Audio Install -- Do I NEED an LOC?

[h2odemon]

Hey everyone,

I'm planning to surprise my girlfriend this weekend by installing a new double DIN head unit with Android Auto in her 2005 Pontiac Vibe while she's away. I picked up a Kenwood DDX5707S and also an install kit off Amazon to help with the job.

I’ve installed head units before in my own Honda Civic, Subaru Impreza, and even a Plymouth Volare, so I felt pretty confident tackling this. However, after sitting down to watch a few guides tonight, I realized that her Vibe might have a stock amp and sub (I checked, and sure enough, she has the stock subwoofer).

This leads me to my main question: Do I need a Line Output Converter (LOC) to make this install work? I hadn’t planned on this and didn’t pick one up. I’m a bit nervous that I might not have all the parts I need now. I found this Metra LOC at AutoZone, but before I go grab it, I wanted to check in with the experts here:

• Is the LOC necessary for my install, or is there a workaround?
• Would this Metra LOC work if I do need it?
• Any advice or tips for working with the factory amp and sub in the Vibe?

Thanks in advance for any help! I'm really hoping to get this done by the time she gets back .

[VibeNation2024]

I'm no audio expert so I turned to Crutchfield when I installed a new touchscreen bluetooth radio with back up camera. Before I ordered it, I talked with an expert to go over the fit, installation, parts I needed to order, etc to know what it involved and so that I ordered everything at once. They were outstanding and helped me with everything even before I ordered!

So, my recommendation is that you could chat with one of them and mention that you are looking at purchasing the radio but wanted to know if the LOC is needed, AMP/sub compatibilty, etc.

There are some reviews and Q&A on their listing that might help as well:

https://www.crutchfield.com/p_113DDX570 ... 5707S.html

They offer support on Sunday until 7pm EST so you might still have time to finish before your girlfriend gets back! Good luck!

[h2odemon]

Thank you all for the advice! I started actually using my smooth brain lizard mind and realized something—before my girlfriend got the car, someone had already installed a single DIN aftermarket Kenwood head unit. So, I figured, if an aftermarket unit was working fine before, why would a different one need anything special?

I went ahead and did a test fit today, hooked up the wires, and everything worked!

That said, I’m not sure if everything’s working at peak performance. When the volume is low, I notice a really faint background noise, like a hum or a buzz. I’m 90% deaf in one ear and constantly hear ringing, so it’s a little tough for me to tell for sure, but I’m pretty certain it’s there.

I’m planning to consult Crutchfield tomorrow to see if they can help fine-tune things. Thanks again for the input—I really appreciate it!