If you are planning on using the stock HU I would pick up either the SS Harmony or PPI DSP-88r (identical guts based on the mini dsp diy setup, just different branding) as you need the eq capability and if you are going to run active you will want the additional xover functionality. I'd also look at a different amp, PPI phantom 900.4 or any of the ubuy/tesla designs class D's are a much better choice as you want headroom, not to be driving the amp to its limits for your sound. most also runs around the same price.

Comps choice is fine and they handle double the power and then some of what they are rated for and are one of the best budget comps out there.

Sub, not a fan, IMHO those alpines sound like crap, at least every one I have heard does, you would be better off getting an infinity basslink and putting it in you trunk, or if you must go under seat one of these MB Quart MBPS8152 450W 8” Onyx Series Shallow Powered Subwoofer as either sounds much better than the alpine.

None of what I am saying is going to make your system booming by any stretch of imagination, but the number one thing any SQ setup needs is clean power as most people blow speaker because they drive their amps to the limits causing distortion on the speakers because they don't have enough power.

Oh and don't forget to get deadening and at least do the doors as that will help your midbass and make you comps sound better.

 

Loco, thanks buddy for your input. The items you suggested have filled in the holes in my theory and did not raise the budget (exactly what I was looking for).

I don't have the OEM head unit anymore, as it has been replaced by a Pioneer DVD DD h/u (you give me input on my other thread).

One more question. What current sound reading would you recommend?

Thanks bud.

 

What do you mean by reading as the old magazines are all gone (I really miss Car Audio and Electronics), You can glean a lot of good SQ info of DIYMA.com I lurk there a bunch but don't post a lot but most peeps there are SQ nuts and sometimes go over my head with stuff. caraudio.com is prety well the boomer/young idiot all about the bass crowd but for HU's and sometimes for amps ect you can get good info.