I was driving my wife's new 2008 Acura RDX

Found the answer to my own problem and question.

http://rdx.acurazine.com/forums/showthread.phpp=34963#post34963

doesn't go through, but here's the text, an answer in 10.07 to "Weak ELS sound?" on the acura forum:

Originally Posted by pdphill
The image processing of the ELS makes up for less than stellar speakers and amps. When I got my TL, the quality of the sound was amazing, but it certainly lacked the punch and clarity of my medium-priced aftermarket system in my Legend (still using the factory audio unit). Same for the RDX. For those of you who also notice this, keep in mind that the watt rating is not RMS but peak and is at 10% distortion at that rating. The 5 channel amp is about 6 X 8 X 2, so you can imagine the lack of quality. As for the stock speakers, the MSRP prices from Acura are $24.73 for the 4 door speakers, $21.28 for the 2 tweeters, $22.10 for the center, $25.48 for the 2 satellites and $236.62 for the sub unit which includes the 8" sub, plastic box and separate amp. In the base RDX, the sub and box costs $68.50 since there is no amp. I have pulled one of the door speakers and it is lightweight junk. I'm amazed it gets the sound it does. Imagine what some decent speakers and amps could do for this system. I am planning an upgrade and my first decision for the front door, tweeter and rear doors is between Boston Acoustics Pro60 or Focal 165V2. Any thoughts?

I would make sure you like the Focal metal tweeter, I had some reference MB Quart with a metal tweeter and even with McIntosh equipment and good wire I hated them. It does seem people give both good reviews but remember most are car audio idiots that can't hear.