Deep Freeze - Audio Upgrades August 1999

Mitsubishi Mirage Coupe '93-'99
Although it shares only a name, decklid, and taillights with its sedan counterpart, the Mitsubishi Mirage coupe may be one of the best-kept secrets in the late-model-coupe marketplace. With a low sticker price, the Mirage coupe leaves its owner with a hefty budget that can be applied to a variety of aftermarket enhancements.

Since the Mirage has a double-DIN-application dashboard, it can accommodate a large fascia (7-inch by 2-inch) head unit and the combination of the Pioneer Premier DEH-P700R AM/FM/CD receiver and CDX-PD6 in-dash six-disc CD changer would be a perfect fit. The DEH-P700R is a full-featured CD head unit packed with almost every bell and whistle available, including a detachable full-flap face that completely conceals the CD opening. The built-in DFS Alarm+ feature is a valuable addition, even if you plan to install a comprehensive security system. The companion CDX-PD6 in-dash changer mounts above or below the DEH-P700R and offers the convenience of loading six discs while retaining the ability to swap individual discs in the DEH-P700R; together they form an unbeatable combination.

The Sony XM-604EQX, with 60 watts per channel, is a great match for the Focal separates and the Eclipse subwoofer. Although the Pioneer head unit has its own built-in crossover, the crossover in the XM-604EQX offers a greater selection of settings. One suggestion would be to use the crossover built into the head unit to control the input into the amplifiers via remote, offering the greatest degree of control. In this application, the XM-604EQX will be used in a three-channel configuration: 60 watts to each set of Focal separates and 150 watts to the Eclipse subwoofer in the dual voice coil mode.

The three-way Focal separates will require either a minimal amount of cutting (to mount the 4 1/2-inch midrange into the door panel, or the use of a universal kick panel pod from a manufacturer like Ai Research (405/624-6722) with its QL-U5002 universal Q-Forms speaker pod. Once installed and augmented by the solid bass provided by the dual voice coil Eclipse 8808 DVC 8-inch subwoofer mounted under the rear deck in a small enclosure, the speakers will provide audiophile-grade sonics with a minimum of modification and fabrication to the vehicle.

Since this system utilizes premium-grade components, it won't be cheap, coming in at nearly $3,000 with installation. By selecting components well matched to the vehicle, installation costs are minimized, allowing for a greater percentage of the budget to be allocated to the components rather than costly installation labor. Just think of it as a worthwhile investment using the money you saved purchasing a Mirage rather than a more expensive coupe.