Ever wanted to blast your favorite tunes in your car, but your factory stereo just doesn’t have the right connections for that awesome new amplifier? You’re not alone! Many car owners face this exact problem. Upgrading your car’s sound system can be exciting, but the lack of RCA outputs on many factory radios often throws a wrench in the works. It’s frustrating when you have to choose between keeping your stock look and getting the booming bass you crave.
That’s where a Line Out Converter for car audio comes in. But with so many different types and brands available, figuring out which one is best for your car can feel like a puzzle. Are they all the same? Do some work better than others? This guide is here to cut through the confusion. By the end, you’ll understand what a line out converter is, why it’s essential for certain upgrades, and how to pick the perfect one for your specific needs. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your car’s audio system!
Our Top 5 Line Out Converter For Car Audio Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Line Out Converter For 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’s stereo but don’t have the right hookups? The Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Out Converter is your answer. This clever device lets you use your car’s existing speaker wires to add a whole new level of sound to your ride. You’ll hear every detail, from the highest notes to the deepest bass, just like the artist intended.
What We Like:
- Easily connects an amplifier to almost any car radio.
- Lets you hear your music with amazing clarity at any volume.
- Automatically turns your speaker signal into the connections you need.
- Works with speaker signals up to 55 watts.
- Provides a 12-volt remote turn-on for your amp.
What Could Be Improved:
- Installation might require some basic wiring knowledge.
The Kicker KISLOC2 is a fantastic tool for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s audio system without replacing their factory radio. It’s a straightforward way to unlock better sound quality and more power.
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: 8.9/10
Ready to boost your car’s sound system? The Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter is your ticket to better audio. This handy device lets you connect your factory car stereo to a new amplifier, especially if you want to add a subwoofer. It easily turns your speaker-level signals into the RCA line-level signals that amps need. Plus, it comes with a remote knob so you can easily control your bass level right from your dashboard.
What We Like:
- It works with almost any car stereo, making it super versatile.
- It’s easy to install, so you won’t need a professional.
- It helps you get great sound quality for your subwoofer.
- The compact design fits anywhere and it’s built tough.
- It provides a clean and strong audio signal for your system.
- Scosche offers a lifetime of tech support and a limited warranty.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be a little clearer for complete beginners.
- Sometimes, the remote knob wire might feel a bit short depending on your car’s layout.
This Scosche LOC2SL converter is a smart and affordable way to upgrade your car audio. You’ll enjoy clearer, more powerful sound without all the hassle.
3. PAC SNI-35 Variable LOC Line Out Converter 1.2×6.25×5.9
Rating: 8.9/10
The PAC SNI-35 Variable LOC Line Out Converter is a handy gadget for anyone wanting to upgrade their car’s sound system. If your car has a factory radio but you want to add a more powerful amplifier, this converter is your solution. It takes the speaker-level sound from your factory radio and turns it into a lower-level signal that your amplifier can understand. This means you can get that booming sound you’ve been dreaming of without replacing your entire head unit.
What We Like:
- It lets you add an amplifier to your existing factory radio.
- The converter changes the speaker output to a level your amplifier needs.
- It uses an audio transformer to block unwanted noise, keeping your music clear.
- The phase adjustment helps ensure your sound is as good as it can be.
- It’s designed to be easy to install.
What Could Be Improved:
- The dimensions (1.2×6.25×5.9 inches) might be a bit large for some tight spaces.
- It only converts speaker-level to RCA-level, so it doesn’t add new features to your factory radio.
This converter makes upgrading your car audio simple and effective. It’s a smart way to get better sound without a complete overhaul.
4. Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter
Rating: 8.7/10
Upgrade your car’s sound system with the Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter. This handy device lets you connect an aftermarket amplifier to your car’s factory radio, even if it doesn’t have RCA pre-outs. It’s built to work with all kinds of radios, from your car’s original one to the latest smart radios. You can send up to 55 watts of power through it. It also makes sure your music sounds clear and true to life, with a flat frequency range from 20Hz to 20kHz. This means you hear all the lows and highs, no matter how loud you play your music.
What We Like:
- Works with many different car radios, including original ones.
- Handles a good amount of power (up to 55 watts).
- Keeps your music sounding great across all sounds, from deep bass to high notes.
- Prevents your radio from shutting off when you add an amp.
- Gives you a strong RCA signal for your amplifier.
What Could Be Improved:
- The instructions could be a little clearer for beginners.
