I know this type of thread has been beaten to death but I can't seem to find what I'm really looking for.

I want to upgrade my sound in my 2014 Wrangler, I just installed the kicker upgrade speakers in the sound bar and the difference is just meh... Do I need to install an amp to get the best sound? If so what is everyone running? If not, what should be my next step?

PS I'm not looking to install a sub, just not my style, I want loud enough to hear while the top is off and going 70 with mud terrain tires howling at me

 

After market deck, 10" sub and amplifier if you're not willing to do at least those 3 upgrades(and you don't have to break the bank lots of affordable mono amps and subs).... Then good luck trying to accomplish what you want top down with your tires growling

 

Correct. Besides, the sub adds the low end, it doesn't have to be thumping from two blocks away. The front pods and soundbar in the jeep are not large enough to reproduce bass below 100hz even with an amp, no matter what the specs of your speakers say.

 

Best advice I can give you is replace the stock head unit, that should be #1 on the list. I made the mistake of trying to keep the stock head unit, while the stock touch screen and uconnect are nice but as you start replacing the stock components with better quality components you will see the limitations on the stock head units. I have been down this rabbit hole, do yourself a favor and don't make the same mistake. Replace the head unit now and never look back. Pioneer NEX series head units have great sound quality and are loaded with features. 4200nex is a nice

I would replace the head unit first, then do amp and component set speakers (woofer and tweeter separate) then add a sub in that order.
If you can do everything at once, even better.

choice 2015 Hydro Blue JKU

 

If I replace the deck, do I lose the use of the buttons on the steering wheel? I have seen others that say you lose that capability. I guess it isn't a huge deal since most new decks have bluetooth but just curious if i would lose it.

Thanks for all the advice guys, i guess i will have to venture down the subwoofer path...

 

Since I am looking at decks now, what is everyone using? The brand that has the most compatibility is Boss Audio? Thoughts on that brand?

 

I replaced the HU, speakers, and added a small amp and I am extremely happy with the results. I still have my steering wheel controls as well. It's not always all about that bass. I have a soft top and did not want to tempt the kiddies.

https://www.jk-forum.com/forums/jk-e...issues-318560/

 

Absolutely not, but be warned that typically there is an additional behind the scenes harness that is needed. If you are looking for the "in's and out's", recommend checking out Crutchfield. The offer a great selection and are very thorough detailing what fits and what is needed to complete your audio project. By no means are they usually the cheapest or everyone's favorite, but they do have a "One Stop Shop" up to and including the needed harnesses/fit kits/possible additional wiring/complete install instructions mostly tailored to your Jeep(and other vehicles). Again, not everyones fav but a good resource to start look and doing research.

I personally am a Alpine/Pioneer snob for my head units and traditionally use kicker or alpine for my mids and highs, and JL for my lows. Boss Audio works IMHO lacks the quality of similar choices. Currently I have a Pioneer AVH-4100NEX (HU) , Kicker components in the front, Kicker 3-ways in the bar, Alpine KTP-445U Power pack in the dash (very small amp) to power my highs and mids, an Alpine MVR-M500 under my passenger seat to power the Rockford Fosgate ultra slim 12 (Not a JL but I got it for free, so...) mounted to the back gate. Costed me less than 500 because I hunted around and wheel'd and deal'd. Sounds and looks great!

 

Ok folks...So I kept my 730N (2012 Infinity) headunit but replaced the Amplifier with the Mopar Kicker Amp 77KCK056 and it made a huge difference (night and day)!

I then dynomatted the front speakers and filled them with polyfill, replaced the sounder speakers with the kicker coaxial, and replaced the subwoofer with Kenwood KSC-SW11 (powered subwoofer). It is unreal how much better my sound system performs.

trust me, for $500 I know have an excellent performing system!