GenVibe - Community for Pontiac Vibe Enthusiasts

I wanted to replace stock head unit, use existing speakers and add an amplifier with larger sub, I have read other threads and am really confused. What is the easiest way to do this.

So you want to remove the factory sub? Are you going to try to put a larger sub in the factory enclosure, or simply add a sub to the existing system?Basically, you need the parts described in the other threads, the wiring harness, the radio fit-kit, and the antenna adapter. You also need a level-matcher such as the Scoshe peice (FA-3?) to install between the radio wiring and the car wiring.That takes care of the radio to the factory stuff. If you want to add a sub, you need:- The sub- A box for the sub, if it isn't in one- An appropriately rated amplifier- The appropriate power wire kit for said amplifier- A line-level converter- RCA cables to go between converter and amplifier.That's basically where you would start. Depending on exactly what you're going for, we can most likely reccomend some stuff for you, but you need to let us know what you're going for.- More bass? A lot? Just a little?- What features on the radio? MP3? XM?- How much are you willing to spend?

I already have the car wired for an amplifier, I ran my power, remote and rca cables. I have a subwoofer with enclosure. I have the stereo mounting kit, wiring harness(useless?), & line converter. coming tomorrow. Where do I hook up the line converter? I have schematics but do not understand them? Help

ok, tell me if I am correct: Hook the fai-3 up in between aftermarket radio and stock amplifier, run my rca cables from new head unit to Xtra amplifier? will the stock sub still be active with aftermarket radio??

You still want to use the harness you purchased. Cutting the factory wiring is NOT reccomended.1) The Fai-3 goes between the wiring for the radio, and the wiring going to the harness that plugs into the factory harness behind the radio. 2) Yes, RCA's run from the new radio to the amplifier3) No idea. From what other's have said, it might. But I can't say yes for 100% sure.You actually won't need the line-converter if you're running RCA's directly from the new radio to the aftermarket amplifier.

All went well and thanks again! Sounds great. A couple of setbacks, but all is working.