A client from the Richmond area was at Extreme Audio to ask a few questions when the conversation turned to his 2017 GMC Sierra Denali’s stereo system. The original purpose of his visit was to ask about a subwoofer for his other truck, but we got talking about premium audio systems. We invited the client to come back the next day and listen to Mike’s demo truck.
The Car Audio Bug
Sure enough, the client returned the next day with his 2017 GMC Sierra Denali, anxious to listen to our truck. We let him choose the music and volume level, and listen for as long as he wanted. He was blown away by the clarity and detail of the system, even at full volume. Immediately, he asked if we could replicate the system in his truck, but make it louder. We will never turn down a request like that.
GMC Sierra Denali Stereo Design Process
The sound system in the demo trucks uses Audiofrog GB-Series components in the doors and dash, a pair of JL Audio 12TW3 subwoofers under the rear seat, and an Alpine Restyle head unit replacement. To increase the output of the system for the client, we proposed using Audiofrog GS-Series coaxial speakers in each door and a GB40 midrange and GB10 tweeter on the dash. With the full spectrum of sound coming from each speaker location, the system would be capable of playing louder. For bass, we proposed a set of JL Audio 13TW5 shallow subwoofers and a 1,200 watt amplifier.
Alpine Restyle Source Unit
The factory radio and trim panel was removed from the dash to make way for an Alpine X110-SLV Restyle system. This source unit includes a massive 10-inch screen integrated into a custom trim panel. The system provides Bluetooth hands-free and audio streaming, as well as built-in navigation. The included Maestro RR vehicle integration module allows the factory OnStar system to work seamlessly with the new radio and retains the factory backup camera, steering wheel controls and parking sensor connectivity. The client can also adjust the climate controls, see information like tire pressure or display a set of gauges to mimic the instrument cluster.
Audiofrog Speaker Upgrades
We installed a set of Audiofrog GS62 coaxial speakers in the factory speaker locations in the rear doors and GS693 30way 6×9’s in the front door. We applied Roadkill sound-deadening material around the speakers and added a set of Fast Rings to help channel the sound energy into the vehicle.
We mounted Audiofrog GB40 4-inch midranges in the factory speaker grilles on the dash and placed 1-inch GB10 tweeters beside each of them on the defroster trim piece. Should the client ever want to return the truck to stock, these panels can be replaced inexpensively.
JL Audio System Amplification
The system is powered by a trio of JL Audio amplifiers. The front stage is powered by an HD600/4 four-channel amplifier. Two channels run the 6×9’s and the other two channels power the dash speakers through a GB410c passive crossover network. An XD200/2 amplifier powers the rear door speakers. Finally, an HD1200/1 is assigned to the subwoofers.
We wired the amps using Stinger power wire and distribution blocks. To ensure the client would have adequate current delivery for the amps, we installed a pair of Stinger SPP1550DCR batteries under the hood.
Stealth Subwoofer System
The pair of JL Audio 13TW5-4 subwoofers is installed in an enclosure that fits under the rear bench seat. The enclosure is finished in black carpet and includes five accent strips on the top panel to give it a little extra style. We added a set of SGRU-13 grilles to protect the speaker cone when the seats are down.
Extreme Audio by Extreme Audio
After roughly a week’s work, we were finished with this GMC Sierra Denali stereo project and ready for the client to experience it for the first time. He absolutely loved it. The Audiofrog speakers stay clear, even at insane volume levels, and the JL subs move a lot of air.
If you are near Mechanicsville or Midlothian, drop by Extreme Audio and have a listen to our demo truck. If you have any questions, give us a call or send an e-mail using our contact page.
Like the description breakdown. I have the exact same truck and I am curious about the price.
Good Morning! Are you in the Richmond, VA area? We’d be happy to talk about something similar for your truck, but pricing would vary a good bit in different areas depending on labors rates, technician ability, etc. If not, let me know where you’re located and I may be able to refer you to someone reputable in your area. Thanks!
I just bought a 2018 Sierra Danali and interested in upgrading the audio. I’m interested in stopping by and seeing the truck. Which location is it located?
Good Morning! This truck was actually built for a client of ours. We do have our own 2009 Denali that we’d be happy to demo for you at any time. It’s generally at our Mechanicsville location, but can be at our Midlothian location with a days notice.
Just curious what the cost of the 2017 Sierra Denali upgrades you made was. I have the identical truck
We’d be happy to discuss options with you if you want to swing by or give us a call? 804-559-3589. If you’re not in the Richmond area, let me know where you are and I’ll try to connect you with someone. Pricing here would likely vary from where you are.
Can you tell me which, if any, factory functions are lost with this upgrade?
No OEM features were lost. Technically some features were gained due to the iDatalink Maestro functions. The ability to read and clear check engine codes, additional gauges, etc.
i have a 2018 sierra Denali, can you add a sub under the console? i need the space under the back seat.
I know i wont get much of a sub but would still like to know if its possible.
TNX
Nice post by the way.
Thanks! JL Audio makes a great Stealthbox for that purpose. Best I recall you have to do a very minor relocation of one small module near the front in some models. https://www.jlaudio.com/car-audio-stealthbox-gmc-sierra-front-console-14-18
tnx
Hello, I’m in the Williamsburg area and looking for a similar aftermarket stereo system.
We’d be happy to go over some options with you! Give Mike a call at 804-302-4488 when you have an opportunity.
Nice install! What work had to be done to avoid staging issues with the midranges and tweeters firing into the windshield? I would assume some DSP work?
I have a 2019 sierra and contemplated doing the same, but everything I read tells me it is a bad idea. Obviously this build proves otherwise, just curious what needed to be done, if anything.
In this particular truck, the client was far more concerned with sheer output, while maintaining “clarity”. I know that’s a very vague term that could go a bunch of different directions. He listened to the demo system in our Sierra that’s a bit more pure, running fully active with time alignment, but want more sheer output. Hence 3-way 6×9’s, big components in the dash, etc. It sounds like you may me after something more along the lines of this recent build. https://www.extremeaudio.org/premium-stereo-upgrade-for-chesterfield-gmc-sierra-pickup/ This was done in a high output, but more traditional SQ way with DSP. The custom aspects were more in line with cosmetics the client wanted, not as much for function.