How To Connect Amp To Factory Stereo
Connecting an aftermarket amplifier to your car's factory stereo system can significantly improve your audio experience. It allows you to boost the power and clarity of your music, driving your speakers more effectively and delivering a richer, more immersive sound. While replacing the entire factory system is an option, adding an amplifier is often a more cost-effective and less intrusive solution, especially if you like the look and functionality of your existing head unit.
Why Connecting an Amp to a Factory Stereo Matters
Most factory stereo systems are designed with limitations. The built-in amplifiers are typically low-powered, resulting in a lack of dynamic range and overall volume. This can lead to a muddy or weak sound, especially at higher volumes. Upgrading to an external amplifier addresses this by:
- Increased Power: An external amplifier provides significantly more power to your speakers, allowing them to perform at their best. This results in louder, clearer sound with more bass response.
- Improved Sound Quality: More power allows the amplifier to reproduce audio signals with greater accuracy, reducing distortion and improving clarity. You'll notice finer details in your music that were previously masked by the factory system's limitations.
- Enhanced Dynamic Range: A good amplifier can handle a wider range of frequencies and volumes, allowing for a more dynamic and engaging listening experience. This means quieter passages will be clearer, and louder passages will be more impactful.
- Future-Proofing: Adding an amplifier allows you to upgrade your speakers later without needing to replace the entire head unit. This provides flexibility for future audio upgrades.
In short, connecting an amplifier to your factory stereo unlocks the true potential of your car's audio system, delivering a significantly improved listening experience.
How to Choose the Right Amplifier for Your Factory Stereo
Selecting the right amplifier for your factory stereo involves careful consideration of several factors:
1. Determine Your Needs
Start by assessing your current audio setup and identifying your goals:
- What are you hoping to improve? More bass? Louder volume? Greater clarity?
- What type of speakers do you have or plan to upgrade to? Consider the power handling capabilities of your speakers.
- How many channels do you need? A multi-channel amplifier can power multiple sets of speakers.
- What is your budget? Amplifier prices vary widely depending on power, features, and brand.
2. Consider Amplifier Classes
Amplifiers are categorized into different classes based on their efficiency and sound characteristics. Common amplifier classes include:
- Class A: Known for their excellent sound quality but are very inefficient and generate a lot of heat. Rarely used in car audio anymore.
- Class AB: A good compromise between sound quality and efficiency. Commonly used in car audio.
- Class D: Highly efficient and compact, making them ideal for car audio, especially for subwoofers.
For most car audio applications, Class D amplifiers are the most popular choice due to their efficiency and compact size. Class AB amplifiers are also a good option for powering full-range speakers where sound quality is a priority.
3. Power Output and Impedance
The amplifier's power output should match the power handling capabilities of your speakers. It's crucial to match the amplifier's impedance to the speakers' impedance (typically measured in ohms). Mismatched impedance can damage the amplifier or speakers. Look for an amplifier that can deliver the RMS (Root Mean Square) power your speakers require at the correct impedance. A little extra power is better than not enough, as it allows the amplifier to operate more efficiently and reduces the risk of clipping (distortion caused by the amplifier trying to deliver more power than it's capable of).
4. Line Output Converter (LOC)
Since most factory stereos lack RCA outputs, you'll likely need a Line Output Converter (LOC). An LOC converts the high-level speaker outputs from your factory stereo into low-level RCA signals that can be connected to the amplifier. Choose a high-quality LOC to ensure a clean and accurate signal. Some LOCs also offer features like remote turn-on output and bass restoration.
5. Features and Connectivity
Look for amplifiers with features that suit your needs, such as:
- Adjustable Gain: Allows you to match the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output level of your factory stereo.
- Crossovers: Filter out unwanted frequencies, sending the appropriate frequencies to your speakers. High-pass crossovers are used for full-range speakers, while low-pass crossovers are used for subwoofers.
- Bass Boost: Enhances low-frequency response. Use sparingly, as excessive bass boost can lead to distortion.
- Remote Level Control: Allows you to adjust the subwoofer's volume from the driver's seat.
Also, ensure the amplifier has the necessary inputs and outputs for your specific application. You'll need RCA inputs for the LOC and speaker outputs to connect to your speakers.
6. Brand Reputation and Reviews
Research different amplifier brands and read online reviews to get an idea of their reliability and performance. Established brands like JL Audio, Rockford Fosgate, Alpine, Kenwood, and Pioneer are generally known for producing high-quality amplifiers. However, many other reputable brands offer excellent value for the money.
