mobile audio shop...recommendations

[Chet Manly]

First, a thank you to everyone who takes the time to post build threads, answer questions and recommend solutions in the forums. A search or two will usually return an answer to most questions that seem to come up. The information here has helped me greatly before and since my purchase 3 years ago.

Long ago, I decided that I would replace the stereo in my '01 LX. My truck has the Mark Levinson 6 disc changer system (non-nav). What sounds like a blown woofer in the passenger side front has finally motivated me to get on with it. I always thought that I would replace the speakers, head unit and amp myself, but, after reading every thread/article that I thought would be applicable to my set-up (both here and other sources) and wanting to have this done sooner than later, I think I might be looking at having a shop do the work. It is my daily driver and I don't currently have the space/time to do any jobs that don't have the truck whole by the next morning.

A few questions:

1. If replacing the entire system (speakers, head unit, amp), is there any issue with re-using the existing wiring?

2. Can anyone recommend a mobile audio shop in the Atlanta, GA area, preferably one you have had a good experience with?

3. When having a shop install equipment, is it a good idea to bring them the equipment you want to use?

 

[e9999]

leaving this in the 100 section for now because there may be a 100-specific component...


re: 3.: I would think most shops would not like to see you bring the stuff to be installed, I would guess primarily because they miss out on their own mark-up on it, because they might legitimately be leery of being blamed for subsequent problems with hardware they did not choose, and because they may not be familiar with it.

I would still ask to do it... That may also tell you a lot about how they handle relationships with their customers.

 

[TheForger]

1) I did a complete replacement as well (head unit, speakers/tweeters, sub, & 2 aftermarket amps). It was done by a local trusted shop here in AR and I do know the factory speaker wiring was used as well as the head unit wiring after installing a Metra harness.

2) No input - I'm in AR

3) I sourced every part myself except new wiring to run from the amp to the sub. I brought them all the components including the Metra harness still in their original boxes. I did that because I built my system exactly how I wanted it. I didn't want to buy those packages some manufactures sell because they often compromise in some areas to save money (sometimes sound quality if they use lower quality speakers, sometimes it's too little/too much power and not what I want). It's all personal preference. Piecing your own system takes knowledge and research but it pays off in the long run. Most shops should not have a problem with you sourcing your own parts.

 

[Chet Manly]

Thanks for the replies.

e9999 - I've search through a lot of audio threads. Few seem to be specific to the ML system w/o nav. I was hoping someone had ripped this system out of an LX470

I kind of thought that it wasn't preferred that I bring my components to an installer, but having never taken a vehicle to one, didn't know if it was common practice or not.

TheForger - your audio system replacement thread (and another) is the reason I have potentially decided to take my truck to a pro. The part about other powered systems being run through the amp that I had planned to rip out had me backpedaling a bit. I thought it would be relatively easy to rip out everything but the wires and install my choice of components, but, not knowing what is what on the amp looks to make that a much bigger job. I may still try to tackle this if I can find out exactly what to re-route power wires to.

Your truck's system looks like great. Similar to what I hope to get mine to in the near future.

 

[costalcat]

1. I'm only doing speakers because I have a 03 LC with Nav. But here is my take on wiring. On my older VW's and such I always replaced the wiring because those vehicles were not wired for the type of stereo I wanted. On an 01 if you are just going for a better than stock upgrade I would keep the wiring, I have in mine. Personal preference but for a shop running all new wire means time & time means money...

2. I can not I'm up in NC but you might post in the clubhouse section for that area...

3. as @TheForger mentioned, personal preference here, but I will say this. If something happens then you have two factors to consider
1. Expect that if there is an equipment issue you will need to be the go between the vendor and the shop
2. Could be a finger pointing issue if the Vendor says this was installed wrong, vs the installer saying no it wasn't

Easiest path, keep the wires, find a shop you can be comfortable with, let them help pick out the gear and do the install ...

Have fun! I love getting a new sound system !!