Harley-Davidson Softail Audio Enhancement for Chandler Client

A client from Chandler, Arizona, brought his 2007 Harley-Davidson Softail Deluxe to Handcrafted Car Audio for an audio system installation. The client had been researching different options, but without a front fairing, knew he was somewhat limited regarding options for bolt-on solutions. That’s why he came to us – we are experts at creating great-sounding solutions. We let him listen to some systems we had recently completed and developed a plan for his bike. With his approval, we booked an installation appointment to make it happen.

Front Speakers

The client provided a set of small speaker pods that mount to the handlebars. We installed a set of Hertz DCX87.3 3.5-inch coaxial speakers in the pods. To help make the pods look like they came with the bike, we made the wiring look like another set of brake lines. We ran the speaker wires into the wire channel in the frame of the bike to further enhance the clean look.

Saddlebag Speakers

The bags hold two pair of Hertz speakers. All of the wiring is protected with OEM-spec Tesa tape.

The speakers in the front of the bag were angled forward for better sound.

Pressed grilles were used to protect the speakers from damage.

To ensure the client would be able to hear his music loud and clear, we installed two sets of 6×9 speakers on the bike. We installed a set of Hertz Energy Series ECX690 in a set of saddlebag lids. We installed the second set of speakers in the bottom section of the bag. We cut out a vertical opening on the inside of each bag at the very back. The speakers face the rear wheel, so they are totally invisible from the outside. We pressed a fine-mesh grille to fit the opening and provide protection from any stones that might get flung up from the rear tire.

Source And Amplification

The client wanted to be able to stream music from his smartphone. We used a JL Audio MBT-RX Bluetooth receiver to send a signal to a JL Audio XD600/6 amplifier. The six-channel amplifier gives us full control over the signal to each speaker. We set a high-pass crossover for the small front speakers. Each pair of 6x9s receives a full-range signal and provides each speaker with up to 75 watts of clean, clear power. Our installation technician included a service loop with the amplifier installation in the saddlebag. This loop allows the bag to be removed and set aside without the need to disconnect any wiring.

Softail Audio Upgrade A Hit!

When the client came back to Handcrafted Car Audio to pick up his bike, he was anxious to have a listen. We helped pair his phone to the Bluetooth receiver, and he climbed on board for to audition his new system. The system plays loud and is crystal-clear – exactly what the client wanted!

If you are interested in an audio system for your motorcycle, side-by-side or even your ATV, bring it by our shop. We’d be happy to design something for you. For more information, contact us here.