So I'm thinkin that if I get a chunk of cash that I may upgrade my system again. My current system is a Panasonic deck, JL Audio TR 6.5 components, JL Audio TR 6x9 rears, Alpine T220 amp, JL Audio WO 10" sub. I like JL Audio, but I'm also a big fan of Alpine in my friends WRX. So lemme know what you think of the two setups I conjured up. They're both gonna use the same Alpine CDA-9856 head unit.

Alpine
MRP-F450 4/3/2 Ch Amp $350.00
MRP-M650 Sub Amp $300.00
SPS-171A 6.5" Components $220.00
SPS-69C3 6x9" Coaxials $140.00
SBR-S122V 12" Type R Sub $380.00

JL Audio
CS113RG-W1v2
Slash 500/1 Sub Amp
Slash 300/4 4 Ch Amp
VR650-CSi 6.5" Component Set
VR690-CXi 6x9" 2-ways

Lemme know what ya think.

 

Have you thought about mixing and matching? I really like JLs amps and subs. I havent heard much of their speakers though. Are you set on those two brands?

 

Yeah man, you can mix different brands together. Some brands are better than others in different catagories, and vice-versa. I'm sure you know that though.

 

Yea, I do know that, but having listened to a full Alpine system and my own full JL system, I have been thoroughly impressed by their sound quality and kick in both systems.....plus some stupid part of me has this "brand loyal" streak...same with performance parts.

 

I can't say I like either...

The JL components/co-ax don't impress me that much. Why you are willing to spend 380 on a top of the line sub from alpine, and then buy JL's entry W1 doesn't make sense. Your brand loyalty is going to yield you sub par results.

If it was me, I'd keep things a bit more simple - high power 4 channel amp, single subwoofer and a pair of nice components. That way you can get higher quality gear and it takes up less space - this approach has always worked for me...

 

JL W-7 FTW :irock:

 

alpine and JL subs are both really good like for example look at JL's subs, they have had the same model out for like at least 10 years and look at other brands that come out with a new model every year...that tells that JL is really good quality because they take time coming up with new designs....but Alpine makes better 6x9's and 6.5"s and both amps are really decent