Factory Radio

[Indy Aurora]

Does anyone know if the newer factory radios have all the RCA type jacks on the back already. I want to keep the factory look (because I like it and it stop theives). I just had new JL Audio XR650-CSi 6-1/2" put in front, JL Audio VR690-CXi put in the rear, a JL Audio Slash series 500/5 Amp and a JL Audio 10W3v2 subwoofer put in the trunk.
The system is awesome, but I get that sound like I have non-resistor spark plugs in. It is from the line output converter I had to install because the radio doesn't have preamp outputs.
They tried to talk me into a new head unit, but I like the GM one and it would be another $100. to get my steering wheel controls to work.

What I would like to know is if the newer GM factory radios already have this stuff. The best one would be one with a six-disc in-dash CD.
The only probelm I see is what about the steering wheel controls.
My 99 Aurora only has seek/program and volume.

Any suggestions?

[Mr. Javidogg]

I would say check with Crutchfield.com they seem to know there Car Audio very well, they can give you options too.

They have a 1-800 number were you can get tech advise on your questions, about adding all the stuff you already got and still maintaining the factory look, there is a way to do that, one way is to go through the rear speaker and connecting some kind of bypass connector to get sound for the rear subwoofer. I say check with Crutchfield to get some ideas.

Also keep in mind that you'll get better sound with an aftermarket radio, than trying to keep you factory radio, which you might have to filter the sound out the woofer and such. Plus most aftermarket radios have Security features such as Detachable/Removable face plates or self-hiding face plates, which you no longer have to keep in your car.


Peace.

[rodtice]

The 2000+ radios don't have rca plugs on them. At least not the ones I've looked at for replacing my OEM.

I was looking to put in the MONSOON from a buick.

[jp396]

the stock radio didnt have RCA's in my aurora.
If you plan on going with some equipment in the car, forget the factory stuff. I "tried" the factory CD with some amps and it just doesnt have the fidelity to do what you would like.
As far as the buttons on the wheel, you'll forget em like an ex girlfriend, not worth the 100 bucks to fix.

[ejerry96]

I have a amp and sub in my car and ran into same problem. Was thinking about getting new head unit. I stopped into my local car audio center. Which I was lucky to find one of the service tech's actually owens a 98' aurora just like mine. He said not to replace head unit he did that and some of the controls on the control center will not work. He had replaced origional unit back in. Just used a line level inverter instead. That is what I am doing.

[rodtice]

I have 2 amps and 2 subs, I have rockford amps with line level inputs, I have a small amount of alternator noise, I could put in a filter, but don't find it too intrusive.

BTW there is one option people fail to mention. Behind/below the OEM radio is a huge cavern, If I was going to put in a different head unit I'd leave the OEM connected to control my fan/temp computer and tuck it into the cavern.

[jp396]

is there a seperate harness for the steering wheel controls? is there a way to connect the wheel controls with an aftermarket head?

[Mr. Javidogg]

Ther is a separate harness for the steering wheel controls that goes for $79.99, at www.crutchfield.com, I investigated that, but it makes sense, 80 dollars for a piece of wire, I think it's not worth it.

Like jp396 said forget about it.

You'll get use dit, plus I rather use a wireless remote control instead, must of this newer headunits, like Alpine & Kenwood come with remote controls included.

Either way let us know what you end up doing.



Javs.

[rodtice]

if it were me, putting in a radio with a remote input I would try and wire up the OEM controls myself.