Replacing Factory Amp

[carmi]

Working on installing a larger amplifier and better speakers in my VT. Looking at the wiring for the factory amp wiring, Im assuming that Connector A is for the inputs and Connector B and C are the speaker outputs. With that logic, it appears to me that the factory amp is processing more than one set of inputs. If I wanted to replace the factory amp with an aftermarket one, what would I use for the inputs.

[tlyons1022]

See the SPDIF + and -? The factory head unit uses those to digitally tell the factory amplifier what noises to generate. If you have ever looked on the back of a new TV and seen a little port with laser light inside of it, same thing, except this is transmitted over copper cable instead of fiber optic. You would need some form of SPDIF to 4-channel converter that can be wired to run on 12v power. Good luck, but I doubt you'll find that. You're better off buying a whole new head unit.

Just in case you think I'm bullshitting, here's the wiki link to SPDIF S/PDIF - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia To be honest, I couldn't believe that our cars used that either. You COULD try pulling the wiring diagram for the head unit itself, and seeing if the head units that are set up for the external amplifier still have normal non-amplified speaker outs, and then run them through a line-level converter, but I don't know if the head unit will have those regular speaker outs since all the speaker outs are on the factory amp.

Good luck, and keep us posted on what you find out!

[tlyons1022]

found this, maybe I'll help. Looks like the pins are there on this diagram, but only pulling the radio will let you find out whether wires that you can tap exist.

[mbode1]

Do an online search for MiniDSP and Oarts Express carries a S/PDIF to analog converter. Made by Fiio.

Sent from my SCH-I605 using AutoGuide App

[mbode1]

Make that Parts Express. Fat Fingers!