[drdoug3]

I can't get a straight answer from anyone. I'm running a 200w Volvo OEM amp on the HU 613 with factory speakers, not sure if they're the premium ones or plain old. I've thought about putting some Alpines or Bostons in, but don't want to change out HU613 or the amp. Electronics superstores tell me I need additional (expensive) wiring harnesses to work the speakers without distortion. Is this true? Should I just try to go to dealer and install premium speakers? I'm driving 2001 V70 2.4T, which I love. Just want better sound for long trips.

 

[beaversjl]

If you are keeping the same headunit and amp you shouldn't need to do anything except install the speakers.

 

[dpg]

Contact the people from crutchfield, for sure they will help you

 

[BHart]

Selling heavy duty wiring for speakers is a con. Open up a 500 watt amp and look at the gauge of wire going to the connector - typically 16. Unless you were trying to run a 2000 watt sub over 100 feet of cable, the factory wiring will be fine, and will not impart any distortion you will hear.

The claims are even more outlandish today (2011) for HDMI. Better color, clearer picture, 3D compatible from the $500 cable. This is crazy! It's just ones and zeros over 10 feet of cable. The ten dollar cable will be fine. It works or it doesn't.

Don't get fooled into this way of thinking.

Just make sure the speakers are connected in phase and their impedance matches the amp output. This along with finding speakers that have an efficiency rating of over 96 db will make sure things sound good and not break the bank.

 

[mcd0minguez]

I am a Geek Squad AUtoTech and replacing your factory speakers with aftermarket ones are safe as long as you use the right polarities. Switching out the amp later will allow the installer to choose correct ohm levels and adjust frequencies a little more.