Ever wish your car stereo had a secret upgrade button? Many factory stereos sound okay, but they lack the power and clarity that true music lovers crave. If you dream of deep bass and crisp highs, you’ve probably run into a big roadblock: connecting an aftermarket amplifier to your original radio.
This is where the Line Out Converter (LOC) steps in, acting as the essential bridge. But choosing the right one can feel like navigating a maze. Should you pick one with built-in remote turn-on, or worry about noise cancellation? Getting the wrong converter means dealing with annoying static, weak sound, or even damaging your new gear. It’s frustrating when a simple connection causes so much trouble!
Don’t let a confusing piece of hardware stop your audio upgrade. This guide cuts through the jargon. We will show you exactly what a Line Out Converter does, how to pick the perfect model for your setup, and ensure you get clean, powerful sound every time you hit the road.
Top Line Out Converter For 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
- 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-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.
- 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
Choosing the Right Line Output Converter for Your Ride
Want to add a killer subwoofer or powerful amp to your factory car stereo? You often need a Line Output Converter, or LOC. This little gadget helps your new gear talk nicely with your old stereo. Think of it as a translator! This guide will help you pick the best one.
Key Features to Look For
Not all LOCs are built the same. Look for these important features when you shop:
- Built-in Amplifier Turn-On Signal (Auto-Sense): This is super handy. A good LOC automatically senses when your stereo turns on and sends a signal to power up your new amp. This saves you from running an extra wire.
- Adjustable Output Voltage (RCA Level): You need to match the signal strength. Higher adjustable output lets you get a stronger, cleaner signal to your amplifier.
- Low Noise/High Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): This determines how clean your sound is. A higher SNR means less annoying humming or buzzing sounds.
- Speaker Level Input Compatibility: Make sure it can handle the power coming from your factory stereo’s speaker wires.
Important Materials Matter
The stuff the LOC is made from affects how long it lasts and how well it works.
- Internal Components: Look for quality resistors and capacitors inside. Better internal parts handle the electrical signals more accurately.
- Housing: A strong metal or high-quality plastic casing protects the electronics from road vibrations and heat inside your dash.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one LOC better than another? It boils down to signal handling and noise rejection.
Quality Boosters:
- Ground Isolation: The best LOCs have built-in ground isolation circuits. This stops the dreaded “alternator whine” noise that happens when you connect aftermarket gear to factory systems.
- Clean Conversion Circuitry: Advanced circuits convert the high-level speaker signal to a clean, low-level RCA signal without distortion, even at high volumes.
Quality Reducers:
- Cheap Wiring: If the wires connecting to the LOC are thin or poorly shielded, they can pick up interference and introduce noise into your system.
- Poor Grounding: If the unit doesn’t manage grounding well, you will likely hear a humming sound when the car is running.
User Experience and Use Cases
Why do people use LOCs? Mostly, they want better sound without replacing their factory radio.
Common Use Cases:
- Adding a Subwoofer: This is the most common reason. You tap into the rear speaker wires to feed a signal to your subwoofer amplifier.
- Adding External Amps: If you want to power new door speakers with an external amplifier but must keep the factory head unit for features like navigation or climate control.
A good user experience means easy installation. Models with plug-and-play harnesses are often simpler. If the LOC has easy-to-reach adjustment knobs, you can fine-tune the bass response without taking your dash apart every time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Line Output Converters
Q: What exactly does a Line Output Converter do?
A: It takes the high-level signal coming from your factory stereo’s speaker wires and converts it into a low-level RCA signal. Your aftermarket amplifier needs this low-level signal to work correctly.
Q: Can I use a basic LOC if I am just adding a small amp?
A: Yes, for very simple, low-power additions, a basic model might work. However, premium models prevent noise issues, so they are usually worth the extra cost.
Q: Will installing an LOC affect my factory stereo’s warranty?
A: Generally, no, as long as you do not cut or damage any factory wiring harness connectors. Quality LOCs use taps that connect without cutting factory leads.
Q: What is “ground loop noise,” and does an LOC fix it?
A: Ground loop noise sounds like a whining noise that speeds up when you press the gas pedal. A good LOC with built-in isolation fixes this by electrically separating the aftermarket gear from the factory system’s ground.
Q: How do I know what output level I need?
A: Check your amplifier’s manual. Most aftermarket amps run best between 2V and 4V. Choose an LOC that can output at least that high, preferably adjustable.
Q: Do I need an LOC if my new amplifier has speaker-level inputs?
A: Some amps accept speaker-level inputs directly. If your amp has these, you might skip the external LOC. However, built-in converters in amps are often less sophisticated than dedicated external LOCs.
Q: Is it better to tap into the front or rear speaker wires?
A: For subwoofers, tap the rear channels. This lets you fade the front speakers independently. For powering door speakers, tap the respective wires for those doors.
Q: How difficult is the installation process?
A: It ranges from easy (plug-and-play harnesses) to moderate (splicing into factory speaker wires). If you are unsure, hire a professional installer.
Q: What does the “Gain” setting on the LOC control?
A: The gain knob on the LOC adjusts the strength of the RCA signal being sent out. You set this level to match the input sensitivity of your amplifier for the cleanest sound.
Q: Should I buy an LOC with a built-in equalizer?
A: Some advanced models have built-in equalization (EQ) to flatten out the factory audio curve. This is great if your factory stereo artificially lowers the bass at high volumes.