Have you ever wanted to add a powerful subwoofer to your car’s sound system, only to find out your factory stereo doesn’t have the right connections? It’s a common problem that can leave you feeling frustrated. Many car radios are built without the special plugs needed for adding extra bass. This is where a high low converter becomes a lifesaver.
Choosing the right one can feel like a puzzle. There are many different types, and it’s not always clear which one will work best with your specific car and speakers. You might worry about getting the wrong one and not getting the sound quality you want, or even damaging your car’s electrical system. It’s a confusing decision for many car audio enthusiasts.
But don’t worry! This post is here to help. We’ll break down exactly what a high low converter is, how it works, and the most important things to look for when you’re shopping. By the end, you’ll feel confident in picking the perfect converter to get that booming bass you’ve been dreaming of. Let’s dive in and explore how you can upgrade your car’s sound without the headache.
Our Top 5 High Low Converter Car Audio Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 High Low Converter Car Audio Detailed Reviews
1. Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output
Rating: 9.4/10
Want to add a killer amplifier to your car but stuck with a factory radio? The Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Out Converter is your answer! This neat little gadget lets you easily connect an amp to almost any car stereo. You’ll get amazing sound quality, with all the crisp highs and deep lows you love, no matter how loud you crank it up.
What We Like:
- It lets you add a powerful amplifier to your car, even with a factory radio.
- It uses your existing speaker wires, so no complicated wiring is needed.
- It automatically turns your speaker signal into a signal your amp can use (RCA) and a 12-volt remote wire.
- It handles up to 55 watts of input, which is pretty strong.
- You get awesome sound, just like the original music intended.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s designed for specific car systems, so double-check compatibility with your car.
- While it’s user-friendly, some basic car audio knowledge helps.
This Kicker converter makes upgrading your car’s sound system much simpler. It’s a fantastic way to get the big sound you’ve been dreaming of without replacing your entire head unit.
2. Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter with Remote Control Knob – 2CH High/Low RCA Converter Car Audio – Ideal for Subwoofer Amp – Line Level Converter for Car Stereo – Easy Installation – Quality Sound
Rating: 9.5/10
Upgrade your car’s sound system with the Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter! This handy device lets you connect your factory car stereo to a new amplifier, especially if you want to add a subwoofer. It takes the high-level speaker signals from your car’s original radio and turns them into the low-level RCA signals that aftermarket amps need. You even get a remote knob to control your subwoofer’s volume right from your dashboard, making it easy to adjust your sound on the go.
What We Like:
- It’s super versatile and works with many car radios.
- It lets you easily add an aftermarket amp to your factory stereo without changing your whole system.
- It gives you better sound quality, especially for your subwoofer, for a more exciting listening experience.
- It’s small and built tough, so it fits almost anywhere and lasts a long time.
- It provides a clean signal for your amp, ensuring your music sounds its best.
- Scosche offers lifetime tech support and a warranty, so you can be confident in your purchase.
What Could Be Improved:
- While installation is generally easy, some users might find understanding the wiring slightly tricky at first.
- The included remote knob’s cable length might be a limiting factor for some vehicle layouts.
The Scosche LOC2SL is a smart choice for anyone wanting to improve their car audio. It offers a straightforward way to get better sound without a complicated setup.
3. NuIth Car Audio Speaker Wire to RCA Line Output Converter
Rating: 9.0/10
Want to upgrade your car’s sound system with a new amplifier or subwoofer but stuck with a factory stereo? The NuIth Car Audio Speaker Wire to RCA Line Output Converter is your solution. This handy adapter lets you connect your new gear to your existing car stereo. It takes the speaker wire signal from your old stereo and turns it into the RCA signal your new amplifier needs. This means you can get better sound without replacing your entire head unit.
What We Like:
- It lets you add a 2-channel or mono amplifier or subwoofer to your factory or aftermarket car stereo.
- It converts your car stereo’s speaker wire output into RCA cable outputs.
- The converter changes high voltage signals from your speakers into low voltage RCA signals.
- It has a level gain adjustment so you can easily control the bass without stopping.
