Is it possible to replace only the head unit of a 2006 base 350z? I don't really want to replace speakers or anything else (does the base model even come with an external amp? lol)

Basically I don't listen listen to much music anyways, since i'd rather listen to my engine sounds. However, when i do wanna listen to music, I want to listen to my ipod or mp3 cd's etc. So, what is the cheapest choice?

Thanks
AZ

 

You can, but for a little more money why not get new speakers with your new HU. The stock speakers are crap anyway, so they may not sound that great with a new HU. I went with a double din Kenwood HU, Kenwood AMP, and Focal speakers front and rear. No sub, not needed. Good luck with your decision.

 

Thanks arsey51!

It's just that I might be selling the car in a little bit (not sure yet) so I don't wanna invest too much in it right now. Also, I'm the kind of person that if I decide to do something, I usually go all out and not get anything not top of the line. So, I probably will just get some cheapo <$50 headunit that has aux in for those rare musical moments.

 

nothing wrong with that. i replace the HU and added a 5 channel amp and it sounded sick with the stock speakers

 

the amp wasn't necessary though, was it?

 

^nope. we jus installed it cus we had a spare alpine amp lying around. but i currently only have HU in my g and it sounds great also. i installed a amp for my sub for when i wanna hear bass ut most times i turn the sub off

 

awesome thanks!

 

I was just about to post the exact same question aaronz8. I guess you beat me to it.... haha.

 

i was going to ask this question also and am a complete audio noob

so if i replace my factory non-bose head unit with an aftermarket head unit, will it still retain the same sound quality? i just want something where i can listen to my ipod

 

Changing the base radio will give you better sound quality....but only slightly.

That was the first thing I did to my 07 base model. If you like anything remotely close to actual sound quality you will definitely want to replace the stock door speakers. It's well worth the money and time to install them.

 

glad to help those with questions and thanks everyone with answers!

 

Here’s the deal: If you place the stock Clarion H/U (standard in the Base 350z), you get slightly better sound quality, and of course add the features in your new H/U.

The stock Clarion H/U is awful. You cannot buy anything worse, so you will have an improvement. An upgrade path after adding the new H/U is (1) replacing the front component speakers and (2) adding an external amp.

Your speaker selection depends upon whther or not you add an external amp.

Here is an image of the Clarion midrange in the front door.



The cone is paper, and the speaker cannot handle > 40 watts. It’s a piece of junk. No wonder it sounds awful.

--Spike