This is a total of TWO 5-STAR REVIEWS, combined into one…read more
Stereo 1 recently installed an aftermarket GPS/starter kill switch device on my car. Mechanics won't do this, but Stereo1 handled it.
Why 2 reviews?
In April 2024, I walked into Stereo1 with the goal of getting as much bass as I could without taking up any trunk or passenger space.
Long story short: this business does not do custom installs, despite appearances. For a long time, I was unsure about the stereo I got from S1, for two reasons: the self-powered AIO Pioneer subwoofer definitely adds bass that isn't possible with mid size speakers, but there's just no comparison to a sub in a sealed box powered by a separate amp--even if I got 2 more AIO subwoofers, and this was never made clear to me. I resented this for a while.
Also, my stereo was supposed to be louder, but I never got the amp for the 6x9 JBL Club speakers I got, because Crutchfield advised against doing so due to supposed "limitations on a hybrid".
I went back to S1, and Sam was surprised to hear what Crutchfield said. I said if he could confirm that an amp could be installed, to call me so I could buy it and have them install.
After that, I never heard back from S1. So I felt like I was left with a stereo that 1) didn't have satisfactory bass 2) overkill speakers that could not be powered sufficiently 3) I was suspicious about being ripped off on components and install.
I had initially left a 5 star review because I first appreciated how easy Sam made the transaction, and I did believe I had upgraded my car stereo even if it wasn't giving me the joy I was seeking.
However, after days and weeks of driving with a stereo that I wished was louder, I deleted my 5 star review.
Fast forward to Jan 2026, and I got another car exactly the same as the one prior and I wanted to try the original mission again but using AI for advice the entire way.
As it turned out, what I got from S1 was 1) definitely appropriate for the limitations I was working with 2) reasonably priced 3) could've handled the amp for the speakers, so Sam was actually on the right track, but he just never called me back, so he didn't make more money, and I didn't get more power (but at least I didn't pay more money).
And I also got a quote from S1 for another install.
I get nervous at businesses where pricing and costs are opaque and aren't clearly labeled and posted, and instead are calculated on the fly. It's not a good look, and I hate the feeling I get when I suspect I might be getting ripped off.
I got a quote, and I thought I could do better with a business that offered an hourly rate for installs, so I went to a different business.
At the end of the day, I think I would've paid about the same at S1.
I support small, local business. And I always got knowledgeable service and total professionalism at S1.
I came to S1 with a vision and unrealistic expectations. Looking back, S1 is a 5-star car stereo business for any consumer not looking for custom jobs/custom subwoofer boxes & custom installs.
And they have car alarm and aftermarket modifications specialists.
Not a ripoff. A legit business offering service professionalism, quality components and quality installs.
And I've actually returned once for a minor speaker concern & corresponding minor repair. What I thought was a blown speaker was just a corroded speaker wire.
5 Stars.