2023 SX X-Line Stereo Upgrade - Where to start

[itschris]

I pretty sure I never once stated that KIA is F-ing us over with the stereo. I'm just not fond of it at all and will likely be changing it. One has nothing to do with the other. I had a fairly expensive F-Pace and thought the Meridian stereo left a lot to be desired as well. It's a lot like exhaust pipes on sportbikes... the manufacturer is not going to dump a lot of money into it when anyone that even cares will change it anyway. Same with stereos. If you care you care... if you don't you don't.

 

[HLXHLX]

I also have an SX X-Line and think the H/K system is average at best. I would says it's very good up until about volume level 50, but anything higher and I can really hear the power diminish (esp from the sub). I'm certain there are limits baked into the factory EQ to protect the speakers as well, but the H/K amp also just doesn't have the power to drive the speakers loudly and clearly. I agree that the best alternative to improve the performance of this particular system is to: 1) Install a dsp to help correct the factory EQ; 2) Install a more powerful amp that will use that dsp-corrected signal to drive those speakers at higher volume with less distortion; and 3) Hearing the factory sub"max" out around Vol-50ish I'd say that's prob as loud as it can get (hence the EQ limit), so a more powerful sub would also be needed to balance with the other increased speaker volumes. My .02

 

[scottw324]

I have full understanding of value. If I decide to move forward with the upgrade, I have zero worries about recouping the money. That’s not even remotely part of the equation. Given my commute is about 40 minutes one way, that a lot of time to reap the value. I sort of feel like I’m worth the five grand. However, it’s not a small amount of money and I feel pretty sure that $5k is the entry price to so things right so if that amount of money is a burden or you need to get it back, I wouldn’t do it.

The value to you is honestly the most important thing. If you get the value you are seeking from it and will enjoy it for the time period you own the vehicle, that is what’s important, regardless of the ROI later on. It is like time, which is a very valuable, but underrated commodity. Sometimes it is worth spending the money to get something done so that you can enjoy it rather than spending the time to do it, which could have been used for other things. Just depends on if you have the ability to invest the money or if accomplishing the thing is part of the path towards fulfillment.

Good luck though on the system and enjoy it!

 

[scottw324]

I also have an SX X-Line and think the H/K system is average at best. I would says it's very good up until about volume level 50, but anything higher and I can really hear the power diminish (esp from the sub). I'm certain there are limits baked into the factory EQ to protect the speakers as well, but the H/K amp also just doesn't have the power to drive the speakers loudly and clearly. I agree that the best alternative to improve the performance of this particular system is to: 1) Install a dsp to help correct the factory EQ; 2) Install a more powerful amp that will use that dsp-corrected signal to drive those speakers at higher volume with less distortion; and 3) Hearing the factory sub"max" out around Vol-50ish I'd say that's prob as loud as it can get (hence the EQ limit), so a more powerful sub would also be needed to balance with the other increased speaker volumes. My .02

In the 3.5 months of owning mine, I don’t think I’ve had it go over 20, typically stays around 15.

______________________________

 

[HLXHLX]

In the 3.5 months of owning mine, I don’t think I’ve had it go over 20, typically stays around 15.

In the '23s the volume range is 0-75, so in my comment I was referring to about 67% (50) of the max volume. I'm not certain what the equivalent volume level would be in a pre-'23 as I believe it's range is smaller.

 

[itschris]

I think the volume is very dependent on source. Blu-toothing from an iPhone is probably the worst as I think both the phone and the system clip the signal. A wired connection is a bit better. Plugging in my external hard drive with lossless files is better still, but then I can't connect my phone anymore and loose nav and all that from CarPlay, so I'm stuck just using wired CarPlay which doesn't really bother me. I just got a new Ram Mount phone holder which I affix to the drive side "oh-shit" handle on the console and it puts my phone right where I like it.

For the system, I'm looking at a probable 8" sub as I think a 10" is just too big for between the seats. We talked about various box designs, size, and configurations and that's where the variability in the price starts to really move. Just how nice, how custom, how factory-looking do you want... balanced by what's needed to get optimum performance. Neither come cheap.

 

[TellurideCoug]

I'm also very disappointed with the so-called "premium audio" Harmon Kardon in my 2022 SX Prestige. It's pretty horrible.

