FAE or AMP for stereo

[TRD]

My anniversary is coming up and 2 of things I am looking to get for the boat, an FAE exhaust or an AMP for the new stereo that I just put in.

What do you guys think? I can get enough sound right now w/ the stereo set I have but always want more but can get both right now. (I haven't had it in the water yet, so don't know how it sounds w/ the engine running either)

[talltigeguy]

I vote for the FAE.

What speakers are you running? Will an amp help, or is that just a preparation for bigger things to come. Do you want to listen to music when surfing, or just wakeboarding?

One smart thing I did (which I do not do smart things very often) is that I bought an amp when I bought my Evids that would run anything I threw at it. That way when I did upgrade to the big guns, I did not need an amp.

But given the choice you have, I think the FAE is worth a $300 upgrade to the stereo.

[xpjim1]

I agree. There are many benefits to FAE. You will not need to crank the stereo as loud due to a much quieter boat. You can delay getting that 2nd battery.

Not having the exhaust smell is another plus and the reduced CO.

My vote is FAE

[jmstige]

As much as I love my FAE - I'm not sure...

My buddy installed FAE on his Mastercraft DD and he says that he is pretty disapointed in the noise reduction (which is what I boast about most with it).

I haven't heard it yet - but it would be interesting to see what others think about the noise w/ FAE on a DD

[chpthril]

I'd have to say go with the FAE also. I will be like a stereo upgrade.

Tell the wife you want the amp for Xmas

[TeamAllen]

I didn't notice much of a change, in noise, on my DD. I didn't think it was noisy before though. My main reason was for the reduced exhaust to rider and occupants (station wagon effect).

I think because the motor is right next to you rather than behind you. I bet if you are a passenger in the rear of the boat it is definitely quieter. Unfortunately us drivers don't see to much time back there to notice.

[dogbert]

I didn't notice much of a change, in noise, on my DD. I didn't think it was noisy before though. My main reason was for the reduced exhaust to rider and occupants (station wagon effect).

I think because the motor is right next to you rather than behind you. I bet if you are a passenger in the rear of the boat it is definitely quieter. Unfortunately us drivers don't see to much time back there to notice.

That's probably a good point. In general, a V-Drive will have better sound insulation for the engine than a D-Drive. Older V-Drives, like mine, will be louder as well.

One thing I did notice once we put the FAE on was how loud my engine was from inside the boat. I hadn't noticed it before because my exhaust was so loud, it just overpowered it. I'm actually considering adding the cover that was added in 2001 to the 21v series because it will further insulate noise. To do that, however, I need to add some intake vents for the engine compartment because I would essentially be cutting off its air supply. Tige added a vent to the transom for that purpose on the later models of the 21v for just that purpose.

[TRD]

I'd have to say go with the FAE also. I will be like a stereo upgrade.

Tell the wife you want the amp for Xmas

I already ahead of you. I could swing the AMP for Christmas easier then the FAE because she doesn't know what that is. She is not a big noise person anyway so the noise reduction from the engine would probably be a big plus until I blast the radio.

What speakers are you running? Will an amp help, or is that just a preparation for bigger things to come. Do you want to listen to music when surfing, or just wakeboarding?

One smart thing I did (which I do not do smart things very often) is that I bought an amp when I bought my Evids that would run anything I threw at it. That way when I did upgrade to the big guns, I did not need an amp.

talltigeguy,
Here is what I here. The sub is not in yet, winter project.

http://www.tigeowners.com/forum/showthread.php?t=7665

[FacePlant]

FAE!!!

[yellow3]

i don't even have one and i would go with the FAE... i should be ordering mine momentarily. too many people have recommended it.

[Bandsecurity]

My FAE just arrived at my door step 15 minutes ago so I will let you know this weekend

[TRD]

Does anyone have an older model boat w/ a FAE on it? What kind of difference did it make?

Thanks

[dogbert]

I do, it made a huge difference behind the boat. So, if you're worried about your exhaust noise overpowering your speakers, it works really well.

I did notice my engine inside the cockpit more.

[R&T Babich]

Does anyone have an older model boat w/ a FAE on it? What kind of difference did it make?...

Put one on our boat last year and it makes a huge difference. We can hear each other while we're pulling skiers now. Last trip out I walked down the dock after parking the trailer and told my son to go ahead and start her up. He was already idling. Also, there is no longer an exhaust smell when we're idling.

[SPBFAN]

FAE It make a big diff