1996 Ford Ranger - Suggestions on Sound Setup

**Mrbmw99** · 11-09-2004, 12:22 AM

Hello! I have searched several threads here, and I see that there are a few opinions on this. I would like to take these opinions a step further and apply them to my truck. I have a '96 Ford Ranger with the extended cab. Currently, I have a JVC KD-G200 Stereo Deck. A link to it's features is below.

The truck has some aftermarket speakers in it that I do not know much about as they (and the stereo) were in it when I bought it.

I am planning to install a computer system using a M10000 or similar motherboard, somewhere around 256MB RAM, maybe a 10-30GB HD, and my 7" Lilliput Touchscreen that will be molded into the double-din slot that the Ranger has. See the attached picture below for a general idea of how I'd like it to look "NEW(small).JPG".

Here is my dilemma:
I do NOT want to loose the use of the Stereo Deck. I would like the option to switch between the Stereo and the PC with ease. I was thinking of taking the removeable faceplate off of my stereo and locating it somewhere below the AC/Heater controls, and wiring it up to the deck (wherever that is...). My question is what do you think would be the best option for the best sound quality and ease of use? Also, if I were to keep the Stereo deck like I'd like to, what is the best method to switch between the stereo and the PC? The stereo has the 8 wires (4 speakers) that come out the back and go into the speakers.

I thought about using a USB radio, but I'd rather not as it doesnt seem that they are tood good, but more importantly if the PC fails I'd like the stereo still.

I have a 70x4 amplifier that I hooked up directly to the speakers last night, and then I plugged my laptop into that. I had to turn down the gain because it was too loud. When I start the engine I get the awful alternator whine, but I have not done much to fix this yet because it is only a test setup. I also get this on my Motorola Spectra 800mhz two-way radio. It's not bad, but I can hear the alternator whine when I am listening to dispatch or whatever...

Sorry for the long post, but I want to inform you about my whole setup so you can help me make an educated descision on my install.

If I left something out, please let me know and I'll be happy to get it for you!

JVC KD-G200 : http://www.circuitcity.com/ccd/produ...cfkmdffhdffk.0

**GruvThang** · 11-09-2004, 12:36 AM

no suggestions but a very nice setup.

make sure you post some pics of yours when you are all done with it!

**Mrbmw99** · 11-09-2004, 12:47 AM

Originally Posted by GruvThang

no suggestions but a very nice setup.

make sure you post some pics of yours when you are all done with it!

Gruv: This picture is only a photoshopped image, and the truck is a bit different now. The black police radio in that picture has been upgraded to a bigger unit, and there are a few other small changes in there. Also, when I mold the screen in, it will probably not be flat in the dash like that either. I think I will angle it upwards - but that's not the topic of discussion

...

**jjh221** · 11-09-2004, 12:52 AM

Welcome to the forum. Great idea, take a look at mine for more. Use whatever ya want. Ill be here to help ya out the best i can with whatever ya need to know. The noise you are hearing is a grounding issue. Please next time when you post make the image smaller.
J

**jjh221** · 11-09-2004, 12:58 AM

Oh and angling the screen up will be a huge plus. I cant see that well during the day. Great idea. That way you are playing off the reflection of the roof not the seats. Wish i would have though of that. But at night all is good i love it hehe

**Mrbmw99** · 11-09-2004, 01:01 AM

WOW! I JUST realized that you have a ranger too! Lemme go look.. Thanks!

**jjh221** · 11-09-2004, 01:02 AM

Well i have a 98 Explorer. I should put that in my profile huh lol sorry

**Mrbmw99** · 11-09-2004, 01:04 AM

Well - either way - its the same dash piece...

**GruvThang** · 11-09-2004, 01:05 AM

Originally Posted by Mrbmw99

Gruv: This picture is only a photoshopped image

I knew that was not your current set up, I was talking about the "I am planning to install a computer system using a M10000 or similar motherboard, somewhere around 256MB RAM, maybe a 10-30GB HD, and my 7" Lilliput Touchscreen" part of your post.

That is why I asked you to post pics of your setup when you are done