Aftermarket Amplifier

[md_sailor]

Alright Guys, I've done a thread search for Amp's and was hoping for more specific information. I have a 2003 Lux that I have installed the 2005 touch nav and XM radio with the USASpec 6 disc changer. I would like input on how to ad an aftermarket amplifier. I may also upgrade the existing speakers. I am not intrested in changing the appearance of the system or speakers and would prefer to have aftermarket speakers that swap out with the OEM Bose units. Does anyone have input or pics of installations to share? I would not mind a Sub but dont want to loose cargo area. In my opinion an added amp and quality speakers should provide enough base response to suit me. I look forward to your help. You guys rock!

[md_sailor]

Alright Guys, I've done a thread search for Amp's and was hoping for more specific information. I have a 2003 Lux that I have installed the 2005 touch nav and XM radio with the USASpec 6 disc changer. I would like input on how to ad an aftermarket amplifier. I may also upgrade the existing speakers. I am not intrested in changing the appearance of the system or speakers and would prefer to have aftermarket speakers that swap out with the OEM Bose units. Does anyone have input or pics of installations to share? I would not mind a Sub but dont want to loose cargo area. In my opinion an added amp and quality speakers should provide enough base response to suit me. I look forward to your help. You guys rock!

[md_sailor]

Doh.... Bass not Base... Blonde moment here

[Dallion]

Depending on how hard you want to rock... http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

I am not very experienced with the factory 05 touch screen nav, or any of the factory decks that come with the h2, so someone else will have to help you there.

If you can get an RCA out, or if it has an RCA out then it is really easy to attach and amplifier. Just deck -> amp then from amp -> speakers.

I haven't looked closely but the factory Bose speakers appear to be 5.25" in the front with 1" tweeters. The ones in the far rear may be 6.5" but once again I haven't really looked closely. My advice would be to go with JL Audio, you can get a nice Stealth Sub enclosure that wouldn't compromise appearance or your cargo space.

The stealthbox looks like this:

http://www.jlaudio.com/stealthbox/images/HUMRH2.jpg


And installed...

http://www.jlaudio.com/stealthbox/images/HUMRH2_IC.jpg


And once again depending on how loud you want to go, you could go with one amp or two. I prefer to have an amp for subs (mono channel) and one for my mids-highs. A good sub amp would be the JL Audio 250/1 LINK TO 250/1 Specs (http://www.jlaudio.com/amps/2501.html)

Likewise, the JL Audio Evolution XR would be a straight in replacement for the H2 Bose speakers. All sizes are available in them and they come with crossovers so you can cut off lowered frequencies to get rid of distortion.

LINK TO JL AUDIO EVOLUTION XR SERIES (http://www.jlaudio.com/evolution/xr.html)


I hope all of this information helps, I wish I could do more but without knowing what you want soundwise thats just some general ideas.

I would also recommend a 450/4 for your mids/highs. Anyhow hope this helps somewhat http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

[Black 05]

Yes I would like to do the same install. Let me know how it goes. I have a 05 with nav.

[RAM H2 RYDER]

I just got a stealthbox installed along with a 500 watt JL amp and remote bass control. The stealthbox is amazing. I'll post pics tonight.

[md_sailor]

Thanks Guys, What I'm really looking for is how to interface a new amp, where people have located them and how the added power was allocated? ie? was the new amp just to drive a Sub? or did the new amp go to run the existing speakers and the bose amp go to the sub? What aftermarket speakers have you guys had experience with I am thinking about installing Focal Utopia's, does anyone have first hand knowledge of them? Amp Mounting options? I'm concerned about the rear under seat location with regard to being able to fold the seats, My Changer leaves marks on the seat cushions and i dont want to thinks about what a Hot Amp might do.....

[md_sailor]

Nice! Awesome set up, Do you have any trouble folding the back seats flat?

[HummerNewbie]

I have also been concerned with the seat folding down on a hot amp. No burn problems from the heat sinks on the amps against the seats? I assume the imprints go away relatively quickly?

[OLE YLLR]

I had this babies under my rear seat for last two years with no heat problems.

[AngUPS]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">stealthbox </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Dallion is correct; JL has the best options and the best sounding speakers around. The H2 that the JL web site features is my H2. I just happen to know some of the folks at JL and my H2 was used as the prototype for the stealthbox. It sounds great and does not take up any needed space. Good luck with what ever you decide.

[DRTYF? (the imposter)]

That stealthbox isnt very stealthy if the spare tire is mounted outside. http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Snake II]

Heres mine with no heat problems.

[md_sailor]

Beautiful Install! Can you lay down the Seat Backs?

[Snake II]

Yes they do, with no worries of damaging the leather.

[ROX]

Wow! Snake II are your sub's located under there? How can you possibly see where you're going? (George Carlin: "Ever notice how you have to turn down the radio so you can see better?") http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_biggrin.gif

Nice setup. We're installing a JL audio sealth box and amp in our Excursion. Maybe we'll have to do the H2 as well......the kids will be bouncin'! http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_cool.gif

[Snake II]

LOL! Yes. 4 JL Audio 12w6's.

