Chevrolet Trax Crossover Audio Upgrade Review

Why Consider a Car Audio Upgrade for Your Chevrolet Trax Crossover?

For many Chevrolet Trax Crossover owners who spend significant time commuting or simply enjoy their music on the road, the factory audio system can leave something to be desired. A common point of discussion among these owners revolves around the limitations of the stock speakers and the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system. While ANC is designed to reduce cabin noise, it can sometimes interfere with aftermarket car audio tuning, leading many to opt for disabling it to achieve a more dynamic and immersive sound experience. This review explores the benefits of such an upgrade, focusing on real-world results and considerations for your Trax Crossover.

Disabling the ANC system opens up greater possibilities for car audio customization, allowing for a richer and more impactful sound. Importantly, the ANC system can be safely deactivated and is reversible, ensuring you can restore it if needed. This upgrade focuses on enhancing your listening pleasure by prioritizing sound quality over noise cancellation.

The Limits of Stock Speakers and the Importance of Soundproofing

The original speakers in the Chevrolet Trax Crossover, while functional, often fall short for audiophiles. To meet targets for vehicle weight and cost, manufacturers may compromise on the audio components. Furthermore, the factory-installed vapor barrier in the door panels, primarily designed to keep water out, doesn't account for the acoustic vibrations generated by speakers. This can negatively impact sound output, particularly in the lower frequencies.

This is why a comprehensive car audio upgrade often goes beyond simply swapping out the speaker units. Essential soundproofing and sound-deadening (also known as sound-deadening or vibration damping) work is crucial. These treatments help to block external noise and transform the door cavity into a more rigid enclosure, similar to a speaker box. This significantly enhances bass response and clarity, delivering a distortion-free audio experience that is a world apart from the factory setup.

Chevrolet Trax Crossover Audio Tuning Process: Speakers, Subwoofer, and Soundproofing

This particular Chevrolet Trax Crossover audio tuning was tailored to the owner's specific sound preferences. The goal was not to install the maximum number of components, but to create an optimal listening experience. The installation focused on quality components and effective sound treatment.

Key Components Installed:

• Front Speakers: PHASS S12
• Rear Speakers: German Maestro Coaxial Speakers
• Subwoofer: Hertz 10-inch integrated amplifier subwoofer
• Door Soundproofing: Sound-deadening and sound-absorbing material applied to front and rear doors.

For this upgrade, the addition of a separate amplifier was deferred to a later stage. The focus was placed on high-quality speaker units and a capable subwoofer to immediately improve the sound system. This approach minimizes potential trial-and-error when a DSP amplifier is considered for future upgrades, ensuring a more streamlined process.

Installation Process:

1. Door Panel Removal: Carefully remove the interior door panels to access the speaker mounts and inner door structure.
2. Sound Treatment Application: Apply sound-deadening material to the inner and outer door skins to reduce vibrations and road noise. Sound-absorbing foam is then added to further dampen sound waves.
3. Speaker Replacement: Remove the factory speakers and install the new front and rear speaker units, ensuring a secure fit.
4. Subwoofer Integration: Install the integrated amplifier subwoofer, typically under a seat or in the trunk, connecting it to the power source and audio signal.
5. Wiring and Reassembly: Connect all new components, manage wiring neatly, and carefully reassemble the door panels.

The result is a significantly enhanced sound system that provides a much more engaging and enjoyable listening experience within the Chevrolet Trax Crossover. The cost for such an upgrade can vary based on the specific components chosen and the extent of soundproofing, but typically ranges from approximately ₩1,000,000 to ₩3,000,000 (around $750 to $2,250 USD) in Korea, depending on the complexity and brands selected.