- Installation is straightforward, tapping into speaker wires and automatically powering your amplifier.
- The power plug is neat and provides a stable connection for clean sound.
- It provides a clean and excellent sound experience.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be clearer for absolute beginners.
- While it works well, some users might prefer a more robust build quality for very demanding systems.
This NuIth converter is a smart way to boost your car audio. It makes adding powerful bass and clearer sound much easier.
4. KICKER 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect
Rating: 9.1/10
The KICKER 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect is a smart little device that helps you upgrade your car’s stereo system. If your car has a factory radio, this converter lets you connect it to an aftermarket amplifier. It works even if your factory radio has special protection that can cause problems for other converters. This means you can get better sound without replacing your whole radio.
What We Like:
- It’s designed to work with factory radios that have short circuit protection, so it won’t damage your car’s system.
- It can handle a lot of power from your factory radio, up to 55 watts, and sends a strong signal, up to 8 volts, to your amplifier.
- The sound quality is excellent. It doesn’t change the original sound, keeping it pure and clear.
- It’s very small, so it’s easy to find a place to hide it in your car.
- It’s a 2-channel converter, meaning it handles the left and right stereo sound.
What Could Be Improved:
- It only converts speaker-level signals to RCA. If you need more advanced features, you might need a different type of converter.
- The instruction manual could be clearer for beginners who aren’t familiar with car audio wiring.
This KICKER converter is a fantastic option for anyone wanting to add an amplifier to their car without replacing their factory head unit. It offers great sound and peace of mind knowing it protects your factory radio.
5. AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Line Out Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control
Rating: 8.9/10
Upgrading your car’s audio system can be tricky. Many factory radios don’t have the right connections for aftermarket amplifiers. That’s where the AudioControl LC2i comes in. This device bridges the gap, letting you add more power and better sound to your car. It takes the speaker signals from your factory radio and turns them into clean signals that an amplifier can use. Plus, it has cool features to make your bass sound better.
What We Like:
- It handles powerful signals, up to 400 watts per channel, so it won’t get overwhelmed.
- You get both fixed and variable outputs, giving you lots of control over your sound levels.
- AccuBASS processing fixes the bass roll-off that many factory stereos have, making your low notes sound full and rich again.
- It has a spot for an optional remote control, so you can easily adjust your subwoofer volume from the driver’s seat.
- Its small size makes it easy to fit into tight spaces in your car.
What Could Be Improved:
- The remote level control is an extra purchase, which adds to the overall cost.
- While it’s great for adding an amp, it doesn’t add any new source inputs itself.
The AudioControl LC2i is a smart solution for anyone wanting to improve their car’s sound system without replacing the factory radio. It offers essential features and great sound-shaping capabilities in a compact package.
Choosing the Right High-Low Converter for Your Car Audio
So, you want to upgrade your car’s sound system, but your factory stereo doesn’t have the fancy RCA outputs newer amplifiers need? That’s where a high-low converter comes in! It’s a small but mighty device that bridges the gap between your old-school stereo and modern audio gear. This guide will help you pick the best one for your ride.
What is a High-Low Converter?
Think of your car’s stereo as speaking one language, and your new amplifier as speaking another. A high-low converter translates these languages so they can understand each other. Your factory stereo sends out a “high-level” signal (like a speaker wire), and the converter turns it into a “low-level” signal (like a cleaner RCA connection) that your amplifier loves.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for a high-low converter, keep these important features in mind:
- Number of Channels: Most cars have at least two front speakers and two rear speakers. You’ll want a converter that can handle all of them. Look for 2-channel (for front or rear only) or 4-channel (for front and rear) options.
- Adjustable Output Level: Some converters let you fine-tune the output volume. This is super helpful for matching the converter’s signal strength to your amplifier’s needs, preventing distortion and getting the cleanest sound.
- Remote Turn-On Wire Output: Many amplifiers need a “remote” signal to turn on and off with your stereo. Some high-low converters have a special wire that generates this signal for you, making installation much easier.
