I have seen quite a few discussion threads with respect to replacement speakers, but nothing yet on amplifier installation for the base (non-Bose) model. I understand that the factory head unit is only rated for 5 watts RMS, and was exploring the possibility of adding an aftermarket amplifier in addition to replacing the speakers. It seems that there are a variety of good 5-channel amplifiers on the market today (Eclipse 3650, Soundstream P205, Alpine MRV-F357, etc.), and that only one amplifier would be needed to drive the front speakers, rear speakers, and the subwoofer. In looking at the factory service manual, it seems that in the Touring Model, the Bose amplifier is placed on its side inside the console that houses the transmission shift lever.UCLAMDX,
I completely replaced the factory system in my base model. The amp for the subwoofer on the base model is actually behind the factory subwoofer just over the rear wheel. Anyway, I actually put my amps where the headrests are stored (of course you loose the headrest storage).
If you do a search on my posts I posted some photos of the work we did.
The Alpine 5 channel might work real well for you and be of a resonable cost. Make sure you replce the factory sub with one that can handle an "open air" enclosure or have a box built or the sub will "fart" all the time and never sound as good as it could.
If you go with amps that can handle "high-level" inputs you will be able to use the input from the factory radio to drive the amp which would save you some money and trouble. I don't know if the Alpine does this but you can also get converters that convert high-level speaker output to line level RCA. You can feel free to put almost any aftermarket radio you want (that fits of course) but the installers have to make a custom install kit as nobody makes a kit for the MDX yet.
I would replace the factory speakers with ones that please your ears and can handle the power of your new amp. I will never make an suggestions as to which speakers you should get as speakers are a very subjective item.
Let me know if I can help with any specific questions. We had my MDX interior torn apart and I know it well.
I completely replaced the factory system in my base model. The amp for the subwoofer on the base model is actually behind the factory subwoofer just over the rear wheel. Anyway, I actually put my amps where the headrests are stored (of course you loose the headrest storage).
If you do a search on my posts I posted some photos of the work we did.
The Alpine 5 channel might work real well for you and be of a resonable cost. Make sure you replce the factory sub with one that can handle an "open air" enclosure or have a box built or the sub will "fart" all the time and never sound as good as it could.
If you go with amps that can handle "high-level" inputs you will be able to use the input from the factory radio to drive the amp which would save you some money and trouble. I don't know if the Alpine does this but you can also get converters that convert high-level speaker output to line level RCA. You can feel free to put almost any aftermarket radio you want (that fits of course) but the installers have to make a custom install kit as nobody makes a kit for the MDX yet.
I would replace the factory speakers with ones that please your ears and can handle the power of your new amp. I will never make an suggestions as to which speakers you should get as speakers are a very subjective item.
Let me know if I can help with any specific questions. We had my MDX interior torn apart and I know it well.