We're going with:

JL Audio XDM800/8 Channel amp.

Wavtech Link8 (LOC) Line Output Converter/Processor

Focal ISU 165 component speakers (pair) for front doors, (woofer and tweeter).

Focal ISU 165 component speakers (pair) for rear doors, (woofer and tweeter).

Focal P 20 FSE 8” Shallow Sub

Wire Bundle Kit for amp with Fuses

SoundShield Car Sound Deadening Door Kit for the Doors ~ 4 Rolls.

QTY 2 EA: American International HKSB110 (= 4 total Speaker Adapter Brackets).

QTY 2 EA: Metra 72-7302 Speaker Wiring Harnesses (=4 total Speaker Harnesses).

Center Speaker size unknown. TBD and replaced/upgraded/or disconnected.

 

[Scramschnits]

After bypassing the HK amp, using a custom harness, and controlling volume through my DSP, I just switched over to using a DSR1. They recently released firmware to support volume control through the head unit, chime volume control, EQ control, and fader options. Works like a champ as a LOC to my Helix Ultra.

Max undistorted volume is 40, and I tend not to go past 36 depending on recording quality of what I'm listening to.

These vehicles are crazy harsh in the midrange, so now I understand why they snub the hell out of those frequencies.

Also, I recommend dynamat on the rear hatch door. It makes a significant difference in bass response, as well as panel vibration.

______________________________

 

[TellurideCoug]

Hi itscrhis,

I am a home audiophile with a dedicated room, and more.

I just finished reading all the posts on this thread. In this past week, I have spent the last 6 days researching and researching and researching everything regarding this issue. Replacing the very bad factory Harmon Kardon system. They are crap.

So...I have shopped it out. Here's what I've found in my journey.

Began with a trip to our local brick and mortar MSRP "Car Toys" in Seattle. Yes, if you want to spend $5,000 or more, than let your local "high overhead retail chain" shop solve the issue with a turn-key solution.

For me, I'm not going to spend $5,000 to $6,000 on a depreciable asset, when I can do the same thing, achieve the same install, the same results, the same components for $3,000.

First, the three essentials:

A required must:

Install an 8 Channel Amplifier.
Install an LOC. Line Output Converter and Processor.
Replace all the factory speakers. Yes. This is a must.

Why the speakers? Because the factory Harmon Kardon paper crap won't be able to handle the new amp. It's true.

I've spoken with about 8 Senior Car Audio enthusiast and installation experts. The information I'm giving you will save you dozens of hours on research. You're welcome.

Again, I repeat...it's essential that you:

Install an 8 Channel Amplifier.
Install an LOC. Line Output Converter.
Replace all the factory speakers.

Second. You need to decide if you want to use an Analog LOC, or a Digital DSP processor. Personally, I'm going with the best Analog LOC on the market which is the Wavtech Link8. (their specs are better than the AudioControl LC8i).

If you want digital AMP and DSP Processor, then the go to is
JL Audio VX800/8i. $1,799.00 MSRP. Abt Electronics would probably be at $1,400.00.

Note: Do not go DSP with entry level Focal speakers. If you go with Focal Flax, then DSP makes sense.
I'm not going with DSP for several reasons. The Wavtech Link8 LOC should be amazing, and it's simple, used only by installation professionals.

If you go with Crutchfield you'll pay MSRP, and get 100% help, 7 days a week. Or for very good discounts, call Sales Associate - Louis Igyarto - louis.igyarto@abt.com - at Abt Electronics, 847-544-2652. He discounts everything. Big Time. Louis is very responsive and eager to give big discounts as he has the authority to do so, over the phone. Do not work with a guy who specializes in refrigerators and appliances. Louis is strictly Car Audio and mobile electronics.

Even if you throw it on the Abt Synchrony Card, for 12 months of no interest, the discount is the same. Abt does not penalize you for using interest free financing with their steep discounts, (unheard of). I'm sure you're familiar with Abt, but those who haven't, Abt is out of Chicago, been in business for 86 years.

Use a good independent local shop for labor only. Go out 25 miles from your big city. Find a great local shop via Google reviews. Labor should be under $100 an hour.

