A client from Morgan Hill recently visited California Car Sounds and Tint to inquire about a 2015 Cadillac XTS-4 audio system upgrade. We had a look at the vehicle, then talked to the client about the existing sound system and what aspects he wanted to improve. After developing an understanding of his goals for the upgrade, we proposed a solution that would give him the performance he wanted. He liked our plan and gave us the go-ahead to schedule an installation appointment.
Source Unit Integration
The factory-installed amplifier in the Cadillac XTS-4 audio system connects to the source unit using a fiber-optic MOST connection. We used a Nav-TV M650-GM interface to extract a clean audio signal from the factory stereo. The M650-GM retains the steering wheel control functionality and allows warnings and chimes, navigation prompts and even turn signal sounds to be reproduced by the aftermarket sound system. The M650-GM works with most Cadillac CUE 8-inch and GM MyLink 4-inch source units.
Focal System Amplifier and Speakers
The output of the M650-GM feeds directly to a Focal FDP 6.900 six-channel amplifier. Our fabrication team created a mounting rack for the amplifier behind the spare tire in the trunk of the Caddy. We made the rack by welding together square steel tubing and bolted it to the floor and back wall of the well.
The front channels of the FDP 6.900 power a set of Focal ES 165 KX2 component speakers. The passive crossover networks for the components are on a steel mounting panel behind the factory amplifier in the rear corner of the trunk. We mounted the woofers from the component set on HDPE plastic speaker adapters that our team fabricated. The adapters include threaded inserts to ensure the speakers are easily serviceable. A set of Fast Rings acoustic coupling baffles help to direct the output of the speakers into the vehicle. We secured the tweeters from the Focal to the A-pillar panels to help create a wide and realistic soundstage. A set of Focal PC 165 6.5-inch coaxial speakers in the rear of the Cadillac rounds out the sound in the vehicle.
Focal Flax Subwoofer
The client wanted good, solid bass performance in his audio system upgrade. We called upon the Focal P25FS shallow-mount subwoofer to handle low-frequency signal reproduction. To maximize the available space in the trunk, we created a very shallow enclosure that fits under the rear deck and fires through the original sub opening. We used a layer of Focal BAM sound deadening material between the enclosure and the mounting surface to prevent rattles or buzzing. Black carpet on the underside of the enclosure gives it a factory-installed appearance. The FDP 6.900 provides 500 watts to the subwoofer.
Cadillac XTS-4 Audio System Tuning
Once we finished installing the system hardware, it was time to set up the six-channel Focal amp. We started by setting the crossovers on the amp to divide audio between the component speakers and subwoofer. The next step was to set the sensitivity adjustments on the amp so that the client would be able to achieve maximum volume from the system without running into speaker-damaging distortion when the volume was at its highest. We used our RTA to confirm that the tweeter level was set properly on the passive crossover networks and that the polarity of the subwoofer and mid-bass drivers was correct. Finally, we listened to our reference audio tracks to ensure everything in the system was performing as we expected.
The client returned to California Car Sounds and Tint in Campbell to pick up his Cadillac. He hopped in for a listen and was immediately impressed by the clarity of the new system. The Focal speakers have a lively, detailed sound that works well across a wide variety of musical choices. The shallow Flax sub dramatically improves on the performance of the flimsy factory woofer. We showed him how we installed the equipment in the trunk. He loved that he still had enough room to store luggage or golf clubs. If you are in the San Jose area and are looking for an audio system upgrade for your vehicle, drop by our store, give us a call at 408-378-049 or send us an e-mail using our online contact form.
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