'74 AM/FM Radio Speakers

[Raymond W.]

I'm in the process of replacing an aftermarket radio with that of an original AM/FM. During this process, and while the speakers are accessable, I'm thinking of replacing them. Intended results from this project were to get the look of the original radio back in the dash, while at the same time, improving the sound quality. How much quality sound can one get out of a 34 year old reconditioned, non-stereo radio? Overall speaker sound with the aftermarket Custom Autosound radio that I just removed ($95...see ad in May/June issue of Driveline, or e-mail me for more info)was adequate. Current speaker specs: 4"x6" Audiovox, 110T-2052A, 4 ohms, max. 12W. Looking for feedback from those who've made such an upgrade, i.e., name and type of new speakers that would greatly improve the quality of sound? Are there any radio and/or speaker specifications that I need to be aware? Is it necessary to match speakers to a particular radio? And finally, would any changes in the speakers have any negative point impact when being judged?

[Joe L.]

Re: '74 AM/FM Radio Speakers

Ray------

All 1968-76 Corvette original radios require 10 ohm speakers. You will not find what would be regarded in today's world as a "quality" speaker with this rating. The best you can do is a GM replacement speaker or a reproduction thereof.

Usually, though, you can use an 8 ohm speaker without causing too much of a problem. 8 ohm speakers are much more widely available and are available in very high quality versions. If you want to go this way, I'd check out Crutchfield (www.crutchfield.com). I'm sure that you can find a suitable 4X6" speaker (the size required for your application) from their selection.

I don't think that speaker configuration would be much of a judging consideration. I don't see how a speaker could be discerned as to configuration mounted high under the dash as they are in 70-76 Corvettes.

[Patrick H.]

Re: '74 AM/FM Radio Speakers

I've used the current GM replacement speaker in one of my Corvettes. Note that the current connectors on the ends of the speaker wires are not the same as originals. I modified the replacements to fit my original speaker wires. The sound from the new speaker is fine, all things considered. Realize, though, that I usually forget to even use the radio in my Corvette. The car sounds too good.

For my 71, I plan on re-coning the original speakers. Cost as I understand it is about $20-30, and then you have a correct 10 ohm replacement. I plan on scouring the archives for the addresses of the two places that do this. I think one is in Colorado, the other here in Michigan.

Patrick

[Joe L.]

Re: '74 AM/FM Radio Speakers

Ray----

Also, the use of 4 ohm speakers with an original Corvette radio will produce terrible sound AND will likley damage the radio, too. The 8 ohm speakers will produce satisfactory sound and will, usually, not damage the radio. However, there is no guarantee as to the latter. Your best bet is to use the correct 10 ohm speakers. They will produce satisfactory sound consistent with the capabilities of the old-technology radio.

[Wayne P.]

Why not use factory stereo?? *NM*

[Dave S.]

Re: '74 AM/FM Radio Speakers

Ray,
If you recone your original speakers and have your original radio redone properly you will be surprised at how well it sounds. Jackson Speaker in Michigan(I believe) has done many for me. They are a Hemmings advertiser in the services section as I recall. Cost is currently in the $30 range/each. If you need contact information for them just email me.

[Raymond W.]

Re: '74 AM/FM Radio Speakers

I've contacted Jackson Speakers and arranged to pick up a pair of original, reconned, 10ohm speakers. To Wayne's point, I agree that we're not driving these cars to listen to the radio. Thanks.