Aftermarket stereo sound issues

[Zap]

Okay,

Since the '94 is up and running, I've been using the stereo quite a bit, however I am disappointed. It's a Kenwood MP3 unit (KDC-MPV619). Generally, it sounds pretty good, until the volume is cranked up. Additionally, when I can get it to go up, there is hardly any bass or it distorts the bass on the rest of the speakers when I actually get sub response. This is using the JBL amps, with a converter box (adjustable).

Comparing this to my '95's JBL system, this looks like the "sad and sorry" factory system vs aftermarket. On the '95 it cranks to almost full volume, bass powerful and strong, and the rest of the system nicely in tune. It still has the stock Ford setup with CD player.

I know the '94 should sound better than it currently does. What can I do to fix this problem? Do I need a different level converter, is it a matter of setting things in a special configuration, or what? I'm sure this has come up before as a problem when converting to an aftermarket head unit.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Machspeed]

Im assuming you got the stock stereo other then the deck? I dunno bout you but im ditching the whole stock jbl system. At first it sounded great, but its starting to age and have problems. My whole interior will be pioneer with a jbl 80.4 powering those, i also have one 1000w rms 10" sub waiting for an amp, ill prolly powr it with a jbl 1200.1. Nottoo much more wieght and a great sounding system. The head unit doesnt do much for sound when the speakers are being amped.

<small>[ August 17, 2003, 04:23 AM: Message edited by: FOR SHO ]</small>

 

[Zap]

I am going to try trimming down the levels soon, with hopes that it will at least slightly improve the situation. Problem is, this is my girlfriend's car and she doesn't have the cash to dump into more stereo stuff at the moment, so we're trying to get by with what we've got. I know there's a kink in the system.. it may not be the greatest thing (I have a stereo in the Sable that was mine before the '95.. and I know all about amps and subs, hehehe) but I know also that it should be better than this..

 

[BlackOnBlackATX]

how did you connect it to the stock system? did you bypass the stock amps or not?

 

[Zap]

Used a harness with a level converter (it is an adjustable one). Using the factory amps.