gmcyukondriver
Built, not bought.
WHat kind and brand name do you suggest? I'm a big pioneer fan but I might as well go on and replace both front 6.5" ones....I remember my head units and DVD player would make my stock speakers sound perfect, loud, and everything. So I've thought that having a stock radio I just wouldn't be able to get a good sound. What is your opinion on aftermarket 6.5's with the stock radio? You still think it would sound much better?
I don't know about stock radio with aftermarket speakers. My stock head unit died a LONG time ago (first the CD player went, then we got an aftermarket one for it). I inherited the truck from my dad, and it already had a base model Pioneer head unit in there. Once I started driving it, I put Polk db651 speakers in all four doors. Great sound. Not much bass if you like hip hop or rap, but I'm a rock guy, so they do ok for me (I'm still thinking about getting a small sub to get that extra oomph). I added a used JBL amp to get more power to them. They stay pretty clear quality sound at higher volumes, they've held up great so far. I think they're 3 or 4 years old.
I would recommend getting a h/u too, just because they make some now with REALLY nice features, and an amplifier makes a world of difference with the speakers as far as volume goes. You get much better sound at high volume. Although, if your stock unit is holding up fine, it's really up to you. Another added bonus of making the swap though it that once you take out the separate CD player below the HVAC controls, you can put in a delete pocket, which is nice to have IMO.
I say just go to an audio place and see what you like. It all depends what music you listen to and how you like it. There's a wide range of performance and price for 6.5" speakers. I'm definitely not an expert, but I do know that if you like quality sound, a good setup will make a world of difference in your ride.