It took me 500 miles in the '06 STI to realize the stock stereo is going. Planning the replacement and wondered at what point do I need to change out the factory stereo wiring. thinking of putting in the INFINITY REFERENCE 7541A amp and am wondering if the 110W RMS is to much for the gage of speaker wire already in the car? I really would not be hammering it that loud often, but am I compromising if I stay with stock? What about if I downsized to 80W RMS? I don't want to overpower the wire and would think twice about having to replace it (PITA).

Any thoughts? Thank you for helping.

Other than stereo awesome ride.

 

if you plan on running any more than about 50w rms you should replace the wire. i could get into why but i'd be here all night. trust me you'll be happy you did.

 

I was hoping that was not the case, but too small a wire has to hurt fidelity.

Any how toos on running new wires into the doors?

 

make a loop on the old wire and a loop on the new wire and e-tape them together make sure all clips are cut off and pull slightly. if not that, then wire coat hanger it.
have fun its a pita! good luck.

 

My research is telling me my x overs will be safer/longer lasting inside with the amp. That would mean running double the wire into the doors. What will fit? Am I asking to much for a double run of 12 gauge?

I will try the old wire snake trick. Thanks.

 

???? you still only need one wire (set) into the door.

 

Sorry Slaminsuby, I will be try to be clear.

I am planning to have this car for several years and live in NE (crappy weather). It has been recommended to me by a few install shops (maybe they want more $$) to mount the component speaker (Daimond S600s) cross over in side the car, not the door. Probably under the seat the amp is not under.

It makes sense to keep them dry and free from the shock of being in a door slammed several times a day. Yes bigger pain to wire, but should be more trouble free, easier to work on/adjust, add to etc...

Hoping I can get the 2 sets of 14 guage through to each door.

 

Hey Atomic -

Did you ever get your wires ran? I'm about to attempt this same install in my 06 Impreza. I just purchased the Infinity 7541 to power my Infinity Ref6010 component speakers so I will need to run 2 pair of wires to the front doors - and yes there right on wanting to mount the crossovers inside the car. I have had many cars with crossover systems and they have less issues with them mounted internally.