Pre-Amp for car system?

[Chef Medeski]

I'm trying to figure out exactly what I need. I don't know if there is a non-custom amp that can do this. Yet, if there isn't I would still like to know maybe some specs that could help me order a custom amp would help since last time I tried, builders asked for more specifics. So, here is the deal.

I have an iPod connected through a line-out to a FM modulator, a device that breaks the antenna signal and interposes its own. So, it is hardwired into my HU, which is a stock 6-cd changer on an '05 Subaru WRX. So, not to complicated. Well except the FM modulator has a little volume adjuster. So, I've been fiddling around and fount out that having the FM modulator placed at or right below 50% is optimal. Right now I have it at 65-75% because otherwise the volume is too low. Already the volume is too low but distortion really hits in at 80% so I had no choice but to raise it to that level. The other problem is the volume of the HU. Its really not meant to be maxed out, which is my usual setting. It needs to be at about 75% to heavily reduce distortion. So, I need a heavy boost in input volume to allow me to not only listen comfortably but finally to live recordings.

So, I need something with a lot of gain that runs off of either batteries or 12V DC since it is in my car. Now from the set-up I dont know if you can tell but its not the most high-quality system around. So, sound quality is nowhere near as important as merely boosting the signal.

So, if this time around someone could please help me because I really need to purchase this amp, it has been too long I've been stuck with terrible quality in my car. Thanks a bunch for all the help and if anyone wants to build one, just PM me.

 

[nikongod]

if your stock "deck" dosnt have provisions for a line-in (it may be a hidden option for the cd changer too) i would say just scrap it and buy a nicer deck with the features you want.

a line-in specfically for the portable mp3 crowd is a very standard feature on most newer aftermarket car stereos.

 

[Chef Medeski]

Quote:

Originally Posted by nikongod if your stock "deck" dosnt have provisions for a line-in (it may be a hidden option for the cd changer too) i would say just scrap it and buy a nicer deck with the features you want. a line-in specfically for the portable mp3 crowd is a very standard feature on most newer aftermarket car stereos.

I have numerous reasons, but mainly I want to keep it looking stock. I have thought over the decision and have decided, so thats irrelevant. I need advice on a pre-amp, not on a HU. Thanks for the consideration though.

 

[go_vtec]

Try this http://www.legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18504

 

[bearsdidit]

check out a pioneer with the ipod adapter. alpine makes a nice setup also.

 

[nikongod]

you dont have to go too far from what stock looked like to get a solid system.

also, plese check ont eh cd changer, a friends car (oem, btw) changer has a line in that is only actiuve when there is no cd in position 6....

 

[Chef Medeski]

Quote:

Originally Posted by go_vtec Try this http://www.legacygt.com/forums/showthread.php?t=18504

I didn't realize he had started to mass produce these boards. Last time I I saw something he posted it was merely talking about finding a manufacturer. Thanks for the update. I'll probably do that, which means I won't need my FM modulator or an amp anymore.

Not only did you just save me money, time, but got me a better solution. Thanks a bunch. Now I'm going to have the ultimate iPod setup.

 

[phergus_25]

I understand that you wnat to keep the HU stock, HOWEVER:
Most of the HUs with a Ipod interface suck. You cannot scroll thorugh the artist quick and when you have 200 that can be a problem. The best way around this is to get a nicer Hu, I like the looks of Alpines, that has the ability to have an AUX in.
Most Pioneers come wiht a 2.5mm jack in the back, or the front for the higher models, that allows you to hook in an AUX signal. BUT, IMHO Pioneers are pretty gaudy looking.
I have an Alpine 9847, which can be had for about 150 off Crutchfield. Then the box to allow for an AUX signal is about $30. So for a total of ~$200 you can have a signal from your Ipod that is pretty decent.
I have delt with FM transmiters, hardwired and non, and I really prefur this solution.
-greg

 

[Chef Medeski]

$200, hah!

Let me explain to you the perfect iPod solution for less than $100.

I get this little board hear for $45, which creates a auxiliary input into my stock HU. Then, I get a 12V extension cable to create a cigarette lighter to the left of the steering wheel. In which I place this nifty little stand, http://www.tentechnology.com/products/products_flexibledock.php. This places my iPod about the tip of the steering wheel in height while off to the side, so it is not blocking anything, yet is in perfect position to peak at while driving since its positioned right next to windshield and speedo/tacho. Now, I run a little cable from the line-out on this dock to the little board that created a aux-input on my HU. And bam a slick, stock, functional, and quite cheap iPod solution. Did I also mention it charges the iPod, too? So, forget new HU, this is not only better than one, but its cheaper. So perfect solution.

Thank you, Go_vtec!

 

[go_vtec]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chef Medeski I didn't realize he had started to mass produce these boards. Last time I I saw something he posted it was merely talking about finding a manufacturer. Thanks for the update. I'll probably do that, which means I won't need my FM modulator or an amp anymore. Not only did you just save me money, time, but got me a better solution. Thanks a bunch. Now I'm going to have the ultimate iPod setup.

Don't mention it

I also prefer staying or looking stock to deter any break-ins.