Okay, so I've read a few posts, but none of them so far have been exactly what I've been needing. I just purchased a 2014 Sahara Unlimited with the 430N + Alpine speaker system. While tons better than my older 2001 Sport's audio, I'm still less than impressed and started looking for options. After going to a couple shops, I was disappointed to hear that the digital amplification and DSP that Jeep uses will basically make it impossible for me to simply swap speakers and amps without other modules to allow me to keep my headend 430N and steering wheel controls. You see, I want it to look stock but sound badass!

So here's what I'm thinking, and I'd love your input. I found a great deal on a set of Alpine Type R components for the front, matching coaxials for the soundbar, and a Type R 8" sub for the back (to replace the "Alpine" option that's already there). I want to power it with an Alpine 5-ch amp which seems to have plenty of power for the speakers and a dedicated sub channel with 300+ watts RMS, too. I was told that I'd need something like the AudioControl LC7i line output converter to take the signal from the existing digital amp and convert it to a line level which can then be fed into the new amp and allow me to keep all the stock control options and head unit.

Is this the right way to go, or am I missing something?

Also, I know my way around stereo gear and have done some basic installs, but the shops also tried to scare me a bit by saying how difficult it is to do all this since I'd have to rip the whole dash off in order to just replace the front component speakers. As a newbie, should I attempt something like this myself, or should I let a pro do it since it's a brand new vehicle?

Any feedback would be ever so much appreciated. Thanks!

 

You don't need an LC7 or LC6 per say. But it will make the install a lot cleaner and easier. You can buy 3 2channel Line Out Converter for all your speakers for half the price but you will have these converters everywhere.

The equipment you are listing is what I have that I pulled out of my last car and maybe going to put in the Jeep, maybe.
SPR-60C
SPR-60
PDX-5
MRX-M50
2xSPS 10D4

No you don't have to rip the whole dash apart to replace the speakers. I wish I took pics of the install I did yesterday. Also if you replace your speakers in the soundbar, it's going to vibrate like crazy. You will need to seal as much air as you can from between the soundbar and the speaker. Use a foam tape. I only install the speakers over the weekend. I did not install my amps. I may not even install them, still debating. May even just sell them.

 

Sounds like you have gotten pretty good advice. If you are comfortable tearing your dash apart and putting it back together, do it yourself. Your Lc7 or Lc8 will need to go after the factory amp or you will lose tone controls and fading. It complicates the install a bit from a splicing perspective.

Honestly, for a little more than the line converter, you should go with an after market head unit and get better sound, better features, and better connectivity group. I initially wanted to keep my factory HU as well but I am so glad I went with an aftermarket touch screen with removable face.

As for your speakers. Absolutely get what sounds great to you. If that is Alpine Type Rs, then there is your answer. Dropping an 8" shallow mount may not get you where you want to go if you like bass. Especially with the top off in the summer. You will not hear it.