Ok...your opinions and help please...
 

I have a MP5 and am looking to upgrade my sound system. I will be getting a Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X659 CD/MP3 receiver, Kenwood eXcelon KFC-X688C 6x8 speakers, and Kenwood eXcelon KFC-X168 6.5" speakers.

I plan to amp the speakers eventually but I can't afford it right now. Question #1 - What Kenwood amp would you guys recommend for these speakers?

Also, to save money my girlfriend gave me a Cerwin Vega BX-10 sub with enclosure to use while I save for a bigger one. The specs I found in the manual say that it can handle 400 watts max and 200 watts RMS.
Question #2 - What Kenwood/Rockford Fosgate amp should I buy to power this?

Question #3 - Also, where can I order an dash install kit and wiring harness? Crutchfield? I have searched and only found the names of some companies that make them. Which kits/harnesses are best?

Thanks for any help,
~ Joe

P.S. I am stuck on the Kenwood/Rockford Brand! :D

Ok...I decided on the Rockford 200s amp to power the sub. Depending on the sound this may only be a temporary solution until I get enought money to buy another sub and amp. But I think it should be fine!

Later,
~ Joe

I have a kenwood 729. That thing is great IMO. I have it powering my 12s but I know it would be fine for components. If you are looking for all kenwood I would get that. Its like $150-200. But if not the rockford is also good.

I can understand the "brand loyalty" thing - I was stuck on Kenwood myself for a bunch of years.

But do yourself a favor - at least TRY to get over it. Generally, you can get the best value and quality by mixing brands. For example, Pioneer makes great decks, but their speakers, subs, and amps are just so-so. Kenwood is pretty consistent, I think - except in the subs. I've had a few, and generally I've been impressed with the output and SQ at low volumes, but once you crank it up they turn to shit.

I've been much happier with my stereo choices since I stopped buying by name and started buying by recommendations and by ear.

~HH

Ok, if you are looking for sugestions ill tell you what I have and right now say that I am pleases with every bit of it.

I have a Kenwood KAC-749 pushing 2 infinity 5x7 kappas and 6.5 kappas, and a pheonix gold 2300 pushing 2 JL 10w3s. O, and a pioneer premier series MP3/cd HU. ( i can remember the model number.)

I love it. Its going to make me deaf, but ill have fun waking up the neighbors at same time! ( it also sounds great at full volume.)
________
T Platform

As far as amps, the Kenwoods are fine but I would go with a PG Tantrun. Even their lower powered amps are really good.
Dash Kit - I shopped around, the liked the one from Best Kit. I also got their wiring harness, which u will need. Everything fit real easy and snapped right into place. I purchased both from autosoundgear.com.