With all my research, here's what I'm doing, and no...I'm not putting a sub between my captain chairs. First of all, I'm not 18 and either are you. Do you really want a sub firing directly behind you? Less is more, and to fill that space with a box, is taking away the look and space of the Telluride.

What if want to run to Big Box for a project, go on a trip or run to the airport and you need maximum interior space? Now you've got a clunker anchor coffee table as a pain point, in the way, bolted down. Not going to happen.

If you like the idea, fine. No worries.

They new system will blow you away, without a coffee table in the middle of your Telluride. My sub is replacing the factory sub in the compartment in the back. If it's not acceptable, then I could always go with the custom coffee table box. To me, that's overkill, since the Focal's in the 4 doors will have good bass to begin with.

After hours and hours here's what I'm doing: Note: Prices are discounted by Louis at Abt Electronics and not MSRP.

JL Audio XDM800/8 Channel amp. $800 Abt Electronics. Louis. Everywhere else...$944
Wavtech Link8 (LOC) Line Output Converter/Processor ($200 eBay Seller which has the new version, or pay $260 from a dealer).

Note on Wavtech Link8:
New Version: Power Plug. Look for two jumpers: AUD and DC ON/OFF
Old Version: 200 ISO. Internal voltage will cuts the Output Down.
Do not buy the old version on eBay.
Focal ISU 165 component speakers (pair) for front doors, (woofer and tweeter). $275 from Abt
Focal ISU 165 component speakers (pair) for rear doors, (woofer and tweeter). $275 from Abt
Focal P 20 FSE 8” Shallow Sub. $260 from Abt.
Wire Bundle Kit for amp with Fuses
Crutchfield CKD4, 4-gauge dual amplifier wiring kit — includes power wiring, Crutchfield $99
Wiring Kit for Processors and Low-Current Devices, Package includes 18-gauge power and ground wires (25-foot), fuse holders, and fuses, Crutchfield, $20
SoundShield Car Sound Deadening Door Kit for the Doors ~ 4 Rolls. $70 per roll from Abt.
QTY 2 EA: American International HKSB110 (= 4 total Speaker Adapter Brackets). Amazon, $40. (Note: Crutchfield throws this in for free, but you need to pay $ 640 for the pair of Focal ISU 165's).
QTY 2 EA: Metra 72-7302 Speaker Wiring Harnesses (=4 total Speaker Harnesses). Amazon, $20. (Crutchfield throws this in for free, but you need to pay $ 640 for the pair of Focal ISU 165's).
Center Speaker size unknown. TBD and replaced/upgraded/or disconnected.

Total Hardware and Parts is $2,268
Labor to install. 1.5 days. So...10 hours. I figure $800 labor for my local guy. This is not with DSP. If you go DSP, the labor will be more. DSP can give you headaches, unless you go with the JL Audio for $1,799 MSRP above. It's an AMP and an LOC combined.

Estimated total includes parts and labor: $3,068 plus sales tax.

Most Telluride owners won't do this because it's not a priority to them, or they just don't care.

For those who are budget sensitive, (Best Bang for the Buck or "The Wife Factor"):

JBL Club 605CSQ, Club SQ Series 6-1/2" component speaker system. Much less than Focal's, and the reviews are great. May not give you the same as Focal, but close.

In summary for me: No DSP. No coffee table sub between the captain chairs. My 8" sub replaces factory, (inside the rear left side cargo area. Shop it out, and go to an independent labor only installation guy, who accepts parts.

Hope this helps.

 

[Rivayne]

Hi itscrhis,

I am a home audiophile with a dedicated room, and more.

I just finished reading all the posts on this thread. In this past week, I have spent the last 6 days researching and researching and researching everything regarding this issue. Replacing the very bad factory Harmon Kardon system. They are crap.

So...I have shopped it out. Here's what I've found in my journey.

Began with a trip to our local brick and mortar MSRP "Car Toys" in Seattle. Yes, if you want to spend $5,000 or more, than let your local "high overhead retail chain" shop solve the issue with a turn-key solution.

For me, I'm not going to spend $5,000 to $6,000 on a depreciable asset, when I can do the same thing, achieve the same install, the same results, the same components for $3,000.

