this is my first post here, I have had a f250 the past 5 years and have now traded it in on a 2010 black KR. I have done alot of searching here to know that when the truck gets here next week it will be getting a 2" leveling kit with bfg305/65/18's on stock wheels, line-x, window tint, etc...The one thing I have had a hard time searchng for is info on upgrading the sony system, i completely redid my 250 sound system but used an aftermarket headunit which simplified alot of issues. It sounds like this new sync is really nice but some what of a pita to go aftermarket. I would like to replace basically everything with aftermarket components, sub, and amps for speakers and sub. I'm a little confused on if a sound processor is needed as well as how to bypass everything unwanted from the factory system. maybe I will understand better when I can see it in person but for now any help would be appreciated. sorry for the long first post

 

I assume you have the navigation option?

 

yes i do, thought i put that in there, my bad

 

My thoughts. Since you have the navigation system, how are you going to handle the HVAC controls, specifically indication of your current temp, and what you want it set too for both driver and passenger? I believe this is information provided on the lower part of the factory navigation screen? Also, will the opening on the current navigation system accommodate an aftermarket unit? I am thinking the opening is bigger than most aftermarket setups, so while you could fit a double din LCD in there, i wonder if it will fit flush, or have an opening around the new unit. If you plan on replacing the entire DASH to a non-nav unit, then you will have to get some new parts, such as HVAC controls (since they are different), the small LCD display that sits at the top of the DASH (which will show you the temp info, direction, etc). I believe everything you want to do is possible, but it may not look very nice in the end. My thoughts.

Kimo

 

sorry I reread what I wrote and realized I wasnt very clear that I intend on keeping the Factory HU with nav/sync/controls etc...thats really the reason I am having issues is trying to understand what is needed in order to indeed keep it

 

As you are aware, the Sony "700 watt" system is not 700 watts. If you turn the volume up past the halfway mark, you will notice a drop in bass. According to what I have been told, this is done to preserve the speakers and limit speaker blow outs. Well, I hate it. I too wanted good sound but didn't want to loose my factory head unit. What you need to get the best sound is a processor......many are out there and I use the MTX RE-Q5. It ties into your factory speaker wire and prevents the bass drop. It also provides 3 seta of RCA outputs so you can add an amp, if you so desire. I got mine from Crutchfield, but shop around for the best price.

I replaced all door speakers and added a Pro Box for my subs, along with an Alpine amp. I'm pretty happy, but want more now!

Good luck. Let me know if you need anything.

 

Yeah thats what I am talking about wanting to avoid(the drop in bass, and other problems), if I do put in a sound processor is that all I would need to run speaker amp and sub amp off of? will that fix any problems associated with using the factory head? I have installed plenty of audio equipment but never used sound processors. any info would help

 

Depends on what you want the end result to be. To be honest, I don't know if a processor is any good running with the factory stuff and not with an amp. I recommend either chatting with a Crutchfield rep online or call them. Tell them what you want and they will tell you the best set up. At least a starting point. Then you can makes changes as you please. Are you wanting to add an amp? How many? Replacing door speakers? Replacing sub? These are thing you'll need to post.....

 

Will be putting in component speakers, subs, and two amps...will be using factory nav HU, just need to know how to bypass the problems you have referred to with drop in levels

 

Use a processor and you should be good to go. One amp for the doors and one for the subs?

 

Right, one for doors and one for subs, just spoke with crutchfield, they also said a sound processor should solve all problems

 

Now, just pick the one ya want and git 'er ordered!

 

studying crutchfields site as we speak, looking at the audio control Lc6i

 

I'm having an LC6i two amps and two 10" subs installed friday. Wish me luck lol

 

love to know how it turns out