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Renegade Audio

43824 Views 61 Replies 36 Participants Last post by  Jason Hampton
I have been trying for months to find out the audio brand supplying the audio for US sold Renegades. It's the only thing about the renegade I don't know. I don't want to pay for the upgraded audio system if it's Alpine. I know that European models get Beats premium audio system. If someone has a Renegade, please let me know if you find out the audio provider.
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I don't know much about car audio, but definitely wanna get the upgraded sound, just for more speakers and the sub (I guess I can swap them out if they suck). But what's the deal with Alpine these days? No good? What brands would be good to see in the premium sound package?
I haven't seen a name brand on it yet, but it's probably either something made by Harmon Automotive (infinity, JBL) or Bosch (Blaupunkt). I wonder if any of the forum members works for a supplier or has seen the back of any factory audio systems in the Renegade to see any manufacturers markings?
i'm surprised they didn't even list the brand of speakers they're using, it would have done them some good to do that, speed up someones buying decision.

What you can try to do is call up your local Jeep dealer and ask the parts guy if he would be able to find out.
Yeah. I think calling up the dealer would be your best bet. I'm still planning to put aftermarket speakers in my Renegade when I get it. I much prefer installing speakers of choice. Quality music is a must for me while driving.
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i'm surprised they didn't even list the brand of speakers they're using, it would have done them some good to do that, speed up someones buying decision.

What you can try to do is call up your local Jeep dealer and ask the parts guy if he would be able to find out.
That could be because it's scammy phrasing. Not saying it IS, jsut that it could be because auto makers do this some time.

For example, my current car, the super basic trim level had "four" speakers. The premium trim had "eight speakers" in reality, it had two extra tweeters, they just counted the whizzer cones in the front door speakers as extra speakers when they didn't in the base model. If you ordered the dealer installed sub, it was now the 9 speaker system.

I suspect jeep is pulling something similar here. SImply because there's only spots for 7 speakers as far as I can tell. SO in the most honest scenario, they swap 4 whizzer cone speakers for dedicated mids in the doors with tweeters in the tweeter spots, add a set of actual coaxially mounted 2 ways in the back plus a sub-like object in the rear. Selling cars being what it is, I'm inclined to think that they just figure they are selling you a sub-like object in the rear for $400+ as most of the options on the renegade are overpriced compared ot the competition.
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That could be because it's scammy phrasing. Not saying it IS, jsut that it could be because auto makers do this some time.

For example, my current car, the super basic trim level had "four" speakers. The premium trim had "eight speakers" in reality, it had two extra tweeters, they just counted the whizzer cones in the front door speakers as extra speakers when they didn't in the base model. If you ordered the dealer installed sub, it was now the 9 speaker system.

I suspect jeep is pulling something similar here. SImply because there's only spots for 7 speakers as far as I can tell. SO in the most honest scenario, they swap 4 whizzer cone speakers for dedicated mids in the doors with tweeters in the tweeter spots, add a set of actual coaxially mounted 2 ways in the back plus a sub-like object in the rear. Selling cars being what it is, I'm inclined to think that they just figure they are selling you a sub-like object in the rear for $400+ as most of the options on the renegade are overpriced compared ot the competition.
The rear doors are different with the premium audio. There are extra tweeters mounted high on the door.
I have called Jeep directly, as well as emailed multiple people multiple times, to know end.

Jeep is partnered with Harman Kardon, Alpine, and Beats. I personally think it IS a Beats system, but for some reason isn't being marketed as such. Main reason being it's the exact same amp and sub size that UK/EU is getting, which is Beats audio.

Alpine as a brand doesn't produce the quality it used to. Harman Kardon is decent. Beats would be great though. Yes Beats Audio are overpriced, but you're still getting a top of the line product. It's like saying BMWs are overpriced. Even so, it's still a BMW.
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I have called Jeep directly, as well as emailed multiple people multiple times, to know end.

Jeep is partnered with Harman Kardon, Alpine, and Beats. I personally think it IS a Beats system, but for some reason isn't being marketed as such. Main reason being it's the exact same amp and sub size that UK/EU is getting, which is Beats audio.

Alpine as a brand doesn't produce the quality it used to. Harman Kardon is decent. Beats would be great though. Yes Beats Audio are overpriced, but you're still getting a top of the line product. It's like saying BMWs are overpriced. Even so, it's still a BMW.
The Beats from Fiat is not that great, trust me, I have it in my Abarth. The Audio in my Honda CR-Z before the Fiat and the H/K I had in my Cooper S before the CR-Z was much better by a long shot. Out of all the options I got on my Abarth, it was the biggest waste of money.
That could be because it's scammy phrasing. Not saying it IS, jsut that it could be because auto makers do this some time.

For example, my current car, the super basic trim level had "four" speakers. The premium trim had "eight speakers" in reality, it had two extra tweeters, they just counted the whizzer cones in the front door speakers as extra speakers when they didn't in the base model. If you ordered the dealer installed sub, it was now the 9 speaker system.

I suspect jeep is pulling something similar here. SImply because there's only spots for 7 speakers as far as I can tell. SO in the most honest scenario, they swap 4 whizzer cone speakers for dedicated mids in the doors with tweeters in the tweeter spots, add a set of actual coaxially mounted 2 ways in the back plus a sub-like object in the rear. Selling cars being what it is, I'm inclined to think that they just figure they are selling you a sub-like object in the rear for $400+ as most of the options on the renegade are overpriced compared ot the competition.
You are correct this is a common tactic. However I do know that with the Renegade, when you get the premium audio, it ads two speakers. The full setup for the premium audio is as follows: one 6.5 inch sub (real sub, not cone woofer), 4 6x9 speakers, 2 3.5 inch full range speakers in the dash, and two 1 inch tweeters in upper passenger doors. However I do not know if the premium adds the tweeters or full range speakers as the extra.

