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Beat Sonic, need feedback

Josh256

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Thanks. Exactly what I was wondering. I can't decide if the amp is worth it or not yet. Seems like installing the amp is the same as just turning the volume up higher. I wonder how similar volume 25/30 with the amp is compared to 50ish without the amp... If it only amplifies the input signal to the JBL amp, isn't that effectively the same as increasing the input signal by raising volume? ?
It's an inline amp, yes. Superior clarity/fidelity at higher levels + additional power allows for +rearward balance [correction IMO] so the cabin sounds much more centred +higher levels. EG it is not increasing line levels or unamplified if that's what you mean.. Although another poster claims that can be done with the Carista I haven't gotten that working. So again it essentially stacks signal/wattage RMS output onto the JBL's. IMHO it's worth the $ but I still plan on upgrading eventually.

Removing or replacing the center/BT speaker helps a lot too..
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Thanks. Exactly what I was wondering. I can't decide if the amp is worth it or not yet. Seems like installing the amp is the same as just turning the volume up higher. I wonder how similar volume 25/30 with the amp is compared to 50ish without the amp... If it only amplifies the input signal to the JBL amp, isn't that effectively the same as increasing the input signal by raising volume? ?
The amp does increase the volume. But what you do not realize is the higher the volume on the head unit, the more the sound gets neutered by the head unit. If the head unit thinks it’s at a lower volume, it gives it full bass and highs.
 

Chip

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I wish you could just increase the low signal, i think the highs are just fine, at least for me.
 

Josh256

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I wish you could just increase the low signal, i think the highs are just fine, at least for me.
Confirming:
Do you mean low frequency/Bass? Or low as in unamplified "line" level.. I think the verdict is in and the Carista can *not* increase the low/line/un-amped levels within the OEM HU. At any rate, the BS gets the job done for the stock JBL, arguably for a very reasonable price.

For life after the JBL I'll [again] be using the Taco Tunes kit(s)..
 

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Chip

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Confirming:
Do you mean low frequency/Bass? Or low as in unamplified "line" level.. I think the verdict is in and the Carista can *not* increase the low/line/un-amped levels within the OEM HU. At any rate, the BS gets the job done for the stock JBL, arguably for a very reasonable price.

For life after the JBL I'll [again] be using the Taco Tunes kit(s)..
Bass
 

Josh256

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Couple thoughts:

1) Crank the bass in the HU or get the BS and enjoy louder/cleaner everything. Also look out for smart phone in app EQs which should always be disabled! Generally much if this is a media/source limitation. EG: songs mastered with different bass levels. I've noticed a wide variance in bass across different songs.. early 90s metal having the least, then with more recent recordings shaking the truck to the point my mirrors vibrate (JBL + BS). Not sure how the dynamic HU/JBL EQ contributes here but some music too bassy, others no-bassy;)

2) Get the Taco Tunes sub-woofer wiring harness and add a dedicated amp for the sub, replacing the driver as well
 
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Confirming:
Do you mean low frequency/Bass? Or low as in unamplified "line" level.. I think the verdict is in and the Carista can *not* increase the low/line/un-amped levels within the OEM HU. At any rate, the BS gets the job done for the stock JBL, arguably for a very reasonable price.

For life after the JBL I'll [again] be using the Taco Tunes kit(s)..
Agreed, very happy with the BS!
 

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VBFD Taco

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So finally got mine yesterday and just finished the installation.
Initial impressions, happy. Haven't driven yet but the quick testing has left me not regretting the purchase.

Seems to be a good holdover until a good system comes from Taco Tunes or other marketer.

Happy camper. 👍
 

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Chip

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I had a problem with mine. I notice little to no sound coming from the left side of the truck, so i pulled the radio and checked the wiring, then i thought id pull the amp out and see if that was bad, but before i did i adjusted one of the pot switches and the sound came back, ended up just keeping it hooked up
 

JuanitoBonito

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Yes we have sold a good amount of these to Toyota owners (Tacoma, Tundra, Sienna). We haven't had anyone say they wish they didn't buy it, so general feedback is positive.

We can work you a deal if interested!

-Josh
Question for ya if you don’t mind. I have a premium with the big 14” screen. Which beat sonic is the one I’d need? The 2T3 or 3T3? Just looking to enhance the sound and nothing else.
 

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Question for ya if you don’t mind. I have a premium with the big 14” screen. Which beat sonic is the one I’d need? The 2T3 or 3T3? Just looking to enhance the sound and nothing else.
I'm running 2T3 on mine, 3T3 is for if you're going to add a subwoofer and stuff later on.

-Josh
 

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