Got a pair of XM9's, now its time to paint 'em!

[ian ashton]

I ordered a pair of XM9's from Brian and they arrived last week. As always I am very impressed, they look to be a very nice speaker, and the Quick Release Clamps are KILLER!

At any rate, I have decided that I want to paint them to match my boat, since I don't really have any black on the boat I thought that the standard black can's would look goofy. Plus, I'm all about matching and all that jazz.

So, I started with a fresh shiney pair of Exile XM9's, with Chrome grilles;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13156&d=1326752013

Popped the grille off;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13157&d=1326752014

Removed the back Exile name plate and found this nifty switch (Note: The switch comes in the 1ohm position, I just played with it before taking this picture)
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13158&d=1326752016

And for fun, I figured I'd check out the inside of the can;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13155&d=1326752011

[ian ashton]

To my surprise, the speaker basket is actually a solid piece with the black trim ring around the outside of the speaker. The options here were to either leave that part black, or tape off the speaker and paint around it. I decided that I wanted to take the 'hard way' to make it look better - this way it will be Brittany Blue against chrome, no black.

To start, I used the grille to trace out the size needed to cover the speaker;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13159&d=1326752237

Then I cut out the cardboard and placed it over the speaker;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13161&d=1326752242

And went nuts with the blue tape, all the way around, and then through the center, securing the cardboard on the inside edge and also through where the chrome grille mounting tabs connect;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13162&d=1326752244

Then I trimmed up the tape and called it good;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13160&d=1326752239

[ian ashton]

I used a coat hanger through the quick release mount hole to provide a way for the painter to handle the speakers without touching the taped off cone area. I'd imagine this will be easier for them, and also give a bit more protection.

Here I taped up the mounting brackets. I put tape on the hanger just to keep any paint flakes from falling off the hanger onto wet paint;
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13164&d=1326752901

To avoid any damage or gunking up to that mysterious switch, I also taped over it. I am going to leave the Exile nameplates black with silver, I think that will look cool and add a nice contrast.
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13165&d=1326752902

Ready to go off to the painter!
https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13163&d=1326752900


Regarding the paint; I took the advice from other forum members and an old post I found on this board and decided to contact Boatmate about paint - since our boats aren't painted, but are Gel Coat I figured Boatmate would be the best bet for a perfect (or close to it) color match. I emailed Jerry and he responded with the following information almost immediately;

"The paint is DuPont Centari 5000 and the code for Brittany blue is 759023. You can use that code to obtain paint through your local DuPont retailer."


So, now I have to find a painter and get these babies sprayed! Hopefully can get that step done this week.

[sandm]

post up how the paint was to locate. guy at the auto body shop here told me that paint is uber expensive since it requires a bunch of other materials to make it adhere properly. they were recommending that I try to colormatch it close with a less-expensive brand and something that doesn't require the extras for doing some touchup on the trailer...

[moombadaze]

good start and keep this updated when needed.

[jmvotto]

Post a pic of those drivers out of the can. Front and rear I am sure it will turn out great, not sure I would have the balls to paint em. Good luck.

[ian ashton]

I don't think I got a pic of them out of the can. Found a painter and am dropping them off in the morning. I'm going to give him the paint code and let him figure out what's best for the injection molded plastic.

[gus 08 mobius lsv]

can't wait to see the final product...you taking it apart and taping it off prolly saved you a nice chunk of change!

[ian ashton]

I just didn't want to risk someone else damaging 'em, lol

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[Brianinpdx]

Ian - you have way to much time on your hands! That switch on the back smooths the horn response of the HLCD. You can experiment and see what you like.

I've probably got a guts shot of the woofer somewhere I'lll post for JMV.

Always fun to see how these turn out. We just had a guy do some Atomic orange. wow! crazy... stuff

-Brian
Exile Audio

[ian ashton]

It turns out DuPont paint is rather hard to find in this area, so I am taking my platform to get color matched this afternoon. The painter said it should only take a few days to get 'em sprayed, I'm pretty pumped to see the finished product.

[brain_rinse]

Can't wait for some pics, Ian!

[ian ashton]

Went with my platform and the painter to the paint store today, got it color matched and mixed. I should have 'em back in the next few days. I also can't seem to stay away from placing Exile orders; just bought an XI800.4 to power my cabin speakers.

The best part about my spending spree is that I used my Visa rewards points for the tower speakers, and my American Express rewards for the XI800.4 - so I really have gotten this stuff for "free" - I can't believe that I get these rewards, and never pay $.01 in interest. Gotta love it!


Anyone looking for some Kicker amps?; a 700.5 and a 350.4...

