Car Stereos: Aftermarket install in 98 Envoy w/bose, aftermarket stereo, storage compartment

Question
Is there anyway to install a aftermarket stereo in a 1998 envoy without the high dollar harness? Other than running diffrent speaker wire to the speakers?

Answer
Hi Donald,

I'm not sure which high dollar harness you're referring to; the 98 Envoy doesn't require the data bus integration adapter that's needed in the newer Envoy/Trailblazer version.  However, Bose system is a complication.

If you're replacing the head unit in this vehicle, you'll need to decide whether to bypass the Bose amplifier, or integrate it.  Bypassing the Bose amplifier means rewiring the system so that all the speakers are connected directly to the head unit; integrating the amp means finding a way to make the head unit work with the amplifier.  As a general rule, I recommend bypassing the amp if you're installing new speakers, and integrating the amp if you plan to keep the stock speaker system.

To integrate the Bose amplifier, you will need a premium sound adapter module.  An example is PAC's OEM-1 adapter.  These generally cost around $40-$50, and they'll allow the Bose amplifier to work with the new head unit's speaker outputs.  You'll still need the standard installation accessories for the vehicle: wire harness, mounting kit and antenna adapter.

Bypassing the Bose amplifier can be done without running new wire to each speaker, but it's still a lot of work.  You simply need to locate the amplifier, find the speaker wires there, and extend them up to the head unit.  In your vehicle, the Bose amplifier should be located under the center console storage compartment.  Getting to it would require taking apart and removing the entire center console assembly; but it's easier than running new wire into each door (if not by much).

Hope this helps!

Brian