So I have my Eclipse AVN2454 HU installed and noticed a greater difference in the mids and highs. The installer had the speakers run back through the stock amp (not sure why) but he assured me that it would sound the same as if he ran it straight from the HU. That is my first concern, but my second concern is that my sub isn't as strong as it used to be. I can still hear it faintly, even with the sub volume maxed out. When I put my head over my dash, I can hear the bass, but from the seats I can barely hear anything.

Fellow E-lovers, please help me!

Your new speakers are more efficient than your stock speakers, plain and simple.

Your stock sub will never be a thump-o-matic.

There is most likely a gain mismatch here. The Eclipse AVN2454, being their first AVN unit, was a bit quirky. For example, the adapter plug that got you front and rear pre-amp out was not included. It was an option. Also, your subwoofer output is a full range, non-fading output. There is no crossover there.

Unless you had the pre-amp output adapter plug, your installer hooked up everything to speaker level and used a LOC (line output converter) to step things back down to line level for the factory amp. It is probably a too high a level out from the LOC that is creating your two problems. It is overloading the input on the factory amp, distorting it, causing your treble and midrange sound issues. It is also a lot higher level than the sub output on your deck, keeping you from hearing the woofer. You simply can't turn the sub up high enough to keep up with the mains.

Hopefully the LOC your installer used has gain pots on it. Many do. If it does, bring down the levels to match the volume coming from the sub. That should also clean up the midrange and treble. You'll still have no crossover for your sub in the system but fortunately that problem is dirt cheap to solve. Buy either this Pyle crossover (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=267-766) or for $5 more this better Pyramid one (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=265-128) and have your installer add it to the system. Cross it over high, switch the phase to the position that you gives you the most bass, and you'll be all set.

Outpost: Thank you soooo much!

Why not just throw a coil on it? (just asking) Wouldn't it be cheaper and easier to install?
OK, maybe not cheaper than those crossovers from PE.


Hey blk element, where the pics of the install?

Good idea. I hadn't thought of that. :)

You'd need two coils (passive crossovers) as it is a dual voice coil woofer (the coils go between the factory amp and the sub) which might make it about the same price as an active crossover but it is certainly an option.

sweeet! thanks. Just in case, I'm running fosgate components in the fronts and in the rear also. When I have a chance I'll post my pics. (my car is a mess right now.)