2020 Slingshot R: Building Open-Air Audio That Can Keep Up

A Slingshot can sound great sitting still. The harder job is keeping the music clear once wind, road noise and the engine are all in the picture.

This 2020 Slingshot R is a real SMS project from the archive. The original post was mostly video embeds with almost no explanation, so we are keeping the proof and adding the part that matters: what an open-air build is actually fighting.

The Problem Is the Environment

There is no quiet cabin helping the speakers. As speed goes up, background noise rises and masks the music. That means the system needs enough usable output in the ranges that matter without becoming harsh or running the speakers outside a safe range.

Speaker Choice and Placement Matter

The original project posts show KICKER and Cicada equipment in the build. In an open vehicle, the speaker has to fit the available location, project into the listening area and handle the amplifier power being used. Mounting and enclosure around the speaker matter too; a good driver in a weak or poorly sealed mount gives away performance.

Amplifier Power Has to Stay Clean

Mosconi amplification appears in the original project material. The goal is not simply more wattage. The amplifier, speaker load, crossover points and gain structure have to work together so the system has headroom when road noise rises.

Electrical Support Is Part of the Audio System

JY Power was also part of this older project. We treat that as historical build information, not a current product or dealer claim. What still matters today is the same: the charging system, battery support, wiring, fusing and grounds have to support the amplifier demand. Open-air systems can use a lot of power, and the electrical side cannot be an afterthought.

Video Proof From the Build

These are the original SMS videos tied to the project.

How We Approach a Slingshot Today

We still start with the same questions: how loud does it need to stay while moving, where can the speakers actually fit, how much amplifier power makes sense, what can the charging system support and what fabrication is needed to make everything solid. The exact products can change. The planning process should not.

Powersports & Slingshot Audio | Slingshot Build Gallery | Contact SMS Car Audio