Adding a Marine Amp to my sound system

[Bayliner175xt]

Hi, I am looking for info about adding a marine amp to my boat.
I have a CD head unit and 2 marine speakers.
I want to add 2 more speakers plus a sub and an amp.
Can anyone give me any input into setting it up IE, cutting large holes
in the fiberglass for the speakers without causing gelcoat cracking,
2 Do i need a second battery, and how big ?
3 Places for the amp,
any good websites for installation info.

I'm looking for a good system, but don't want to blow everyone out of my boat.

Boat is a bayliner 175 (2003)

Thanks in advance.

 

[MyViewGS]

Re: Adding a Marine Amp to my sound system

Hi, I am looking for info about adding a marine amp to my boat.
I have a CD head unit and 2 marine speakers.
I want to add 2 more speakers plus a sub and an amp.
Can anyone give me any input into setting it up IE, cutting large holes
in the fiberglass for the speakers without causing gelcoat cracking,
2 Do i need a second battery, and how big ?
3 Places for the amp,
any good websites for installation info.

I'm looking for a good system, but don't want to blow everyone out of my boat.

Boat is a bayliner 175 (2003)


Thanks in advance.

I use duct tape where I plan to cut. Then I mark my cut line on the tape and not all over the gelcoat. I also use a variable speed jig saw with a very fine tooth count for a smoother cut. I guess the important thing is to follow the template for hole size. As for the battery, I prefer a second just for my electronics, especially if your running an amp. Also, just something to consider..... amps get HOT ..... it"ll need good ventilation to keep the overheat protect from tripping. Basically, you wire a boat stereo just like a car stereo.

MyViewGS

Oh Yeah...... Im a big fan of these!

http://www.kicker.com/marine_audio

 

[75TowerOfPower]

Re: Adding a Marine Amp to my sound system

Go read in the electronic section. There are lots of threads that cover this. One thing to remember is that the ground on a car is only 1' to 2' long. On a boat its the same length as the 12V+ side. Second battery is nice for turning the stereo up in a cove.

 

[RickJ6956]

Re: Adding a Marine Amp to my sound system

Make sure you know what's behind the area where you'll cut your speaker holes. You don't want to cut a wire or control cable!