Amplifier Installation

You can tap into OEM speaker wiring for input signal to the high level input converter on the amp and keep the OEM wiring connected to the OEM speaker.  The speaker will still get output from the deck.  You would then run new wiring to the new speakers that are being used with the amp.

You would never run wiring from two power sources to the same speaker.  I don't think this is what you meant, but if you are attempting to use the OEM speakers from the amp output, then they must be disconnected from the deck.

I will always suggest using an aftermarket high quality line output converter instead of the high level amp inputs, though.  Often, you run into problems using those and waste a lot of time troubleshooting where the problem is coming from.

That im planning on doing is taking the rear speaker signal and use that as the source for the amplifier.  I will be putting subs to the amp.  So in this scenario, I would still be able to use the rear speakers.

(Order of wiring)

Headunit -->(wires) high level input for amplifier  ***-->  Rear speakers

*** From the high level input to the amp --> Sub(s)

In that setup... would the rear speakers still work (id imagine so... but a little weaker)

The kid im installing this for doesnt want to buy "extra" stuff... even though it would greatly improve the quality... I have suggested to buy an LLC... but he didnt want to... so im stuck w/ this option... personally i would swap out the headunit and put a new one in... but he just wants bass...

Thanks for the input

The rears won't sound any weaker.  By tapping for high level, you are picking up voltage.  The speakers are powered by current.  Tapping won't affect the current flow, and picking up the voltage won't affect the voltage in the wire.  The speakers will work just fine.

A lot of installers use the amp high level inputs regularly, so there's a better than 50/50 chance that it will do the job.  But....if you have results like noise through the subs or lack of bass, etc.......then tell the kid to give up $20 so you can do it right.  I would charge him an extra $50 for trying to call the shots, if it were me.  But I'm a hard-ass  :)

intrugue11

I have a headunit

We'll assume you're talking about the factory deck here, or there wouldn't be reason to use a LOC.  And we'll assume you are adding an amp and sub to the factory system, where the amp will power only the sub.  Let us know if we have that much right.

If the Tsunami LOC is a stereo (2 channel) model, you will choose either front or rear OEM speaker wires to connect it onto.  I would use the fronts so your deck will still have the ability to fade out the rears without taking the sub bass signal with it.

...I have the wiring diagram and I know what each color wire is, but I dont what to connect to what

If you don't know what factory wires go to the front speakers, you can use additional wire and connect the LOC leads at the speaker locations instead of behind the deck.  And check this site's wiring info section for your car.  The LOC should have instructions with it telling you that the wires with stripe are the negative.  And one color is right, the other color is left.  Match the LOC wires to the front speaker wires, strip a bit of insulation, and twist them together.  Test the system completely, then solder the joints and tape with electrical tape.

Use RCA's to run the signals to the amp.  Note:  you will be set up with a signal in the amp location so when you want to upgrade the front speakers in the car you can use the same RCA's for both amps.

Build the box so that it performs well in the worst case scenario and, in return, it will reward you at all times.

I have to agree on the less output from the subs.The setup I did for a fellow I used the hi level inputs for the first week (waiting for the LOC that was backordered) and had to crank the amp up a fair deal and still had no lower bass response (it was an 8" thoguh) the next week I hooked up the LOC and ran the RCA's Had to turn down the amp and also I am VERY surprised in the output of lower bass from an 8" in a ported enclosure.Tell him for the $20 extra for a LOC to definatly get it.

BJ White