Do you want to build and wire your amp rack like Dean?

[@mikebiron7339]

Having been in the business of car audio from my teens through 20's, every shop I worked at wanted the "Dean install", but didn't provide the time to do it. We all developed bad habits (reluctantly) because of this. It wasn't until I had my own shop that I could do things differently. Hats off to you Dean for sticking to your craft. Car audio guys never get the appreciation they deserve.

[@chloeleedow7250]

I thought that to myself when I watched this, that's time consuming not many shops would make that effort or allow it like you said. But as a customer you'd want nothing less than the effort Dean goes to. Glad you finally got your own shop now bro 💪👌

[@ekimandersom4478]

Even if the shop allows it, most customers will not be willing to pay such amounts of money only for the install.

[@JAHayesfromdaSip]

Well anyone who is a source of knowledge in this field are appreciated by me!! It is not many people with knowledge in this field at all. I just visited an audio installation school as a potential student; and the instructors were amazed at how much I already knew. I assumed anyone looking to attend such a course probably has quite a bit of knowledge and experience. However I was surprised at how many students were starting from scratch. I have never done this professionally and still have a lot to learn so as a DIY guy I love being able to reach out to knowledgeable people who’ve done it for years.

[@tomasexteriors]

🤝🤝💪👊 always work for yourself when you see that shop has no spirit in the owner section... I never worked for any shop.was lucky enough to start everything I love by myself and 20years now still enjoying my job so much 👊🤝 blessings to you sir

[@pmoulton77]

Your installs and work ethic are absolutely unparalleled. That in itself is worth a ton. I’m in Maine and wouldn’t think twice about driving down to sunny Florida just to have you guys work your magic. Thanks for all your work and for sharing your expertise and years of experience with us. Dean, you’re definitely the Pro-fessor of car audio.

[@deadsypadilla]

(Life of price) channel youtube, they do it big. Don't be bumping tweeters.

[@rexnhogz]

@@deadsypadilla Its a totally different animal. Dean takes prescience in retaining a factory clean look. Not all out customization.

[@Saavere5000]

Aye... im in Philly and considering the same trip for the same reason 🤔

[@iRelacsashon]

I'm all the way in Vegas, and it brings tears to my eyes that I'm so far from Dean & Nando. 😢

[@djrezarek]

I could not agree more with this comment

[@ADR69]

Amp racks and speaker installs are my favorite. That's some sexy wire management

[@navydad82]

Man, I have been enthralled with car audio for the past 15 years. I always love to see how different people build their set-ups. I have to say, your shop builds are truly works of art. I would love to work with you one day as I know from your videos, you are a master of your craft. Your channel is awesome and I really enjoy watching all the builds unfold and the tips and tricks passed on. Thank you for sharing!!!! By the way, I am from Lakeland and will have to come visit too!!!

[@markschick3796]

I was a welder for a company that made control systems for electrical sub-stations, power plants, etc. Once the cabinets were built, they would go to the other side of the shop where all the gauges and switch gear were installed and wired. We had a team of 4 or 5 women who would wire everything. A section of cabinets could be 30 feet long side by side, and with the backs off of them, they would start at one end, wiring the devices and routing their wires. At the far end, the wire runs could end up being 4" in diameter. You could literally follow an individual wire through all the bends all the way along from one end to the other. It was amazing work. Dean's wire management reminds of that. I like that he realizes that the wiring is as visually important as any other part of the install.

[@wvlfkvnt]

Watching you work is like watching Bob Ross paint. Beautiful work as always Dean. I'm constantly changing my setup around to look as clean as yours.

[@Saavere5000]

Facts..lol.. his commentary is even the same vibe... makes learning from him very ez!.. I stay impressed 😎

[@iRelacsashon]

Nice comparison. 👍🏾

[@nativetrader3822]

We'll put a happy lil zip tie here. 🤣.

[@seanhower5130]

Let me paint a happy little tree 🌲 dude was so soothing😅

[@wreckless_-jl6uu]

I really like, how you go the extra mile, to make sure a customer is happy with an install.. you’re not *ONLY* worried about how much money you can make and how fast you can make it, and I really admire that about you!

[@bandk2000]

That is one helluva neat wiring job, I am truly humbled by it.

[@rguitar78]

It's that great attention to detail, never fails. Phenomenal job, sir. I certainly smiled when you added your seal of approval; don't think I've seen you sign your work before this.

[@codywrites]

It was truly a nice way to help fill in that void there.

[@sdfjgksgf]

This is EXACTLY why I watch the Installer Diaries. Usually we just get a fast-forwarded glimpse. I have experience with wire management from building computers. This is the kind of stuff that helps me get from those to auto install.

