Ever crank up your car stereo only to find the bass sounds weak or the sound is just… flat? You know your favorite songs deserve better. Many car owners face this common problem: upgrading your speakers or adding a subwoofer means dealing with factory radio limitations. These stock systems often lack the clean, powerful signal needed for true audio performance.
Choosing the right High Low Converter, or Line Output Converter (LOC), can feel like navigating a maze of technical terms. Should you pick a passive or active model? How do you handle those tricky factory crossovers that cut out the low frequencies? Getting this wrong means wasting money and still ending up with disappointing sound quality. You want that deep, punchy bass and crystal-clear highs, but the factory wiring is holding you back.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what a High Low Converter does, explain the key differences between the types available, and show you step-by-step how to pick the perfect match for your specific setup. Stop settling for mediocre music in your ride. Keep reading to unlock the full potential of your car audio system and finally hear your music the way it was meant to sound!
Top High Low 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
- 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
- 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
- Compatible with OEM Radios, aftermarket radios, and smart radios
- Accepts Up to 55 Watts (16 volts) of Input Signal
- Flat 20Hz - 20kHz Frequency Range at All Volume Levels
- Applies 60-ohm Load to Each Channel to Circumvent Open-Circuit Protection
- RCA Line Outputs Up to 8 Volts RMS
- 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
- 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
- High-Powered 4-Channel Output Converter: The NVX XMICROLOC4 is a 4-channel, 600W line output converter (150W per channel) designed to integrate aftermarket amplifiers with factory OEM stereos, delivering powerful sound performance without compromising your vehicle's original audio system.
- Premium Audio Performance: Equipped with a premium input circuit that corrects crossover distortion, this converter ensures clear, accurate signal conversion for optimal sound quality, even when adding an amplifier to your factory system.
- Adjustable Outputs for Custom Tuning: The 6:1 step-down ratio with individual adjustable outputs allows for precise control over the audio signal, giving you the flexibility to fine-tune your system for balanced sound and the perfect level of bass and treble.
- Built-in Remote Turn-On Trigger: The 12-volt output for amplifier remote turn-on is integrated into the design, enabling easy amplifier activation whenever the stereo is powered on, making installation and setup quick and hassle-free.
- Compact & Easy Installation: The compact design of the XMICROLOC4 allows for easy installation in tight spaces, making it a perfect solution for vehicle owners looking to add an amplifier to their factory system without the need for major modifications.
- 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)
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right High-Low Converter for Your Car Audio
Adding an aftermarket amplifier to your factory car stereo can really boost your sound quality. But there’s a catch! Most factory radios only send out a low-level signal (RCA) for factory amps, while most aftermarket amps need a high-level signal (speaker wires). That’s where a High-Low Converter steps in. This small but mighty device bridges that gap. Use this guide to pick the perfect one for your ride.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, keep these important features in mind. They determine how well the converter works with your existing system.
- Input/Output Types: Ensure the converter accepts the speaker-level input from your factory radio and provides RCA outputs for your new amplifier.
- Built-in Remote Turn-On: The best converters automatically generate a “remote turn-on” wire. This tells your amplifier to switch on when the car stereo is on, and off when it’s off. This avoids extra wiring hassle.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): A higher SNR means cleaner sound with less background hiss or hum. Look for 90dB or higher if clean audio is your goal.
- Adjustable Output Level: This lets you fine-tune the voltage going to your amplifier, helping you match the amp’s sensitivity and prevent distortion.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The quality of the internal parts directly affects how long the converter lasts and how clean the sound is.
Internal Components
Look for converters that use quality internal components. Good capacitors and resistors help keep the audio signal steady. While you can’t always see inside, reputable brands usually invest in better parts.
Housing and Connections
The casing should be made of durable plastic or metal. Sturdy, gold-plated RCA jacks are better than cheap metal ones. Gold resists corrosion, ensuring a solid connection for years.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one converter sound better than another? It often comes down to how well it handles noise and voltage.
Ground Isolation (Noise Reduction)
The biggest enemy of clean audio is ground loop noise—that annoying hum you sometimes hear. High-quality converters often feature built-in ground isolation circuits. These circuits separate the ground of the factory radio from the ground of the aftermarket amp, significantly reducing noise.
Voltage Handling
Some factory radios put out a very high voltage signal. A converter must handle this voltage without clipping (distorting) the signal. Converters with high input voltage tolerance (e.g., handling up to 15V) offer better flexibility.
User Experience and Use Cases
How easy is the converter to install and use in real life?
Installation Simplicity
If the converter has a built-in remote turn-on feature, installation becomes much simpler. You connect the speaker wires, connect the RCAs, and you are mostly done. Converters that require you to wire a separate trigger wire add extra steps.
Use Cases
These devices are essential when you want to keep your factory stereo (perhaps due to complex infotainment integration) but need more power for aftermarket speakers or subwoofers. They are perfect for factory upgrades where replacing the head unit is not an option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About High-Low Converters
Q: What is the main job of a High-Low Converter?
A: Its main job is to take the high-level speaker signal coming from your factory stereo and convert it into a clean, low-level RCA signal that your aftermarket amplifier can use.
Q: Do I need a High-Low Converter if my factory stereo has RCA outputs?
A: Usually, no. If your factory stereo already has dedicated RCA outputs, you can connect those directly to your amplifier. Converters are primarily needed when you only have speaker wire connections available.
Q: Will using a converter lower my sound quality?
A: A good quality converter should not lower your sound quality noticeably. A poorly made converter, however, might introduce unwanted noise or distortion.
Q: What is the “remote turn-on” feature?
A: This feature automatically senses the audio signal from the factory radio and sends a small voltage signal to your amplifier, telling it to turn on. This saves you from running a separate wire from a fuse box.
Q: How do I know if my converter is causing a humming noise?
A: If you hear a steady hum or whine that changes pitch with the engine RPMs, it’s often a ground loop issue. Look for a converter with built-in ground isolation to fix this problem.
Q: Can I use a converter if I am only adding a subwoofer amplifier?
A: Yes, you can. You simply connect the converter to the wires leading to the rear speakers (as these carry the full-range signal) and send the RCA output to your subwoofer amp.
Q: What input voltage can most aftermarket amps handle from a converter?
A: Most modern aftermarket amplifiers are designed to work well with the 2V to 4V output range that quality converters provide.
Q: Are powered converters better than passive ones?
A: Powered converters often have better features, like built-in noise rejection and adjustable gain, which generally leads to cleaner results than simple, passive (unpowered) converters.
Q: How do I set the gain on my amplifier after installing the converter?
A: First, set the output level knob on the converter to about the halfway point. Then, play music loudly through your factory stereo and slowly turn up the gain knob on your amplifier until the sound starts to distort. Back the gain off slightly from that distortion point for the cleanest, loudest signal.
Q: Will installing this void my car’s factory warranty?
A: Installing aftermarket electronics usually does not void your entire car warranty. However, if the installation directly causes a failure in the factory radio system, the dealer might deny a warranty claim for that specific part.