Please send questions to: Car Audio and Electronics, c/o Tech Panel 774 S. Placentia Ave., Placentia, CA 92870 e-mail: techpanel@mcmullenargus.com
I'm thinking about getting two Audiobahn 12" subs (2000 watts RMS each) and hooking each of them up to a Rockford Fosgate Power bd1500.1, which would push each sub with 1500 watts. I e-mailed Audiobahn and found out I had to have them installed in a ported enclosure. My first question is this: Could I have a box built that would go from one side of my 2000 Sonoma Extra Cab to the other with the two subs in two separate boxes on each end (ports on top), and the center cut open and covered with a glass panel to expose my amps (one box split into three sections on the inside, middle for amps)?
My other question has to do with power for the amps. Could I put two batteries in the back for each amp? Would the power be drained quickly since there is no alternator like there would be if I used the battery under the hood? If so, what could I do if anything to remedy this problem?ThanksEric Britton
There are several rules that installers use when designing and building a cabinet, but the only make or break concern is maintaining the correct box volume and port dimensions. Audiobahn should have specified a box volume and port size that you should stick to as closely as possible. The overall shape of the box, where the port is located and other rules are far less important. You are essentially building two separate ported enclosures that can be adjusted in shape to fit the vehicle without any major problems, as long as the volume and port size is correct.
If you were to install four batteries for the two amplifiers, you would get about 20 minutes of playtime before the voltage begins to dip below 12 volts on a frequent basis. This unsupported battery system is not a good idea, but connecting them to the vehicle's charging system is not much better. Each battery is treated as a load that makes your stock alternator work harder and introduces the possibility of failure. You should be able to run the amps on a Sonoma without adding any batteries unless you are an out-of-control bass freak.
Try the system without extra batteries and closely monitor the voltage to see if the alternator can keep up to your playing style. You usually won't need to make any changes. If, however, you find that the alternator can't keep up, see a professional installer with experience in charging system upgrades to get the alternator replaced or supplemented with a high output aftermarket alternator
I was wondering if you might be able to help me. I am in the planning stages of installing a system in my 1996 Chevy S-10 extended cab. I would like to redesign and install a new console with my head unit mounted in it. I am thinking of using MDF and/or fiberglass; it will be covered in carpet, tweed or vinyl
My question is that I'm not sure about how to go about mounting the console to the mounting points on the floor and conceal the hardware while making it removable if need be. If you could help I would greatly appreciate it.Thanks,Mike Kosko
Consoles are extremely handy for a number of audio-related purposes. In difficult vehicles, you can use a console as a really good subwoofer cabinet, or simply as a housing for components like tuner modules, changers, navigation processors, video players, etc. Regardless of what you put inside, you can also use the outside as an armrest.
There are several techniques that can be used to mount the console somewhat permanently. Velcro or other hook-and-loop fasteners make for a reasonably secure mount if your console is lightweight. Another option is to attach mounting flanges to mate up with existing dash screws as another way to secure the console.