Replacing ONLY the HU in Monsoon system?
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Replacing ONLY the HU in Monsoon system? I read the FAQ, plenty of stuff on replacing the speakers, but nothing about replacing just the head unit. I used to compete in MECA SQ competitions but have since hung it up, and put the Monsoon stuff back in. I'm wanting to do a slow build up starting with the HU, then adding an amp and a set of components up front later, then adding a small sub at the end. So for now, just the source will be replaced. Looking as swapping out the Monsoon for a Kenwood EZ-500 as the red lighting will look right at home in the 'bird's dash, and I've had great luck with Kenwood in the past. Are the factory speakers going to sound like crap with the head unit swapped out or will it be just as good as the factory Monsoon head unit?
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Since you're still using the monsoon amp & speakers, I would think it would sound similar, if not better. Aftermarket radios have better amplifier sections, and output a cleaner signal.
About a month ago I replaced just the HU with an kenwood. The sound was fine, but I wasn't happy with the stock speakers. Ended up doing it right and replacing all.
About a month ago I replaced just the HU with an kenwood. The sound was fine, but I wasn't happy with the stock speakers. Ended up doing it right and replacing all.
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From: Eastern MA
Originally Posted by josh99ta
I read the FAQ, plenty of stuff on replacing the speakers, but nothing about replacing just the head unit.
Installation Parts For A Aftermarket Head Unit
..or #9:
Stock Wiring Color Codes
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I did read those. I know I can hook one up. I dont need to know that part.
I need to know how it will perform (better, worse, or equal to the stock head unit). Since the Monsoon setup is a package, and it sends some internal power to certain speakers and not through the amp (front tweeters), I was wondering how it would sound. If its the same or better I'll make the swap. If there will be a lose of quality (if you can call the stock Monsoon that) then I wont bother.
I need to know how it will perform (better, worse, or equal to the stock head unit). Since the Monsoon setup is a package, and it sends some internal power to certain speakers and not through the amp (front tweeters), I was wondering how it would sound. If its the same or better I'll make the swap. If there will be a lose of quality (if you can call the stock Monsoon that) then I wont bother.
Originally Posted by josh99ta
Are the factory speakers going to sound like crap with the head unit swapped out or will it be just as good as the factory Monsoon head unit?
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From: Greensboro, NC
I replaced my hu with an alpine and have no complaints. Sounds a little better (though some say that you won't tell any difference). Depends on the quality of the hu. I personally like the monsoon system (considering its factory), but I like the system better with the new hu. If you have steering wheel controls, then you've probably already read about the kit to make them work with aftermarket radios. Different sites sell them along with some of the larger local electronic stores (best buy, circuit city, etc.)
