A client from nearby Raleigh contacted Adrenaline Autosound to inquire about upgrading his Mobility Ventures MV-1 wheelchair vehicle’s audio system. This van is designed around a large flat floor and a motorized ramp that makes entering or leaving the vehicle in a wheelchair very easy. What the manufacturer didn’t seem to pay much attention to was the audio system. The client wanted a sound system with smoother balance, better bass and a lot more detail. After looking at the vehicle and discussing where components like a subwoofer would fit, we created a plan to give this van an impressive upgrade
Kenwood Source Unit Upgrade
Although most of our sound system upgrades don’t include a new radio, the client wanted a source unit that offered Apple CarPlay, as well as a backup camera. He selected the Kenwood DMX7704S receiver as a solution. We mounted it in the dash, using a Metra dash kit and wire harness adapter.
Focal and Audiomobile Speaker Installation
The client chose a set of budget-friendly Focal Access 165 AS component speakers for the front of the van. Since there are no door speakers in the MV-1, we created a mounting panel for each door that fits into the recessed area. We wrapped the panel in vinyl for a seamless look. A threaded acrylic plastic mounting adapter on the rear of the panel helps to hold the speakers securely. We mounted the tweeters from the set in the factory dash speaker location on a set of HDPE plastic adapters.
Since space was at a premium, we created a compact subwoofer enclosure for the MV-1 that mounts on top of the right rear wheel well, using nutserts and 1/4-20 stainless steel fasteners. The enclosure has a net volume of 0.45 cubic feet and is home to a single Audiomobile GTS 10 subwoofer.
JL Audio System Amplifier with DSP
To give ourselves the most control over the sound system possible, we installed a JL Audio VX700/5i amplifier in a small cavity under the right side of the dash. We created an HDPE bracket that bolts to four locations on the vehicle using stainless 1/4-20 fasteners.
The VX700/5i is a five-channel amp with a built-in digital signal processor. This amp allows us to feed the woofers and tweeters with their own channels to optimize frequency response and signal delay settings to create a realistic soundstage in the vehicle. We also installed a DRC-200 remote level control at the bottom of the center console to provide quick access to the subwoofer level. The control allows the client to change presets and the indicator LED is mounted in the cigarette lighter socket to indicate which preset has been selected. If the client doesn’t want to see the light, he can close the cover.
We created three configurations for this wheelchair vehicle audio system. One sets the signal delay and levels to optimize everything for the front passenger location and another for the driver. The third preset is optimized for all seating positions.
Satisfaction with a Wheelchair Vehicle Audio System
With the installation complete, the client returned to Adrenaline Autosound to check out the sound system. The difference was night-and-day better than what came from the factory in every way.
If you are interested in upgrading your sound system, drop by our store or send us an e-mail using our contact page.