First, the three essentials:

A required must:

Install an 8 Channel Amplifier.
Install an LOC. Line Output Converter and Processor.
Replace all the factory speakers. Yes. This is a must.

Why the speakers? Because the factory Harmon Kardon paper crap won't be able to handle the new amp. It's true.

I've spoken with about 8 Senior Car Audio enthusiast and installation experts. The information I'm giving you will save you dozens of hours on research. You're welcome.

Again, I repeat...it's essential that you:

Install an 8 Channel Amplifier.
Install an LOC. Line Output Converter.
Replace all the factory speakers.

Second. You need to decide if you want to use an Analog LOC, or a Digital DSP processor. Personally, I'm going with the best Analog LOC on the market which is the Wavtech Link8. (their specs are better than the AudioControl LC8i).

If you want digital AMP and DSP Processor, then the go to is
JL Audio VX800/8i. $1,799.00 MSRP. Abt Electronics would probably be at $1,400.00.

Note: Do not go DSP with entry level Focal speakers. If you go with Focal Flax, then DSP makes sense.
I'm not going with DSP for several reasons. The Wavtech Link8 LOC should be amazing, and it's simple, used only by installation professionals.

If you go with Crutchfield you'll pay MSRP, and get 100% help, 7 days a week. Or for very good discounts, call Sales Associate - Louis Igyarto - louis.igyarto@abt.com - at Abt Electronics, 847-544-2652. He discounts everything. Big Time. Louis is very responsive and eager to give big discounts as he has the authority to do so, over the phone. Do not work with a guy who specializes in refrigerators and appliances. Louis is strictly Car Audio and mobile electronics.

Even if you throw it on the Abt Synchrony Card, for 12 months of no interest, the discount is the same. Abt does not penalize you for using interest free financing with their steep discounts, (unheard of). I'm sure you're familiar with Abt, but those who haven't, Abt is out of Chicago, been in business for 86 years.

Use a good independent local shop for labor only. Go out 25 miles from your big city. Find a great local shop via Google reviews. Labor should be under $100 an hour.

With all my research, here's what I'm doing, and no...I'm not putting a sub between my captain chairs. First of all, I'm not 18 and either are you. Do you really want a sub firing directly behind you? Less is more, and to fill that space with a box, is taking away the look and space of the Telluride.

What if want to run to Big Box for a project, go on a trip or run to the airport and you need maximum interior space? Now you've got a clunker anchor coffee table as a pain point, in the way, bolted down. Not going to happen.

If you like the idea, fine. No worries.

They new system will blow you away, without a coffee table in the middle of your Telluride. My sub is replacing the factory sub in the compartment in the back. If it's not acceptable, then I could always go with the custom coffee table box. To me, that's overkill, since the Focal's in the 4 doors will have good bass to begin with.

After hours and hours here's what I'm doing: Note: Prices are discounted by Louis at Abt Electronics and not MSRP.

JL Audio XDM800/8 Channel amp. $800 Abt Electronics. Louis. Everywhere else...$944
Wavtech Link8 (LOC) Line Output Converter/Processor ($200 eBay Seller which has the new version, or pay $260 from a dealer).

Note on Wavtech Link8:
New Version: Power Plug. Look for two jumpers: AUD and DC ON/OFF
Old Version: 200 ISO. Internal voltage will cuts the Output Down.
Do not buy the old version on eBay.
Focal ISU 165 component speakers (pair) for front doors, (woofer and tweeter). $275 from Abt
Focal ISU 165 component speakers (pair) for rear doors, (woofer and tweeter). $275 from Abt
Focal P 20 FSE 8” Shallow Sub. $260 from Abt.
Wire Bundle Kit for amp with Fuses
Crutchfield CKD4, 4-gauge dual amplifier wiring kit — includes power wiring, Crutchfield $99
Wiring Kit for Processors and Low-Current Devices, Package includes 18-gauge power and ground wires (25-foot), fuse holders, and fuses, Crutchfield, $20
SoundShield Car Sound Deadening Door Kit for the Doors ~ 4 Rolls. $70 per roll from Abt.
QTY 2 EA: American International HKSB110 (= 4 total Speaker Adapter Brackets). Amazon, $40. (Note: Crutchfield throws this in for free, but you need to pay $ 640 for the pair of Focal ISU 165's).
QTY 2 EA: Metra 72-7302 Speaker Wiring Harnesses (=4 total Speaker Harnesses). Amazon, $20. (Crutchfield throws this in for free, but you need to pay $ 640 for the pair of Focal ISU 165's).
Center Speaker size unknown. TBD and replaced/upgraded/or disconnected.

