Can-Am Defender Audio System, Backup Camera and Lighting

A while back, a local couple stopped by to talk about upgrading the audio and some of their new Can-Am Defender features. We looked over the UTV with them and got an idea of what their goals were for our work. We put together an estimate for adding a new audio system, backup camera and lighting. The clients were happy with our proposal and setup an appointment for the installation.

Stinger Off-Road Radio & Backup Camera

The Stinger radio’s video input allows the clients to see what’s happening behind their UTV.

The flush-mount backup camera was installed in the roof.

We started the work on the Defender by installing the Stinger powersports media player. This new radio will not only let the clients stream Bluetooth audio from their phones but also gives them the capability for AM/FM and weather bands. Additionally, the radio has an input for a backup camera and can control a remote relay bank for remote switching of accessories.

To fit the Stinger radio in the location the client wanted, we had to use our laser to custom cut a piece of acrylic to adapt the radio’s footprint to the space on the Defender dash. Once mounted, we routed all the necessary audio and switcher wires down from the UTV’s roof.

While we were working in the roof, we added the backup camera. Because of the potential for dirt and dust to obscure a backup camera in a traditionally lower position, we decided to mount the camera on the back of the roof panel. This would still give the clients a great view of what was happening behind them while protecting the camera.

Rockford Fosgate Front Speaker Upgrade

The RGB lighting built into the Rockford speakers provide endless color options.

The speakers that came in the client’s Defender were underwhelming. They had very little output and poor sound quality. We had the answer for improving those aspects with a pair of Rockford Fosgate marine speakers. We used a pair of black speakers to blend in well with the overhead console. The Rockford Fosgate marine speakers also feature built-in lighting, which went perfectly with our plans to add accent lighting to the Defender.

JL Audio Subwoofer Enclosure

Auto body filler was used to smooth the wood before spraying the bed liner.

The subwoofer was coated with a thick layer of bed liner spray to keep it protected.

The custom subwoofer enclosure tucked up under the driver’s seat.

The client’s requested very balanced and full-range sound for their new Can-Am. We addressed part of the sound spectrum by upgrading the front speakers, and now it was time to take care of the lower octaves. We chose a JL Audio 8w1v3 as the subwoofer to help round out their sound. The 8w1v3 works excellent in small enclosures and doesn’t take a lot of power to produce impressive output.

As with any enclosure we build for marine or powersports applications, this enclosure would be constructed from marine plywood. Marine plywood is treated to resist moisture, which is perfect for vehicles that might see a bit of water. An additional step we take on our powersports enclosures is to smooth the wood using body filler and coat the enclosure with a commercial-grade bed liner spray. We bolted it to the metal frame using stainless steel hardware to ensure the enclosure stayed in place during offroad excursions.

JL Audio Powersports Amplifier

If you have seen other powersports builds we have completed, you probably have noticed us using the JL Audio Mx amplifier. The Mx amplifiers have a tiny footprint and put out impressive amounts of power. In addition, they are sealed for safe use in damp environments.

In this Defender, we cut out a mounting plate on our laser that positioned the amplifier just above the battery. Once the amplifier was securely mounted, we finished wiring it up.

Underbody Lighting

The clients’ final request was to add some accent lighting to their UTV. The Rockford Fosgate speakers we installed would take care of interior lighting. For the outside lighting, we added several rock lights along the perimeter of the Can-Am. The lighting pods gave a nice, even glow of light all around the Defender.

Can-Am Defender Audio & Lighting Completion

With all the new equipment installed and wired up, it was time to set up the radio and amplifier. We maximized the audio output by level matching the Mx amplifier to the Stinger radio. Additionally, we set the crossover points to protect the speakers and optimize their output.

Once all the work was finished, we contacted the clients so they could come to pick up their UTV. The looks and sound were just what they wanted! If we can help perfect your UTV for you, contact us here, or better yet, stop by with it, and we will go over options that will fit your budget and ideas.