Okay, so finally decided that I should just go ahead and compile all of my photos/thoughts/ideas/challenges into a build thread. As I've stated several times here, this forum has been invaluable throughout my (ongoing) build. I figure the best way I can think to give back is to share my experience up to now and moving forward.
So far I've:
- Made numerous mistakes
- Redone work...multiple times... (d'oh!)
- Bought and Re-bought components
- Researched what seems like endlessly
- Invested in new tools (yay)
- Attempted new skills
- Learned a ton
- Had a blast every step of the way
Those last two bits were the most important I feel. Audio has always been an interest of mine and I'm happy to be working on a project that aligns with my interest, even if it's going to take me forever!
My hope is that this can help someone who is attempting a build, even if it's just some encouragement in that a fellow novice can accomplish some seemingly difficult things with enough patience and commitment. It may not be pretty, but we can still be proud! :)
Fair warning, this is a veritable dump of everything I've documented on my build so far. Apologies in advance for all backstory and details to follow, for those wanting the abridged version here is the summary of the build as it exists today:
HU/Interface: Pac AmpPro GM61
Processor: Helix DSP.2
Amplifier: Arc Audio X2 1200.6
Tweeters: SB Acoustics SB29RDNC-C000-4 Neo Magnet
Midrange/bass: Audiofrog GS690
Subwoofer: Image Dynamics ID8v4 in a Rodney's .4cuft console enclosure
Sound Treatment: Noico 80mil CLD and 170mil foam along with some Resonix CLD Squares and butyl rope.
Wiring: KnuKonceptz Kolossus Fleks Kable 4 Gauge Amp Kit, Bassik 2-way blocks, and cheap Amazon 6-way fused distro for the DSP and future upgrades.
My plans moving forward are to apply further/redo sound treatment and ABS covers to the door panels, look at upgrading the sub/enclosure, and (if you followed my WTB ad) an additional Arc 1200.6 for MO' POWER!!! Just kidding, also to have additional channels for future upgrades, maybe going to a 3-way active up front? Oh, and this also justifies upgrading the 4AWG wiring...something I should have done to begin with...
After all of this, here are my key bits of advice for any other novice jumping into this:
- Do not underestimate the time it will take you to do this. Be patient, rushing or cutting corners will only lead to disappointment in one way or another.
- Plan your build carefully with special considerations to your particular install/space to avoid purchasing gear that is simply sub-optimal.
- Have realistic expectations. Yea, I know now that I had high hopes for a single 8" subwoofer, and yes I was/am still a little disappointed in it's output.
- This one is mainly for me but - go for 1/0 power wiring from the get go, I don't know what I was thinking.
Also, wanted to take a moment to thank all those that have helped and inspired me thus far - thank you for your feedback and for putting up with my countless (and random) PM's regarding everything from driver selection to installation methods. Special shout outs to Stycker, Lanson, speakerman99, xlynoz, and ToNasty, all of whom provided some much needed advice or feedback specific to this truck build.
Enjoy!