Which Speakers? - LotusTalk

the1sen · 01-04-2009, 03:27 PM

Ok -

So I have narrowed my choices in speakers down to 2 brands.

1st choice - I understand that these will fit without issue.

$48.95 - Front: JL AUDIO TR400-CXi 4"
$94.95 - Rears: JL Audio VR525-CXi 5.25"

2nd choice - I have not heard of anyone with these in their Lotus...

$71.95 - Front: INFINITY KAPPA 42.9I CAR 2-WAY 4"
$69.95 - Rears: INFINITY KAPPA 52.9I CAR AUDIO 5.25"

I do not want a crazy system - just something audible with decent sound (unlike what's in there now).

I plan to run the speakers with an Alpine CDA-9887 head unit and eventually get some kind of sub in there.

Any suggestions/help would be much appreciated.

codymac · 01-04-2009, 04:21 PM

I run a CDA-9887 and Focal 100CV1/130CV1.

I'd suggest looking at jim-clayton's adapter rings and going with 5.25" in the front as well.

FS: Adaptor rings for 5-1/4" front speaker install

JL makes a Stealthbox that fits in the passenger footwell.

Search is your friend since there's lots of different installs.

Westrock's:
Stereo Install (Wire Harness Diagram / Focal / Alpine / iPod pictures)

apk919's:
600W Audio Power Coming To An Exige S Near You

cbfischer · 01-04-2009, 04:22 PM

I installed the 4" focals with the piviting tweeting in the front, and they were a huge improvement.

the1sen · 01-04-2009, 04:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by codymac

I run a CDA-9887 and Focal 100CV1/130CV1.

I'd suggest looking at jim-clayton's adapter rings and going with 5.25" in the front as well.

FS: Adaptor rings for 5-1/4" front speaker install

JL makes a Stealthbox that fits in the passenger footwell.

Search is your friend since there's lots of different installs.

Westrock's:
Stereo Install (Wire Harness Diagram / Focal / Alpine / iPod pictures)

apk919's:
600W Audio Power Coming To An Exige S Near You

Thanks so much for Jim's 411... I was looking for that.

I found a couple of installs from the search that I really liked. Especially this one:

Obsessive-Compulsive Tweeter Install

But there were a few details missing and hence my post...

I was looking at the Infinity's because of the low impedance (easily driven with head unit) and bright yet not-fatiguing sound. The JL Audio's are the ones I know will definitely fit.

Anyway, thank you for the response.

V-RAPTOR · 01-04-2009, 04:34 PM

+1 on Jim's ring then go JL Audio VR525-CXi 5.25" all around that's what I did and love them, sound and look.

the1sen · 01-04-2009, 04:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by V-RAPTOR

+1 on Jim's ring then go JL Audio VR525-CXi 5.25" all around that's what I did and love them, sound and look.

I would go for the Focals but they are somewhat pricey.

Wish I could get the Infinity's and eliminate the whole amp situation.

Are you running an amp?

V-RAPTOR · 01-04-2009, 05:03 PM

NO not as of yet. Still running the factory head unit. I am first going to change the head unit then decide if I want to run an amp.

the1sen · 01-04-2009, 05:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by V-RAPTOR

NO not as of yet. Still running the factory head unit. I am first going to change the head unit then decide if I want to run an amp.

Awesome. Can you hear the music now without the amp and just a speaker swap?

Yes, I understand that just swapping to an Alpine HU will make a dramatic improvement.

I'm not willing to do it all at once, so speakers 1st, HU, then later on the Stealthbox and an amp for the sub.

I just ordered the speaker rings from Jim. Hope to have them soon.

the1sen · 01-04-2009, 06:37 PM

Well, I just bought 2 pairs of JL Audio TR525-CXi speakers and Jim's Speaker Rings.

Thanks everyone. I will post back with photos!

plastique999 · 01-04-2009, 06:43 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by V-RAPTOR

+1 on Jim's ring then go JL Audio VR525-CXi 5.25" all around that's what I did and love them, sound and look.

+1 ... I have this exact set up, but with an Alpine 4 channel amp.

