Audio Systems: Replacing Factory Head Radio on a 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix, pontiac grand prix, bass amp

Question
Hi Tom, this is the problem that I'm having...  I recently bought a
used 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix SE with the factory radio unit and
speakers still installed...they all work fine. However, when I bring
the stereo up to even a mid-level volume (not maxed out) the
sound quality disappears, and crackling distorts the music
quality... This is especially true when I crank up the bass past
the mid level volume..(the previous owners of the car didn't use
the stereo very much, and so I don't think they would have
damaged them in any way)  I would like to know if you think the
whole unit is simply underpowered and needs an amp to boost
the bass (I would get an aftermarket bass) or if I would have to
buy a whole new control console to boost the available power.
Any suggestions you could offer would be most appreciated.
Thanks again, Seth

Answer
Seth,
It's possible that the speakers are dry rotted or ripped. You may also have a problem with the amplifier and/or circuits inside the stereo. You can install extra speakers driven with a power bass amp. To connect the amp to the existing stereo speaker wires you will need to use a high to low level adapter.

TOM,
T&D ELECTRONICS
tdeser@zoominternet.net