Help maximize my Alpine set-up

[billvasko]

I have an older Alpine head unit. It is model #CDE-7858 and it is about 10 years old. Specs are 45Wx4 amplifier. About 2 years ago, I thought I would try to crank up my system a bit. I swapped my stock speakers for 4 Alpine speakers--2 in the front, and 2 in the rear. All four are SPS-170A's. Specs are: 2 way speakers, 200 watts peak, 40W RMS, 92db, 4 ohms, 35hz-30khz. I also added an Alpine 4/3/2 power amp, model MRP-F240, specs 50Wx4 RMS, 360W max.

After making these changes, I really noticed little difference between this set-up and the sound that I got from just the Alpine head unit and stock speakers. I was most disappointed in the fact that I still could not turn the volume up without getting distortion. I thought about adding a subwoofer, but beyond adding bass, I don't think it would change the sound/volume isssue any. Is the problem with my head unit, the speakers, or both? Thanks!

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[rloring 10+ year member]

If u want better sound off that HU I recomend buying a set of componets, 6.5 mids, you will be happy. and mabey a small amp to power them

 

[BEAVER.989 10+ year member]

I think you're expecting too much from a head unit. In all honesty, you're probably only feeding your speakers about 12w each... and that would be at full power (heavy clipping).

Get yourself an amplifier and you'll be much happier.

 

[billvasko]

beaver, in my original post, i listed that i have an amp as well.

rloring--add another amp for just the speakers? Sorry, i am not a complete newb, but I'm not too advanced either.

 

[BEAVER.989 10+ year member]

You need more power. Bridge the amp to your fronts and power the rears with the head unit.

 

[billvasko]

Thanks Beaver......