I have a completely stock 2005 G35x. No nav system. No Bose.

I am thinking either a in dash unit or replace the front speakers.

I don't need any navigation since I live in SD where there is no such thing as traffic or cities. (not joking)

My question is, what's the best possible upgrade for sound quality? I have no interest in being loud, been there, done that, and I have done lots of car audio systems in the past so I do know general info.

My problem is, I haven't paid attention since around 2005 so I don't know what's good, great, or junk.

Looking to spend less than $400.

 

You will benefit most from a new in dash unit. I installed Focal K2 speakers in my car and was unhappy with them until I upgraded the head unit. A jdm finisher piece for your dash will cost a few hundred and a decent head unit will cost you a few hundred.

 

Best uprgrade for sound quality? A subwoofer. Not something that turns your car into a ghetto ground pounder...just something that fills in the lacking lower end. The Bose systems are notorious for lacking low end, but they can actually sound decent by simply adding a single 10. I have an aftermarket nav/dvd double din as well...and I would have to admit it does more for the cool factor than the actual sound quality. It does give me the ability to fine tune my sound a little more...but honestly, I think it sounded ok when I only had the sub off the stock deck as well. I didnt notice a major change in quality when switching out decks.

I definetly wouldn't recommend front speakers as the best ONE upgrade....you would need atleast an aftermarket amp AND headunit to really take advantage of them.

 

Get an auxilary! I got the AAI-NIS2...

 

Any specific suggestions? I'm thinking any sub would be small and "stealthy" if possible.

 

I personally have a single JL 10w1. It gives me a nice kick....but doesn't overpower the stock bose system. I did a custom fiberglass enclsoure that fits in the sidewall (pics in gallery)...so it virtually takes up no trunk space....I can still fit my hockey bag which is massive. I put my amp under the floor, in the center of my spare tire (mounted to a piece of mdf board). There's a million subs that would work for you though...generally you want to look for one that requires the least amount of sealed air space and is most efficient with the least amount of power if you want to go the stealthy route.

 

get a aftermarket radio and get rid of that bose head unit

 

Aftermarket Head unit. I like Alpine. Better overall sound.

now if you like bass, then definitely an amp and sub.

 

The stock head unit doesn't sound bad to me.. Could use more base, but over all it's not bad