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Like most of you, i don't want to lose any functionality with the OEM system while integrating the stereo with upgrades. (Back in the day i had a full Boston Acoustics Pro Series .5 system in my Integra then TL, all powered by a Soundstream Ref 705 amp. Then later a JL Audio HD 900 amp...those were the days). Now im older and dont want to do that level of work or spend the amount of money.
About a year ago i found this post and Phantom's site. I finally pulled the trigger for my 2018 TLX last week by purchasing the following:
- Full Elite series modification of the OEM amp (drop in swap)
- Audible Physics wide band midrange driver for center channel (modified by Jesse to drop into OEM mount)
- Phantom Audio Extendre Tweeters for Acura (modification required in OEM pillars and soldering of CAP - Jesse offers soldering service to make them plug and play as well if you ship to him. I did forgo it since im able to solder)
I didn't get Jesse's sub package at this time, though might in the future. Below is a few install and modification pics from myself and Jesse at Phantom Audio.
Center channel: Audible Physics (top), OEM (bottom) - from Jesse Audible Physics integrated into OEM center channel bracket - from Jesse The grill from the audible physics doesn't allow the speaker to sit as flush with the OEM cover. Though not an issue, just dont over tighten the screws! Amp mods completed - from Jesse OEM tweeter and pillar - 3 small tabs hold it in place OEM tweeter removed (right) next to Phantom Audio's Extendre tweeter (left) Due to size and depth of the Phantom Audio tweeter, it requires trimming of the OEM plastic mount. I used m Dremel, speed set to about 20k - wear safety goggles and blow out dust with can of air Not pictured here was before i sand papered the edges and covered it with harness tape. Capacitor soldered to my home made speaker harness Completed new tweeter connections
Ive only spent amount an hour testing system, though i can say BIG difference in quality. Ill post an update in about a week, as i tend to do alot of driving to/from work and will have chan to really test out the system.
Great write-up and photos! Jesse did my system in May of this year (elite series amp, center and A-pillar speakers). If you're happy now just wait until you get through his recommended burn-in time. Like you I'd "been there and done that" with audio systems in prior cars and didn't feel like messing around, whereas Jesse's products are well proven and tailor made for Honda/Acura cars. Folks can spend more money on other solutions, but Jesse understand the ELS capabilities and where improvements can be made. I was curious before the upgrade, and "sold" after going through his upgrades and hearing the results.
How's the bass sound after this? I just bought a 2018 TLX with the ELS audio and it's a bit lacking. I had Jesse do my amp and tweeters in my '05 TL which sounded great but I still used an aftermarket 10" sub in the trunk. Curious if I would need to install that sub in this TLX or if I can actually keep it more "stock".
How's the bass sound after this? I just bought a 2018 TLX with the ELS audio and it's a bit lacking. I had Jesse do my amp and tweeters in my '05 TL which sounded great but I still used an aftermarket 10" sub in the trunk. Curious if I would need to install that sub in this TLX or if I can actually keep it more "stock".
Im pretty happy with everything. About 4ish hrs into burn in period for the new amp parts and sound is only getting better. I had debated doing the subs (like my last few cars) but not seeing a reason to. Its good enough
In a few days ill post more pics and give another update
In my case I found that the upgrades provided as much (or more) bass than what I needed. That said, my tastes in music don't run towards "bass heavy". I was mostly interested in cleaning up the mid and higher ranges, and Phantom's products excelled in these areas. Toss in the fact that there are no visual, or functional changes to the car (no additional wiring and/or amp in trunk) and I got exactly what I wanted at very reasonable cost. To me, its all about what you're trying to accomplish.
As promised update: Listening has been around 5hrs and its sounds great. Would HIGHLY recommend this upgrade package to anyone.
Additionally, some more pics
Jesse informed me the center channel speaker grill easily comes off... So now it sits right Tweeter installed with my harness and cap for filtering. Modified stock tweeter mount with harness tape to protect tweeter from sharp/rough edges