[Snake II]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Snake II:
LOL! Yes. 4 JL Audio 12w6's. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

[Snake II]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Snake II:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Snake II:
LOL! Yes. 4 JL Audio 12w6's. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

[Snake II]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Snake II:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Snake II:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Snake II:
LOL! Yes. 4 JL Audio 12w6's. </div></BLOCKQUOTE> </div></BLOCKQUOTE> </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

[md_sailor]

I appreciate all the posts and advice! Am I correct in thinking that I cannot simply upgrade the Speakers? I think I remember reading that the Bose speakers are 1 Ohm and the Focals I want to Use are 4 ohm? I really want to retain the Head unit and Upgrade all of the Speakers and Possibly Add a Sub. What is the easiest way to accomplish this? I dont want to Screw up Onstar or the steering controls. I was thinking about putting the Focal Component set up in the rear " 6.5" in the existing rear door locations and the 4" in the rear pillars with the tweeters stuck some where Strategic. In front I was going to install the 165w Utopias? Does anyone know if the Bose amp can simply be replaced or is it a integral part of onstar and the rest of the system?

[Longhorn]

Changing just the speakers is not a good idea. If you are spending the $ on Focal components you should change the head unit anyway to get the fidelity you're seeking.

I kept all the factory speakers intact including the fact sub and added a JL 500/1 and a Kicker Solobaric 10" L7 in a sealed box.

The shop used a quality line output converter connected after the Bose amp so my new amp only receives a low freq. signal. It sounds good. Added a little extra low end and midbass without rattling my teeth. I also did the remote bass switch but I honestly can't tell a difference with it.

The bose amp is tied to all sorts of stuff by my understanding.

[Snake II]

I changed out the entire system. I am in process of ripping it out and am trading the SUV in for a 05 SUT LUX.

Trying to design the new system with the funcionality of the collapsable rear door.

[md_sailor]

I am not interested in changing the Head unit. I have a '05 Touch screen Nav unit with Factory XM, CD Changer, and IPOD. I upgrade Speakers and AMPS if possible. I know I can use a Pac-Audio adapter to add a amp and Sub, Does anyone know if I can use more than one adapter to run to the other speakers?

[Boar-Ral]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
Alright Guys, I've done a thread search for Amp's and was hoping for more specific information. I have a 2003 Lux that I have installed the 2005 touch nav and XM radio with the USASpec 6 disc changer. I would like input on how to ad an aftermarket amplifier. I may also upgrade the existing speakers. I am not intrested in changing the appearance of the system or speakers and would prefer to have aftermarket speakers that swap out with the OEM Bose units. Does anyone have input or pics of installations to share? I would not mind a Sub but dont want to loose cargo area. In my opinion an added amp and quality speakers should provide enough base response to suit me. I look forward to your help. You guys rock! </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
I do not have a lot of experience with car audio, and have only watched friends working on my vehicles in the past. That being said, it should be quite easy to maintain the current headunit and just add an amplifier. I think the item you need is a line level converter. (I know someone here will step up with the proper name.) It just taps into the wires going to the factory speakers, and provides the signal that will go into your amplifier. From there, you can output from the amplifier, back to your speakers.

I wish you luck if you are interested in a JL Audio Stealthbox. I live in a small city and we only have a couple JL Audio resellers, and none of them ever return my telephone calls regarding availability of the H2 Stealthbox. If I could find someone online that sold them, it would probably take less time.

The people here are very knowledgable. I am certain they will be able to help you more.

[Boar-Ral]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
Thanks Guys, What I'm really looking for is how to interface a new amp, where people have located them and how the added power was allocated? ie? was the new amp just to drive a Sub? or did the new amp go to run the existing speakers and the bose amp go to the sub? What aftermarket speakers have you guys had experience with I am thinking about installing Focal Utopia's, does anyone have first hand knowledge of them? Amp Mounting options? I'm concerned about the rear under seat location with regard to being able to fold the seats, My Changer leaves marks on the seat cushions and i dont want to thinks about what a Hot Amp might do..... </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Most amplifiers will fit beneath your seat, if you keep them simple. If height becomes an issue, consider a separate amplifier for your subwoofer and a separate amplifier for your door speakers, and put them under different seats. I bought a Soundstream Davinci 7-channel amplifier two years ago to install in my Ford Excursion, and pulled it when I traded it in for my H2. Unfortunately, I am having an extremely difficult time locating a place to install it. (The amplifier is about five inches tall, 24" wide, and about 18" deep.) I have considered trying to mount it into the back of the third-row seat but would want a quick-release for the speakers and power and have relays setup to automatically switch over to the old factory amplifier in this case; quite a task unto itself. A more practical option might be to custom fabricate an enclosure, similar to the JL Audio Stealthbox, but mirror it for the passenger side.

Unfortunately, I have no experience with Focal, but I have read good reviews of them in the past. I went with Soundstream only because I found a store that had their equipment on sale.

