I'm thinking of upgrading my car stereo setup from the bose system. Problem is there aren't alot of reputable car shops in my area that sell quality car audio equipment. I went to several shops and they all recommend audiobahn subs and components. I've heard about their subs but I'm not too sure about their component systems. They say that I could power my whole system (subs, components, and rears) by runninng it with one memphis belle amplifier. They say they can do a custom sub box under the strut bar for me and that my whole system (subs, comps, rears, without swapping the HU) including all the equipment would cost about $1600. Guys do you all have any recommendations? Should I take them up on their offer?

 

Price sounds about right to me w/o the HU.

I know "zippo" about the componets you mention.

Other comments, guys?

 

I'm not very familiar with the audiobahn products as well. If you're going to put that much into the system, why not replace the HU? I assume they are planning on replacing the Bose wiring and they shouldn't charge you that much more for the labor to replace the HU. The cost of a new HU is a different story though. The amp should be good, depending on the model of course.

Overall, sounds like a good deal or cheap deal. Make sure the deal doesn't cut corners such as trying to use the existing Bose wiring. Not sure if using the existing Bose wiring is even possible (wires are so crappy). Also, make sure to go into their showroom and have a listen for yourself. It isn't going to sound exactly like it will in the car, but you should definetly take an ear full rather than taking their word for it.

 

Also, of the 1600, how much of it is on the hardware and how much on labor?

 

He's charging me about $400-450 on labor including building the brand new box. What do you think...does that sound about right? He says the car is kinda difficult to work in.

 

Again, can't really say much about audiobahn, but for install... Price is decent (relative to the cost around my area). There are of course some assumptions that I'm making:
tearing out all the Bose wiring
amp installed in stock sub location
sub box is good (for the price, you can't really expect much)

You might want to ask them about how they are going to connect the amp to the Bose. It isn't as simple as connecting the speakers/amp to the Bose HU. Take a look at the following thread and you will see what I'm referring to.
https://my350z.com/forum/showthread....threadid=58114