I have a stock audio system with a pioneer 12 disc changer in my 2000 F-150 and I'm looking to upgrade the entire system. I'm not into big bass but I thing a single JL W-0 under the back seat would suffice. I also want to feel as though my favorite bands are playing on my hood with exceptionally clear sound. What is the best head unit to go with? What about 6X9's for the mids? What is the best for highs? I have a limited budget so I also would like to stay affordable. Any feed back would be greatly appreciated.

 

Cant go wrong with Kenwood. Alpine Hu's and Sony if you want to be " affordable"
Infact, if you want to budget, sell your disc changer. That way, you have a little more cash, Then, buy yourself a nice CD deck thats MP3 readable. I did this.
You can burn about 8-12 albums on 1 disc, therefore rendering a disc changer useless.

 

I wouldn't do Sony if you are looking for clarity, Pioneer and Alpine are noticeably better when it comes to audio detail.

6x9's will force you to do a custom install, have the dreml tool handy!

 

You can get better brands than Kenwood affordably if you look on ebay. I picked up a $350.00 Rockford Fosgate RFX9210 for $200.00. This sound better than any kenwood or pioneer i have ever heard especially at the $200 to $250 price range. I even compared it to an Alpine i have and the Alpine is no comparison.

 

I would go with a Pioneer I have been selling Mobile audio for 5 years now and the Rockford decks are problems. If you want to go for clear sound buy a good set of component speaker for the front and leave the rears alone. You could always add a amplifier at a later date. As far as bass goes I always recommend a 10" sub for tight accurate bass response.