Genesis G80 Audio Upgrade Review: Enhanced Sound

Genesis G80 Audio Upgrade: Elevating the Lexicon Experience

For Genesis G80 owners who appreciate premium sound, the factory Lexicon audio system offers a solid foundation. However, for those seeking an even more refined and immersive auditory experience, upgrading key components can make a significant difference. This review details a specific upgrade path for a Genesis G80, focusing on replacing factory speakers to enhance sound reproduction, building upon an existing Musway DSP amplifier installation.

Why Upgrade Your Genesis G80's Car Audio?

While the Lexicon system in the Genesis G80 is a step above standard offerings, factory speakers often have limitations in reproducing the full spectrum of sound. They may struggle with nuanced details, deep bass, or a wide soundstage. This can leave audiophiles wanting more from their listening sessions. The goal of an upgrade is to unlock the true potential of the audio system, allowing for clearer highs, richer mids, and more impactful lows. This particular G80 owner, already satisfied with a Musway DSP amplifier, sought to further refine the sound by upgrading the speakers themselves, aiming for a more expressive and detailed audio output.

Genesis G80 Speaker Upgrade Process and Results

This comprehensive upgrade focused on replacing the front and rear speaker systems in the Genesis G80. The process involved meticulous installation to ensure optimal performance and integration with the existing amplifier. The results speak for themselves, transforming the listening environment into a concert hall on wheels.

Installation Process:

1. Front Door Speaker Replacement: The factory mid-woofer speakers in the front doors were replaced with PHASS 170PL 7-inch speakers. This was complemented by door sound deadening to reduce external noise and vibrations, and baffle foam was applied around the speaker mounts to prevent sound leakage.
2. Dashboard Mid-Range Speaker Upgrade: The mid-range speakers located in the dashboard corners were upgraded to PHASS 88IG units. This addresses any awkwardness from the stock speakers and enhances clarity and resolution. Baffle foam was used here as well for a precise fit.
3. Center Speaker Enhancement: The center speaker, a crucial element for soundstage balance, was replaced with a PHASS 2-way speaker. A custom bracket was fabricated to ensure a secure and accurate mounting, improving the center image clarity.
4. Rear Door Speaker Integration: Following the owner's request, the rear door speakers were upgraded to PHASS 165GM models. Similar to the front doors, sound deadening and custom birch wood adapters were used for a robust installation, ensuring these speakers perform beyond the original Lexicon capabilities.
5. DSP Amplifier Tuning: After all speaker replacements, the existing Musway DSP amplifier was meticulously tuned. Using RTA equipment for objective data and fine-tuning through listening tests inside the vehicle, the system was optimized to deliver the full range of sound previously unattainable with stock components.

The entire process, including sound deadening and custom fitting, typically takes around 6 to 8 hours to complete. The outcome is a significantly improved sound profile, characterized by greater detail, a wider soundstage, and more impactful bass, making every drive a more enjoyable experience. This type of upgrade, performed in South Korea, offers a tangible improvement for discerning audio enthusiasts.