QuestionI would like to install an amp on a factory stereo that does not have pre out RCA's. Is there a trick to it or is it as simple as splicing into the rear speaker wires to go to the amp and then out tho the sub?
Thank you.
AnswerSean,
To be quite frank, I would not be much of an audio consultant without first telling you why you should NOT use high levels.
To be sure, I understand your dilema, but I offer this advice to be taken under consideration ONLY if you are seeking high quality sound for your money and efforts.
What you ask is possible, but the end result will be very poor on dynamics, sound quality and noise [compared to using true RCA line-level signals].
As for subs, you may end up with very muddy bass in most cases when using high level sends to the amp(s).
This is because when you use an amplifiers' high level inputs, it acts like a power booster rather than a power amp (in that it amplifies the already amplified deck signal). With a little EQ or Loudness added, this easily leads to clipping, distortion and much worse at only moderate volumes... such as equipment damage (usualy the speakers).
Let us presume that your amp has high level inputs. If so, you need to realise that on any amp that has them, high level inputs are an 'alternate method' and not the preferred one.
If it does have high level inputs, simply splice the deck speaker wires to them.
If you do NOT have an amp with high level inputs, you will need to get a high level (speaker) to low level (rca) adaptor for such purposes. These devices basically compress the voltage signal down enough so that you can use the RCA inputs at the amp without blowing it up. The end result is not true RCA, but is usualy better than using high level inputs if you adjust the adaptor correctly.
Personally, I would not own an amp that had high level options since it is really defeating the entire purpose of using a dedicated amplifier.
Let me know if I can be of further assistance in any ways.
Sincerely,
Jerry Mael
