Upgrading Sound System of my Nissan Micra 2003

[hyped for bass]

Hey Everyone,
Since i got my License I’m driving an old Nissan Micra from 2003 and loving it. But the sound system is really awful.
So I’m finally ready to give my Micra a bass-heavy audio upgrade and add some modern tech like Apple CarPlay to make my drives more enjoyable. After doing some research, I’ve come up with a setup I think could work, but I’d love your thoughts and suggestions to make it even better!
Here’s what I’m thinking:

• Head Unit: Sony XAV-AX1000 (for CarPlay).
• Speakers: JBL GTO 860 for the front doors (do i also need them for the back seats or would just front upgrade be fine?).
• Subwoofer: JBL BassPro SL2 (to fit under the driver’s seat for the deep bass).

I’m aiming for a system that can handle mainly bass-heavy music while not being too awful at the other stuff.
Questions:

1. Does this setup make sense for a 2003 Micra?
2. Are there any compatibility issues or things I might have overlooked?
3. Do I need any other stuff like Amplifiers?
4. Any installation tips or tricks for fitting everything into a small car like the Micra?
5. Would you recommend any alternative components for better performance or value?

I’m open and thankful to all suggestions and advice. Let me know what you think!

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[dragon.breath 10+ year member]

If you’re expecting window rattling bass, you will be disappointed. But you should be able to make that setup sound good.

 

[RobGMN Premium Member]

Is under-seat a must? The JBL will give you some vibes, but it's not going to "deep and impactful" by any stretch, especially after you factor losses to road noise.
Even a budget 12" in a box with a budget amp is going to hit harder.

And unless your rear speakers are blown, not an upgrade "necessity". They are usually kept pretty low to add a little ambiance effect. Your front stage should be the real concern if you are looking for quality sound.

If you want "party mode" where it's sheer volume without crackling speakers, then do all 4.

 

[hyped for bass]

Is under-seat a must? The JBL will give you some vibes, but it's not going to "deep and impactful" by any stretch, especially after you factor losses to road noise.
Even a budget 12" in a box with a budget amp is going to hit harder.

And unless your rear speakers are blown, not an upgrade "necessity". They are usually kept pretty low to add a little ambiance effect. Your front stage should be the real concern if you are looking for quality sound.

If you want "party mode" where it's sheer volume without crackling speakers, then do all 4.

Thank you for your response!
The main reason I initially considered an under-seat subwoofer was to save space in my small car. However, your point about the bass being more impactful with a proper subwoofer setup has me reconsidering. I found the Pioneer TS-WX1210A as an alternative. Do you think this is a good choice, or would you recommend something else for better bass performance?
I also have a few additional questions:

1. If I’m already getting an amp for the subwoofer, would it make sense (value for money) to get speakers and subwoofer without and integrated amp and get an external one to power both? How much more complicated would the installation be?
2. For now, would it be okay to disconnect the rear speakers to avoid crackling at higher volumes and potentially upgrade them later?

You helped me alot already and I'm thankful for every advice.

 

[RobGMN Premium Member]

Thank you for your response!
The main reason I initially considered an under-seat subwoofer was to save space in my small car. However, your point about the bass being more impactful with a proper subwoofer setup has me reconsidering. I found the Pioneer TS-WX1210A as an alternative. Do you think this is a good choice, or would you recommend something else for better bass performance?

I'm old school and tend to think in terms of separate amps, speakers, subs, etc. Integrateds always make me think of how if one component fails, the whole thing is toast (not really, but you end up cobbling stuff to repair).

That's not say "don't get the Pioneer". It's probably fine for what it is, and I'm sure they made tons of them that are still in service. I just personally would go for a little bit more money and get more "sub-specific" stuff. You'll see brand names if you search some of the threads here, and can do it at a cost pretty close to that Pioneer if you shop carefully, or are willing to pick up pre-owned equipment.

I also have a few additional questions:

1. If I’m already getting an amp for the subwoofer, would it make sense (value for money) to get speakers and subwoofer without and integrated amp and get an external one to power both? How much more complicated would the installation be?

That boils down to personal choice, and if you want to go full separates, or a combination.
There are some pretty good (and surprisingly inexpensive) amps out there that can handle front stage plus sub duties. Installation is pretty much the same because no matter what, you're running some type of wires to that sub. They just differ based on the components you go with.

1. For now, would it be okay to disconnect the rear speakers to avoid crackling at higher volumes and potentially upgrade them later?