Also, and most importantly, the premium hooks all these up to a multi-channel amp. This is Really important for installing after market speakers because not only will it sound better (and I mean WAY better, amplified speakers really shine) it also means that the shop or dealer will have to run either RCA converters or line-out converters for the audio themselves, so if you want to replace the factory speakers or add a subwoofer, there is already lines for a sub.

I am big into audio, and worked as an installer at my local Audio Express for 3 years, so if you have any questions about audio I will try to help! With the exception that I don't know that the **** the audio brand is in the Renegade.
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The Beats from Fiat is not that great, trust me, I have it in my Abarth. The Audio in my Honda CR-Z before the Fiat and the H/K I had in my Cooper S before the CR-Z was much better by a long shot. Out of all the options I got on my Abarth, it was the biggest waste of money.
Yeah i was worried about that. Just because they make great headphones, doesn't mean they can make great car audio. Totally different animals. Still though, $500 to run converters and an amp, as well as wire for two more speakers? That's a **** of a deal. It would cost **** near that at the shop I worked at.
The Beats from Fiat is not that great, trust me, I have it in my Abarth. The Audio in my Honda CR-Z before the Fiat and the H/K I had in my Cooper S before the CR-Z was much better by a long shot. Out of all the options I got on my Abarth, it was the biggest waste of money.
btw did you like your abarth? The wife wants a new car since I get to have one, and she has been looking into one.
btw did you like your abarth? The wife wants a new car since I get to have one, and she has been looking into one.
It is a love/ hate relationship. The first 25,000 miles was ugly. Spent a lot of time in the shop. It does have some build quality issues. One that is common is the rear end being out of alignment that can't be fixed. The right rear goes through tires Like you wont believe. It all so has annoying door rattle when turning left over a ruff surface. The 1.4T (which is the same basic engine in the Renegade) has hesitations from start and at 3K RPM under moderate to hard acceleration. The power deliver is kind of uneven and inconstant and it HATES when temperature outside start hitting 80F+. I currently have an A/C refrigerant leak that can't be found. I have an extended warranty and I wouldn't even dream of buying an FCA product with out one.

With that being said, If the temps are cool out 50's- 60's, and you have an open road with some curves it becomes an absolute blast to drive!!! It is comfortable and and you could fit it anywhere to park ( I have a daily 80 mile commute).

I waited a year before purchase so FCA could get the bugs worked out and well.... I should have waited longer. Mine is a 2013 with 51K miles on it now and I have friends with an 2014 who are doing much better than I was as far as reliability and build quality. That is why I am waiting TWO years for the Renegade and willing to give FCA another chance.
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That is why I am waiting TWO years for the Renegade and willing to give FCA another chance.
Yeah we live in central Arkansas, with harsh and cold winters, and extremely hot summers of upper 90s. Not sure how well it would handle that kind of climate. And good idea on waiting on the Renegade. I personally just can't wait, but hey, somebody's gotta be the guinea pig! Plus you'll get to see if that new larger crossover FCA/Jeep is working on will be worth it!
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You are correct this is a common tactic. However I do know that with the Renegade, when you get the premium audio, it ads two speakers. The full setup for the premium audio is as follows: one 6.5 inch sub (real sub, not cone woofer), 4 6x9 speakers, 2 3.5 inch full range speakers in the dash, and two 1 inch tweeters in upper passenger doors. However I do not know if the premium adds the tweeters or full range speakers as the extra.

Also, and most importantly, the premium hooks all these up to a multi-channel amp. This is Really important for installing after market speakers because not only will it sound better (and I mean WAY better, amplified speakers really shine) it also means that the shop or dealer will have to run either RCA converters or line-out converters for the audio themselves, so if you want to replace the factory speakers or add a subwoofer, there is already lines for a sub.

I am big into audio, and worked as an installer at my local Audio Express for 3 years, so if you have any questions about audio I will try to help! With the exception that I don't know that the **** the audio brand is in the Renegade.
Well at least they seem to be putting in something for your money, which is good.
I did get the premium audio package. I can't tell you who makes is, but it dose sound great. There is 4 tweeter and 4 mids and one sub in the back. The 2 tweeters are on the dash by the windshield and the other 2 are in the tops front of the back doors. The 4 mids are lower in the door and the sub is in the cargo area on the side.
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IMO upgraded audio is key. Brings to the plate integral components, such as tweeters and an amp, that lends to easier upgrades at a later point. If necessary.
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IMO upgraded audio is key. Brings to the plate integral components, such as tweeters and an amp, that lends to easier upgrades at a later point. If necessary.
Yeah my point exactly. I just would like to know if it's a worthwhile brand and I can put $1,000 towards a good sub or if I'm gonna need to put that thousand towards upgrading the stock. But $500 to add tweeter spots in the back, run wires for those, as well as run either RCA or Line Out Converters for the sub/amp is an absolute steal.
100% Alpine speakers. They don't have the volume but the bass and the actual tuning of sound is fine.
The subwoofer in affixed to a rather large plastic "box" that is snaked in and around the right quarter panel. The bass is rather good for a six inch woofer.
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