I would suggest getting a subwoofer as well...

Noisycow · 01-04-2009, 10:07 PM

All the above options are too expensive. I say go with Kraco.

the1sen · 01-05-2009, 04:23 AM

Kraco was highly recommended.

However, I think I would leave out the speakers/stereo altogether to save weight if I were to go that route.

the1sen · 01-07-2009, 07:41 PM

so, i just got my Jim Clayton's rings and JL Audio speakers but they wont fit. i took out the metal piece... do i have to dremel a portion of the dash away? anyone have photos?

thanks in advance for the help

Lotusmotion · 01-07-2009, 08:55 PM

I did a speaker swap (from Blaupunkts to Alpines), added a powered sub, added an iPod adapter / controller, kept the factory head unit (I found it to be pretty decent once properly dialed in), and added a remote control.

It is now far far better than the OEM set up, has respectable bass and plenty of power, the upgrades did nor break the bank, and I actually enjoy listening to the stereo now.

V-RAPTOR · 01-08-2009, 02:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by the1sen

so, i just got my Jim Clayton's rings and JL Audio speakers but they wont fit. i took out the metal piece... do i have to dremel a portion of the dash away? anyone have photos?

thanks in advance for the help

Ya you need to get rid of some of the foam. I do not have pictures showing this though.
You just need to remove a little bit, then make sure you spin the speakers to find where they best clear the air ducts, they will drop in then you are good to go.
FYI mine are in so that the JL symbol is at a 45 degree angle not straight on. This was how mine best fit clearing the air ducts.

apexdc · 01-08-2009, 02:35 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by V-RAPTOR

+1 on Jim's ring then go JL Audio VR525-CXi 5.25" all around that's what I did and love them, sound and look.

What he said!! +1

The rings are beautifully made and install easily. The speakers sound great and Jim's a great guy to deal with! What more could you ask for?

FYI, I used a Swiss Army knife with a stubby blade and sort of stab/pried chunks of foam out. That went fast on my car. It was the fastest of several alternatives. I also used lots of fiberfill and it seemed to work for me. I guess there might be mixed feelings on that.

the1sen · 01-08-2009, 02:53 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by V-RAPTOR

Ya you need to get rid of some of the foam. I do not have pictures showing this though.
You just need to remove a little bit, then make sure you spin the speakers to find where they best clear the air ducts, they will drop in then you are good to go.
FYI mine are in so that the JL symbol is at a 45 degree angle not straight on. This was how mine best fit clearing the air ducts.

Dude, you so rock.

I am going to do it this weekend. I will take some photos for the benefit of those who wish to do this in the future as well.

Thank you so much.

V-RAPTOR · 01-08-2009, 03:52 PM

One more thing in case you did not know when you install the rears you will also need to remove some foam if you have the touring pack.

This foam is way easier to remove then the front. I just made an "X" with a razor blade and then pulled bits off with my hand.

Good luck hope you enjoy the JL's!

apexdc · 01-08-2009, 04:02 PM

V-Raptor, I have installed 5.25 JL's in the front and have them ready to go for the rear. I think the stock ones in the rear are 6". Does the JL grill and all work ok?

Thanks!

V-RAPTOR · 01-08-2009, 04:09 PM

The stock in the back are 5.25 and the 5.25 JL's will fit right in with a small modification to the foam on touring pack cars.
Yes the JL gill with work.

FYI you are going to have to remove the passenger side seat in order to install rear speaker on that side.

All in all very easy swap out for the rears.