Connecting the Amplifier: A Step-by-Step Guide
While professional installation is recommended, connecting an amplifier to a factory stereo can be a DIY project for those with experience in car audio installation. Here's a general overview of the process:
- Gather Your Materials: You'll need an amplifier, LOC, wiring kit (including power wire, ground wire, remote turn-on wire, speaker wire, and RCA cables), fuse holder, wire strippers, crimpers, connectors, and a multimeter.
- Disconnect the Battery: This is a crucial safety step to prevent electrical shocks or damage to your vehicle's electrical system.
- Locate Speaker Wires: Use a wiring diagram specific to your vehicle to identify the speaker wires coming from your factory stereo. These wires will connect to the LOC.
- Connect the LOC: Tap the LOC into the speaker wires using wire connectors or solder. Ensure proper polarity (positive and negative) is maintained.
- Run Power Wire: Run the power wire from the positive terminal of the battery to the amplifier location. Install a fuse holder close to the battery.
- Connect the Ground Wire: Connect the ground wire from the amplifier to a clean, unpainted metal surface on the vehicle's chassis. Ensure a good ground connection for optimal performance.
- Run the Remote Turn-On Wire: Connect the remote turn-on wire from the LOC (or a switched 12V source in your vehicle) to the amplifier. This wire tells the amplifier when to turn on and off.
- Connect RCA Cables: Connect the RCA cables from the LOC to the amplifier's RCA inputs.
- Connect Speaker Wires: Connect the speaker wires from the amplifier to your speakers. Again, ensure proper polarity.
- Reconnect the Battery: Carefully reconnect the battery.
- Test the System: Turn on your car's stereo and test the amplifier. Start with the volume low and gradually increase it to check for distortion or other issues.
- Adjust Gain: Use the amplifier's gain control to match the amplifier's input sensitivity to the output level of your factory stereo.
Important Note: This is a general guide. Specific installation procedures may vary depending on your vehicle and the components you are using. Always consult the manuals for your amplifier and LOC for detailed instructions.
Real-World Owner Experiences
Many car owners have successfully upgraded their factory stereos with aftermarket amplifiers. Here are some common experiences:
- Significant Improvement in Sound Quality: Users consistently report a noticeable improvement in sound quality, with more bass, clarity, and volume.
- Easy Installation (for some): While some users find the installation straightforward, others find it challenging, especially when identifying and tapping into the correct speaker wires.
- Importance of a Good LOC: A high-quality LOC is crucial for a clean and accurate signal transfer. Cheaper LOCs can introduce noise or distortion.
- Grounding Issues: Grounding problems are a common cause of noise and distortion. Ensure a clean and secure ground connection.
- Professional Installation Worth the Cost: Many users recommend professional installation to avoid potential problems and ensure optimal performance.
One owner shared, "I was hesitant to mess with my factory stereo, but adding an amplifier made a huge difference! The sound is so much better now. I had a professional install it, and it was worth every penny."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Will adding an amplifier void my car's warranty?
A: It depends on the manufacturer and the nature of the warranty. In general, adding an aftermarket amplifier *should not* void the entire car warranty, but it *could* void the warranty on the stereo system itself, if the amplifier installation directly causes a problem. It's always best to consult with your dealer or warranty provider before making any modifications.
Q: Can I use any amplifier with my factory stereo?
A: No. You need to choose an amplifier that is compatible with your factory stereo's output and the impedance of your speakers. A Line Output Converter (LOC) is almost always required since most factory systems lack RCA outputs. Proper matching of power and impedance is critical.
Q: How much does it cost to connect an amplifier to a factory stereo?
A: The cost can vary widely depending on the amplifier, LOC, wiring kit, and installation labor. Expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $1000 or more, including components and professional installation.
Q: Is it better to replace the factory stereo entirely?
A: Replacing the factory stereo offers the most significant improvement in sound quality and features. However, it's also more expensive and can be more complex, especially if your factory stereo is integrated with other vehicle functions. Adding an amplifier is a good option if you want to improve sound quality without replacing the entire head unit or if you are happy with the features of your factory head unit.
Q: What happens if I don't use a fuse?
A: Omitting a fuse is extremely dangerous. The fuse protects your vehicle's electrical system from overcurrent, which can cause fires. Always use a fuse of the appropriate amperage close to the battery when connecting an amplifier.
