Hi all,

I recently (within the past week) had an Alpine CDA-9887 installed in my 2002Toyota Camry, but I am going crazy trying to figure out how to use it.

Let me begin by saying that I am in no way an audiophile. I don't really have any time in my life to worry about ultra-specific details when it comes to my car audio system. That being said, yes....I guess I am a fool for having purchased this system, seeing as it appears to be geared towards audiophiles.

I am simply looking for a good, old-fashioned, balanced sound. I never thought I would yearn for the days of my OLD factory stereo, but this new system is such a hassle (mainly because of my complete ignorance when it comes to this stuff, not because of the system itself). I am hoping some of you could share your expertise with me. I bow down to your knowledge! :-)

Here are some more specifics about my stereo system: I have Boston Acoustic SL-95 speakers and a Rockford Fosgate P400-4 amp. All of this has already been installed and set up for me. (In fact, I couldn't even tell you where to find the amp in my car...I'm that clueless!) Unfortunately, I do not have a subwoofer or an Imprint module as of yet. I am hoping to be able to afford those items within a few months.

As I said, I'm just trying to achieve a pleasant sound that is not harsh or shrill. I know a subwoofer would probably go a long way towards filling out the sound, but in the meantime, how can I adjust the parametric EQ to make everything sound as smooth and as full as possible? I confess that I don't know what the five different bands represent, or what the levels mean, or what the differences among the different frequencies are, or what "Q" means.....let along how all these factors work together. Also, how does Crossover factor in? What is slope, etc...?

I apologize if I sound like a pathetic, hopeless case. I am just looking for some peace of mind from this large investment. Any dumbed-down advice you can offer me would be most appreciated. (And I say dumbed down because that's probably the only way I'll understand it!)

Thanks so much!

James

I'd switch it over to graphic EQ (you do this in the setup menu of the 9887) as this is much easier to understand, then go HERE and play around until you find the sound you are after...its a great start and good way to learn EQing



....sorry if I wasn't supposed to post that linky!

Or bring it to a shop that has a KTX-100EQ and use the imprint.....works and sounds great.