A client from Charlottesville recently emailed the team at Westminster Speed and Sound to ask about adding a backup camera to his 2014 Porsche Boxster. Given that this client lives about three hours away, we scheduled a phone consultation to discuss upgrade options. During the conversation, the topic of smartphone integration and audio system performance came up a few times. By the end of the call, we’d designed a bespoke sound system and technology upgrade to give his Boxster the features and performance he wanted.
Porsche Boxster Sound System Upgrade
We started the project by removing the Bose amplifier from under the passenger seat to make way for a Match UP7 DSP amp. The amplifier powers a BLAM Audio L200P 8-inch component speaker set that’s been enhanced with a pair of LM80 3-inch Live Series midrange drivers. Our fabrication team created mounting adapters for the 8-inch woofers and midrange drivers so they’d bolt directly into the factory speaker locations in the doors. The LT25 tweeters from the L200P are mounted in the OE locations in the dash’s outer corners.
Next, we turned our attention to the source unit. We removed the Porsche radio so we could install a Sony XAV-AX7000 multimedia receiver in its place. We suggested the AX7000 as it has an impressive anti-glare display that works well in convertible vehicles. We were able to integrate the factory-installed SiriusXM satellite radio tuner into the new Sony radio. We mounted a dual-USB port in the center console to make it easy to connect a smartphone or USB memory stick to the radio.
To finish off the hardware installation, we mounted a NAV-TV Kit299 backup camera just above the license plate on the rear of the vehicle. This camera provides a much clearer image than most factory-installed cameras and works better in low-light conditions.
Audio System Calibration Delivers Lifelike Performance
Once all the new audio equipment was integrated into the vehicle, our technicians set to work calibrating the digital signal processor to compensate for the car’s acoustics. While the BLAM speakers offer good frequency response, reflections from the windows, dash and seats can alter what the client would hear. We used the digital signal processor in the Match amplifier and our RTA microphone to configure the crossovers, signal delay settings and equalizer to produce an accurate soundstage that spans the width of the car and delivers smooth frequency response.
The client was thrilled with how the sound system upgrade project turned out and was happy he made the drive down to see us. If you are interested in upgrading the audio system in your car or truck, drop by Westminster Speed and Sound. You can also reach us by phone or email using our contact page.
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