Good Evening,

Have the stock system (head unit w/ cassette and CD changer controller,
6x9s in rear deck, 6.5s in front doors) along with the Alpine 6-CD
changer + signal converter for my head unit.

Speaker cones torn. Looking to replace with something better. My
initial thoughts are:

1. Like to keep it to $500 or less.
2. No subwoofer for now (maybe later), since my trunk is packed full
of kids' stuff.
3. Thinking about keeping stock head unit, for low-key appearance,
cost savings, and ability to control CD changer.
4. Thinking about going with components up front (since car has dash
cutouts for tweeters at back of dash), nice 6x9s on rear deck, and 4
channel amp.

Some questions I have:

1. Recommendations on speakers and/or amplifier?
2. How much performance would I gain with a new head unit? I'm not
averse to buying one (if it makes a big difference, and since I may
choose to add a sub and second amp later) but my choices are limited by
the Alpine Changer I have (not enough funds for head unit and changer
in addition to amp and speakers)
3. Any thoughts on using a 5 channel amp to simplify hook-ups and
adding a sub? I've heard that using a head unit (no pre-outs) to run
two amps is tricky, and might consider this if I stay with stock head
unit.
4. Any other considerations or suggestions?

Thanks a bunch!