A client from Taneytown dropped into Westminster Speed and Sound to inquire about upgrading his 2018 Ford F-350 sound system. He wanted something more precise, louder, and that delivered much better bass response. After one of our product specialists listened to the existing sound system, we worked with the client to devise an upgrade that met his goals. Happy with the plan, the client booked an appointment to drop off the big Ford for a massive audio system transformation.
Ford F-350 Speaker Upgrade
After removing the door panels, the first step was to set a foundation for the new sound system. We installed 22 square feet of SoundShield sound deadening in the vehicle. We covered the inner and outer door skins to help reduce road, wind, and exhaust noise from entering the cabin. The doors now close with a satisfying thud.
The client chose a set of BLAM S165.80 6.5-inch component speakers for the front of the vehicle. Our fabrication team created mounting adapters for the woofers to ensure the large magnets would clear the windows. The small TS 20HR tweeters are mounted in the stock locations at the base of the A-pillars.
Next, we installed a set of BLAM 165RC 6.5-inch coaxial speakers in the rear door locations. An ABS plastic spacer was adequate to ensure enough room behind the driver. Our team ran dedicated wiring from each speaker, including the tweeters, to the back of the cab to ensure a reliable connection to the new amplifier.
Helix Amplifier Upgrade
With the new speakers in place, the next step was to create a mounting panel for the Helix M-series amplifiers. Our fabrication team cut an ABS sheet to secure the M ONE X and M SIX DSP to the back wall. The mount is secured in place using factory fasteners, eliminating the need to drill any holes in the vehicle that might cause leaks or corrosion.
The M SIX DSP is a six-channel amp rated to produce 100 watts of power per channel. Crucial to this installation, the amplifier includes a ten-channel digital signal processor that we will use to set crossovers, equalization, and signal delays for each speaker in the system.
The subwoofer amplifier is an M ONE X. This amp will provide up to 1,100 watts of power to the pair of 12-inch subwoofers. A Stinger SS1200XS 4-AWG amp kit connects the amplifiers to the battery. The amplifiers’ audio signal comes from a PAC AmpPRO AP4FD21 interface module. The interface provides dedicated front, rear, and subwoofer outputs and maintains the proper functionality of the warning chimes, navigation prompts, and Bluetooth functions. We used Stinger Select Series interconnects to connect the interface to the M SIX DSP amp and that amp to the M ONE X.
Custom Truck Subwoofer Enclosure
While one technician was working on the sound deadening, wiring, and speaker upgrade, another team member got started on one of our Stage 2 truck subwoofer enclosures. The custom enclosure fits nearly under the rear seat of the F-350. The outer edges are wrapped in black vinyl. A bright blue vinyl trim piece separates the carpeted top panel. We embossed the Super Duty logo into the front face for extra style. The down-firing enclosure is home to a pair of Helix IK S12 12-inch subwoofers.
Premium Ford F-350 Sound System Upgrade
After installing all the amplifiers and speakers, the last step is to configure the DSP in the amp and measure the frequency response of each speaker. With this information, we can equalize the output to compensate for the vehicle’s acoustic environment.
After a few days of work, the client returned to Westminster Speed and Sound to hear the new audio system in his truck. He loved how much louder and more precise it was. He cranked up the bass using the remote level control and instantly had a smile on his face. If you are interested in improving your vehicle’s audio system performance, drop by the store and speak with a member of our award-winning team. If you can’t visit during regular business hours, give us a call or fill out our online contact form. We’ll get back to you shortly!
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