A client from Apex, North Carolina, recently contacted Adrenaline Autosound about a 2016 Jeep Wrangler audio system upgrade. He wasn’t impressed with the sound of the system in this Rubicon and wanted more output and better sound quality. He also wanted a new radio that included Bluetooth and USB support for all the popular digital file formats. After looking at several speaker, amplifier and subwoofer options, we put together a system design that would sound amazing while maintaining the functionality of the vehicle.
Kenwood Head Unit Upgrade
We started the project with the installation of a Kenwood DPX593BT Double-DIN receiver in the dash of the Jeep. The DPX593BT is mounted in place of the factory source unit, and we used an integration module to connect the stereo system control switches on the steering wheel to the new radio. Not only does the new radio have infinitely more features, but it also sounds better than the factory receiver.
DSP Equipped JL Audio System Amplifier
We chose one of the new JL Audio VXi-series amplifiers for the system. In particular, a VX700/5i five-channel amp. The amp produces 100 watts per channel for the front and rear speakers and 300 watts from the subwoofer channel. We mounted the amp under the passenger seat.
As with all of our installations, all of the wiring in the system is loomed using Tesa tape and follows factory wire harness routing for a neat and tidy look.
Jeep Wrangler Speaker Upgrades
The client chose JL Audio C1-650 component speakers for the front and rear of the Jeep. We installed the woofers into the factory locations and created ABS adapters to mount the tweeters. We added foam acoustic coupling rings to improve the performance of the speakers in the dash.
JL Audio Stealthbox Bass Upgrade
To provide good, deep bass in the system, we installed a JL Audio SB-J-WRUD/10TW1/BK Stealthbox on the driver’s side rear wheel well. The fiberglass enclosure houses a single 10TW1-4 subwoofer and is finished in black carpet that matches the interior of the Jeep perfectly.
Jeep Wrangler Audio System Tuning
We created two distinct tunes for the Jeep within the VXi DSP system. The first tune is for use when the roof is on the truck, while the second changes the equalization for use when the roof is off. An optional DRC-200 remote control allows the owner to switch presets and adjust the subwoofer level from the front seat of the vehicle.
The client was very impressed with the detail and volume level capabilities of his new Jeep Wrangler audio system. When you decide it’s time to make your Jeep’s stereo sound better, drop by Adrenaline Autosound in Clayton or send us an e-mail using our contact page.