replacing bose in 2005 corvette

I looking to replace the system in a 2005 Corvette Convertible I'm about to purchase. I tend to side with SQ over SPL. I currently have Focal 165K2 in some kick pods I made. I like the clarity from them, but agree with some on the forum that sometimes they are a little bright, overall I am happy with the sound. I literally listen to all types of music; classical, classic rock, new rock, metal, hip-hop, dance, etc. Although primarily hair metal, and new rock. From my research online the current system is a 7 speaker system. - 5.25 behind each seat - 3.5 in each door - 10 woofer in each door and a single 3.5 in the dash I'm not opposed to having some custom work done. Trunk space is a premium being a convertible, I would still like to be able to fit a set of clubs in the trunk. Top down only nets just over 5 cu. ft. (top up roughly 11 cu. ft.). In my city I have access to Focal, Eclipse, Clarion, RF, Alpine, and Infinity, but I am not opposed to trying something different for speakers, as I can probably drive a couple hours and listen to them. For a HU, I was thinking something DBL-DIN with GPS, ipod control (audio and video), sat ready, Bluetooth, 4V pre-outs with sub control and great SQ (24-bit D/AC, burr-brown or similar). I haven't really used a signal processor before, but if I were to go with something Alpine, does the IMPRINT do everything it says it does? Or would something different be better suited. Current H/U I have looked at incl.: - JVC- NT1 - Pioneer X910BT - Alpine W203 - Alpine W505 I listen to my music at a moderate to a moderate-loud level. I was thinking possibly <$1000-$1500 for the H/U, speakers for under $400 a pair, <$1000 for power and processing, and uncertain about the sub(s) (rough budget of $3000-$4000). I am willing to bend the budget if its what will make me listen to just one more song before getting out of the vehicle.JVC KD-LX50

Focal 165 K2

Energy ENC525CV

Rockford 400.4

Beyond Audio Custom Amp

Beyond Audio X1 *2 12" DVC

Big 3

One thing you are not taking into consideration is the amp. If you replace any of the speakers in the system more than likely you will have overheating/protection issues with the amp. In the truck platform for bose the speakers are 8 ohms. So it would not be a huge deal if you replaced them, but the amp might run a little hotter. If the speakers are 2 ohm, like the older vettes, then the speaker system will be quiet. So I would recommend an amp bypass if you are serious about your sound. But look to spend some cash. As far as subs in the trunk, don't bother. In convertibles the trunk is sealed pretty tight due to the drop top. And to push bass through it is going to be very minimal. You would have to get a custom box and some decent size subs to get some sound, but be prepared to lose the room for the golf clubs. The best way in my opinion is to leave it be, unless you are having problems.   Otherwise customization is the only way to go. You can add your head unit no problem though, to give you better benefits to your ipod/satellite radio/whatever.

jag, you are a candidate for a good dealer / installer.  There should be some to choose from in your area.Build the box so that it performs well in the worst case scenario and, in return, it will reward you at all times.

Alright after thinking and hearing to some speakers. I was thinking about going with the JL stealth box for the vehicle (2 boxes each housing a 8 ohm 8w3) JL 500/1 and then for speakers was contemplating using my focals in the doors, and possibly building a custom fiberglass box to house 5.25" JL C5's behind the seats, all powered by a JL 300/4. As for a head-unit I am leaning toward the alpine 505. Any suggestions?JVC KD-LX50

Focal 165 K2

Energy ENC525CV

Rockford 400.4

Beyond Audio Custom Amp

Beyond Audio X1 *2 12" DVC

Big 3