Custom Audio System for Spring Grove 2022 Subaru Outback

A repeat client from Spring Grove recently contacted the Westminster Speed & Sound team to inquire about upgrading the sound system in his 2022 Subaru Outback. While Subaru makes some impressively reliable vehicles; its audio systems aren’t known for being equally stellar. The client wanted better imaging and dramatically improved clarity. After a consultation and an audition of one of our demo vehicles, he knew he wanted something similar in the Subaru.

Subaru Outback Audio System

To start the upgrade, we removed the factory-installed speakers from the doors and the dash. Next, we treated the inner and outer door skins with a layer of Hushmat sound deadening. The door panels were treated with triple-layer SoundShield deadening to prevent resonances and rattles.

With the foundation set, our team began upgrading the Subaru’s speakers. We created mounting adapters from expanded PVC to allow the new Helix and BLAM drivers to bolt to the vehicle at factory fastener locations. For the doors, we installed a set of 6.5-inch Helix i7-Series woofers. The dash houses a pair of BLAM S2 N50 two-inch wideband midrange drivers. We added SoundShield Contour foam rings around the door speakers to seal them against the door panel and prevent buzzing and rattling. To round out the system, we installed Helix i3-Series coaxial speakers in the rear doors.

The stock door, ready for sound deadening installation.

A layer of Hushmat on the inner and outer door skin will dramatically reduce noise transfer into the vehicle.

A close-up of the sound deadening treatment.

Soundshield sound deadening reduces buzzes and rattles in the door.

Custom expanded PVC speaker mounting adapters ensure reliability.

The full treatment speaker installation in the front of this Subaru Outback.

A BLAM two-inch wide-band speaker mounted on laser-cut acrylic in the dash.

Coaxial speakers in the rear doors add a sense of space to the listening experience.

System Amplifiers and Subwoofer

The new audio system is powered by a pair of Match amplifiers. A UP 6DSP powers the six interior speakers. A matching UP 1FX is tasked with powering a Helix K 10SE.2 slimline subwoofer. The enclosure is in the cargo area and, thanks to its low-profile design, doesn’t take up much space.

Our team used a pair of Stinger amp power kits to feed the amplifiers. A 4-AWG kit feeds the sub amp, while an 8-AWG kit powers the DSP-equipped amp for the high-frequency drivers. The amps are mounted under the passenger seat on a sheet of expanded PVC. The plastic amp rack won’t warp like wood might if it gets wet. We installed a remote subwoofer level control in the center console, so the client can fine-tune the bass response to his mood or music selection.

A laser-cut and engraved panel for the amplifier fuse holders.

The amps are mounted on expanded PVC so they are away from water, slush and salt.

Match amplifiers under the seat provide power for the amazing audio system upgrade.

A Helix subwoofer enclosure in the cargo area of this Subaru Outback.

Baltimore’s Car Audio Upgrade Experts

With all the equipment installed, the last and most critical step was to set up the DSP in the Match amp. We used our microphone system to measure and correct the output of each speaker after setting crossovers and adjusting delays. The signal delay ensures the output of each speaker arrives at the listening position simultaneously. The result is a sound system that rivals many home audio systems in terms of staging and imaging. With the small space in a vehicle, the subwoofer delivers big bass.

The client returned to Westminster Speed & Sound, anxious to hear his new sound system. We know he liked what he heard as he remained in the parking lot listening for a good while. If the sound system in your car or truck doesn’t put a smile on your face, drive on over for a personal consultation. We’d be honored to design a custom upgrade for your vehicle. If you can’t get to our store during regular business hours, give us a call or fill out our car audio quote request form.