Total Hardware and Parts is $2,268
Labor to install. 1.5 days. So...10 hours. I figure $800 labor for my local guy. This is not with DSP. If you go DSP, the labor will be more. DSP can give you headaches, unless you go with the JL Audio for $1,799 MSRP above. It's an AMP and an LOC combined.

Estimated total includes parts and labor: $3,068 plus sales tax.

Most Telluride owners won't do this because it's not a priority to them, or they just don't care.

For those who are budget sensitive, (Best Bang for the Buck or "The Wife Factor"):

JBL Club 605CSQ, Club SQ Series 6-1/2" component speaker system. Much less than Focal's, and the reviews are great. May not give you the same as Focal, but close.

In summary for me: No DSP. No coffee table sub between the captain chairs. My 8" sub replaces factory, (inside the rear left side cargo area. Shop it out, and go to an independent labor only installation guy, who accepts parts.

Hope this helps.

I really want to do this and appreciate all your detailed research and efforts. Did you have this done yet? If you have, what are your thoughts on the sound?

 

[TellurideCoug]

I really want to do this and appreciate all your detailed research and efforts. Did you have this done yet? If you have, what are your thoughts on the sound?

My install is actually scheduled for Saturday, May 6th.

Since my last post, I have refined a few components. I auditioned the Focal ISU165, and going with the next model up, which is the Focal 165AS. (So happy I did this, because the ISU165 is Focal's entry level speaker, and the Focal 165AS, when auditioning them, just sound better, (and they're only $50 MRSP Each more, which is $325 EA for a pair, (you'll need 2 EA pairs), from Abt.

I'm also adding and installing Blackhole Foam Tiles, behind each door speaker. So each door with have a full sheet 4.5mm thick Accoustical Sound Deadening Mat, and 10 EA Foam 4 ½" Tiles. In addition, I've added a knob that shouldn't be overlooked, the propriatary JL Audio HDRLC Amp knob...which easily controls the volume on the subwoofer. $40 from Abt. Here's my updated list:

Updated Shopped List as of 4-26-23

• JL Audio XDM800/8 Channel amp.
• Wavtech Link8 (LOC) Line Output Converter/Processor.
• Focal 165AS component integrated speakers (pair) for front doors, (woofer and tweeter).
• Focal 165AS component integrated speakers (pair) for rear doors, (woofer and tweeter).
• Focal P 20 FSE 8” Shallow Sub.
• JL Audio HD-RLC, HD Amp Remote Level Control and Cable.
• SoundShield Car Sound Deadening Door Kit Mats - 4 Rolls. This covers all four doors.
• Blackhole High Efficiency Accoustical Absorption Tiles ~ 40 pack of Foam Tiles. This covers all four doors.
• Wire Bundle Kit for amp with Fuses.
• 4-gauge dual amplifier wiring kit — includes power wiring.
• Wiring Kit for Processors and Low-Current Devices, which includes 18-gauge power and ground wires (25-foot), fuse holders, and fuses.
• QTY 2 EA: American International HKSB110 (= 4 total Speaker Adapter Brackets).
• QTY 2 EA: Metra 72-7302 Speaker Wiring Harnesses (=4 total Speaker Harnesses).

Note: Again, Louie Igyarto (Days Off: Sunday & Tuesday ), at Abt Electronics, (louis.igyarto@abt.com, ‭(847) 544-2652‬) was amazing, in terms of price and performance. Second, Abt Shipping Department shipped everything "Signature Required". I would have preferred to have the option for shipping to waive this, but it was too late.
All good.

Additional Note: Blackhole High Efficiency Accoustical Absorption Tiles ~ 40 pack of Foam Tiles, purchased from Sounds Good Stereo, Nashville, TN. $190

I'll l be happy to reconvene after installation, with my thoughts on how the complete new audio system sounds. I am prepared to be "blown away", and yes....the audition blew me away, using a very similar JL Audio Amp, etc.. In summary.....it should be substantial, since the factory speakers and system is just plain horrific and disappointing.

