Stock replacement - path of least resistance?

[Eno]

I own an '03 XLT w/ the Premium sound system, no sub.

I would like to just replace the HU and 4 speakers (no additional amp, subs, or component speakers). Musical tastes lean towards live shows, jambands and blues.

I've noticed that a lot of people here like the Infinity Kappa 572.5cf speakers, so I'll give them a listen.

Any suggestions for less than $800 total? (I know, everyone has a personal taste, but I'm trying to narrow it down by asking the collective wisdom/experience of this group before I audition). Would a 25w/ch HU be sufficient for good clear sound? Thanks.

[mmsdrummer]

Welcome aboard!!!

I've got a Pioneer DEH 750MP and 4 Infinity Kappa 572.5's. (no amp) That has cost me roughly $450 all together.
If you're an e-bay shopper you can easily get the major stuff for cheap and then get the little things locally. (if you're installing them yourself)

Most decent headunits are 25w RMS and 50w max, and they will run your speakers fine. I don't play mine exceptionally loud so I don't feel the need for an amp.

also, the Infinitys are a pretty good choice for your type of music; they have very good highs.

[draft]

You'll absolutely love the 572.5cf's. Get them all around (4). They'll run ya around $80-$110 a pair depending where you purchase them (ebay, retail, etc), here's an auction right now going for $86 a pair - clicky .

As far as a headunit goes.. I would prefer an Alpine, Pioneer or Kenwood. I have the Pioneer DEH-7500MP, just perfect for me, has MP3/WMA/CDR/CDRW, everything you'll need. The next step up is the 8500MP, which I really wanted. It's a little stylier with the flip down and more buttons to push, and also runs a little more. The new 2005 (or is it 2004?) Alpine line comes out soon with built in XM recievers.. which saves you ALOT of money and hassle in the long run if you ever decide to get it. Kenwoods.. I'll let others praise on them, I've heard nothing but good from them.

My advice to almost everyone is that they should still stop by a car stereo/audio shop and listen for themselves. Everyone has a different taste and likes say, vocals over mixed, or vice versa.

Ordering from eBay is safe if you find a reputable dealer, I'm quite pleased with some huge purchases I've done, if you feel safe doing so, you'll save a few hundred bucks rather than buying in a retail store. Let us know how it goes! Oh and.. welcome to the board. :p

[expo5.0]

the 600 series pioneers are out- the 8600, 7600, 6600 etc. if your getting a new one get one of those.

i wouldn't actually recommend getting the same speakers others recommended.

you could get a 6600 pioneer hu for 240 with all of the installation kits, and you'd have 560 left for 175 dollar focal access 6.5" components up front, then 125 dollar mbquart 6 by 8s for the rear (same price better replacement speaker for the same price than the infinity), and an mtx 404 4 channel amp (great little 4 channel for the price just like all their amps) and maybe a mobile spec pro ice 8 gauge amp kit would all fit in your budget of $800 and in fact leave you at leat a $100 to spare.

[MONMIX]

Hey man welcome to the site.

Hey I work in Crofton right up north on Rt. 3

We are practically neighbors.