2002 Explorer XLT

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Jun 3, 2003 | 01:40 PM

pat2002

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Joined: Jun 2003

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2002 Explorer XLT

Hello,
I just bought a 2002 explorer XLT 4x4 yesterday. I think the stereo leaves a little to be desired. Now, in the old days (10-15 years ago), I considered myself a car audio enthusiast. I installed several >$2000 systems in mine and others cars. Since then, I have fallen out of the loop. I do not want to shake other cars at stop lights anymore like I did when I was 20!
I do notice that this stereo has poor treble expecially. The bass is better. I do not want to do a total system upgrade. I am looking for some suggestions for some replacement speakers that would make a difference with the stock CD/cassette HU. I have had Boston Acoustics, Infinity, Eclipse, Kicker components in the past. I guess I would be looking for "drop in's" for now. Can anyone make some specific suggestions? Thanks.
Pat

Jun 3, 2003 | 02:09 PM

PrPlayboy

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Joined: Mar 2003

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From: New Canaan, CT

2002 Explorer XLT

If you just want a drop in component look into 6x8 components. I just got the JL Audio set and they fit nicely but I had to cut a hole for the tweeter. Alpine makes a set that is rated at 35watts RMS and the tweeter is mounted in front of the 6x8 and it is still a component. The Alpine will probly be the best 6x8 componet you can get to run off the stock radio. As you may know you can get a bracket and go 5.25 components or you can make your own bracket and go 6.5. If you make your own bracket you can go up to 1 inch think with the wood. I know because I was expiermenting with speakers. Here are the Alpines
I think the Boston's have a bracket that will allow you to attach the tweeter in the center of the speaker also.

Jun 3, 2003 | 02:42 PM

luvdeftonz

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Joined: May 2003

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From: Somewhere between Heaven

2002 Explorer XLT

If you want components, JL's 5x7 components are the best I've heard. Alpine's Type R coaxials are nice, however. Inline crossover and bi-amp capable. Infinity Kappas also have an inline crossover and sound nice. Both the Type R's and Kappas have very nice tweeters (for the treble you're looking for). All three of these sets sound their best with an amp, even if it's just a small 50x2 amp (your stock HU puts out 12-15 watts rms). All these are popular enough that you should be able to go out and audition them. I know Good Guys carries the Type R's, Infinity's, Bostons, JL's, and Eclipse...all of whom make 5x7/6x8 replacements.

Jun 3, 2003 | 08:58 PM

PrPlayboy

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Joined: Mar 2003

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From: New Canaan, CT

2002 Explorer XLT

I was going to suggest the Infinitys also because they are more efficiant but you will have to mount the tweeter. I think alot of companys are now getting on the band wagon of allowing you to mount the tweeter in the middle of the speaker. Thats perfect if you just want to throw something in your self. If and when I decide to trade my explorer in i will have to buy walmart $20 tweeters to fill the holes I made for my tweeters. I have leather interier so replacing the leather skin on the door is out of the question.

Jun 5, 2003 | 11:02 PM

dgardner

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Joined: May 2003

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From: Annapolis, MD

2002 Explorer XLT

I highly recommend the JL Audio XR-570 CXI or CSI. The handle about 75 watts a piece. I just got my 2002 Explorer XLT and I just installed The CXI's in the back and CSI's in the front. These speakers blew me away. I'm a big CDT fan but the JL's are by far a better sounding speaker. The only problem is I didn't install these before I installed the HU so I don't know how they would sound with the factory unit. I would go with the JL's / Infinity. If you decide to go the JL route don't pay retail for the JL's. I got 2 pairs of speakers online for the same price as 1 set in the Car Audio shop down the street.

However if you want better overall you might want to think about upgrading you HU in the future.