Adding amp and subs to stock bose HU
 

Hi I did a few searches and tried to find the solution to my question but I really don't understand alot of the threads I looked at. I just want a simple explanation of exactly what I need and how I would add an amp and subs to the stock head unit bose system. I've read that LOCs might destort the sound or give bad quality. I just want to know what would be the best way to do this for the best sound quality.

i havent seen any seen any how to's on this fourm about this yet that i know of. I was kinda trying to do the same thing to mine. but i want to run all my speakers and subs off of the amp instead of the stock unit like as if was an aftermarket unit.

The problem is that not everyone will agree on the best way to do it. To some people cost is not an issue. Others don't want to spend $20 on a LOC. Some people are satisfied w/ OK results. Some will not settle for anything less than perfection.

The information is here. You just have to sift through and find the option that is best for you.

Well i'm willin to spend 400-500 for everything including amp subs and wiring and anything else I might need

The best way to do it is to intercept the signal before the bose amplifier by using something like an Audiocontrol LC6i, which will convert the signal into a usable pre-amp signal, as well as boost the output of the pre-bose signal to useful gains. Connect your sub and amps to the LC6i via RCA's, tune your gains and crossover and off you go.

If you don't want to spend over 100 bucks on a LOC, You can get a cheaper, un-powered LOC, and tie into the rear speaker level outputs, after the Bose amp. This is not optimal for sound quality as the bose amp applies an EQ curve, but it will be better level matched to the rest of the system, eliminating the need for a line driver / turning your gains way up.

If you just want to add subs, I'd take the second route. If you want to replace every single speaker in the car,and add a sub, I'd do it the first way. (Which is the way my current install is setup)

Thanks alot for your reply! I think i'm gonna do the second way. Where would be the best place to get this installed because I don't want to do it myself and fuck something up.

A reputable car stereo shop should have no problem with this. Find several local places and ask them for references as well as what they'd charge to install it. Also ask if they've done RX-8's before. Pick the best offer. You're going to need a box for the sub too, 4080 makes some very nice ones for a premium, zenclosures makes other nice ones for those on a budget. You will probably want to purchase the sub box yourself and bring it in, rather then having the shop charge you an arm and a leg for custom fab work, but it never hurts to ask about prices.

Make sure that they understand you want them to tap the speaker level outputs for the Line Output converter, rather then the pre-Bose amp differential signals.

If you search a bit you can even find them the color codes for the wires they'll need to tap, if you're feeling paranoid.

Alright thanks for the help Socket7 I appreciate it!