I recently installed my sound system and this post is just to share my comments about everything.

I installed an Eclipse 8454 head unit, MB Quart Premium components, an Arc Audio XXK-4150 amp bi-amped to my components, an Xtant 121m amp for my subs, and two Elemental Designs eu-700 7" subwoofers in a simple .35 cu ft box. The rear speakers have been disconnected. Surprisingly, both amps fit under the seats.

I would just like to say that the Z is NOT a very good car to install a sound system in. Half of what looks like the woofer speaker grill in the door panel is solid plastic and not perforated as it seems. I would believe that it would hinder a substantial amount of sound coming from the speaker by either blocking the sound, or distorting the sound. Also, the door panel is very poorly dampened. The only type of dampening the panel has is some cotton fabric, if that is even for acoustical purposes. The only good thing I noticed about the Z is that the door seems to be enclosed pretty good by a black metal plate. There is very few places for the air to escape.

The tweeter was stealthly installed behind the stock speaker location. The installers didnt want to cut out a new hole in the stock tweeter location because the tweeter housing was too big to fit in that small plastic triangle. So basically, I have a 1" tweeter projecting music through a 3/4" hole which I believe is also hindering my system.

After tuning my system for a little less than two hours last night, I am fairly pleased with the outcome. There were two huge spikes in the frequency range at 400 hz and 2.5khz. I dont know if that is due to the car itself, or the speakers. I hooked up the speakers to my home system (not enclosed) and it did not have any spikes, thus I am inclined to think that the frequency spikes are the car's fault. The components get really loud and stays clean. The sub doesnt slam, but it provides a decent amout of bass and really balances out the lower end of the system. the subs may struggle when I slam those lil jon tracks.

Well, that was my critique on the installation of my system. I am considering doing something about that speaker grill in the door panel; either cut it out and cover it with felt, or purchase those door pods. I'm not sure yet. Feel free to comment or provide advice so I can improve my sound.

 

The MBQ PCEs have a tiny magnet and you might have luck building custom MDF spacers (1/2" to 3/4") and try to reposisiont the hole within the spacer to move the speaker up and back to be better centered with the hole. Other than that, you may try drilling out the holes, or be like me and just drive around without tjhe covers on.