1972 Chevy Blazer K5 Audio Upgrades For Ocala Client

A long-time customer from Ocala, Florida, brought a unique project to Sound Depot and Performance recently. We have done several marine audio systems in the past for this client, so when he decided on getting some Chevy Blazer K5 audio upgrades, he knew whom to call.

Power

Our installation team was careful to route the wires to the amplifier in a manner that allowed for the seat to hinge.

Tucked away safely under the seat, the amplifier is safe from harm.

The Blazer stands tall – even without a roof. For that reason, the customer wanted an audio system that could keep up with the noise from the engine and the hum of the Super Swamper tires. We based the system around a JL Audio HD 600/4 amplifier that we mounted on custom brackets under the passenger seat. The amplifier moves with the seat since it is folded forward to allow access to the back seat area.

Control

This radio might appear stock, but it has all the features of a modern radio!

We fed the amp from a Custom Autosound CHTKL-SBR radio that was designed to fit right into the factory twin-shaft radio opening. This radio features an OEM look, but has a hidden LCD screen for USB file information and radio station display. The screen appears when you move the “slidebar” to the right. The radio includes a dedicated output subwoofer that we used instead of the rear RCAs. This allows the client to fine-tune the bass level to suit his musical tastes or mood.

Speakers

The front speakers were mounted in plastic kick panels that our team adapted to fit the JL Audio speakers.

The subwoofer enclosures are designed to take up a minimal amount of room in the back of the Blazer.

The front the subwoofer enclosures are molded out to hold the JL Audio rear speakers.

The client provided a set of ABS kick panels that have speaker mounting locations built-in. We installed a set of JL Audio C2-650x 6 1/2-inch coaxial speakers on custom spacers and secured the whole assembly to the vehicle. In the rear of the truck, we created a set of subwoofer enclosures from marine-grade plywood and coated them with fiberglass resin. The enclosure shape minimizes intrusion into the cargo area while allowing adequate room for the subwoofers to perform properly. Each enclosure has a JL Audio 10W3v3 subwoofer in it with an optional SGRU-10 grille to protect it. In the front edge of the enclosures, located above the rear wheel wells, are integrated speaker pods for another set of JL Audio C2-650x coaxial speakers.

Connected

We wired the system with Stinger speaker wire, JL Audio power and ground wire, and MESA interconnect cables. We terminated all the wire connections with solder or heat-shrink tubing to ensure that they would perform well and remain reliable. We secured the amplifier and speakers in place using stainless steel hardware.

When the customer returned to pick up his truck, he was blown away by the clarity of the system – even at high volumes. The HD amplifier and sealed subwoofer enclosures produce tight, deep bass that blends perfectly with the coaxial speakers. Best of all, the system does not interfere with the usability of the truck.

If you are interested in an audio upgrade for your car, truck or boat, drop by Sound Depot and Performance in Gainesville, Florida. We would be happy to review your goals for the system and provide you with a no-obligation quote on making your plan a reality.

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