Upgrading Stock System on a Very Tight Budget

[SlyBlackDragon]

What do you think about this head unit?

Kenwood KDC-HD545U CD receiver at Crutchfield.com[rank2]4+stars[img]

[KeithGTP03]

That looks like a very nice head unit indeed.

I am hoping that for the time being I can get away with new HU and front speakers and just direct the majority of the power to the front speakers. Then I can upgrade the rears and possibly add a small sub as I get the money.

You cant direct more power to the front if you're not amplifying them. You can just fade the sound to the front. The speakers wont play louder just because they can take more power. You will need an amp to achieve the best results out of the speakers. They will be, however, a little more clear than the stocks.

What do you think about this head unit?

Kenwood KDC-HD545U CD receiver at Crutchfield.com[rank2]4+stars[img]

Thats a perfect HU....its got everything you were looking for. And it looks like its gonna come with all the mounting/installation accessories.

[SlyBlackDragon]

Bought and intalled the above HU. It sounds better, especially the HD radio stations, but I think the factory speakers still need replacing.

I have 200-250 left in my budget for speakers.

First, is it worth the hassle to upgrade to 6.5s up front, or will the stock 5.25 size be more than adequate?

Secondly I assume I can just use 6x9s in the back to save money for higher quality speakers in the front. Is this correct?

At this time I don't really think I need a sub, but if there is money left in the budget this would be worth consideration. I would want a stealthy install to still have a usable truck. I was thinking a 10" sub tucked away on the side of the trunk or something like that.

Locally I only have best buy and 1 audio shop to listen to speakers, so I really can't try out a whole lot. I am relying on your inputs and online reviews to make a smart purchase.

Your thoughts?