek up past your antenna motor. There should be a big black box tucked up there somewhere, I believe they all say DELCO on them in big letters.

mthake

Found it! So, with the amp in place, and the unmarked radio, I'm assuming I have the Monsoon system.

So, let me ask the professionals. When I put in on the rear speakers, they sound decent, but no base, only mids and highs.

When I put it on the fronts, there is too much base, and they rattle something fierce. Sounds as if their blown.

Let me add, there is some evidence of a high end stereo. there are holes in the rear trunk floor (4 for an amp bolted down) Some additional grommets in the firewall, and some suspect grounding screws...

any thoughts?

02DroptopZ

iTrader: (3)

That sounds typical for a worn out monsoon system. The rear speakers on a vert are crap to begin with, and blowing front speakers in these cars is very common.. Just more of a reason to upgrade to some quality stuff

Avaric3

iTrader: (3)

that makes your life so much easier cuz running your power wire for an amp through the firewall is the most annoying part of the install aside from general wiring

mthake

I'm gonna bite the bullet, this thing is too nice not to have a good sounding stereo. So, what is the recommendation? I'm not good with the ohm thing. But I do know that standard speakers sound like crap on a stock stereo...

Would factory replacements be a mistake?

will GM Bose speakers be an option?

99Bluz28

iTrader: (35)

I'd do the Kee Audio CDT speaker upgrade, if you're staying with the factory stereo.

mthake

Just ordered the Kee Audio Level 2 Convertible package. Can't wait!

mthake

Does anyone know how long shipping takes? I still haven't received the speakers...

Sladester2

iTrader: (1)

My T/a monsoon does say monsoon on it btw

baalic

iTrader: (8)

I thought mine did as well but I could be wrong, mines an 02

mthake

Thanks for your comments. I received the speakers yesterday and will be installing them today,, can't wait!

As for the Monsoon thing. Whether or not it says monsoon on the stereo, would it really matter? I'm thinking that monsoon label just depicted the monsoon amp in the car, which I have. As well, it depicted the component speakers on the doors... Just a thought.

Daniel Richards

iTrader: (1)

my understanding is the internals of the factory HU are the same regardless of whether it's a monsoon or regular, the difference is where the wires run to.

mthake

That's what I was thinking as well.

I got the speakers installed. The system was factory stock, with no butchered wiring.

I gotta say, I'm not that pleased. The Base is too harsh, it sounds like someone's hitting the car with the palm of their hand. I turn the eq down, and it sounds better. The driver side speaker sounds like there's loose change in the door panel. Is there something I'm missing?

I wired it pretty darn good. All factory connections were soldered onto the new speakers connections. The tweeters were pop riveted in place. Every connection was wired red to + and black to -.

any thoughts?