Fisherman 180 - Speakers

[corinthmistral]

Hi all. My Fisherman 180 currently lacks a sound system. I’m going to fit a Fusion RA210 head unit and a pair of 7.7” speakers. Has anyone fitted speakers to a 180 - what worked for you - any challenges?
The 7.7’s will just about fit either side of the console, at the top. Am hoping they don’t look too out of place. I’m thinking it will be much easier to wire them in there, rather than trying to feed wires to the gunwales. And they’re more protected. However, any thoughts, tips or photos gratefully received. Thank you!

 

[DennisG01]

A basic stereo install is pretty straight forward - espeically the area you're talking about - it's pretty much as simple as simple can get. Cut some holes and get 'er done!

 

[Fishtales]

Placement and zone balance are important. I have 6 speakers so I looked for a head unit (Fusion) that had 3 zones to manage volume level in each area (cabin, helm and cockpit). You could also look into speakers that mount or make boxes for them to fit aft under gunnels or somewhere that works for you. I did this with my VHF. I built a box of starboard and put a second speaker in it. I didn't want to drill the hardtop radio box, so I used the heavy duty velcro at HD. Works great holding it in place. Maybe look at something like this for aft. If you put in sold connections you could remove quickly when not needed of heavy fishing is planned. Just a thought.

 

[Greatty]

I have seen where speakers have been located under aft jump seats in the 180. Cannot attest to audio quality though. Let us know what and how you do it and post pics please. A fellow 180 owner.
- Bob

 

[igblack87]

On my 180, I had the speakers on the sides of the console. Plenty loud enough even with WOT.

I have also seen them below the stern seats, easy enough to run some wire and get great sound.

it was difficult to have the head unit in the electronics box, suggesting have it drilled and mounted under your gauges or inside the center console.

good luck!

 

[Recoil Rob]

There's only so much stuff I can fit on my 180.

I have a small rechargeable Bluetooth speaker, I hang from the crossbar of the T-top and stream my iPhone to it.