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Porsche 993: Aftermarket Sound System Modifications

Upgrading your 993's stereo system is one of the most rewarding modifications you can make. Learn how to here.

By Brett Foote - April 8, 2015

This article applies to the Porsche 993 (1993-1998).

So, you've decided to upgrade the stereo system in your Porsche, but don't know where to start? Whether you're looking for better sound or you want the guy six blocks away to hear you coming, an aftermarket stereo system is the way to accomplish your goals. Aftermarket stereo systems can be as mild or wild as you want, but there are just a few basic components you'll want to get familiar with. Keep reading to get an idea of what you'll need to improve your 993's sound.

Subwoofers

DIY Cost – $15-$1,000+

Professional Cost – $50-$200 for labor

Skill Level – Moderate; requires special tools and a good amount of time to complete, depending on what type of enclosure you choose

Subwoofers add a dynamic sound that just isn't possible with regular speakers. There are a ton of possibilities as well, from easy to install, self-amplified enclosures that fit under a seat to totally custom, multiple-sub enclosures. For most, a powered enclosure is a good idea if you are just looking to add some bass and not win any competitions. If you go with your own amp and sub combination, make sure the impedance matches up.

Amplifiers

DIY Cost – $100-$1,000+

Professional Cost – $200 for labor

Skill Level – Moderate; requires some special tools and modifications to the car's electrical system

Amplifiers give your speakers a real boost, which not only makes them louder, but also greatly improves your sound quality. If you are adding a subwoofer or replacing factory speakers with aftermarket ones, installing an amp to power them is a must. Make sure to pair the wattage appropriately based on what kind of speakers you have; however, be careful not to overpower them.

Speakers

DIY Cost – $30-$1,000+

Professional Cost – $40-$80 for labor

Skill Level – Moderate; requires special tools to access, but installation is typically a breeze

Factory speakers are often made of cheap components, with paper cones commonly in older cars. A quality set of aftermarket speakers will make a huge difference in sound quality, and they are pretty easy to install once you get to them. While you can power these speakers without an amplifier, giving them an extra boost can greatly improve their performance. Just don't exceed their max rated watts.

Sirius

DIY Cost – $50-$100

Professional Cost – $30 labor

Skill Level – Moderate; requires removal of the factory radio

Sirius adds the capability to listen to over 140 channels, commercial-free, no matter where you go. Sound quality is typically very good and you have your choice between a huge variety of music, sports, and talk radio. While you can get Sirius radios that simply plug into your AUX port, the sound quality is much lower than the ones that directly plug into the back of your stereo.

iPod/iPhone Auxiliary Integration

DIY Cost – $50-$100

Professional Cost – $100 for labor

Skill Level – Moderate; requires a little technical know how and some work with wiring to install

Adding iPod/iPhone support to your factory stereo opens up a world of possibilities, from playing music straight out of your iCloud to making and receiving calls through your stereo system. There are an incredible number of aftermarket options available if you don't go with an aftermarket stereo, although upgrading your car's radio is the easiest way to get it done.

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