2025 ST sound system build

[Snarl]

Waiting for NAV-TV to release a Zen module for the 25+ Explorer ST, and not knowing how long that would be, I installed Infinity Reference components front and rear with 2" Kappa mids up front (all factory locations with full sound deadening), then disconnected the center dash speaker. That lowered the sound stage a little but improved separation a lot, and was a HUGE improvment from stock. Adding a simple sub upgrade would make a great system for most.
However, NAV-TV just released the ZEN-F25 module for the 25 Explorer B&O's, and should be here in about a week. Then I"ll be going a little crazy heading down what may be a very deep rabbit hole.
@UNBROKEN . . Move over! This will be an SQ system, but not intending to compete beyond local. I will be updating as the build progresses, good and bad, to help others who also like rabbit holes.

 

[ST_Marshal]

Hey Snarl. Hoping you might could educate me a bit. To preface my question, it should be known that my background in audio is the equivalent to a wet carrot.
Alright here goes:
I am looking to add an amp and subwoofer to my vehicle. I did some basic research and determined that I "needed" to buy the PlugNPlay Harness Kit from Plugnplaykits.com. So that's what I did.
https://plugnplaykits.com/collectio...020-ford-f150-with-b-o-plug-play-harness-kits

However, I just stumbled across your post and looked into the referenced product.

Could you tell me the main differences between the two? Which would be better for my intended purpose? Does the Zen module, by replacing the factory amp, make the B&O system sound better, without the addition of anything further?

 

[UNBROKEN]

Hey Snarl. Hoping you might could educate me a bit. To preface my question, it should be known that my background in audio is the equivalent to a wet carrot.
Alright here goes:
I am looking to add an amp and subwoofer to my vehicle. I did some basic research and determined that I "needed" to buy the PlugNPlay Harness Kit from Plugnplaykits.com. So that's what I did.
https://plugnplaykits.com/collectio...020-ford-f150-with-b-o-plug-play-harness-kits

However, I just stumbled across your post and looked into the referenced product.

Could you tell me the main differences between the two? Which would be better for my intended purpose? Does the Zen module, by replacing the factory amp, make the B&O system sound better, without the addition of anything further?

You would use the Zen to replace the B&O system. At a minimum, aftermarket amps are required.

 

[ST_Marshal]

You would use the Zen to replace the B&O system. At a minimum, aftermarket amps are required.

So the Zen would be most beneficial for someone who is looking to replace most, if not all the speakers in the B&O system?
I have purchased my sub and an amp along with the above referenced harness kit.
I think I just have to figure out how to go about getting someone to make a custom enclosure for the spare tire/cargo area. Are there blueprints that exist for this? lol
Amazing build by the way. I have not been on here long, but long enough to see that you are someone who has made significant contributions in this community. So thank you for that and thank you for continuing to address newbie questions!

 

[Snarl]

A lot depends on your goal. So far, I applied sound deadener in the doors and installed Infinity Reference components with Kappa mids waiting for the Zen to be released. Thats actually very good for most people, and a lot cleaner (and louder) than factory. If you want something that rivals your home stereo, you need to start over. The Zen module is used to convert the factory preamp signal to a flat signal with no factory EQ or time alignment. It also eliminates the B&O amplifier, so you must install all new amps.
I will update with photos soon, but so far all I acomplished on the new build (I thought retired meant I would have more time!) was running (2) 1/0 wires through the firewall to the rear, and built a concept subwoofer. It's an opposing dual 8" subbox between the second row captains seats. Opposing to reduce vibrations so it can be used as a center console. I may run into standing wave issues, so it's just experimental for now.
Unbroken will easily keep the SQ crown, since my build is only intended to show what can be done for sound quality without going competition crazy. For now, it will be all factory speaker locations, and hopefully inspire others to start their own builds. The front stage will be phase 2.