If crackling from damage, I'd do exactly that or adjust the fader to effectively shut them down.. If crackling only when being driven really hard, I'd slap some bass blocking capacitors on them until you do the upgrade (assuming your new head unit will have electronic EQ).

You helped me alot already and I'm thankful for every advice.

There's a ton of info in threads on the site. Don't hesitate to ask questions before you spend money. In the end, it's better to do it right once and cry once.

 

[fa5chups]

Hey Everyone,
Since i got my License I’m driving an old Nissan Micra from 2003 and loving it. But the sound system is really awful.
So I’m finally ready to give my Micra a bass-heavy audio upgrade and add some modern tech like Apple CarPlay to make my drives more enjoyable. After doing some research, I’ve come up with a setup I think could work, but I’d love your thoughts and suggestions to make it even better!
Here’s what I’m thinking:

• Head Unit: Sony XAV-AX1000 (for CarPlay).
• Speakers: JBL GTO 860 for the front doors (do i also need them for the back seats or would just front upgrade be fine?).
• Subwoofer: JBL BassPro SL2 (to fit under the driver’s seat for the deep bass).

I’m aiming for a system that can handle mainly bass-heavy music while not being too awful at the other stuff.
Questions:

1. Does this setup make sense for a 2003 Micra?
2. Are there any compatibility issues or things I might have overlooked?
3. Do I need any other stuff like Amplifiers?
4. Any installation tips or tricks for fitting everything into a small car like the Micra?
5. Would you recommend any alternative components for better performance or value?

I’m open and thankful to all suggestions and advice. Let me know what you think!

not a expert in head units but seems like ur paying a little much on what your getting, kenwood excelon 709s has a 13 band eq vs the 10band in sony, has 22w over the 20 (not much but its a 10% increase of headroom), also has a L+R channel on sub not actually sure how muhc that matter tho
kenwood saves you 150$ which can be used elsewhere
you will be much happier with a budget setup 12 with box and amp, you can do american bass or stinger, and a D4S JP amp
stinger isnt a bad route for on a budget loaded enclosure

 

[spokey9 5,000+ posts]

What brands do you have available to you in Berlin?

 

[hyped for bass]

What brands do you have available to you in Berlin?

I think in Berlin, I have access to most major audio brands, but some of the more niche American brands can be harder to find or don’t have all models available.

 

[hyped for bass]

I'm old school and tend to think in terms of separate amps, speakers, subs, etc. Integrateds always make me think of how if one component fails, the whole thing is toast (not really, but you end up cobbling stuff to repair).

That's not say "don't get the Pioneer". It's probably fine for what it is, and I'm sure they made tons of them that are still in service. I just personally would go for a little bit more money and get more "sub-specific" stuff. You'll see brand names if you search some of the threads here, and can do it at a cost pretty close to that Pioneer if you shop carefully, or are willing to pick up pre-owned equipment.



That boils down to personal choice, and if you want to go full separates, or a combination.
There are some pretty good (and surprisingly inexpensive) amps out there that can handle front stage plus sub duties. Installation is pretty much the same because no matter what, you're running some type of wires to that sub. They just differ based on the components you go with.


If crackling from damage, I'd do exactly that or adjust the fader to effectively shut them down.. If crackling only when being driven really hard, I'd slap some bass blocking capacitors on them until you do the upgrade (assuming your new head unit will have electronic EQ).

There's a ton of info in threads on the site. Don't hesitate to ask questions before you spend money. In the end, it's better to do it right once and cry once.

I think you're right. I should do more research before spending my money.
But thank you a lot for taking the time to help me.

 

[hyped for bass]

not a expert in head units but seems like ur paying a little much on what your getting, kenwood excelon 709s has a 13 band eq vs the 10band in sony, has 22w over the 20 (not much but its a 10% increase of headroom), also has a L+R channel on sub not actually sure how muhc that matter tho
kenwood saves you 150$ which can be used elsewhere
you will be much happier with a budget setup 12 with box and amp, you can do american bass or stinger, and a D4S JP amp
stinger isnt a bad route for on a budget loaded enclosure

I'm abit confused because the sony one is only 230€ while the kenwood is 350€.

 

[fa5chups]

I'm abit confused because the sony one is only 230€ while the kenwood is 350€.

i guess it depends where you get it, if its that much cheaper then ya nevermind
Not sure if you've heard this but install is a huge part to a good setup just do your research goodluck