A client from San Jose dropped into California Car Sounds and Tint about a year ago to talk about some upgrades to his 2006 Infiniti QX56 stereo system. We spoke with the client about how he listens to his music and his goals for the sound system upgrade. Once we had a clear grasp of his intentions, we provided a quote to install the system. After several more visits and a few changes to the product selections, the client was finally ready for us to build his dream system. We scheduled an appointment, and he dropped off the SUV.
JL Audio Subwoofer Enclosure
The client had purchased a set of JL Audio 12W6v2 subwoofers many years ago in preparation for his dream system. We proposed an enclosure that fits between the rear captain’s chairs to provide excellent performance and give his children a place to put toys, books and even drinks.
After careful measurement, we started work on the enclosure, using a construction process called Stak Fab. This process involves cutting multiple rings out of MDF and stacking them together to form the contoured walls of the enclosure. We cut mounting holes in one bottom plate and made a second plate that would serve as a trim piece for the subs.
On the top, we formed a small cavity into the leading edge to allow for the installation of a pair of illuminated cup holders. A large 1-inch round over bit gives the top edge a smooth finish. In all, the enclosure has 20 layers of 3/4-inch MDF.
We used our Mobile Solutions Axis Shape Creator to router a recess in both sides of the enclosure. We carpeted the sides of the panels and wrapped the top in vinyl. A chrome accent divides the two materials.
Speaker Upgrades
We upgraded the front speakers to a set of Focal ES165K2 components. We treated the exterior door panels with a layer of Blackhole Foil. The interior door panel is covered with Focal BAM foam-backed sound deadening. The front speakers are powered actively from the system’s main amp.
For the rear doors, we installed a set of Focal Flax Series P165FX components. The rear doors received the same sound-deadening treatment as the fronts.
Focal and Mosconi Amp Rack
The client chose a Mosconi D2 80.6DSP amplifier and a Focal FPX 1.1000 to power the system. We created a cast-acrylic plastic amp and power distribution mount to secure the amps under the driver’s seat. The amps are powered by JL Audio 0-AWG power wire that is fused and split into 4-AWG runs using a JL Audio XD-FDBU-2 fused distribution block. We added a set of terminal strips to make connecting the amp rack to the vehicle quick and easy.
The client opted for a MOS-BTS Bluetooth streaming module for the D2 amp. The Mosconi D2 80.6DSP amp has a built-in eight-channel DSP processor. We used this to divide the signals between the tweeters, midrange drivers and subs, as well as feed a signal to the rear speakers.
Custom System Controller Installation
Finishing off the system is a Mosconi DSP-RC-Mini remote control for the system. This will let him adjust the subwoofer level and load different system presets. We used our Kingpin router templates to create a perfect rectangle around the face of the mini controller. Once we cut out a template, we removed the overhead window and sunroof control panel cover and cut out an opening for the controller using our router table and a flush-trim bit. The Mosconi controller looks right at home once we put everything back together in the car.
Infiniti QX56 Stereo System Delivery
After we had tuned the Mosconi DSP processor to create a stable and accurate soundstage across the dash, it was time to deliver this Infiniti QX56 stereo upgrade back to the client. He was thrilled with the way everything looked and couldn’t believe how much better the system sounded. We more than exceeded his expectations.
If you are looking for a sound system upgrade for your car, truck or SUV, drop by California Car Sounds and Tint. You can reach us by phone at 408-378-0409 or by e-mail using our online contact form.
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