[@DCAutoEnhancement]

Very impressed with how clean (and the number of zip ties used) this amp rack is. I plan to use this information in my projects that may be highlighted in some of my future videos. Thanks for the detailed info

[@yourwelcome8638]

This guys experience and skills are pure. Without question, these are some of the most resourceful videos on you tube. 👍🙏Thank You!

[@2mouthbassin]

They ways you guys do your amp racks and boards are another form of art and has inspired me to make my Installs as clean as possible. I have also developed OCD.

[@TdrSld]

The plug in connectors on the high pass amp are called Phoenix Connectors, they are used a ton in Smart home control boards and alarm systems. I deal with them on a daily bases, and yes the best way is to put the wire in bare, as using a feral will more then likely cause you to strip the screw out trying to get it to the "perfect" tightness. Another great video Dean, and love you wire management skills, wish quarter of my guys took the time to be as tidy as you. It drives me nuts to go out on a service call and open up a panel box and fined a spaghetti bowl of wires with nothing labeled.

[@chaos4197]

I may not entirely agree with all of your methods, but I do admire the way that you take the time to plan out and execute each step. In fact, I actually envy you for the opportunity to work in a market that supports mobile audio installation done properly, with all of the tools and techniques that are necessary for high quality results.

[@pagostyle]

Aside from hiding wiring and such, Dean’s OCD style is 💯 This video released just in time for my Malibu amp rack project ahead. RF P1000X5 Audio Control LC7i B+ and GND Distribution Blocks

[@Mistabigge]

I like Dean. Da man

[@GrifFungin]

“Aside from hiding wiring” what do you mean by that?

[@teksiis]

@@GrifFungin Running the wiring through holes to the back of the panel and doing the management from there, and/or putting a dress plate over it so you can't see it.........

[@GrifFungin]

teksiis So the guy is saying that Dean needs to hide the wiring?

[@teksiis]

​@@GrifFungin I can't speak for someone else but I don't think that's what he is saying at all. Some people prefer it hidden, some prefer to see it all neatly managed on the front of the amp rack. It's just a preference thing.

[@mrcornut]

I built an amp rack a while back with tidbits of knowledge you shared along the way. I learned more from this video & see areas I should've done things differently but I'm still happy with how my first attempt came out.

[@mrcornut]

for any of you who want to see it, there's images of my install here: www.southpad.com/silverado

[@toolbandninja]

These installs are unbelievable! These wire management skills are on another level. Great work! Very inspiring!

[@csmers3743]

Wow this is awesome.. as someone who has ocd, this is so soothing to watch..great tips for my own installl!!! So clean

[@TMouse-hd5jb]

First and foremost, thank you for all the video production you do on this topic. Both you and your shopmate along with Mark at Car Audio Fabrication have taught me a ton about installs. Finally, I have found a video from one of your channels that I can finally see a finished amp rack, and I can ask this nagging question. Being from the structured low-voltage and network cable field, I have always wondered how power to signal separation is managed to minimize cross-talk. The common practice of keeping power lines separated by 3 feet (1 foot if using shielded cables) from signal lines is nearly impossible to do in car, but running signal lines across power lines at 90 degree angles when it comes to car audio amplifier installed is. You ran the power lines and the RCA signal lines right next to each other on this amp rack after leaving the amplifier, and I understand compromises have to happen in the car audio world. However, do you not worry about cross-talk with power lines practically touching the unshielded (looks like) twisted pair RCA lines? Thank you for your time on answering this question. Thank you again for producing great content about the world of car audio as well! I have referenced your works many times! Cheers and stay healthy!

[@kirkabrahamson1148]

Very cool Dean. These are definitely my favourite style of video. Its like watching a piece of art coming together

[@tkay4401]

Excellent! I love how organized all the wires are.

[@roscoesspeedydelivery8012]

Dean has shaped my entire approach to building amp racks. Thank you.

[@christopheramerally3194]

That amp board is a thing of beauty. I really wish there were more installers and shops that did the quality of work you guys do.

[@chrismcgill4372]

You’ve made me a better person by your patience and work ethic.

[@jeffsenecal4168]

Love it. I would just change 1 thing, I personally never put the speaker wire close, at tall, to that, massive, power wire, can cause interference to the wire, effecting sound quality at best, and adding a hum or buzz at worst. Everything else too notch. Keep the gr8 vids coming .!

[@MarkK01]

Wow Dean, that is a work of art. I can see why you are number 1 in many eyes. My only wish is that I lived in the USA so I could get you to do a system for me. Your workmanship in unbelievable, professional and extremely talented. Thank you for sharing this.

