What's the best way to get the whole stereo system to sound better? I got rid of my 2008 BMW 535i with Harmon Kardon to get my 2008 TL w/Nav and the sound is less than stellar. I don't want a sub in the trunk (need every inch of trunk space) and I don't need it to sound amazing, just something to make it sound better than it does without breaking the bank.
Any basic suggestions that really work?
Thanks

 

I suggest 2 ways that will be relatively cheap:

1) Hook up an aftermarket amp to the stock speakers/sub.

2) Replace all OEM speakers, and keep stock amp.

People might not agree with the 2 options above, but they will improve your audio.

Here's the more expensive but preferred method:

1) Replace all OEM speakers + add an aftermarket amp.

 

Thanks for the input! Is there a certain kind of aftermarket amp seems to be working the best for the TL? What about speakers? How do you hook an amp up to the factory head unit? Is there some sort of adapter for that?

 

The factory amp is located in the P/F kick panel. Regarding amps, there are too many "good" ones to name.

Maybe others will chime in with their input?

 

Are the speakers in the rear deck 6x9s or 6x8s? I'm giving thought to replacing all OEMs with Infinity speakers, and different websites have indicated different things about what size fits better! I also think the OEM sub bottoms out at midlevel volumes... Is it just me?

 

The OEM speakers, including sub, definitely aren't as good as aftermarket. But, for average people, it should be fine. Those of us who are more of the audiophile type, can definitely use an improvement.

But, you might be pleasantly surprised by adding an aftermarket amp to the stock speakers.

 

amping the stock speakers would blow them

Those things are rated @ 13 watts i believe.

 

Adjusting the gains should fix that.

 

I'm running a JL 6 channel amp to my stock rear speakers and you would be amazed just how loud they get and how much clarity improved. If you want them loud you have to cross them around 110hz but you can go much louder than stock with them crossed at 60hz. I've been putting nearly 4x the factory power through them for over a year with no problems. I fully planned on upgrading but after hearing them with an amp there's no need to, at least for the rear fill.

 

There's a ton of info on this site for each question you've asked. The short answer is 6.5" in the doors and rear deck. 8" sub in the deck, 3.5" center, and 1" (I think) tweeters. Doesn't really matter with the tweets as there's plenty room for whatever you want. Most decent aftermarket speakers will require a little cutting of the doors with some mdf rings to make them fit.

 

Big thanks for the assist, hate.

 

Get a JL amp, I have 300/4 and then components front and back whichever you like. Also JL 3.5 for center channel is pretty awesome. JL amp is a must.