C2 Radio conversion review

[Subfixer]

My 64 radio and original speaker were toasted, so I decided to send it off and get a stereo conversion done.

Here's where I sent it: http://www.turnswitch.com/

I also purchased their "high-Q" dual front speakers (supposed to be better for open cars).

I also replaced my original antenna and cable because it was broken. All grounds are in place.

The radio works perfectly now and still retains it's original look. The stations do not drift due to the phase lock loop circuitry. With the speakers I purchased, it sounds very much like an original. This is what I wanted. I wasn't looking for a premium sound system, although it is a 4 channel (45W per channel) that I can put big amps with better speakers on later if I desire. I also had them add an aux input so I can use a portable CD or iPod if I choose.

If you are looking for a premium stereo, I think this conversion would make a decent head unit to start with.

Needless to say, I am happy with what I received. It's loud enough as it is to overcome the sidepipes just enough for me to recognize what song is playing.

 

[Subfixer]

Update.... I added the back speakers today. A pair of Kenwood 6X9's in prefab enclosures (so I could remove them when I wanted). It's a whole different system now. Sounds GREAT!!! I can easily overpower the sidepipes with the windows & top up or down. No additional amps needed.

I'm a happy cruiser.......

 

[67HEAVEN]

Excellent. Got photos of the enclosure?

 

[Subfixer]

They are just a couple of boxes I got at the audio store. I'll snap a pic in the morning.

 

[Subfixer]

Here are some pics of the speaker boxes with speaker installed:

 

[BarryK]

Paul
how are you mounting them in the rear?
normal driving may not be a problem but in an emergency stop or worst they will become a dangerous flying object.

 

[Subfixer]

Probably some sort of velcro setup. Or maybe some sort of hook over the rear lip of the jack cover. Haven't secured them yet.

Since they are in a convertible, they can't go very far. They will either hit the back of the seats or the deck lid. There's no way to get them into the driver compartment without tilting the seat backs forward.

Or course, since there are no seat back latches, I suppose they could still get out in a hard stop.

 

[BarryK]

yep, take my word for what can get forward in a FAST stop or crash. Between the seats or right into the back of your head........... :ugh

Velco would probably be good enough for normal driving but wouldn't depend on it for a sec in an emergency situation.
Did you maybe consider using 1/2" MDF wood (MDF is pretty heavy, very solid wood) and cut out a replacement rear storage cover and cover it with factory carpet or something similar than mount the boxes to that. Keep the original cover in storage for the future. We used 3/4" MDF exclusively for subwoofer boxes when I was in the car audio industry but that thickness would be overkill - 1/2" would be more than good enough. strong enough to support the boxes and heavy enough to not go flying forward without additional strapping down (meaning no holes to cut inside the compartment.......although that's not a bad idea but you are probably not willing).

just a thought for you to consider

 

[Subfixer]

I installed these on a whim yesterday.... I was planning a replacement storage cover, then mounting the enclosures under it so I can recoup a little storage room, just haven't gotten around to it yet. Probably after Carlisle. Mrs. Subfixer is starting to get a little antsy...... I can't blame her, I keep telling her the car is done for now, then I'm off buying something else for it.

 

[North of 40]

What did they charge?

What did they charge you for the conversion and speaker upgrade?

 

[Subfixer]

Cost including AUX input and the new speaker and return shipping was $489.95.