01-04-2009, 03:27 PM	#1 (permalink)
the1sen The Azteks are coming! Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: In The Ghetto... Ghetto of Phoenix AZ Posts: 1,566	Which Speakers? Ok - So I have narrowed my choices in speakers down to 2 brands. 1st choice - I understand that these will fit without issue. $48.95 - Front: JL AUDIO TR400-CXi 4" $94.95 - Rears: JL Audio VR525-CXi 5.25" 2nd choice - I have not heard of anyone with these in their Lotus... $71.95 - Front: INFINITY KAPPA 42.9I CAR 2-WAY 4" $69.95 - Rears: INFINITY KAPPA 52.9I CAR AUDIO 5.25" I do not want a crazy system - just something audible with decent sound (unlike what's in there now). I plan to run the speakers with an Alpine CDA-9887 head unit and eventually get some kind of sub in there. Any suggestions/help would be much appreciated. __________________ The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. F The System - ChuforiaGraffix.com SweetDaddyDelicious(at)hotmail(dot)com

01-04-2009, 04:21 PM	#2 (permalink)
codymac short angry bloke Join Date: Nov 2005 Location: where the east tapers out and the west begins Posts: 9,260 Images: 19	I run a CDA-9887 and Focal 100CV1/130CV1. I'd suggest looking at jim-clayton's adapter rings and going with 5.25" in the front as well. FS: Adaptor rings for 5-1/4" front speaker install JL makes a Stealthbox that fits in the passenger footwell. Search is your friend since there's lots of different installs. Westrock's: Stereo Install (Wire Harness Diagram / Focal / Alpine / iPod pictures) apk919's: 600W Audio Power Coming To An Exige S Near You __________________ torque (tôrk) n. - an excuse for the lack of momentum. - let's bring back CanAm & Group B! - have you hugged your Exige today? I'm currently working on my performance driving merit badge. There's always somebody faster, sometimes it's me.

01-04-2009, 04:22 PM	#3 (permalink)
cbfischer Registered User Join Date: Feb 2007 Posts: 93	Focal I installed the 4" focals with the piviting tweeting in the front, and they were a huge improvement. __________________ 2006 Elise, LSS - Seattle, WA

01-04-2009, 04:34 PM	#5 (permalink)
V-RAPTOR STARLIGHT Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: NOVA (Winchester) Posts: 663	+1 on Jim's ring then go JL Audio VR525-CXi 5.25" all around that's what I did and love them, sound and look. __________________ 2005 Starlight Black Biscuit Interior // Hard Top // Von Hep Exhaust // Von Hep Rear Delete // Full Heat Shield Removed // Fujita CAI // Rota Torque Wheels W/ Toyo R1R's // ForceFed Carbon Fiber Splitter // Carbon Fiber Engine lid cover // LidBone // JL Audio VR525-CXi Front and Rear // Micro Mirror // Painted interior bits // Bling Buttons // Darth Holder

01-04-2009, 05:03 PM	#7 (permalink)
V-RAPTOR STARLIGHT Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: NOVA (Winchester) Posts: 663	NO not as of yet. Still running the factory head unit. I am first going to change the head unit then decide if I want to run an amp. __________________ 2005 Starlight Black Biscuit Interior // Hard Top // Von Hep Exhaust // Von Hep Rear Delete // Full Heat Shield Removed // Fujita CAI // Rota Torque Wheels W/ Toyo R1R's // ForceFed Carbon Fiber Splitter // Carbon Fiber Engine lid cover // LidBone // JL Audio VR525-CXi Front and Rear // Micro Mirror // Painted interior bits // Bling Buttons // Darth Holder

01-04-2009, 06:37 PM	#9 (permalink)
the1sen The Azteks are coming! Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: In The Ghetto... Ghetto of Phoenix AZ Posts: 1,566	Well, I just bought 2 pairs of JL Audio TR525-CXi speakers and Jim's Speaker Rings. Thanks everyone. I will post back with photos! __________________ The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. F The System - ChuforiaGraffix.com SweetDaddyDelicious(at)hotmail(dot)com

01-04-2009, 10:07 PM	#11 (permalink)
Noisycow Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Posts: 1,468	All the above options are too expensive. I say go with Kraco.

