[Shotimes] A quick one for all the aftermarket stereo guys....

[Josh Salaets]

>>> Which components of the factory system is it that really limits sound
quality? Speakers, subwoofer or amplifiers? And what is the best sound
upgrade one can do with the most bang-for-the-buck?<<<

LOL!  This is a question that will generate as much controversy as asking
about what is the best tire for the SHO! : )

>From my experience, I'd have to say the headunit is the weak link in our
stereo systems.  My 95 came with the stock Ford cassette deck and no sub.  I
had already planned on getting a new head unit for the car before I picked
it up, so I tacked an additional $500 onto the loan.  The day after I picked
the car up, I bought a really nice Kenwood Excelon head unit and spent $10
on the wiring harness to connect it to the OEM wiring.

It was a real simple install, required no cutting or running of new wires,
and really improved the sound in the car.  At times I wish there was a
little more bass, but if I had the OEM sub, I'd be perfectly happy.  The
stock speakers are pretty high quality - they just need a higher-power head
unit to bring them to their full potential.

BTW, I was told by the stereo shop, who offered "free" install, that with
the JBL system in the SHO I would have to run all new wires to bypass the
stock amp (stock amp is still plugged in) and it would take several hours.
I told them I just wanted the conversion harness and I'd do it myself.  He
insisted the stock wiring wouldn't work, so the next day I took the car back
and showed him!!!  He was trying to find any excuse he could as to why it
worked on my particular car, but wouldn't on most Ford sound systems.  I
just laughed. : )

Be wary of hack-job stereo installers!!!!

Josh Salaets
95 SHO MTX (I SHO U)
85 Omni GLH-T (Yeah, it's fast)
NWSHOC Member
Eugene, OR