[KG's Supra24]

Went with my platform and the painter to the paint store today, got it color matched and mixed. I should have 'em back in the next few days. I also can't seem to stay away from placing Exile orders; just bought an XI800.4 to power my cabin speakers.

The best part about my spending spree is that I used my Visa rewards points for the tower speakers, and my American Express rewards for the XI800.4 - so I really have gotten this stuff for "free" - I can't believe that I get these rewards, and never pay $.01 in interest. Gotta love it!


Anyone looking for some Kicker amps?; a 700.5 and a 350.4...

Chawk does!

[sandm]

is the 350/4 bridgable to 3ch? if so what's your price shipped?
want to put a small 3speaker setup in the ranger.

[ryan_8099]

Went with my platform and the painter to the paint store today, got it color matched and mixed. I should have 'em back in the next few days. I also can't seem to stay away from placing Exile orders; just bought an XI800.4 to power my cabin speakers.

The best part about my spending spree is that I used my Visa rewards points for the tower speakers, and my American Express rewards for the XI800.4 - so I really have gotten this stuff for "free" - I can't believe that I get these rewards, and never pay $.01 in interest. Gotta love it!


Anyone looking for some Kicker amps?; a 700.5 and a 350.4...

We might be interested in the 700.5. I don't think our boat has an amp and we want to look into putting a sub in. How much?

[ian ashton]

PM's sent to both of you gentlemen

[jmvotto]

Ian what are you using for the sub amp.

Looks like Dusty and KG are going get some competition .. lol

[dusty2221]

Ian what are you using for the sub amp.

Looks like Dusty and KG are going get some competition .. lol

http://b.static.memegenerator.net/cache/instances/400x/12/13077/13391146.jpg

[wolfeman131]

Ian what are you using for the sub amp.

Looks like Dusty and KG are going get some competition .. lol

from you & Ian both!

I want to see video of Ian's ride once he gets this all installed. I'm betting with some volume it will literally rock his boat in the water.

[chawk610]

I want in Ian, I need an amp apparently!

[KG's Supra24]

is the 350/4 bridgable to 3ch? if so what's your price shipped?
want to put a small 3speaker setup in the ranger.

I have my factory Kenwood 2/3/4 channel sitting in a closet I'd sell. I don't have the model number off the top of my head but could get it tonight.

EDIT: I believe this is it ... http://www.crutchfield.com/S-bL337onS0cu/p_113KAC8402/Kenwood-KAC-8402.html#overview-tab

If I'm reading right that would give you 60x2 and 180x1 (rms ratings), assuming you are trying to do 2 speakers and sub.

[sandm]

2 speakers and sub are correct. nothing fancy as it's just a winter commuter and only has cassette so looking to add a system for under $450. ian shot me a price and just checking dimensions to see if it will fit.
thanks for the offer tho...

had 2 of those in my boat initially. both are now pulling duty in my sisters tooner and are working great.. good for a small-mid sized system..

[ian ashton]

Ian what are you using for the sub amp.

Looks like Dusty and KG are going get some competition .. lol

LOL, I'm not too fancy.

2 Kicker L7 10's with a Kicker ZX1000.1

Unless Brian comes up with a deal of the century on a replacement amp/sub combo, the sub setup will remain the same for a while. I think moving both under the drivers dash will get it quite a bit louder than it is currently, and look pretty sweet too. That 1000.1 not matching is the only thing thats going to drive me nuts.

[KG's Supra24]

2 speakers and sub are correct. nothing fancy as it's just a winter commuter and only has cassette so looking to add a system for under $450. ian shot me a price and just checking dimensions to see if it will fit.
thanks for the offer tho...

had 2 of those in my boat initially. both are now pulling duty in my sisters tooner and are working great.. good for a small-mid sized system..

That works, let me know if you change your mind. I've actually been considering throwing it in my dad's tooner.

You need to pick you up one of these bad boys ... http://www.buy.com/pr/product.aspx?sku=219946258&sellerid=15743316 ... sadly my wife uses that in her car, 2006 avalon, WTH right?

[sandm]

ghetto.

that's all I'll say about that...

[New Guy]

I'm rolling over here guys, KG that is terrible man.

[viking]

I really want to see the finished speakers mounted and blasting. Then it'll be water time :)

[ian ashton]

You and me both! Should be done Monday, then the wait for spring begins...

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[New Guy]

Ian do you have any pictures of the subs under your dash??

[ian ashton]

Right now there is only 1, I haven't moved the second there yet.

