Ever cranked up your car stereo, only to find the sound gets muddy or distorted when you try to add an amplifier? It’s a common headache for car audio enthusiasts. You want that booming bass and crystal-clear sound, but your factory stereo just won’t cooperate with aftermarket gear. This is where the unsung hero of car audio upgrades steps in: the Line Out Converter (LOC).
Choosing the right LOC feels like navigating a maze. Do you need a basic converter or one with extra features like signal summing? Picking the wrong one means wasted money and, worse, poor sound quality. Many people struggle to understand the technical jargon and the real differences between models.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what a Line Out Converter does, the different types available, and how to select the perfect match for your specific setup. By the end, you will confidently know how to integrate your factory radio with powerful new amplifiers.
Top Line Out Converter Car Audio Recommendations
- Add an amplifier to nearly any radio with the KISLOC2 Stereo Line-Out Converter. Experience true sonic accuracy at any volume level, with all the sparkling highs and thunderous lows of your original audio.
- Using nothing more than your factory speaker wires, the innovative KISLOC2 automatically converts the speaker signal into both an RCA signal and a powerful 100 milli-amp, 12-volt remote wire using DC offset.
- Accepts up to 55 watts (16 volts) of input signal
- Compatible with OEM radios that have short circuit protection, these units take as much as 55 watts of input and deliver up to 8 volts of output.
- This sonically neutral converter delivers outstanding sound quality in an incredibly small footprint.
- KISLOC 2-ch speaker-to-RCA converter, LOC
- Convert speaker-level signals (up to 400W per channel) from factory-installed source units or amplifiers into high-quality pre-amp signals that can be directed to aftermarket processors or amplifiers
- Two channels of active speaker-level inputs accept up to 400W signals per channel
- Fixed and variable outputs with discrete level controls
- Correct bass roll-off at higher volumes with AccuBASS processing
- Optional remote sublevel control input (ACR-1 dash knob sold separately)
- Unmatched Versatility - Compatible with a wide range of car audio systems, this high to low audio converter offers flexible installation options, making it a go-to solution for converting speaker level signals to RCA line level signals for optimal sound
- Seamless Integration - Effortlessly integrate your factory stereo with an aftermarket amplifier using this line level converter, ensuring no loss of sound quality; ideal for boosting your car’s audio performance without complex rewiring
- Enhanced Audio Experience - Transform your car audio system with the Scosche LOC2SL line output converter, delivering crisp and clear sound quality for your subwoofer; perfect for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound
- Compact and Durable Design - Engineered by Scosche, the LOC2SL line output converter is compact and built to last, fitting easily into tight spaces while maintaining durability; a reliable upgrade for any car audio enthusiast
- Optimal Signal Quality - Ensure maximum audio performance with this OEM quality RCA converter for car audio, designed to minimize signal interference and deliver clean, powerful sound; the perfect addition to your custom car audio setup
- Adjustable Line Output Converter
- Use the SNI-35 when adding an amplifier to a factory radio to convert the radio's speaker level output to the lower amplifier (RCA) level input
- Utilize Audio Transformer for Noise Isolation
- Phase Adjusted
- High-Power 2-Channel Line Out Converter: The NVX XLCA2 is a 2-channel line out converter designed to improve your car's audio system by converting high-level speaker signals to low-level RCA signals for use with aftermarket amplifiers. It handles speaker-level inputs of up to 400 watts RMS, allowing for seamless integration into almost any car audio setup.
- xBOOST Technology for Enhanced Bass: Featuring xBOOST technology, the XLCA2 optimizes the bass response in your system, enhancing low-end performance and providing a deep, powerful bass experience with minimal distortion.
- Selectable Auto-On for Efficiency: The Selectable Auto-On feature ensures that the XLCA2 only activates when your vehicle is in use, saving battery power and optimizing efficiency by engaging only when needed.
- Remote Bass Control Included: The included remote bass knob allows you to adjust bass levels directly from the dashboard, offering convenient control over your system's low-end output while driving.
- Versatile Output Options: With a 9.5V pre-out, 12V trigger out, and dual amplifier outputs, the NVX XLCA2 offers flexible installation options for complex car audio setups, ensuring compatibility with various amplifiers and audio systems.
- Car audio speaker level converter wiring adapter allows to add 2 channel or mono amplifier or subwoofer to existing factory or aftermarket car stereo kit
- Convert car stereo speaker wire output to RCA Cable outputs: In order to improve the sound quality, the function of RCA output can convert high to low; The high voltage signal output of the amplifier/speaker converts to low-voltage signal
- Convenient to use: There is the level gain adjustment to adjust the bass down without having to pull over and manually adjust the amplifier
- Easy to install: Use this adapter when adding an amplifier to a factory radio that convert the radio's speaker level output to the lower amplifier RCA level input; Tap into a speaker wire and it senses the signal, and turns on a relay to send power to the amp
- Reasonable and neat power plug, it has the prefect bonding and contact stability; Provide clean and excellent sound
Choosing the Right Line Out Converter: Your Car Audio Upgrade Guide
Want to add an amplifier and subwoofer to your factory car stereo? That’s a great idea for better sound! But factory stereos often lack the RCA outputs that amplifiers need. This is where a Line Out Converter (LOC) steps in. It changes the speaker-level signal from your factory stereo into a clean, low-level RCA signal your amp understands. This guide helps you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping for an LOC, some features make a big difference in performance and ease of installation.
