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Ok that helps a LOT.......NOW- what other brand setups would be recommended? I can get JL locally and I like JL but it sure would be nice to get something different and better if it's out there.....

depending on what you would spend on it and what your want SQ/SQL/spl
for an amp i like hifonics for cheapers amps/ autotek for medium and for good amps id probaly go with arc/elevation audio. subs i like my bravox but elevation audio has some great subs too and oz and arc but it depends on what you want out of ur subs and the price your willing to pay

Lets see, I am a big fan of Boston Acoustic, Eclipse, and Xtant (amps), and even some kicker stuff, but I can only truely recomend what I have installed and used myself.

This is an area Kiki and Jonathon could help you out more. They have a wider experiance when it comes to brands.

Oh and yeah sinister is right, it has alot to do with how much you want to spend, and what you want in the end SQ SPL or SQL. I am a SQ guy that likes the ability to get loud, so most of my choices lead towards the SQ side.

different types of EQs for different uses.
there are in-dash graphic EQs with the slider adjustments at fixed frequencies that most people are used to seeing. These are handy if you just want a quick way to tweak the sound curve to your liking. Many newer head units have digital versions of these EQs with 5 to 13 bands built in now as well.

you have 1/3 octave and parametric EQs which are usually set-and-forget types that mount by the amplifiers. These are used to adjust for the car's cabin environment, and once set should be left alone. These are mostly used for competitors or people who need to compensate for serious deficiencies in their system by using EQs.

Many amplifiers now have very basic EQ features built in that allow for single band boost to increase bass and such, but if you actually need an EQ depends on what ya want it to do.
Best bet is to set up the system without any EQing and see how it sounds.
If you decide at that point you need an EQ, then add one.

Also- what IS the most important part of the setup in making it sound awesome?? Is the sub the key or the amp or the fronts or is it just the total package and nothing is more important?

IMO its the total package (install, and everything), and making sure everything works well together. If the subs are lacking and you have the best components out there, they aren't going to make up for it and vice versa.

well, as an audiophile I'll tell ya that any chain is only as strong as it's weakest link, so it's always best to have a solid system, designed to work with everything else you select from start to finish.

Now that being said, the single biggest factor for improvement will be your front stage. The front speakers will provide about 70% of what you hear. The entire vocal range, most of the instruments, etc. Bass is bass, and pretty much any decent sub(s) put into a good box will give you plenty of bass. The tonality, timbre, clarity, transient response and so forth will all come from the front speakers. After that you'll want the front speakers to have plenty of power, so forget using a head unit. buy a decent amplifier to drive them and you'll hear music come to life.

you can always add another amp and subs, and swap out the head units as you find the time and money, which make an improvement, sure.. but the most important singular factor I'd say would be the front stage speakers.

The key to any good system is proper planning- period.

The equipment used is very important. Will this amp power this sub? Is it to much for my fronts? Is this sub going to have enough output?

All planning you see.

Installation is a HUGE factor. Take the best equipment out and just throw it in the trunk it wont sound good...

Stereotyping you Im guessing you dont want a TON of boom, just an overall nice sound stage.

If thats true try the Arc Audio KAR 400.4 and a RE RE 12" sub sealed.

The amp can power your fronts and that sub no problem.

Proper install can yield decent results probably in the low 130's But pLENTY for good sound and SQ :)

Actually I do want a ton of Boom- I love boom and I want it loud and clear. :-)

My fronts sound good - so you say adding an amp for those will greatly help them out? They just aren't real loud but do have good crisp clear sound!

Whats the budget for an amp?

Budget for subs?

That will determine whats your best route :)

You will want to amp the fronts for sure...