1st review - 06 ZR Installation
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From: San Jose
1st review - 06 ZR Installation
So it took me months of researching and agonizing but I finally decided on a new system for my 06 ZR Enthusiast and was fortunate enough to get a slot with Simplicity in Sound. I appreciate all the messages posted in this forum, you all helped educate me significantly. You can see photos of the install at the following link: https://my350z.com/forum/audio-builds/298323-a-basic-sq-install-in-a-z-roadster.html
Summary - I couldn't be happier. I've only had a short time in the car this weekend but for the first time I can actually listen to music, hear the words and the notes while sailing down 101 and 17 at 70mph. The steering wheel controls are a bit clunky - oh well. There's plenty of volume and good depth of sound. The music doesn't get muddy or distorted at comfortable listening levels. Much to my surprise, the sound is well centered. I thought that having the speakers in the kicks by my feet would be a questionable decision but it worked out well. I do miss having the dead pedal and will have to adjust to that over time. The Alpine interface isn't perfect but like anything else, once you use it enough, it becomes natural and not a problem.
About working with Simplicity in Sound. In a word, Awesome. Glad I waited for an opening in Bing's schedule. I didn't have the time or inclination to do it myself and I know based on other's comments here and his previous work that I don't need to worry about the quality of the install or attention to detail. He worked with me to pick up the car while I was traveling on business and had the installation done when I returned. Simple.
Now the story - if you're so inclined.
This is my daily driver and third convertible so I'm all too familiar with systems that just can't deliver the quality sound at volume. I specifically went with a ZR Enthusiast because I knew I would install a new sound system and I didn't want leather in a convertible.
My objective was to be able to listen to everything from classical and jazz to rock and the blues while driving with the top down at high speeds. I didn't want a system for show and I wasn't looking for something that would qualify as audiophile - it's really not possible in a convertible (IMHO) and that's what my home system is for. I also wanted a minimally visible install and to take as little space as possible. The amp fit perfectly in the glove box. All I had in there was the owner's manual and I can relocate that. I really didn't want anything in the trunk where I need every inch of space for weekend trips with my wife. I really liked the kick panel install of the front speakers. I know from experience what happens to speakers in the doors of convertibles. It's really a lousy place to install them.
The equipment
Alpine 9885 - I selected this because after testing in various stores, I could handle the ipod interface, it had the specs and good reviews (crutchfield), I liked the display, and I've had prior good experience with Alpine. I also considered the Pioneer which had the advantage of built in bluetooth but didn't like the looks or the interface.
Speakers - DLS reference MS6 6.5" two way components, they reside in my fiberglass kicks - I could have selected higher end speakers but these were in line with my objectives.
What I know about car subwoofers and amps couldn't fill a thumbnail so in the end I went with Bing's recommendations. I have no regrets here.
Subwoofer - single image dynamics ID10 sub is mounted in a wickedcas magic roadster box -
Amp - DLS classic (entry level) CA51 5 channel amp.
Bottom line, all objectives met. Final total cost close to $2200. Could you do the same for less? Yes. I purchased the h/u from Crutchfield and they're not the cheapest but they have top notch customer service. The other components could probably be had for less as well. And of course, if you do your own install you'll save but I'm really happy with my decisions.
sdl13
Silverstone 06 ZR Enthusiast
Summary - I couldn't be happier. I've only had a short time in the car this weekend but for the first time I can actually listen to music, hear the words and the notes while sailing down 101 and 17 at 70mph. The steering wheel controls are a bit clunky - oh well. There's plenty of volume and good depth of sound. The music doesn't get muddy or distorted at comfortable listening levels. Much to my surprise, the sound is well centered. I thought that having the speakers in the kicks by my feet would be a questionable decision but it worked out well. I do miss having the dead pedal and will have to adjust to that over time. The Alpine interface isn't perfect but like anything else, once you use it enough, it becomes natural and not a problem.
About working with Simplicity in Sound. In a word, Awesome. Glad I waited for an opening in Bing's schedule. I didn't have the time or inclination to do it myself and I know based on other's comments here and his previous work that I don't need to worry about the quality of the install or attention to detail. He worked with me to pick up the car while I was traveling on business and had the installation done when I returned. Simple.
Now the story - if you're so inclined.
This is my daily driver and third convertible so I'm all too familiar with systems that just can't deliver the quality sound at volume. I specifically went with a ZR Enthusiast because I knew I would install a new sound system and I didn't want leather in a convertible.
My objective was to be able to listen to everything from classical and jazz to rock and the blues while driving with the top down at high speeds. I didn't want a system for show and I wasn't looking for something that would qualify as audiophile - it's really not possible in a convertible (IMHO) and that's what my home system is for. I also wanted a minimally visible install and to take as little space as possible. The amp fit perfectly in the glove box. All I had in there was the owner's manual and I can relocate that. I really didn't want anything in the trunk where I need every inch of space for weekend trips with my wife. I really liked the kick panel install of the front speakers. I know from experience what happens to speakers in the doors of convertibles. It's really a lousy place to install them.
The equipment
Alpine 9885 - I selected this because after testing in various stores, I could handle the ipod interface, it had the specs and good reviews (crutchfield), I liked the display, and I've had prior good experience with Alpine. I also considered the Pioneer which had the advantage of built in bluetooth but didn't like the looks or the interface.
Speakers - DLS reference MS6 6.5" two way components, they reside in my fiberglass kicks - I could have selected higher end speakers but these were in line with my objectives.
What I know about car subwoofers and amps couldn't fill a thumbnail so in the end I went with Bing's recommendations. I have no regrets here.
Subwoofer - single image dynamics ID10 sub is mounted in a wickedcas magic roadster box -
Amp - DLS classic (entry level) CA51 5 channel amp.
Bottom line, all objectives met. Final total cost close to $2200. Could you do the same for less? Yes. I purchased the h/u from Crutchfield and they're not the cheapest but they have top notch customer service. The other components could probably be had for less as well. And of course, if you do your own install you'll save but I'm really happy with my decisions.
sdl13
Silverstone 06 ZR Enthusiast
thanks bud 
it was a pleasure working with you as well, though i have to say it was amusing showing up at your house and having your wife hand over the keys to a 30k car to a total stranger (to her) hehehe...i should try that more often when i catch a ferrari in a drive way or something 
it was a pleasure working with you as well, though i have to say it was amusing showing up at your house and having your wife hand over the keys to a 30k car to a total stranger (to her) hehehe...i should try that more often when i catch a ferrari in a drive way or something
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