Melrose Client Upgrades Ford F-250 Audio System

A client from Melrose contacted Sound Depot and Performance in Gainesville while researching a 2017 Ford F-250 audio system upgrade solution. We met with the vehicle owner and listened to what he liked about the factory sound system and what areas he felt needed improvement. Once we had a better understanding of his expectations, we went to our showroom to audition different speakers and subwoofers. With a new system design approved, we scheduled an appointment to perform the installation.

Ford F-250 Audio System Integration

We started the project with the installation of a PAC AP4-FD21 factory integration module. This product allows us to remove the factory Sony amplifier and connect the factory radio directly to our chosen aftermarket amplifiers. Removing the factory amp eliminates the need to undo equalization and signal delay that can hinder the performance of the new equipment.

Hertz Front and Rear Speaker Upgrades

Hertz 3-way speakers are a big step up from the factory speakers.

The rear doors were upgraded with Hertz speakers.

After removing the factory speakers, we prepped the front and rear doors with 20 sheets of Mesa sound-deadening mat to quell vibrations and improve the performance of the system. A set of Hertz Hi-Energy HCX690.4 three-way 6x9s with Fast Rings foam baffles upgrades the front doors. The Fast Rings baffles help focus energy into the vehicle, rather than allowing it to bounce around within the door panels. Hertz HT28 tweeters in the factory locations add height and width to the soundstage. We installed a set of Energy Series ECX165.5 coaxial speakers to provide sound from the back doors.

Stealth Subwoofer System

Accent lines were machined into the enclosure to add some flair.

The custom enclosure was very impressive looking and sounding!

Every bit of space under the rear seat was utilized to maximize the bass output.

Our fabrication team created a custom enclosure for a pair of JL Audio 12TW5 subwoofers. The enclosure fits under the rear seat and is wrapped in gray vinyl to match the interior of the truck. We mounted a large Ford emblem in the center of the front panel to give the enclosure a little extra style.

Amplification and Tuning Solution

Our technicians were able to fit all the necessary electronics behind the seat.

We installed a Hertz HS8 digital signal processor to allow us to adjust crossovers, equalization and signal delay for each speaker in the vehicle. We installed an eight-channel JL Audio XD800/8 amp for the mids and highs, and a pair of HD750/1 monoblock amps for the subs to provide the most flexibility for system tuning. We assigned two channels of the XD800/8 to the front tweeters and two channels to the rear speakers, and bridged the remaining four channels to drive the front door speakers.

System Tuning and Delivery

Once the installation was complete and tuned, it was time to turn this beautiful truck back over to the client. He was stunned by the impact and detail of the new sound system. The soundstage was mesmerizing.

If your Ford F-250 audio system needs an upgrade, drop by Sound Depot and Performance or send us an e-mail using our online contact FORM.