Here are two photos (taken from Google Images) of the Mat and Tiles. Note: I am using "Soundshield" Mat instead of this Google Image "Soundskin" Mat. Both are similar products, but using Soundshield because of all the 5 Star Reviews and the exceptional Abt Discount on Each roll.

Back to you after the install.

Back to you after the install.

 

[Scramschnits]

My install is actually scheduled for Saturday, May 6th.

Since my last post, I have refined a few components. I auditioned the Focal ISU165, and going with the next model up, which is the Focal 165AS. (So happy I did this, because the ISU165 is Focal's entry level speaker, and the Focal 165AS, when auditioning them, just sound better, (and they're only $50 MRSP Each more, which is $325 EA for a pair, (you'll need 2 EA pairs), from Abt.

I'm also adding and installing Blackhole Foam Tiles, behind each door speaker. So each door with have a full sheet 4.5mm thick Accoustical Sound Deadening Mat, and 10 EA Foam 4 ½" Tiles. Here's my updated list:

Updated Shopped List as of 4-26-23

• JL Audio XDM800/8 Channel amp.
• Wavtech Link8 (LOC) Line Output Converter/Processor.
• Focal 165AS component integrated speakers (pair) for front doors, (woofer and tweeter).
• Focal 165AS component integrated speakers (pair) for rear doors, (woofer and tweeter).
• Focal P 20 FSE 8” Shallow Sub.
• JL Audio HD-RLC, HD Amp Remote Level Control and Cable.
• SoundShield Car Sound Deadening Door Kit Mats - 4 Rolls. This covers all four doors.
• Blackhole High Efficiency Accoustical Absorption Tiles ~ 40 pack of Foam Tiles. This covers all four doors.
• Wire Bundle Kit for amp with Fuses.
• 4-gauge dual amplifier wiring kit — includes power wiring.
• Wiring Kit for Processors and Low-Current Devices, which includes 18-gauge power and ground wires (25-foot), fuse holders, and fuses.
• QTY 2 EA: American International HKSB110 (= 4 total Speaker Adapter Brackets).
• QTY 2 EA: Metra 72-7302 Speaker Wiring Harnesses (=4 total Speaker Harnesses).

Note: Again, Louie Igyarto (Days Off: Sunday & Tuesday ), at Abt Electronics, (louis.igyarto@abt.com, ‭(847) 544-2652‬) was amazing, in terms of performance and price. Second, Abt Shipping Department shipped everything "Signature Required". I would have preferred to have the option for shipping to waive this, but it was too late.
All good.

Additional Note: Blackhole High Efficiency Accoustical Absorption Tiles ~ 40 pack of Foam Tiles, purchased from Sounds Good Stereo, Nashville, TN. $190

I'll l be happy to reconvene after installation, with my thoughts on how the complete new audio system sounds. I am prepared to be "blown away", and yes....the audition blew me away, using a very similar JL Audio Amp, etc.. In summary.....it should be substantial, since the factory speakers and system is just plain horrific and disappointing.

Here are two photos (taken from Google Images) of the Mat and Tiles. Note: I am using "Soundshield" Mat instead of this Google Image "Soundskin" Mat. Both are similar products, but using Soundshield because of all the 5 Star Reviews and the exceptional Abt Discount on Each roll.

Back to you after the install.View attachment 30394View attachment 30395

Any reason you opted to sum the signal with the Wavetech, rather than bypass the amp entirely? This is what I originally did (with a DM-810), however ran into some really nasty bass roll off (even with Acubass applied) and all-pass filters that engage heavily around a volume of 20-23. If you enable any bass boost through the stock infotainment system, it also appears to have some level of clipping protection and will create these weird volume drops around certain frequencies. All this is what caused me to bypass the HK amp entirely, create a custom harness, and opt to control the volume through the Helix Ultra.

Since using the DSR1 as a line-out converter, it's all entirely stock (minus the loss of surround sound and rear "talk" function). All factory chimes, beeps, phone, and navigation work and can be volume controlled through the Infotainment settings.

