So I recently upgraded my sound system by adding a 10” sub, 6.5”x4 kicker speakers, and a kicker 50x4 amp. The quality improved a lot, with no more distorted bass and everything was louder even at lower volume levels. But there’s a weird issue with the drums, especially cymbals and high hats. The drums sound dull, flat, like a live recording that hurts my ears sometimes.
Other parts of the music like bass drums, guitar, and vocals sound great, though. I’ve tried adjusting the sound settings, but nothing makes the drums sound better. Any advice on what could be causing this or how to fix it? I can upload a video of the sound if that would help. I listen to a lot of deathcore/metalcore if that’s relevant.
I’m not really experienced with car audio systems, so I had to go with what BestBuy recommended. I did some research before buying, but it all went over my head. Any help would be appreciated!
Zola said:
Sounds like it might be time for a new head unit.
I did think about that, along with replacing the tweeters, but I’m hesitant because I’ve already spent close to $1k on parts and installation in just a week. I do want to upgrade more, but I want to be sure I’m doing the right thing. Any recommendations would be great so I don’t go in blind again.
Did you add a powered subwoofer? The 50x4 amp should just power your 4 speakers, and a separate amp should be used for the sub. If the crossover points or phase settings aren’t correct, the upper bass could be canceled out. Also, if one or more of your interior speakers are wired out of phase, it could cause weird sound issues.
Try adjusting the fader all the way to the front and the balance all the way to the left. This should bring sound to one speaker, then balance to the right. If it sounds better on either side but worse in the middle, your front speakers might be out of phase. Then do the same for the rear.
A lot of modern cars are factory equalized for the original speakers. Adding an amp by itself won’t mess with the equalization, but swapping the speakers can. Your best bet is to add a DSP before the amp to recalibrate and equalize everything.