A regular client of Sound Depot and Performance called us from Ocala to inquire about a 2019 Polaris Ranger audio system upgrade. As with all the projects we have completed for him, he wanted a great sound system that would work with his smartphone using a Bluetooth connection. The client dropped off the Ranger Crew XP 1000 EPS Northstar Edition and our team dove right in.
Bluetooth Audio Streaming Solution
We started the project by installing a JL Audio MBT-RX Bluetooth streaming receiver behind the dash and connected it to a remote level control powered by a JL Audio CL-RLC. The knob for the CL-RLC is mounted on the left side of the dash in one of the blank switch panels and serves as the master volume control for the system.
While working in the dash, we installed a set of illuminated switches to serve as the master on/off for the stereo and mounted a high-output 12-inch Rough Country LED light bar on the front of the vehicle.
JL Audio Speakers and Subwoofer
The Polaris doesn’t come with a stereo system, so our fabrication team had to create custom mounting locations for speakers. We started with mounting panels for the front doors that would provide adequate depth for JL Audio 7.7-inch M770-CCX-SG-TB coaxial drivers. The panels are finished in a durable textured finish that matches the door trim panels almost perfectly.
For rear speakers, we installed another set of the JL 7.7-inch drivers in the ceiling at the rear of the vehicle. We cut a set of spacer rings made from stacked MDF on our router table, then wrapped them in gray carpet to match the roof.
The client didn’t want to give up any significant amount of storage space in the vehicle, but still wanted great sound. That meant we had to get creative with our subwoofer enclosure design. The team fabricated a compact sealed enclosure that fits under the rear passenger seat of the vehicle and houses a single JL 8W3v3-4 sub.
Marine Amplifier
A single JL Audio amplifier powers the entire system.
The sound system is powered by an eight-channel JL Audio M800/8v2 amplifier. Four of the amp channels are wired in a bridged configuration to power the door speakers. Another pair of channels is bridged to power the subwoofer. This leaves two channels to power the overhead rear speakers. We installed an optional RBC-1 remote bass control on the dash so the client can adjust the subwoofer level at any time.
Lighting Upgrade
The light bar upgrade will let the client ride in safety well into the night.
To add an auxiliary light to the front of the Ranger, we suggested the Rough Country 12-inch dual row LED bar. This light bar can produce an impressive 5760 lumens of light output and features 24 three watt CREE LEDs.
Successful Polaris Ranger Audio System Upgrade
With the gear installed and the amplifier settings fine-tuned, it was time for the client to return to Sound Depot and Performance in Gainesville to pick up his vehicle. He was thrilled with the way the system sounds and impressed at the performance of the small subwoofer in the little cabin.
If your off-road vehicle could use an upgrade, drop by our store, give us a call at 352-374-7700 or send us an e-mail using our online contact form. We’d be happy to help!
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