[Boar-Ral]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by AngUPS:
<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">stealthbox </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Dallion is correct; JL has the best options and the best sounding speakers around. The H2 that the JL web site features is my H2. I just happen to know some of the folks at JL and my H2 was used as the prototype for the stealthbox. It sounds great and does not take up any needed space. Good luck with what ever you decide. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Maybe you can actually get someone there to help me buy one? http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_wink.gif

[Boar-Ral]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
I appreciate all the posts and advice! Am I correct in thinking that I cannot simply upgrade the Speakers? I think I remember reading that the Bose speakers are 1 Ohm and the Focals I want to Use are 4 ohm? I really want to retain the Head unit and Upgrade all of the Speakers and Possibly Add a Sub. What is the easiest way to accomplish this? I dont want to Screw up Onstar or the steering controls. I was thinking about putting the Focal Component set up in the rear " 6.5" in the existing rear door locations and the 4" in the rear pillars with the tweeters stuck some where Strategic. In front I was going to install the 165w Utopias? Does anyone know if the Bose amp can simply be replaced or is it a integral part of onstar and the rest of the system? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
I completely forgot about the difference in ohm ratings on the two different speakers. My previous advice might have been incorrect in light of this.

[Boar-Ral]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Longhorn:
I kept all the factory speakers intact including the fact sub and added a JL 500/1 and a Kicker Solobaric 10" L7 in a sealed box. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Does the H2 have a factory subwoofer? I have wondered about this because some years, the web site mention 9 speakers, other times 8. I haven't gone searching, but I cannot imagine where it would be, if there was one. Maybe I can finally get an answer.

[md_sailor]

Yes there is a Subwoofer box in the center stack next to the passengers feet under the dash. I do not know how big it is as it is referred to as a Unit in the Tech Manual.

[Boar-Ral]

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
Yes there is a Subwoofer box in the center stack next to the passengers feet under the dash. I do not know how big it is as it is referred to as a Unit in the Tech Manual. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
Thank you. I will explore around there next time I am working in that area.

[TBarrow]

This is my amp rack.

[md_sailor]

Nice, does it precluse you from laying the seats down flat?

[md_sailor]

Preclude....

[TBarrow]

Yes they are at an angle but I never really need the extra room inside as I have the GOBI Rack.

[MotorsportsAuthority aka Dragon]

well, there are bits and pieces of correct information, so let's see if i can help sum it up.

to keep your factory head unit, you'll need what's called a line output converter (l.o.c.). any audio shop should have these in stock. even an electronics store like best buy. basically what it does is convert your 12 gauge wire into RCA signals. so...you will need one for each set that provides sound from your headunit. tap all wires before the factory amp.

amp 1 = your 4 channel for the highs. it will be 6 channel if you want to do your trunk speakers also.
amp 2 = your mono class-d sub amp
(note: i have not verified these wires, but the source has a 90% accuracy with me. don't know the colors of the trunk wires though.)

head unit > tan(+)/gray(-) > l.o.c. > amp 1 > Left front speaker
head unit > lt grn(+)/dk grn(-) > l.o.c. > amp 1 > Right front speaker
head unit > brwn(+)/yellow(-) > l.o.c. > amp 1 > Left rear speaker
head unit > dk blue(+)/lt blue(-) > l.o.c. > amp 1 > Right rear speaker
head unit > l.o.c. > amp 1 > left trunk speaker
head unit > l.o.c. > amp 1 > right trunk speaker
head unit > l.o.c. > amp 2 > sub

easiest thing to do with the sub is the infinity basslink t. i've heard it in a silverado, and it sounds great for someone who's not competing in sound competitions. l.o.c. and amp are built in. more info here (http://infinitysystems.com/caraudio/product.aspx?ProdId='BASSLINK+T'&Ser=BSL&Cat=PSU).

hope that helps.

[md_sailor]

It does! Thanks, Do you know if onstar would still function through the new amps? I have already picked up a couple of Zapcos for power. I'm curious, Does it make sense to anyone else to buy 3 way components Like the Focal 165 W3 and stick the 4" mids in place of the Back Pillar speakers? if yes where would you guys mount the Tweeters? Or would you?

[MotorsportsAuthority aka Dragon]

i don't see why the onstar wouldn't. and for someone not doing any massive customizing, i'd just replace any aftermarket parts in the factory position.

[DavidAragon]

Anyone have their stock Bose speakers and equipment for sale?

Thanks,
David

[shipbldr]

Yeah,

I replaced all of my speakers with MB Quarts about a month after I bought mye 2005 H2.

PM me and I'll give you a deal on mine.

Charles

[md_sailor]

Did you just swap out the speakers od did the amp go as well. What did you change to?

[shipbldr]

I did four of the MB Quart speakers, a JL Audio stealth box, JL Audio 500 x1 amp for the stealthbox, and JL Audio the 300 x 4 amp.

The amps are under the rear seat where they take about 2/3 of the space.

Everything is hooked up to the factory head unit. Sounds fine to my ears... plenty loud too.

When the volume is up and the bass hit hard the headlights dim http://www.elcova.com/infopop/emoticons/icon_smile.gif

Most of the rest of the time the sound is at more sane levels....

[MotorsportsAuthority aka Dragon]

fyi - mb quarts components are awesome. some of the higher priced ones, but definitely worth it.