sound system for '05 dodge neon

I recently was given a 2005 Dodge Neon for graduation. I plan to upgrade my sound system but I have no clue where to start. I was told by a friend that Rockford was the best to buy from. However I want several other opinions before I make the final decision. Furthermore, I'm afraid that the little research I have already done has just confused me even more. I want a powerful system with a strong bass, yet still with the ability to be balanced for casual listening (like when my parents are in the car. Haha). Thanks in advance for any help you all provide.

I the bottom of the main forum page there are lots of topics covering how to choose headunits,amps,subs,etc. This site also has TONS of polls, and threads regarding products and who think what is best per application. My best advise to you is to do some reading as not to start the uptenth thread on the same thing. Also, go to all your local audio shops and play with and listen to every product. The end all be all is going to be what you and your ears like, rather than opinions from someone else. Rockford is a great company and makes a solid product, but is only the tip of the spear of whats out there. Welcome to the12volt.com forums. Be sure to use the search feature before you post. You'll be amazed at the amount of info you'll find. Cheersrtfm

A Neon is a platform for great sound. Know your budget, choose the right installer and darn near anything will sound good in it. Sound deadener is a must do or your car is going to sound like a rattle can of angry bees.Top Secret, I can tell you but then my wife will kill me.

Thank you guys so much! I guess I was thinking a little too complicated. I will definitely go to some stores and talk on-on-one with some of the personnel and test some products. And I'll also look through the forums more thoroughly. Thanks again. I can't wait to become an active member of this community!

62.037784807094034?It all reminds me of something that Molière once said to Guy de Maupassant at a café in Vienna: "That's nice. You should write it down."

haemphyst wrote: 62.037784807094034?

wow, someone was bored. the cubed root of 238764?

Lol. No math for me. The summer is play time!

Hey guys. I did what you suggested spookiestylez and went to an audio shop near my house. I asked for a couple of estimates and they gave me a high budget and low budget estimate. Low budget: Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 High budget: Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 I'm not sure what everything means but I've got the main idea. Any questions about something on the invoices just let me know. Thanks again for your opinion. I just want to make sure I'm getting a good value for my money.

Do you plan on competing or is this going to be a daily driver? what is your ultimate goal? you would save alot more money if you do it yourself. I'm sure you can find alot of people on this forum who would be happy to help you or guide you through the install process.  IMO 6,000.00 is alot of money if you dont plan on competing.If the trunk dont rattle then its not loud.

If it's to loud then you're to old.

wow, 3,000+ is the low budget.