01-05-2009, 04:23 AM	#12 (permalink)
the1sen The Azteks are coming! Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: In The Ghetto... Ghetto of Phoenix AZ Posts: 1,566	Kraco was highly recommended. However, I think I would leave out the speakers/stereo altogether to save weight if I were to go that route. __________________ The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. F The System - ChuforiaGraffix.com SweetDaddyDelicious(at)hotmail(dot)com

01-07-2009, 07:41 PM	#13 (permalink)
the1sen The Azteks are coming! Join Date: Nov 2008 Location: In The Ghetto... Ghetto of Phoenix AZ Posts: 1,566	so, i just got my Jim Clayton's rings and JL Audio speakers but they wont fit. i took out the metal piece... do i have to dremel a portion of the dash away? anyone have photos? thanks in advance for the help __________________ The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. F The System - ChuforiaGraffix.com SweetDaddyDelicious(at)hotmail(dot)com

01-07-2009, 08:55 PM	#14 (permalink)
Lotusmotion Keep it simple and real Join Date: Mar 2006 Location: Southern California Posts: 926	I did a speaker swap (from Blaupunkts to Alpines), added a powered sub, added an iPod adapter / controller, kept the factory head unit (I found it to be pretty decent once properly dialed in), and added a remote control. It is now far far better than the OEM set up, has respectable bass and plenty of power, the upgrades did nor break the bank, and I actually enjoy listening to the stereo now. __________________ '06 Exige - Ph. Black/Touring/Track/LSD/TC/SS. Mods: corner balanced - RTD brace - Manly's inserts - decambered - Pagid Blacks - Motul fluid - tow hooks - Schroth belts - extinguisher - AIM timer - Green Filter - Larini - oil temp & pressure gauges - AO48s & Rotas on track - T1Rs & OEM wheels on street - rear camera & monitor - Stebel horn - speakers upgraded, sub & iPod controller - DRL disable switch - aux. fuse panel - sill pockets - leather console - Bootie - roof scoop functional.

01-08-2009, 03:52 PM	#18 (permalink)
V-RAPTOR STARLIGHT Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: NOVA (Winchester) Posts: 663	One more thing in case you did not know when you install the rears you will also need to remove some foam if you have the touring pack. This foam is way easier to remove then the front. I just made an "X" with a razor blade and then pulled bits off with my hand. Good luck hope you enjoy the JL's! __________________ 2005 Starlight Black Biscuit Interior // Hard Top // Von Hep Exhaust // Von Hep Rear Delete // Full Heat Shield Removed // Fujita CAI // Rota Torque Wheels W/ Toyo R1R's // ForceFed Carbon Fiber Splitter // Carbon Fiber Engine lid cover // LidBone // JL Audio VR525-CXi Front and Rear // Micro Mirror // Painted interior bits // Bling Buttons // Darth Holder

01-08-2009, 04:02 PM	#19 (permalink)
apexdc From close to Roswell.... Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Palm Springs, CA Posts: 428	V-Raptor, I have installed 5.25 JL's in the front and have them ready to go for the rear. I think the stock ones in the rear are 6". Does the JL grill and all work ok? Thanks! __________________ 2006 Elise, Graphite Grey/Red leather, Sport Elise Suspension, Hardtop 1992 900SS Ducati Race Spec Built by Ferracci 2006 KTM 950 SuperMoto, a work in progress Wife drives a 2007 Cooper S, our BIG car! Old stuff gone: Ferrari 275GTB/4, '69 1275 Cooper S. '72 500 Fiat, old Jags, etc. Never bought a boring car.

01-08-2009, 04:09 PM	#20 (permalink)
V-RAPTOR STARLIGHT Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: NOVA (Winchester) Posts: 663	The stock in the back are 5.25 and the 5.25 JL's will fit right in with a small modification to the foam on touring pack cars. Yes the JL gill with work. FYI you are going to have to remove the passenger side seat in order to install rear speaker on that side. All in all very easy swap out for the rears. __________________ 2005 Starlight Black Biscuit Interior // Hard Top // Von Hep Exhaust // Von Hep Rear Delete // Full Heat Shield Removed // Fujita CAI // Rota Torque Wheels W/ Toyo R1R's // ForceFed Carbon Fiber Splitter // Carbon Fiber Engine lid cover // LidBone // JL Audio VR525-CXi Front and Rear // Micro Mirror // Painted interior bits // Bling Buttons // Darth Holder

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