Spending $200,000 on a new boat isn’t always necessary. We bring this 2003 Malibu WakeSetter VLX back to life.

Upgrade Your Boat’s Audio System with Sweet Sounds

At Sweet Sounds, we’ve had a busy year working on all kinds of vehicles, from bikes to boats, trucks, and more. One of our recent projects involved rejuvenating a 2003 Malibu VLX, a boat that, despite being over 20 years old, is still in excellent shape. Rejuvenate—whether it means restore, revive, renew, update, refurbish, or overhaul—was exactly what this Malibu WakeSetter VLX needed to bring it back to life. The technology onboard, particularly the audio system, was outdated and not up to par with modern standards. This project is a perfect example of how upgrading an older boat can be more beneficial than purchasing a new one.

Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into any project, we prioritize understanding how our clients use their boats. This consultation process ensures that the audio system we design and install perfectly matches their needs. For instance, the owner of this Malibu VLX primarily uses it for wake surfing and wakeboarding, with no need for additional speakers in the bow since it’s mostly unoccupied during use. This tailored approach allows us to focus the budget where it will make the most impact.

Addressing Existing Issues

When we started this project, we encountered several challenges. The boat originally had two amplifiers; we retained one, but the other was worn out and beat up with broken mounts. The existing powered subwoofer had fallen off it’s brackets and was unsafely bouncing around in the compartment. Additionally, there were other ancient electronics that had long past their due date. Photos of the boat before the upgrade reveal the extent of these issues, highlighting why a comprehensive update was necessary.

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The Installation Process

The original audio setup of this 2003 Malibu VLX included a basic radio, four Infinity speakers, and a JBL amplifier—all of which were over two decades old. While some components were still functional, they were no longer adequate for the client’s needs. We upgraded the system with several key enhancements:

1. New Radio: We replaced the outdated Sony radio with the state-of-the-art Sony M80. This new radio features full app control through the Sony Music Center app, allowing for seamless volume adjustment, subwoofer control, and fader adjustments directly from a smartphone. This is especially useful given the radio’s awkward placement under the armrest, which makes manual adjustments challenging.
2. Speakers: We upgraded the existing Infinity speakers with JBL Stadium 6.5” component speakers in the rear and JBL Tower X Marine speakers on the tower.
3.  The JBL Stadium speakers offer superior sound clarity and output compared to the original speakers. The Tower X Marine speakers not only deliver excellent sound but also include integrated LEDs, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. We repurposed the existing wiring from the old light bars to power the new LEDs.
4. Amplifiers: The boat initially had two amplifiers; we retained the JBL amplifier, which was still in good condition, but replaced the other, which was worn out and beat up. For the new setup, we installed:
   • Rockford Fosgate TM400X4ad: A powerful 4-channel amplifier, each channel bridged to drive one of the Tower X Marine speakers. This amplifier is designed to handle the low impedance of the tower speakers, ensuring optimal performance.
   • Memphis Extreme Audio 600-watt Subwoofer Amplifier: This amplifier drives two JBL Stadium Series woofers with selectable impedance voice coils, providing deep, rich bass.
5. Subwoofer Enclosure: We addressed the issue of the old powered subwoofer, which had fallen off it’s brackets and was bouncing around unsafely. To integrate the new subwoofers, we undertook a comprehensive rebuild of the existing factory panel. This involved rewrapping the vinyl to match the boat’s interior aesthetic and designing a new expanded PVC grill on our computer. Using a CNC machine, we cut out the grill with a honeycomb pattern that allows for maximum airflow while retaining immense strength. This not only ensures that the subwoofers are securely mounted but also enhances the overall durability and performance of the enclosure. The expanded PVC grill provides both protection and ventilation, crucial for maintaining optimal sound quality and preventing overheating.
6. Additional Features: We also installed a dual-purpose voltmeter and USB 3.0 Quick Charge device, allowing the client to monitor the stereo battery’s status and keep smart devices charged while on the water.

Why Upgrade Instead of Buying New?

Upgrading an older boat like this Malibu VLX has several advantages. Firstly, it’s cost-effective. Instead of spending a significant amount on a new boat, you can invest in modernizing your current one, bringing it up to date with today’s technology. This includes not only audio upgrades but also enhancing the overall usability and enjoyment of the boat.

Secondly, customization is key. By working with Sweet Sounds, you get a system tailored specifically to your preferences and usage. Whether you’re cruising with family, surfing, or just relaxing on the water, your rejuvenated audio system will be designed to enhance your experience.

Lastly, upgrading prolongs the life of your boat. By integrating the latest technology, you ensure that your boat remains enjoyable and functional for years to come, without the need for a costly replacement.

All About You

At Sweet Sounds, we bring our expertise and passion for boating to every project, ensuring that your boat’s audio system is not only modern and powerful but also perfectly suited to your needs. If you’re considering an upgrade, let us help you transform your boat into something that sounds as good as it looks. Contact us today to learn more about our custom installation services and how we can help you get the most out of your boat.

For more information on our services or to schedule a consultation, visit Sweet Sounds or call us at 507-345-8865. Check out our YouTube channel and website to see more of our work and find out how we can transform your audio experience.

If you want to get the full, in-depth details of this build, check out the full video of this install here: