Will I need a new HU, or amp to power JL speakers?

Question

I've been slowly upgrading my '97 Monte Carlo's sound system by adding sub woofers, but now I'm looking for some clarity.

I currently have: (2) 12w1v2-4 ohm subs, JL sealed box,  JL 500/1 slash series amp, unused 250/1 amp (replaced by 500/1), and  walmart JVC KD-S36 head unit (i think it puts out 25w x 4 rms)

I have on order: JL TR690- TXi 6x9 coaxials for the rear, and JL VR525-CSi 5.25 components for the front.

From the research I've gathered, They will obviously be an improvement by replacing the stock speakers, and running power off the HU. The questions I have would be: how crucial is it to amplify the speakers? Will the head unit I have now be alright? Will I need to run new speaker wire? If I do get an amp for them would It go under my seat, or be connected to the 500/1? Where's the best spot for the tweeters and crossover? Basically anything I may need to know would be appreciated. Thanks!

jeffnjess4 · Accepted Answer

first off the 6x9 are 3ways. i prefer coaxials myself but they should sound good.secondly the weakest link in your system is the headunit. a lowbuck headunit with none of the features ya need. even if ya dont add a 4 channel amp for the main speakers, ya need a hu that has 3 sets of at least 4 volt preouts with a dedicated sub out( and the other sets for upgrade later)... but most importantly ya need high pass filters for yout new jl's.take the bass ou of them so they wont be distorting... these 2 headunits have alot of feature sfor the cash

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_22937_Kenwood-eXcelon-KDC-X494.html

http://www.sonicelectronix.com/item_31077_Pioneer-DEH-P8300UB.html

Anonymous · Answer

I like this one best.
Pyle-Pro PDBT45 400 Watt 1.75-inch Titanium Bullet Super Tweeter
Technical Details
    * Cloth diaphragm 400 Watts max./ 1.75" Voice Coil
    * 15 oz. magnet/ 4-16 ohm
    * 1500-20,000Hz/104dB/w/m
    * 1.75'' Titanium Diaphram Super Tweeter - 15 oz. Magnet

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Will I need a new HU, or amp to power JL speakers?

2 Answers