I talked to Crutchfield yesterday to seek advice on a Touring speaker replacement. I said I like neutral sound (I use Sennheiser headphones, Marshall earbuds, and Apple HomePod), and I needed crisper, better clarity. I also gave them the names of some alternative rock bands I like. For what it is worth, here is the system they recommended. It comes out to $1052.
I really wish I were more comfortable doing this replacement. It's just a bit of naive fear, is all--I've never really opened up a car's paneling before. I just think it will take so much time and care to find the right points to encourage the panels to come out without breaking any tabs.
I also went to a car audio shop yesterday in Paramus, where they quoted me $900 just to install and tune an amplifier (no speaker replacement, no line converter). I really think the money would be better spent on a total speaker replacement.
I'm still probably going to do it, but any pointers beyond those given already would be greatly appreciated. (Does anyone have good links for opening up the interior of the car? Or suggestions for where to mount the amp?)