My thoughts on 2.5" not being enough is you can always buy Metalcloak fenders and do a low center of gravity build. It wasn't really an option on my old WJ but on a TJ it is very viable.
I don't personally have experience with them but when I was ordering my lift kit I was talking to Kolak about it and he said they are useless on heavy Jeeps.
You can make your system sound great without breaking the bank. Here is my setup:
Quadratec Replacement Subwoofer (Console)
Kicker CS Series 5-1/4" Speakers (Sound Bar)
Kicker KS Series 4"x6" Speakers (Dash)
Kenwood Excelon KDC-X998
The first install is always the hardest because you don't fully know what to expect. If you're part of a club or have a friend who has done it before toss them a 30 pack and have them assist you with the install.