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Simple sound system upgrade?

19K views 23 replies 14 participants last post by  Coleman  
#1 ·
As I await delivery of my 2015 Colorado Ext Cab I've been reviewing the discussions here on how people have upgraded their sound systems. I'm not electronically inclined and wouldn't attempt to do it myself.

I was hoping I could just bring the truck to my local car audio shop and have them install a compact sub/amp solution under the seat to improve the sound of the stock audio system. But after reading all the discussion threads it sounds like it's a lot more complicated than that, with owners wrangling with wiring diagrams, networks, interface modules, etc.

So I guess that's my question -- is there no easy way to upgrade the sound system for better volume and bass?
 
#3 ·
You can still just hand it over to the stereo shop--they should be used to dealing with the complexities of upgrading the sound systems of modern vehicles. Try to find a reputable place, check google reviews if there are any and like that. I used Alpine systems in my cars for years and always had them installed by a great local place that's sadly gone now. Fortunately, I'm happy with the stock Bose upgrade in my Canyon!
 
#4 · (Edited)
Crutchfield.com shows 3 plug and play upgrades for a 2015 Colorado with the Bose system, from $650 to $1000.

Find what fits your car - Crutchfield

Always been a big fan of Crutchfield, even if only to use them as a shopping guide then surf the net to beat their price. Their search template by vehicle gets very specific. The 2015 Colorado, for instance, has options not only for crew or extended cab, but all three sound system options as well. And their "How To" articles are really accurate. Whether doing a custom system from the ground up, or just upgrading speakers, I've always found them helpful. (Never actually built a system from scratch, just on paper. The co$t of doing that was scary.)
 
#8 ·
I am sure the Crutchfield people are happy you enjoy their products, information and catalog. Then using them only as a "shopping guide and surf the net to beat their price". Great! /sarc
 
#5 ·
I went the step by step approach. I first replaced the speakers with 6 1/2" separates by Hertz which cleaned up the sound a fair amount but did nothing for adding bass or volume. I then added a amplifier, also by Hertz, huge improvement with bass and volume. Keep in mind that neither the base radio or the Bose system comes with RCA outputs on the deck. Meaning, that any amp you add will need to have this feature or you'll need a device that can convert the deck output to an RCA out. The amp I bought had this feature but I ultimately added a LC2i from Audio Control because I still wasn't happy with the overall sound quality. The LC2i is a more advanced way of taking the deck output, cleaning it up, and giving you an RCA output which you can use to send signal to the amplifier. This is where I stand now, the sound is great and couldn't be happier. I may add a small sub down the road but it's amazing how much bass I'm getting from the 6 1/2" with amp power.
 
#7 ·
I also went the step method, replaced my speakers in late December, hoped for direct connect adapter and decided to make my own. One will become available at some point. Crutchfield still does not show anything for my truck, a couple of "not tested for your vehicle but when I click I get the "sorry, does not fit..."
I sent emails to PAC and a couple of others that manufacture integration adapters, never got a response.
 
#10 ·
I am guilty of same. I just used them to research the speaker brackets and replacement speakers that I ordered. I would love to order from them but when the price difference is about 40-50% more than on Amazon....I got both the sets of door speakers for the same price as one set on Crutchfield. If the price difference was closer I would but from them. It is a good place to research though.
 
#12 ·
For the few measly bucks you could save by gyping out on not using Crutchfields, its not worth it. The few times I have upgraded my 2004 Colorado 4 door, they always have my truck and old parts on file, know exactly what Im asking for and have it at my door in a couple of days.

As I am debating the 2015 or 16 for my next truck, Crutchfields is the only place Id trust to find me the parts I want at a price Im more than happy paying. You pay $30K for a truck....and you want to save $50 by going somewhere else? HA !!!
 
#24 ·
Hi, all. New to the forum. Will be pulling the trigger on a new Colorado very soon. Is there much of a difference in sound between the stock and upgraded head units? I'm not a huge fan of Bose, but if the stock head unit plus a speaker swap will get some decent sound, I'd be okay with that.

My .02 on Crutchfield - Been using them for a long, long time. Reliable service and great support. I used them last to replace the head unit and add bluetooth phone support on my '02 Trailblazer. Their wiring harness was an exact fit and the installation instructions were perfect. I'm happy spending a few bucks more at Crutchfield. Worth every penny.