Items installed:

• Kenwood DNX9960 DVD/navigation receiver
• Polk Audio db651s 6-1/2" speakers
• Boston Acoustics 10" subwoofer
• JVC 2-channel amplifier
• Dynamat Hoodliner
• Dynamat Xtreme

Kramer's Story

Q&A Section

Why did you decide to upgrade your A/V system?

I've always been an audio enthusiast, and since I spend so much time in my car, I wanted to make sure I could enjoy my music as fully as possible. Like many folks, I've added and upgraded components over time as the budget allows. Since we use the Element for camping and travelling fairly frequently, a good sound system is a must have!

The Kenwood DNX9960 is at the heart of Kramer's system

What's the first thing you show people about your installation?

The Kenwood DNX-9960 is a real attention grabber. The cool touch screen, iPod album artwork, and voice-control are always a big hit. Once we've gotten past the basics, I do an audio demo to really show what the system is capable of. Sometimes I'll pop in a DVD with a THX soundtrack. When the subwoofer kicks in and you feel the surround sound, it's just like being in your own mobile theater.

Kramer's iPhone® integrates smoothly with his receiver

Why did you choose the gear you put in your car?

I've always been impressed with the accurate and revealing nature of the Polk Audio db series speakers. They fit both the front and back doors, so I get perfect voice-matching. The Kenwood receiver has phenomenal crossover and equalization options, and I've been able to find the right balance settings-wise between my subwoofer and speakers. It's a rockin' system now!

What was the most difficult part of the installation?

The biggest challenge with an installation like this is taking your time and making sure everything is wired properly. The routing of the navigation antenna and the Bluetooth microphone took some extra planning, and with the help of my wife we were able to run all the wires under the dash and through the paneling while keeping them completely out of sight. The result is a very clean installation that looks and sounds great!

Kramer loves his system, but he isn't done with it quite yet

What plans, if any, do you have for future upgrades?

My Element came with tweeter housings on the A-pillar, but did not come with tweeters. Future upgrades include adding some Polk Audio tweeters there. I also plan on adding more Dynamat to further help the noise-reduction (the Element doesn't come with any carpet inside).

Vehicles in the Customer Car Showroom are submitted by customers and fans, and edited by Crutchfield writing staff. You can find more of these articles on the Showroom main page.