[@seanhower5130]

Very very clean an attention to detail is great we like the high end install

[@J0hnyJakn0ve]

Super clean rack, attention to detail is spot on 👏🏽👏🏽

[@sjp3042]

Time and patience really pay off...I love watching you and how you plan your projects! I'll be installing some amps in my Mustang, using your techniques...thanks Dean👍

[@omegafocus]

The visuals were stunning, putting the theories into practice. Very cool, very helpful. Thanks

[@cryptothedawg1160]

Wow - I wish I could find someone out here in Arizona that works like you do...Great work as always

[@bert0069]

beautiful amp rack. Your zip tie wizardry is awesome

[@adrisanc]

I've been watching your videos for a while now and wish I would've started a long time ago. You guys are absolute professionals and I enjoy watching the art pieces you create! God Bless and keep these awesome videos coming!

[@raultirado7208]

Haley I like the way you did the wires all nice and neat with the zip tags sick amp rack and a nice little touch with your Star emblem

[@JeffKreska]

Awesome job explaining the details that go into an amp rack. I still haven't been able to source any cheap centra in Plano, TX. I hope you post the rest of the install for that Jetta.

[@poxcr]

That is some nice looking wire management! Kudos for a really neat amp rack!

[@marshalltimmons7451]

I agree. I’m in Virginia and I would definitely take that drive to Clearwater Florida. I love those guys

[@johnsmith-qz4bv]

great amp rack Dean....you are the master you can tell that you take pride in your work ...two thumbs up...

[@drexq_477]

You wouldn't mind a amplifier system being in you car if it looks like this video demonstration . I would love to leave it in the car if it's neat like this. Some shops are not even close to doing it like this , they just start the install and leave is tacky , sloppy and wires all around just a sloppy job. These guys doing it right. Clean and neat with amp racks is my favorite way of how a install sould look

[@rodamik]

Amazing detailed work sir...Need my car rewired by you sir!!!

[@likits1999]

Great job dude! My hat off to you! You're a true progessional!!! A little observation if a saw it right. I would recommend soldering the end of the wires before plugging them in and securing them so the twisted wires dotnt come loose.

[@briangowan6697]

As always top notch. Very clean integrated into the car. And fixed to the car so the Amp rack doesn't move.👍🙂

[@desolatemetro]

Really nice work. Lot of great subtle ideas for us DIYers doing our own cars.

[@esigman1]

Beautiful work Dean. It’s great to see the results when you take the time to do it the right way. Remember kids; If there isn’t time to do it the right way, there isn’t time to do it.

[@ShoNuff0583]

Really needed to see this video. Now I have a idea how I need to plan out my install in my wife's car

[@gordonenquist36]

The mind of Dean, very impressive. I could send you some pics of what some clowns did in my recent purchase '97 Chevy PU. But don't want to ruin your summer !! , cheers

[@paulramer8564]

Man’s a genius. Love this quality work

[@drewclinton4304]

At first i didnt give much thought to watching this video. Now that im paying 100% attention lol, your legit man. Can learn alot glad i found it

[@BradyPetersonXXvXX]

As much as I dislike zipties....that's a beautifully laid out rack! Nice video, you're an inspiration, sir.

[@xTinBenderX]

Thanks for taking the time Dean!

[@nyiceone2075]

Wanna be like Dean when I grow up. That Dean really knows how do Clean installs. 👌🏼👍🏼

[@davoupnya3202]

Great video Dean and thank you for sharing your knowledge with all of us !

[@EdwardHouston]

I love your attention to detail!!!!.. When I was installing I to paid attention to the way I ran my wires.

[@jasonflair50]

this might be my favorite video yet. i could watch it 40x in a row. so sick with the skillz.

[@grazynakaledek6228]

Hey Dean Beautiful Workmanship! Thank you for Sharing. Cheers from Toronto, Canada!

[@thaddiushill]

I learned a lot when I'm watching your videos you all are the best

[@mochenmat]

Please do more of these amp rack videos .... Love seeing the artwork!

[@MONSTER-wn5sn]

Dude 😲 what a effin co incidence I was searching for ur old vids and Steve Meade vids as I am currently working on my amp rack , both of u dropped a vid on amp rack thanks man 👨

[@davoupnya3202]

MONSTER - Check out CarAudioFabrication for some other great and very clean amp racks and many other trick ideas for your overall installs !

[@chefd9002]

I actually enjoyed more than most of the other videos, because it's pretty helpful and it helps me decide how to do my aunt rat when I get all of my components

[@williamcardona1450]

by far the best AMP RACK i have seen AWESOME JOB

[@livedeliciously]

I wish you guys were closer to where I lived. These videos are wonderful promotion.

[@BRAZENCHROME]

So clean and beautiful work. To me that is artwork to be appreciated and done right.

[@rhkips]

9:14 Draw me like one of your French amp racks!

[@connorb9198]

This made my day😂😂😂

[@davidcarlson2415]

Impressive! Awesome! Clean! Nobody does it better!

