Starting Over ('02 Mach 460)

[JamesB41]

Have an '02 GT with a Mach system. I've replaced the head-unit with a Pioneer AVIC-N3. They used some type of harness (I'm a complete neophyte) and it "works" with my stock amps and speakers. However, it's nowhere near as crisp/clean at high volumes as it was with the stock head-unit. I'm looking to sink some money into making it sound more like stock, or better. What I'm really looking for is the ability to output a lot of volume with a rich audio spectrum. Crisp highs, deep lows, but I don't need thumping bass. Maybe a little, but it's for enjoyment, not for show.

Anyway, adjectives aside...I have no idea what to do. I imagine I'm looking at dumping the stock amps entirely and replacing? If so, with what? I have no idea what to look for in an amp. Also, do I replace the speakers, or keep those? I didn't have a problem with them when they were hooked up w/the stock head-unit, but right now my audio is sub-par, I'd say...especially at high volumes. Looking for any advice. Money isn't a huge stumbling block, but I don't want to spend just to spend.

Also, tangent question. If I pipe an external, amplified source (such as an iPod) into an input on my head-unit, where should I set the volume levels of both the head-unit and the device for optimum sound quality? High/low, low/high, med/med? Any rule of thumb?

Thanks a billion.

 

[00BlkStangGT]

well from what I've read and did myself, once you replace something on the stock system, you might as well replace it all. Your not going to get the same stock sound with that aftermarket head unit. Just unhook the whole stock setup, get some 6x8/5x7s for the rear and a nice pair of components for the front. Then just get a 4 channel amp to supply everthing. I have that same setup except for the amp. Its going in this weekend. I think it sounds good, but will only get better with the amp.

 

[HobieDude16]

well, i dont have a mustang, the car i have is an explorer, so, obviously, my money did NOT go into performance. i put in a ton of effort and money into making a sick stereo when i first got it. it actually ended up being not too expensive, and it is straight up pure quality, and great sound.

i went with jl audio, because they are one of the top brands, and one of the top brands that my local store at the time had. let me just say, it was an excellent choice. i have the lowest level of the jl speakers in the doors, which, yes, you should replace all the stock speakers. i run my speakers off of a jl 300/4 amp, and it just screams. never cracks, never has any problems. also, i have a sub. i know you said it's not for show, well, neither is mine. i went with something that wouldnt take up the back of my car, wouldnt be "overwhelming" and would still sound sick. i ended up getting 1 8" jl audio w7 sub. let me tell you, it's easily as loud as several systems i have heard with 2 10's. yet, i keep it turned down, and it's just good, clean, awesome hitting bass. with it being an 8, it has a lot of punch to it, which i like. i run that off a 250/1 amp.

that's the setup i have, and i havent heard better (cept from ones that cost thousands and thousands, but i dont have that kind of money)

hope that helps som

 

[SyberSaint]

Hello James B,

If you would like another option, you might try getting a complete Mach 1000 stereo unit. It is an awesome system. You can also get it with a new Mach 1000 head unit if you like. I just bought a complete Mach 1000 system, to include the head unit, off of ebay for about $600.00.

Also, here is a link to the Brochure

I have seen several of them for sale. Good Luck...

Dale

 

[ChingonStang]

So I take it you got it installed?

 

[SyberSaint]

It will be going in this next week...

 

[jeffnoel]

First you need to find out what harness they used to connect the Pioneer Headunit to the Mach 460 system. I also have an 02 GT with Mach 460 and a Jensen HU connected to the Mach amps and mine sounds much better than the factory system. I used a harness from Metra to install my HU.

 

[ChingonStang]

Jensen? In a Mustang? Hmph.

 

[jeffnoel]

Sure Jensen MP8610BT Bluetooth reciever much better than a headset and it sounds great.

 

[Kraw]

have any pics of your install?

 

[sean05]

First off, being a Installer myself and doing the same exact install in a 02 GT with a Kenwood touch screen, I know you are not going to lose sound quality. The audio sounded perfectly find. With the harness they will most likely use, it will intergrate the factory amps, allowing more power to be pumped through

If you looking for a crisp sound with decent bass you may want to upgrade everything depending on your budget. Have the Pioneer installed first and see what you think about it afterwards. Their is going to be a significant difference then stock because the N3 allows for full tuning from the EQ and individual setting.

If you are not satifised from that I would suggest having the speakers replaced and having a 4 Channel Amp installed. Depending on whos doing the install this can get expensive. When you toss new speakers in you need to rewire the whole car so the new speakers are not being power by the factory MACH amp. Time consuming and a headache, but can be done.

As for having something ran through an AUX input (aka headphone jack) usually leave the MP3 or whatever it is turned about 1/2 to 3/4 away with volume then do the rest of the volume adjust from the unit. Sometimes with the MP3 player on full blast it will distort the music. If you have an iPod I would suggest picking up Pioneers iPod cable allowing for FULL intergation of the iPod through the touch screen display. This shows all your songs, playlists, artist, etc. VERY COOL!

If you have any other questions feel free to PM me with any question or just reply!



Sean