______________________________

 

[Rivayne]

My install is actually scheduled for Saturday, May 6th.

Since my last post, I have refined a few components. I auditioned the Focal ISU165, and going with the next model up, which is the Focal 165AS. (So happy I did this, because the ISU165 is Focal's entry level speaker, and the Focal 165AS, when auditioning them, just sound better, (and they're only $50 MRSP Each more, which is $325 EA for a pair, (you'll need 2 EA pairs), from Abt.

I'm also adding and installing Blackhole Foam Tiles, behind each door speaker. So each door with have a full sheet 4.5mm thick Accoustical Sound Deadening Mat, and 10 EA Foam 4 ½" Tiles. Here's my updated list:

Updated Shopped List as of 4-26-23

• JL Audio XDM800/8 Channel amp.
• Wavtech Link8 (LOC) Line Output Converter/Processor.
• Focal 165AS component integrated speakers (pair) for front doors, (woofer and tweeter).
• Focal 165AS component integrated speakers (pair) for rear doors, (woofer and tweeter).
• Focal P 20 FSE 8” Shallow Sub.
• JL Audio HD-RLC, HD Amp Remote Level Control and Cable.
• SoundShield Car Sound Deadening Door Kit Mats - 4 Rolls. This covers all four doors.
• Blackhole High Efficiency Accoustical Absorption Tiles ~ 40 pack of Foam Tiles. This covers all four doors.
• Wire Bundle Kit for amp with Fuses.
• 4-gauge dual amplifier wiring kit — includes power wiring.
• Wiring Kit for Processors and Low-Current Devices, which includes 18-gauge power and ground wires (25-foot), fuse holders, and fuses.
• QTY 2 EA: American International HKSB110 (= 4 total Speaker Adapter Brackets).
• QTY 2 EA: Metra 72-7302 Speaker Wiring Harnesses (=4 total Speaker Harnesses).

Note: Again, Louie Igyarto (Days Off: Sunday & Tuesday ), at Abt Electronics, (louis.igyarto@abt.com, ‭(847) 544-2652‬) was amazing, in terms of price and performance. Second, Abt Shipping Department shipped everything "Signature Required". I would have preferred to have the option for shipping to waive this, but it was too late.
All good.

Additional Note: Blackhole High Efficiency Accoustical Absorption Tiles ~ 40 pack of Foam Tiles, purchased from Sounds Good Stereo, Nashville, TN. $190

I'll l be happy to reconvene after installation, with my thoughts on how the complete new audio system sounds. I am prepared to be "blown away", and yes....the audition blew me away, using a very similar JL Audio Amp, etc.. In summary.....it should be substantial, since the factory speakers and system is just plain horrific and disappointing.

Here are two photos (taken from Google Images) of the Mat and Tiles. Note: I am using "Soundshield" Mat instead of this Google Image "Soundskin" Mat. Both are similar products, but using Soundshield because of all the 5 Star Reviews and the exceptional Abt Discount on Each roll.

Back to you after the install.

Back to you after the install.View attachment 30394View attachment 30395

Awesome! Can't wait to hear about the results! I actually was looking at the 165AS. For me it says they aren't compatible with my 2022 SXP though. Any thoughts?

 

[TellurideCoug]

Any reason you opted to sum the signal with the Wavetech, rather than bypass the amp entirely? This is what I originally did (with a DM-810), however ran into some really nasty bass roll off (even with Acubass applied) and all-pass filters that engage heavily around a volume of 20-23. If you enable any bass boost through the stock infotainment system, it also appears to have some level of clipping protection and will create these weird volume drops around certain frequencies. All this is what caused me to bypass the HK amp entirely, create a custom harness, and opt to control the volume through the Helix Ultra.

Since using the DSR1 as a line-out converter, it's all entirely stock (minus the loss of surround sound and rear "talk" function). All factory chimes, beeps, phone, and navigation work and can be volume controlled through the Infotainment settings.

I opted to not go with the AudioControl DM-810 for several reasons. 1. Did not like the sound of the Digital DSP when auditioning. 2. Wanted to make the install Easy Peasy Lemon Squizzy, without the DSP Laptop firmware install. 3. Do not want to control anything with an App on my phone.

Prefer to Set it and Forget it. Less is more.

