Contour Enthusiasts Group Archives Forums Modifications Audio Very Unknowledgeable Person

I was talking in the Problems forum about when I play CDs, I have to turn the bass down really low and the treble up high so that I can I actually turn up the volume. When there is a lot of bass, it gets really quiet. I think this is the worst Ford system I have ever listened to. So I was going to take it to Ford and tell them about it and see of they'll replace it under warranty. But if that doesn't work, I was just wondering if I could keep the current radio, but put some new speakers in. How would that sound?? I do not want to purchase a new radio because a.) it's expensive and b.) I like the one that is in there now. If I got 200 watts for the front and 200 for the back, is it going to sound great or the same, and will it still fade out when I have a lot of bass? Thanks for your response.

-Jonathan

I was experiencing a similar problem with my factory setup. I think Ford and many other car manufacturers are using a "bass limiting system" - thats what im gonna call it. If your music hits a low note it decreases the output power to prevent damage to the speakers. Im not sure if the circuitry is in the external factory amp (premium sound systems) or in the head unit. What HU do you have now?

There is not much you can do about it as long as you are running the stock head unit. It is just not a good stereo. Getting new speakers doesn't really help as the signal sent from the head unit is muddy to begin with. You would benefit much more by getting a new head unit and running the stock speakers (although I highly recommend ditching those too as even the crappiest aftermarket stuff will sound better.

Its in the deck, Get a aftermarket deck like a eclipse or a Clarion and you will be amazed. Clarion is like 150 for there entry pro audio peice. I suggest getting that you will be very satisfied.

What if I get an amp???