oh i totally understand where you're coming from...my stereo isnt bad....i've got 2 12" kicker competitions on a 400 watt amp and polk audio 6x9's in the back so its not like i'm running on a stock system. its not great, its not the worst...it gets me through ok though...especially with my carputer for mp3's but if you saw my car right now, you'd know why i didnt want to spend money on the stereo...its pretty bad.