Greetings, I have a 2008 Ultra Classic Anniversary Edition and the stock HU has gone bad. The volume cuts in and out, more out then in now... Researching stereo systems can be mind boggling.... Here is what I have been thinking. I would greatly appreciate your feedback.
Option #1 - Iron Cross does repairs and upgrade mods like blue tooth capabilities for $250. I would be interested in feedback from anyone who has experience using this option. I would also upgrade the speakers and add an amplifier with something that works well with the stock HU.
Option #2 - I have a $750 budget to create a "plug and play" set up. I say plug and play as I would prefer a set up or a supplier, that has the wiring harness already set up for the HD connectors. I know I am splicing the rear speaker wires in. I got that, no problem.

If someone has a 3rd option I am interested in hearing that as well.

Thanks so much,
Scott

 

Welcome to the family Steve. First Iron cross is top notch and does quality work. On the other hand adding an aftermarket hu with the thumb control module is easy peasy and we can walk you thru it in 10 min. There are advantages to both. With Iron cross you obtain the factory look and controls. Aftermarket will give you blue tooth, usb input for your memory stick and all your tunes and provide a better sounding output. The down side of your request is no aftermarket speakers will provide you proper sound without an amp. I will bet when you are going down the road now you cant hear your system at 70-80 even with the volume at max. With adding just speakers you may have a clearer sound but no added volume and will still not be able to hear it. Just food for thought.

 

I am willing to add an amplifier to either the existing or new HU. I should have stated that earlier and also requested recommendations. Thank you.

 

You can do different options for your setup. First you will need speaker adaptors for the front to go from 5.25 to 6.5 speakers.

These will work:




As far as amp go, I'm running the RF tm400x4ad now and very pleased with it as it is loud, warm and easy to tune. Other options include SS pn4.1000 arc audio 600.4 , JL are all viable 4 speaker amps.

Speakers are personal preference. Some good ones are, wdx 6 motos, polk mm series, arc 602's, kappas, eurtopia components, just a few. the polks will fit in the rear with minimal modifications. Do some research and compare cost and what you want. There are all kinds of info here on the forum.

 

Thank you very much for your response. I will be pricing and putting together a plan and then post for comments. Thanks again for your time! I really do appreciate it! God bless!

 

I decided to go with this JVC head unit and these Polk speakers, and the HDK001X install kit. Everyone says you need an amp, though I have decided to forgo that for now. I have never been in a situation where I thought volume was a problem. I don't go much over 1/2 volume and can hear it plenty. I have an 08 Anniversary Street Glide. My plan is this: head unit and fairing speakers. If I think I need more sound, I am going to get lower speaker pods and speakers for the lowers. If I still feel like I need more volume, I will install the amplifier.

In my situation, volume is not the issue. I have the same cutting out that you are experiencing. I considered having it fixed, but the cost is less to do the installation of new parts.

 

I am doing the installation on Sunday, so I can report back on the quality and volume of the installation then.

 

Good luck and keep us posted.

 

It's not so much about volume. What the amp gives you is clarity at speed

Does you absolutely no good to install upper and lower speakers with no amp. Might as well install the amp while you have the fairing off. Trust me.