Amplifying factory headunit

[shane_c]

So I tried to get an aftermarket HU but can't find a dash kit to fit around here and I don't want to order one from E-bay. Is it much of an improvement in sound if I hooked up a 4 channel amp to the factory headunit?

[KNINE]

Have you looked at Crutchfield? They have free adaptor kits and free shipping. I'm shoping for an after market HU for my Vibe, but I'm having trouble deciding on which one I like best.

[shane_c]

They don't ship to Canada. I'm thinking I might save the money and stay with the factory headunit. I'm going to need the money for winter tires anyway. And when Cosmo gets their SR intake in stock I'd like to get one of them.

[Jahntassa]

Putting in a 4-channel amp is NO way to save money over getting an aftermarket radio.Getting a decent four channel amp is usually at least $100-ish. Then you need the line-level converter for another $40. Plus wiring which will probably run you $50/$60. RCA cables will probably be pretty pricey too.While a four-channel amp would be a good option if you just want more volume, don't think it'll save you any money over a headunit.

[shane_c]

Scratch that plan then. Thanks for the reply.

[Navtrtl]

I'm looking at replacing my HU also. But I wanted to change out the speakers to component speakers while I was at it. The HU I am looking at pushes 22watts RMS and the speakers are rated at MUCH MUCH higher. What would be the main difference in running the HU and speakers vs the HU, speakers, and amp? Would it only make it louder? It's loud enough for me stock, just crappy sounding. The new HU and speakers would improve the sound, but would I need an amp? I'm thinking I can just skip the amp and save a few $'s. Anyone know how many watts RMS the factory HU puts out? I'm thinking 16 or less.

[Jahntassa]

Navtrtl: Lets start off by saying the stock radio is probably a little lower than that, maybe 12-14 RMS, though I don't know the official spec, just guessing.The component speakers will work with the radio you're using, but one of the issues with component speakers is that there's now the introduction of a crossover network. This crossover can also 'steal' some of the power you're feeding to the speakers as a general result of how the crossovers work. Most component setups have an RMS much higher than what headunits can put out (50-70 RMS, generally), and so amplifiers are highly reccomended with them.The reason the M&T system has no problem with components is because it's designed for it (just throwing that out there, in case it's asked). It has built in crossovers and amps to handle the components.You're right, the new speakers would improve the sound, but you wouldn't be getting that great an improvement. Plus, the biggest killer of car speakers is underpowering them. Yes, UNDERpowering. Because the radio can't put out enough power to correctly drive the speakers, as you turn it up, it starts to distort, and that distortion can damage the speakers something awful.Of course, as long as you notice the crackle of the distortion, and keep the volume knob below that point, you shouldn't have a problem.

[03frostygt]

Hum- what a great band!Anywho, I've already replace my factory speakers but your're right- not that big of an improvement. What would be money better spent at this point; getting a Bazooka tube sub with built in amp or replacing the HU?

[GreyStreet]

Quote, originally posted by K-NINE »Have you looked at Crutchfield? They have free adaptor kits and free shipping. I'm shoping for an after market HU for my Vibe, but I'm having trouble deciding on which one I like best.Unfortunately, the adaptor kits all look like hell and leave this giant recessed pocket in the dash that breaks up the flow of the interior.I guess you have to trade clean looks for good sound in this case.