[@samscharp3367]

Next level wire management. I wish I had the patience and planning to do my wiring this way.

[@splaudio1]

I will need to watch that at least ten times in hopes that I can retain some of that info, good stuff as always Dean!

[@1970genes]

I wish you guys were in Nor Cal... the work you guys do is so impressive and always look top notch...

[@jockodog2009]

Beautiful install. So neat! Why doesn't the recommendation about not having the power cables running next to speaker wires apply here?

[@jonathantenorio8829]

Awesome wiring. I dig it but I'm a guy who doesn't like much wires to show. I would just saved some time to create the holes to fish the wires through the back of that plexi.and use a wire loom on the back to keep everything cleaned up. But this still looks very good

[@mftunz3555]

Super helpful, thanks for going more into details for us noobs.😁

[@paulcrocker4553]

The reverse side of the rack looks like a PC board. Rack looks killer!

[@flipnlu]

Dean you are a legend beautiful work!!!!

[@KC8YPK]

When Fernando is off make Haley fill in. She will either love it, or work harder in college, LOL

[@superchile9640]

Love watching your work. I keeps me humble.

[@gilloyola7271]

Wow thats a lot of work!!! But thats what sets it apart , awsome work

[@jimstudebaker8344]

You my friend, are a genius. Nuff said.

[@inaminute6238]

Could there be some noise introduced into the wiring due to the way the wires are installed?

[@joe4714]

Man, that is clean! Really nice work!

[@tkay4401]

This makes me want to drive to your store to have my next audio system installed... and I live in Minnesota.

[@kenweldon2514]

Same here, and i live in Arizona

[@rushilkisoon]

This is what I dream of. Finding ferrules and pvc in South Africa is such a pain.

[@raiders4life1036]

Fernando should take more days off, all I hear him say is “yes”, “ok, “no”, and “on to the next one”. Dean is the mastermind of 5 Star Car Audio. Without him, 5 star is jusy another car audio shop. Keep up the great work Dean. Much respect 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏 👏

[@DJPapiatl]

I have been looking at does AC D-6 1200 and they looks and sound great from the videos I have seen

[@FiveStarCarStereoInc]

They definitely do

[@deancoldiron6376]

Dude that is amazing work I just installed a amp in my 2015 Chevy Silverado I needed a amp rack built

[@titaniumman_22]

Dean...that is clean! Nice work!

[@JoseLozanoMusic]

This is definitely OCD level wiring! I like it, big thumbs up👍👍

[@michael55116]

Best cutter purchase is large Guage wire cutter..Makes stripping so much easier as well

[@bearjew79]

How are you securing the wire ferrules to the power wire without crimping? Is it just the heat shrink and zip ties that keep the wire from slipping out?

[@davidj7823]

Super clean install and makes me want to go out and attempt the same. You mentioned possibly mounting the amps under the rear deck. Always thought that was an issue with heat, at least if you mount the amps upside down?

[@4ford6first0]

Love your amp racks and harnessing..love it

[@sanjuanpr25]

Dude, a work of art. If you ever decide not to work as an installer,(please not until you do my Tacoma) you will make a great teacher. Besides doing great work on that piece the explanation while doing it was amazing!!

[@timramirez7298]

Great work nice and detailed. You inspire me to redo all my connections on my system .thanks for the video

[@johneng1886]

Dean, do you crimp your ferrules or just put them on the wire and use heat shrink on them and is it tight enough? By the way, your amp racks and wiring are the pinnacle that others only dream of achieving... always clean and professional!!!! The details are what make the install stand out!!!

[@FiveStarCarStereoInc]

For the big wire yes. When the amp screws down it crimps it together. We have a crimper for big ferrules but it the crimps the wrong shape. That seams to be the problem with larger wire crimper. We have not found a good one yet. 8 awg and below gets crimped.

[@tkay4401]

Is the rest of this install in another video or series of videos? What speakers were installed? What sub? What radio? I wish I could have heard this system when it was done.

[@ettieneooo]

Absolutely beautiful work well done!

[@markmdusty3]

awesome install. Your an artist looks amazing. Wish we had more car audio shops in the UK as they are very few and far between these days most of the ones that were near me have closed down over the years.

[@shanecabbage2187]

Awesome, and thank you for sharing. Giving me some motivation to go the extra [distance of choice] and really put on the polish.

[@Jables77]

The riser you used for the distribution block…did you just use the thickness of it, or did you have some sort of spacer below it that gave it more height?

[@sammyb_TCG]

You make the best amp racks!

[@qpwodkgh2010]

I really like your channel. You get to it, detailed, straight and complete. What is that plastic you use to build your amp racks? Where night I get it? Anyone?