Signal Quality and Cleanliness
- Built-in Amplifier Turn-On Signal: Look for converters that generate a remote turn-on signal. This automatically turns your amp on and off with your stereo, preventing battery drain and simplifying wiring.
- Low Noise and Distortion: The best LOCs keep the signal clean. High-quality internal components reduce unwanted buzzing or humming sounds (noise).
- Signal Matching/Gain Control: Adjustable input gain lets you match the voltage output from your factory stereo to what your amplifier expects. This prevents clipping (distortion) and ensures maximum volume without damage.
Connectivity and Durability
- RCA Outputs: Ensure it has high-quality, gold-plated RCA jacks. These resist corrosion and provide a solid connection for your RCA cables.
- Speaker Level Inputs: Check the maximum wattage or voltage handling capacity of the inputs. A higher rating means the converter can handle louder factory volumes without failing.
Important Materials and Construction
The materials inside and outside the LOC affect its lifespan and performance.
Internal Components
Good converters use robust internal circuitry. Cheap plastic components degrade faster. Look for models that emphasize quality resistors and capacitors. These parts manage the electrical flow and are crucial for a noise-free signal.
Housing and Shielding
The outer casing should be made of durable metal, often aluminum. Metal housing helps shield the internal electronics from external electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by other car electronics. This shielding is vital for keeping your music sounding clear.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one LOC better than another? It often comes down to how well it handles the factory signal.
Quality Boosters
- Transformer Isolation: The highest quality converters use isolation transformers. These physically separate the factory speaker wires from the RCA outputs. This isolation virtually eliminates alternator whine and ground loop noise, which are common headaches for DIY installers.
- High Voltage Input: If your factory stereo puts out a very high speaker voltage (common in premium factory systems), you need an LOC rated to handle it without clipping the signal early.
Quality Reducers
- Poor Grounding: If the LOC grounds poorly to the chassis, you will hear a constant engine hum.
- Cheap Wiring: Thin, low-gauge wires connecting the inputs can introduce resistance and degrade the audio quality before it even reaches the converter chip.
User Experience and Use Cases
A good LOC makes installation easier and provides a better long-term experience.
Ease of Installation
For beginners, plug-and-play options that use T-harnesses (if available for your specific vehicle) simplify wiring immensely. However, most LOCs require splicing into the factory speaker wires. Look for clearly labeled terminals.
Common Use Cases
- Adding a Subwoofer: This is the most common use. You tap the rear speaker wires to get the signal, convert it, and run RCAs to your mono or dual-channel amplifier.
- Upgrading Factory Full-Range Speakers: If you are keeping the factory head unit but adding an aftermarket 4-channel amplifier for cleaner sound to your door speakers, you need an LOC connected to all four speaker channels.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Line Out Converters
Q: What is the main purpose of a Line Out Converter?
A: Its main job is to safely change the high-voltage signal from a factory speaker wire into a low-voltage RCA signal that an aftermarket amplifier can use.
Q: Do I need an LOC if my factory stereo already has RCA outputs?
A: No. If your factory stereo has dedicated RCA pre-outs, you skip the LOC and connect directly to your amplifier.
Q: Will using an LOC lower my sound quality?
A: A high-quality LOC will maintain excellent quality. A cheap, noisy LOC might introduce hiss or distortion.
Q: What is “ground loop noise” and how does the LOC fix it?
A: Ground loop noise sounds like a loud engine hum. Isolation transformers inside better LOCs break the electrical path causing the hum.
Q: How do I set the gain controls on the LOC?
A: You set the gain so the LOC outputs the maximum clean signal voltage without distorting, matching what your amplifier needs for a full-power signal.
Q: Can I use an LOC designed for a subwoofer to power my door speakers?
A: Yes, if the LOC has enough channels. A 2-channel LOC only handles two speaker feeds (like the rear pair), while a 4-channel LOC handles all four.
Q: What is the difference between an LOC and a DSP (Digital Signal Processor)?
A: An LOC just converts the signal level. A DSP does the conversion *plus* allows you to correct time alignment, equalize frequencies, and fine-tune your sound system significantly.
Q: Is it safe to tap into the factory amplifier wires?
A: You must check your vehicle first. If the factory stereo feeds a dedicated external amplifier, tapping those speaker wires might not give you a full-range signal, or you risk overloading the LOC.
Q: How important is the remote turn-on wire feature?
A: It is very important. It prevents you from having to run a separate wire from the fuse box and ensures your amp turns off when you shut down the car.
Q: Where should I connect the LOC’s ground wire?
A: You should connect the LOC ground wire directly to a bare, clean, unpainted metal point on the car chassis near the stereo, or directly to the factory stereo’s ground wire if instructed by the manual.