If someone here on this board chooses go with DSP, make sure you're installer does several installs a year, and is highly component with DSP installation.

Now, to each their own. I love using my iPhone app in our dedicated home theater. Just don't want something technical to drag me down, another pain point in life....as you can have issues with DSP....liked you had....with setbacks, & trials and tribulation.

I am preparing, with the Wavetech Link8 to:

Use the Link8 Gain vs. the JL Audio Gain
Might be Clipping the Input. White Noise. Too much signal into the JL Audio Amp.
On the Link8, open up the unit, switch the jumpers from 20 to 40. This will cut the output a down a little a bit. You're good to go.

 

[Scramschnits]

I opted to not go with the AudioControl DM-810 for several reasons. 1. Did not like the sound of the Digital DSP when auditioning. 2. Wanted to make the install easy peasy, without DSP Laptop firmware install. 3. Do not want to control anything with an App on my phone. Prefer to set it and forget it. Less is more.

Now, to each their own. I love using my iPhone app in our dedicated home theater. Just don't want something technical to drag me down, another pain point in life....as you can have issues with DSP....liked you had....with setbacks, & trials and tribulation.

I am preparing, with the Wavetech Link8 to:

Use the Link8 Gain vs. the JL Audio Gain
Might be Clipping the Input. White Noise. Too much signal into the JL Audio Amp.
On the Link8, open up the unit, switch the jumpers from 20 to 40. This will cut the output a down a little a bit. You're good to go.

It was less about the DSP itself, and more about the issue of summing the signal from the HK Amp. Since I've completely removed the HK amp from the equation entirely, it's been an incredibly enjoyable experience.

 

[TellurideCoug]

Awesome! Can't wait to hear about the results! I actually was looking at the 165AS. For me it says they aren't compatible with my 2022 SXP though. Any thoughts?

They are a 6 ½": Component Integrated Speaker System. Meaning the woofer is 6 ½" (mounted in the door) and the tweeter for the front row is mounted in the front corner pillars, and the tweeters in the second row doors are mounted inside the doors.

R & R. Remove and Replace.

All Telluride's has 6 ½" woofer holes in the door. Any 6 ½" speaker will fit.

BTW, when you go onto Crutchfield, it clearly says the Focal 165AS "will fit your Kia".

Not sure why you're saying it's not compatible? Where are you looking, or who is giving you this advice or information?

______________________________

 

[TellurideCoug]

It was less about the DSP itself, and more about the issue of summing the signal from the HK Amp. Since I've completely removed the HK amp from the equation entirely, it's been an incredibly enjoyable experience.

That is great to hear! I'm sure I'll have some setbacks, or my guy will. Hopefully we'll figure it out.

 

[Rivayne]

They are a 6 ½": Component Integrated Speaker System. Meaning the woofer is 6 ½" (mounted in the door) and the tweeter for the front row is mounted in the front corner pillars, and the tweeters in the second row doors are mounted inside the doors.

R & R. Remove and Replace.

All Telluride's has 6 ½" woofer holes in the door. Any 6 ½" speaker will fit.

Not sure why you're saying it's not compatible? Where are you looking, or who is giving you this advice or information?

I was just utilizing the crutchfield suggestion. It does say they are compatible for a 2023 telly just not my 2022. I was curious if there is a difference between vehicles.

 

[TellurideCoug]

I was just utilizing the crutchfield suggestion. It does say they are compatible for a 2023 telly just not my 2022. I was curious if there is a difference between vehicles.

Just went onto Crutchfield and here's a copy and paste directly from Crutchfield:

Focal Performance 165AS​

"Access Series 6-1/2" 2-way component speaker system. Fits with bracket your 2022 Kia Telluride Sport Utility with Harman Kardon Audio System."

I assume you added your Make, Model and Year? Not sure why your webpage says only 2023 and my webpage with Crutchfield says it fits with 2022? Interesting. Only way to confirm is to call Crutchfield. You'll know in two minutes.

That said, I don't think the 2022 doors were changed in the 2023 models.

 

[Scramschnits]

I ended up cutting and modding the HK speakers, and mounted my speakers directly on to those. As long as you take care to seal and gasket them, they appear to be working quite well - Especially with proper door deadening.