- Built-in Ground Loop Isolator: A ground loop can cause an annoying humming noise in your speakers. A converter with a built-in isolator helps eliminate this problem before it starts.
- Power Handling: While the converter itself doesn’t add power, it’s good to know its specifications. Most are designed for typical car stereo power levels.
Important Materials
The quality of the materials used in a high-low converter can affect its performance and lifespan.
- Circuit Board: A well-made circuit board with good soldering ensures a stable and clean signal.
- Wiring: Look for sturdy, well-insulated wires that won’t fray or break easily. Copper wiring is generally preferred for its conductivity.
- Enclosure: A durable plastic or metal casing protects the internal components from damage and vibration.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make a high-low converter perform better or worse.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: This is a fancy way of saying how clean the audio signal is. A higher signal-to-noise ratio means less unwanted noise and clearer sound. Good quality converters have excellent ratios.
- Component Quality: The resistors, capacitors, and other tiny parts inside the converter matter. High-quality components lead to better sound and reliability.
- Shielding: Good internal shielding helps prevent interference from other electrical components in your car.
- Cheap Components: Using low-quality parts can result in a noisy signal, distortion, and a shorter lifespan for the device.
- Poor Soldering: Sloppy connections on the circuit board can cause intermittent issues or signal loss.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a high-low converter is pretty straightforward once it’s installed.
- Simple Installation: For most DIYers, installing a high-low converter involves tapping into your existing speaker wires and connecting them to the converter. Then, you run RCA cables from the converter to your amplifier.
- Improved Sound Quality: The biggest win is achieving better sound. You can finally connect that powerful amplifier and get the bass and clarity you’ve been dreaming of.
- Retaining Factory Stereo: You don’t have to replace your entire head unit. This is great if you like the look and functionality of your factory stereo.
- Troubleshooting: Sometimes, you might experience humming or static. This could mean the converter isn’t properly grounded, or there’s interference. Adjusting its placement or using a ground loop isolator can often fix this.
- Car Audio Enthusiasts: Anyone looking to add an amplifier to a car with a factory radio is a prime candidate.
- Budget Upgrades: If you want to improve your sound without a complete overhaul, a high-low converter is an affordable solution.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a high-low converter if my car stereo has RCA outputs?
A: No, if your car stereo already has RCA outputs, you can connect your amplifier directly. The converter is only needed when your stereo lacks these outputs.
Q: Can I use a high-low converter with a factory amplifier?
A: Generally, you won’t need a high-low converter if you’re keeping your factory amplifier, as it’s designed to work with the factory stereo’s signal.
Q: Will a high-low converter affect my car’s warranty?
A: Tapping into factory wiring *could* potentially affect your warranty, especially if done incorrectly. It’s best to consult your car’s manual or a professional installer.
Q: How do I know if I need a 2-channel or 4-channel converter?
A: A 2-channel converter is for either the front or rear speakers. A 4-channel converter handles both front and rear speakers, giving you more flexibility.
Q: What’s the difference between a passive and active high-low converter?
A: Passive converters are simpler and don’t require power. Active converters often have more features like remote turn-on outputs and better signal processing, but they need a power source.
Q: Can I install a high-low converter myself?
A: Yes, with basic wiring knowledge and tools, many people can install a high-low converter. However, if you’re unsure, professional installation is recommended.
Q: What if I hear a humming noise after installing the converter?
A: This is likely a ground loop. Check your grounding connections. Some converters have built-in ground loop isolators, or you might need to buy one separately.
Q: Will a high-low converter make my speakers louder?
A: The converter itself doesn’t add power. It converts the signal so your amplifier can work its magic and make your speakers sound much better and potentially louder.
Q: How do I connect the remote turn-on wire?
A: If your converter has a remote turn-on output, connect it to the amplifier’s remote input. If not, you’ll need to find a power source that turns on with your ignition, like the accessory wire.
Q: Are all high-low converters the same quality?
A: No, quality varies greatly. Cheaper models might introduce more noise. Investing in a reputable brand with good reviews usually means better sound and reliability.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.