I recommend taking some time here to first read up on some very useful information on the areas that you're curious about- before going to a shop. It may give you a better context for what they tell you or give you better judgment to spend money where it matters most. I've changed my entire system since coming here, not realizing how little I really knew.
Chicago area installers?
Hi Everyone,
Just wanted to introduce myself (I'm a newb on this board). I'm just starting to get *back* into car audio (was pretty involved in it in college, but that was about a decade ago). It sure seems like things have come a long way since then- at least the cars have! Anyway, I am looking for people's opinions on where I can find a good installer in the Chicagoland area. I'm looking to do a pretty basic upgrade to my factory system (the car is an '04 Audi S4 with the Blose system). Of all the cars I've had, this system really sounds terrible.
What I'm looking for is nothing too flashy. Just want to upgrade the stock speakers, add an amp, and probably a subwoofer. I'd like to keep the factory HU, if possible. Bugdet-wise, I'm not looking to spend tons of money (from browsing the classifieds on this board it seems like very good equipment can be had relatively affordably). The other weekend I took a trip to Abt and they quoted me ~$2K for very mediocre hardware, and I think for that much I can do a lot better.
Anyway, if anyone can help out, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks, and I look forward to doing my best to contribute!
-Will
Just wanted to introduce myself (I'm a newb on this board). I'm just starting to get *back* into car audio (was pretty involved in it in college, but that was about a decade ago). It sure seems like things have come a long way since then- at least the cars have! Anyway, I am looking for people's opinions on where I can find a good installer in the Chicagoland area. I'm looking to do a pretty basic upgrade to my factory system (the car is an '04 Audi S4 with the Blose system). Of all the cars I've had, this system really sounds terrible.
What I'm looking for is nothing too flashy. Just want to upgrade the stock speakers, add an amp, and probably a subwoofer. I'd like to keep the factory HU, if possible. Bugdet-wise, I'm not looking to spend tons of money (from browsing the classifieds on this board it seems like very good equipment can be had relatively affordably). The other weekend I took a trip to Abt and they quoted me ~$2K for very mediocre hardware, and I think for that much I can do a lot better.
Anyway, if anyone can help out, I'd greatly appreciate it. Thanks, and I look forward to doing my best to contribute!
-Will
1 - 9 of 9 Posts
you closer to the loop or the burbs? Northside? Southside? Westside?
knowing the area you're in will help to point you in the right direction.
knowing the area you're in will help to point you in the right direction.
Hey OldSchool, thanks for the advice. Yes, I am aware that I need to spend a little time on the board to brush up for my last few years of absence in the car audio arena. I do know most of the basics, it's just that I'm not familiar with the new brands that are out there these days. Of course there are the tried and true brands like Focal, Dyn, Zapco, etc..., but some of the newer brands I'll have to do some research on.
Jay- I'm located in the Loop area, but I'm willing to drive a little if it's worth it. Thanks for any help you can provide!
Jay- I'm located in the Loop area, but I'm willing to drive a little if it's worth it. Thanks for any help you can provide!
Hey OldSchool, thanks for the advice. Yes, I am aware that I need to spend a little time on the board to brush up for my last few years of absence in the car audio arena. I do know most of the basics, it's just that I'm not familiar with the new brands that are out there these days. Of course there are the tried and true brands like Focal, Dyn, Zapco, etc..., but some of the newer brands I'll have to do some research on.
Jay- I'm located in the Loop area, but I'm willing to drive a little if it's worth it. Thanks for any help you can provide!
Jay- I'm located in the Loop area, but I'm willing to drive a little if it's worth it. Thanks for any help you can provide!
I woule love to see a list of reputable shops in the Chicago area. I am in the NW burbs but I would be willing to travel anywhere in the general area of Chicagoland to check it out.
The only one I'd ever think to give business to again is Ray's Electronics in Addison. You can google that and it'll give you a phone number.
I know plenty of places in Chicagoland. Pm me and i'll let you know.
kowill- I am in similar situation and rather not deal w/ ABT. I'm planning on doing some of the work myself but may need a shop to fall back on in case of issues.
Like jimbno1, I am in the NW burbs but can travel.
Like jimbno1, I am in the NW burbs but can travel.
1 - 9 of 9 Posts
- This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
DIYMobileAudio.com Car Stereo Forum
A forum community dedicated to all mobile audio enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about capacitors, amplifiers, subwoofers, marine and automotive audio, troubleshooting, and more!
Full Forum Listing
Top Contributors this Month
View All
ItsonlyaHONDA
486 Replies
BobTheBirdTurd
385 Replies
Grinder
300 Replies
Recommended Communities
