A client from Hagerstown dropped into Westminster Speed and Sound to ask about upgrading the audio system in his new 2025 Honda Pilot. He wanted something that would sound amazing yet not detract from the vehicle’s functionality or appearance. After looking at the truck and discussing his listening preferences, we designed a high-end upgrade to meet and exceed his expectations.
Establishing a Foundation
The first order of business was to remove the factory-installed speakers from the doors and dash. Once out, our team installed Hushmat sound deadening and Silencer Megabond foam in the vehicle. Sound deadening is crucial in preparing the vehicle for a great audio experience. It helps prevent road, exhaust, and wind noise from entering the vehicle. Furthermore, the foam helps prevent buzzes and rattles. We treated the inner and outer skins to ensure the vehicle would be as quiet as possible.
To ensure maximum midbass performance, we created a set of panels to seal the access holes in the doors. Sealing these openings dramatically improves midbass performance.
Honda Pilot Speaker Upgrade
The next step was to install new speakers. The client chose the Helix i7-Series components for the doors and dash. We installed a 6.5-inch woofer in each of the four doors. We made new mounting adapters for all the speakers, allowing us to reuse the factory fastener locations. There is also a set of 0.75-inch tweeters in the sail panels and a second set in the stock rear door tweeter location. Finally, we installed a BLAM LM80 3-inch midrange driver to replace the stock center channel speaker.
Our team ran dedicated wiring to each speaker and added labels to ensure everything was easy to connect to the amplifier.
Honda Pilot Subwoofer System
The subwoofer upgrade is fundamental in ensuring the system delivers the client’s desired performance. After planning and calculations, we suggested using a pair of shallow-mount Trulli TD10S subwoofers. These drivers feature a three-layer cone assembly driven by a ring of 16 N52-grade neodymium magnets.
We created a pair of compact sealed enclosures on the cargo area floor, leaving space between the subwoofers for the system amplifiers. We finished the installation with a vinyl-wrapped trim panel that showcases the subwoofers and bears our Artistry by WSS logo embossed into it. The original false floor carpeted trim panel protects everything and keeps the cargo area functional.
System Amplifiers
To plan for success, we suggested the 12-channel Helix V12DSP amplifier. When used in a multi-way system, this amplifier can produce 75 watts of power per channel. Most importantly, it has a 14-channel digital signal processor built in. We will use that to send dedicated signals to each speaker in the system and the subwoofers.
The client chose a Match UP1FX amp to provide the subwoofers with up to 900 watts of power. As an added touch, our team created a mounting panel for the two-position fuse holder under the hood out of laser-etched acrylic plastic.
System Configuration and Calibration
While the equipment and integration are crucial, configuring and calibrating the digital signal processor determines how great the system sounds. Our team used a microphone to fine-tune each speaker’s output to compensate for the vehicle’s acoustics. We configured delays to create a soundstage that spans the width of the dash, making the music experience similar to what you’d encounter at a concert or while watching a movie in the theater.
Baltimore’s High-End Car Audio Experts
After several days of work, we installed, configured, and calibrated this high-end audio system. The client returned to Westminster Speed and Sound, and we immediately went to the vehicle to have a listen. He was thrilled with how the new system sounded. The bass was rich and full, and the imaging was just what he wanted. He loved that all the speakers were hidden from view. The trim around the subwoofers put a smile on the owner’s face.
If the audio system in your car or truck doesn’t give you goosebumps, drop by our store and talk with a team member. We can design and integrate an upgrade that will transform every drive into a memorable musical experience. If you can’t get to our store during regular business hours, give us a call or send our award-winning team an email.
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