A client from Fayetteville contacted Adrenaline Autosound about a 2015 Audi RS5 subwoofer system upgrade. The client was deployed overseas but wanted to have the work done while he was away. He interviewed several shops in the area to get an understanding of their philosophies and approach to audio system enhancements and installation. After talking to us, he decided that we were experienced and trustworthy enough to be charged with upgrading his amazing RS5.
Audi RS5 Subwoofer System Upgrade Goals
The client had a JL Audio 12W7 in a previous Audi and loved the way it sounded. He was also concerned about taking up too much space in the trunk. After some research, we proposed adding a pair of JL Audio 10W6v3 subwoofers to meet his expectations for output capability, low-frequency extension and compact enclosure volume requirements.
Subwoofer Enclosure Construction
The enclosure is constructed from ¾-inch MDF and has a net internal volume of 1.1 cubic feet. The raw enclosure is finished in carpet and bolted to the vehicle using threaded inserts and a custom bracket that attaches to the underside of the parcel shelf.
In keeping with the client’s goal of having a system that integrates well with the vehicle’s cosmetics, we made a set of trim rings for the subwoofers and wrapped them in 3M 1080 brushed aluminum finish vinyl. A sheet of ¼-inch black acrylic was cut to fit around the trim rings and a JL Audio emblem. A secondary trim fits around the gloss black acrylic trim piece and is upholstered in vinyl that matches the interior of the vehicle. We added a layer of ¼-inch aluminum to the back of the secondary trim ring to mimic the brushed accents of the JL emblem and the styling of the vehicle’s interior.
Form and Function
As the client does use his trunk as a trunk, he wanted to be sure he wouldn’t damage the cosmetic trim panels. We created a second trim that transforms the installation into something more utilitarian. The secondary trim ring can be removed and replaced with a carpeted panel that covers the black acrylic. A pair of JL Audio SGR-10W6v2/v3 grilles fit into the mounting face of the subwoofers and can be used with either trim piece.
We inserted neodymium magnets into the front of the enclosure and matched their locations in both of the trim pieces. The client needs only to give the panel a tug and it can be removed safely and reliably.
Amplifier Integration
The subwoofer system is powered by a JL Audio HD1200/1 amplifier. We ran 2 AWG power wire from the amplifier directly to the battery. We reworked an unused fuse holder on the battery terminal to accept a MIDI fuse and the large power cable. Having the fuse directly connected to the battery reinforces our focus on functionally and cosmetically integrated solutions. All of the wiring is wrapped in automotive-grade cloth tape and is nearly indistinguishable from the factory wiring.
Another Happy Client
We timed the project perfectly so the client was able to pick up his car shortly after returning home from his deployment. He was very pleased with the results – both sonically and cosmetically.
If you are in the Raleigh area and are interested in upgrading the subwoofer system in your vehicle but don’t want the typical “box in the trunk” solution, we invite you to visit Adrenaline Autosound. Our team of experts will work with you to develop a solution that meets your performance, cosmetic integration and vehicle usability requirements. We are open six days a week or can be reached by phone at 919-359-0009 or by e-mail using our online contact page. We look forward to working with you.
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