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Ford Mustang GT 1996-2004: Factory Sound System Information

The Ford Mustang GT comes equipped with a solid sound system. However, some owners want more. An upgrade is available to a Mach sound system for enhanced sound and driving pleasure.

By Kate Halse - October 6, 2015
Contributors: ttcos

This article applies to the Ford Mustang GT (1996-2004).

Whether you're considering purchasing an older Mustang GT (or you just bought one) and you're curious about its sound system, or you want to know more about the various sound system options, it helps to familiarize yourself with the factory-installed sound system as well as the available upgrade choices. Some GT owners might also want to alter their existing sound system by adding a bit more bass. Read on to learn more about the array of sound system options available for your Mustang GT.

Component Breakdown

GT Factory Sound System

Up until 2002, the Mustang came with an 80-watt four-speaker system with an AM/FM/CD player. Starting in 2002, the factory stereo was able to play MP3 files. During this time period, if you wanted to upgrade the existing factory stereo system, the Mach 460 system was your next best bet. Highlights included a six-disc AM/FM/CD receiver with eight speakers and 460 watts of output. While the Mach 460 provided plenty of sound, it also took up more trunk space with a pair of amps that were mounted between the trunk and rear seats. Another option was the Mach 1000 sound system, which made its debut in 2002. This sound system came with four amps and two enclosed subs on the sides.

Figure 1. 2003 GT factory head unit.

Upgrading the Mach 460

Many Mustang owners are interested in altering the Mach 460 in some way, whether it's by boosting the sound with a subwoofer or running an amp out of the speakers. Having a wiring diagram with you when you work will make the process much simpler. Click here for a more detailed guide for adding a subwoofer setup to your Mach 460.

Figure 2. Mach 460 sound system wiring.

Upgrading the Mach 1000

Some Mustang owners want to modify the Mach 1000 audio system by making changes such as upgrading the head unit and maybe even the subwoofers. One frustrating issue that some Mustang owners encounter when working on certain parts of the Mach 1000 is a speaker pop. One potential way to solve this problem is to wire two 1k resistors into the +12v switch, which typically turns the radio on and can withstand a higher current demand.

Figure 3. Mach 1000 sound system.

Common Questions

What does COMP mean?

The word COMP on the stock radio stands for compression or digital compression. It helps to reduce the volume range of output to produce more sound.

What's the difference between the Mach 460 and Mach 1000?

The Mach 460 includes two amps in the trunk, which run to the lower door and rear speakers, while the Mach 1000 features four amps in the back. This includes two amps for the system's subwoofers.

Is it possible to swap out the Mach 460 or 1000 for an aftermarket stereo system?

A handful of Mustang owners prefer the sound of an aftermarket stereo system over the available Mach systems. It's possible to swap out the existing Mach system for an aftermarket unit. Some owners also get their desired results by using various components instead.

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