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[ian ashton]

Here is how it currently looks, with a single 10 L7 (the other is behind the spotter seat)http://img.tapatalk.com/450eb55c-0431-496a.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/450eb55c-0455-4581.jpg

[ian ashton]

Taking a little longer than I initially thought, but the painter just sent me a few pics! I won't be able to pick them up until Monday, as I'm travelling for work, but they look pretty sweet in the pictures, if I do say so myself!

https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13211&d=1327522122

https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13212&d=1327522127

[kaneboats]

Hah! I think you just started a new fad. Those are tres cool!

[wolfeman131]

can't wait to see them on the boat!

[KG's Supra24]

Those look very cool!! Worried at all about how the tape held? :eek:

[ian ashton]

Nope, because there is cardboard underneath it. If it bleeds a little it will hit the cardboard, anything beyond that likely won't do any damage (famous last words?)

However, that is why I had them painted as 1 piece, instead of seperating the halves and painting apart - I wasn't confident that I could fully protect the driver, and still have the paint come out good. I realize that may cause problems if I have to take them apart, but its a risk I'm willing to take.

[moombadaze]

cant wait to see them on the tower. looks good

[Brianinpdx]

Put those speaks back together and lets have a look. I bet they look cha-ching with chrome grills back on them.

[jmvotto]

Ian. Looks great. You gonna mount them to the side cross Bars.

[ian ashton]

Ian. Looks great. You gonna mount them to the side cross Bars.

That I haven't decided. I would like to, but I have to make sure that the swivel racks won't hit them.

The way the clamps are set up, I could mount them on the flat part of the bars and retain the quick release, so that is my goal.

[ian ashton]

I forgot to update this post when I picked the speakers up on Monday and put them back together, so here are the long awaited pictures! I think they came out great, and achieved exactly what I wanted!

https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13278&d=1328108838

https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13279&d=1328108839

https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13280&d=1328108840

https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13281&d=1328108842

[ian ashton]

And one more picture, weird that I can upload 5, but only use image tags on 4...

https://forum.moomba.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=13282&d=1328108843

[KG's Supra24]

Looks good! Those are going to look sharp on the boat!!

[dusty2221]

ditto!

10 characters

[bergermaister]

Damn those look sexy!

[kaneboats]

Damn those look sexy!

I'm too sexy for my . . . tower.

[New Guy]

Wow they turned out great!

[newty]

Now you ought to get your LED housings powdercoated to match. Looks good Ian!

[ian ashton]

Now you ought to get your LED housings powdercoated to match. Looks good Ian!

LED housings? For the underwaters? My boat lives in the water, so they are never seen, lol.

[newty]

good point...

[wolfeman131]

That looks fantastic!

[dusty2221]

That's what your mom said.

[wolfeman131]

Weak . . .

[jmvotto]

Kudos. Nice work...

[Jason05216]

Sorry to bring back a thread from so long ago but I sent a PM to Ian and haven't heard anything from him. Does anyone have any idea how expensive it is to get speakers painted like this?

[jstenger]

Not to steer you in the wrong direction, but you might try painting them yourself. The second time Ian painted them, he did it himself to match his OBV. Search his OBV thread. The DIY should be in there.

[Jason05216]

I saw that one too. Scares me to try this myself.

[jmvotto]

I think he used the rubberized paint so you could peal it off if you don't like it. I forgot its name.

[mikenehrkorn]

I think you are referring to Plastidip, but I don't think he used that on his speakers.

[Jason05216]

He says he used Testo lacquer. I ordered a can from amazon but its not the right color. Maybe I'll try again. I'm not confident that I can make them look decent. I would hate to have these really nice/expensive speakers hanging up there that look like a 1st graders art project.

[mikenehrkorn]

I'm with you there....I freaked out just trying to paint the grills of my old XM7s!! Though they did turn out fairly nice, I could have fixed any error by replacing the grills for $40. :)

[wolfeman131]

send them off to Odin @ Earmark in TX or try a local body shop.

[MLA]

About $150 should get you a quality body shop spray with automotive grade paint. They can match the color as well.

[jmvotto]

send them off to Odin @ Earmark in TX or try a local body shop.

Send the Xm9 to a wet sound dealer , what do you really want them to look like. Lol


Your Right I think Ian plasti dipped the grills


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[ian ashton]

I used PlastiDip the first time, but I didn't like it, so I peeled it and used Krylon.
Easy peasy!

[ian ashton]

Any body shop should be able to paint them for $200 or less. When I did the blue pair I think I paid $100. I did all 4 green myself, and they came out fine.

[Jason05216]

I think I'm going to give it a go painting them myself if I can find the right blue color. Thanks.