Need Advice on Marine Audio Equipment

[king05 0]

I just ordered two pairs of JL Audio m650 speakers to replace the blown-out speakers in recently purchased boat. It also has a single DIN head unit that doesn't work. Now I'm looking for an amp and a new head unit. The JL Audio marine 4 channel amp is around $450, and there's a Rockford Fosgate marine 4 channel amp for around $290. Both output sufficient power for these speakers. Does anyone have any advice on whether it's worth it to go with the more expensive JL amp? Any other amp suggestions?

Also, what accessories should I order in addition to the amp and head unit for this installation? Any advice/input is appreciated!

[Troy. R 198]

What is the boat?

I am by no means a hardcore audio guy, but when I had an amp go out on me and my head unit get stolen on my old boat (2007 Avalanche), I just bought the least expensive good brand (not Pyle etc.) head unit that was Bluetooth capable and a Kenwood amp that would provide sufficient power on Amazon. Both worked great for the remainder of the time I owned the boat.

If I had something similar happen on the current boat (2019 Supreme ZS232), I’d replace with the factory Clarion head unit and Wetsounds amp.

[Wylie_Tunes 146]

M650 of the new M6-650? These are worlds apart in sound quality and the M650 has been discontinued for about 3 seasons now. 

If FADE is desired, a 2 chnl amp will typically get you more wattage for less $$$. Or if there is a 3rd pair of speakers in the future, then go with a 4 chnl. 

JL has always built a solid product, so cant go wrong with them. However, Rockford is not a bad line either. My go-tos are Kicker and Wet Sounds. However, it may come down to waiting for inventory to come back in or taking whats available. Ive been using some Fusion Signature series and Roswell R1 amps lately. Seem solid. 

Traditional single DIN........Clarion M508.