5 replies to this topic

[chancey22]

I have a 2010 Sea Doo 180 Challenger SE. I am considering making some improvements to the factory sound system. My boat currently has the factory Jensen CD player and 4 - 6 1/2" Jensen speakers. While the sound is currently pretty good I would like to make improvements basically to make the system louder and have some more bass. However, I would prefer not to cut new holes in the fiberglass and would like to use the factory openings. Any suggestions? Adding a marine amp? I am not really sure of the quality of the factory Jensen speakers and CD player - will upgrading them make a noticeable difference? Or will I just be wasting money? Anyone have any recommendations on brands or models of marine speakers and amps? Also, with an amp, is their a need for a second battery to prevent drawdown when running the stereo for longer periods of time when the boat is not running?
Any input would be appreciated!

[bhziii]

I have a 2010 210 Challenger and I just upgraded. I also didn't feel like cutting more holes so I just replaced my 4 speakers with some JBL's and added a JBL marine amp....and it made a huge difference. For now I left the Jensen radio. As for the second battery...I am going to try it without it. I actually asked me dealer and they don't recommend it.

[Prostreetnova65]

You can check out my post added speakers and extra battery

[Jwoogie1]

I just added the Kenwood Kmr-440u with two Polk DB651s speakers in the front and two DB651 speakers in the back to replace the clarion OEM's. All sounds really great and lots of base with out a sub woofer. I also added the KCA-RC60MR wired remote to replace the Clarion one in the same hole in the dash, with minor mods to fit the mounting studs. I also used the ground and illumination wires from the old remote for the new one. Pulled the power from the radio toggle switch in the dash. I was hesitant on what components to use for this upgrade and read a lot of posts and reviews. The polk speakers sound really nice and the Kenwood deck was under 100 bucks through Amazon with the latest hook ups (USB and Ipod, Aux). The addition of the front speakers is great.

[vwDavid]

I have been reading about speakers and nearly all speakers sound like they need holes enlarged or adapters.

 

Does anyone know, for sure, which speakers one can buy to replace the C180 jensen 6.5s that are direct bolt in, that are good speakers?

 

Thanks

[BigWayne]

My suggestion to anyone looking to add an amplifier is to also add an additional battery.

The higher noise output from the engine makes it difficult to hear the radio unless the motor is off, or the radio is turned up to it's max.

You'll be surprised how quickly running an amplified sound system drains the battery below a reliable starting threshold voltage.

I also encourage picking up a cheap 12V battery meter that plugs into the acessory jack. They can be found on Ebay for around $5.00.