- Some users might want even higher RCA output voltage for very specific setups.
This converter is a solid choice for anyone wanting to boost their car’s audio. It makes adding a new amplifier much easier and helps you get the best sound from your system.
5. KICKER 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your car’s sound system with the KICKER 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect. This handy device lets you connect your car’s factory radio to an aftermarket amplifier, even if your radio doesn’t have RCA outputs. It’s designed to work with factory radios that have short circuit protection, meaning it won’t damage your car’s electronics. It can handle up to 55 watts of power from your speakers and send a clean signal of up to 8 volts to your amplifier. This converter is small, so it’s easy to hide, and it makes your music sound great.
What We Like:
- Works with factory radios that have short circuit protection.
- Accepts up to 55 watts of speaker input.
- Provides up to 8 volts of output for a strong signal to your amp.
- Sound quality is clear and doesn’t change the music’s tone.
- Its small size makes installation simple and discreet.
- It’s a 2-channel speaker-to-RCA converter, perfect for many setups.
What Could Be Improved:
- It’s a line-out converter, so it’s an extra step for some installations.
The KICKER 46KISLOC is a fantastic solution for anyone wanting better sound in their car without replacing their factory head unit. It delivers excellent audio performance in a compact package.
Choosing the Right Line Out Converter for Your Car Audio System
Upgrading your car’s sound system can be exciting, but sometimes you run into a snag. Many newer cars have factory radios that don’t have the usual RCA outputs needed for aftermarket amplifiers. This is where a line out converter for car audio comes in! It’s a clever little device that bridges the gap, letting you connect your factory radio to an amplifier and unlock better sound. This guide will help you pick the best one for your needs.
What is a Line Out Converter?
Think of it like a translator for your car’s audio. Your factory radio sends out a speaker-level signal (the kind that goes to your speakers). An amplifier needs a line-level signal, which is cleaner and stronger. A line out converter takes that speaker-level signal, converts it into a line-level signal, and gives you RCA outputs so you can plug in your amplifier.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping, keep these important features in mind:
- Number of Channels: Most converters offer 2 channels (for front or rear speakers) or 4 channels (for both front and rear). Think about how many speakers you want to power with your new amplifier.
- Built-in Remote Turn-On: This is a super handy feature. It automatically turns your amplifier on when the car stereo is on and off when the car is off. Without it, you might need to wire a separate remote turn-on wire, which is more work.
- Adjustable Gain/Output Level: Some converters let you fine-tune the output signal’s strength. This helps you match the converter’s output to your amplifier’s input for the best sound quality and to avoid distortion.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR): A higher SNR means less unwanted noise in your audio. Look for converters with an SNR of 80dB or higher for cleaner sound.
- Power Handling: While the converter itself doesn’t “handle” power like an amplifier, it needs to be able to process the signal from your factory radio without issues. Most standard converters are fine for typical factory systems.
Important Materials
The quality of the materials used in a line out converter can affect its performance and how long it lasts.
- Circuit Board: A well-made circuit board with good soldering is important for reliability.
- Wiring and Connectors: Look for sturdy wires and secure connectors. Cheap, thin wires can lead to signal loss or noise. Gold-plated RCA connectors are a plus as they resist corrosion.
- Enclosure: A durable plastic or metal casing protects the internal components.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things make a line out converter perform better or worse.
Improving Quality:
- Good Grounding: Proper grounding is crucial. A converter with a well-designed grounding circuit helps reduce engine noise and other electrical interference.
- Shielding: Internal shielding can protect the signal from outside electrical noise.
- High-Quality Components: Using better electronic parts inside the converter leads to a cleaner, more accurate signal.
Reducing Quality:
- Poor Grounding: Bad grounding is a common cause of annoying humming or buzzing sounds in your car audio.
- Cheap Components: Low-quality internal parts can result in a weak signal or distortion.
- Lack of Filtering: Without proper filters, unwanted electrical noise from the car can get into your audio signal.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a line out converter is generally straightforward.
User Experience:
- Installation: You’ll typically tap into the speaker wires coming from your factory radio and connect them to the converter’s input. Then, you connect your amplifier to the converter’s RCA outputs. Some converters are plug-and-play, making installation easier.
- Sound Quality: A good line out converter should provide a clean, strong signal to your amplifier. This allows your amplifier to do its job without adding unwanted noise. You should notice a significant improvement in sound clarity and volume compared to using just your factory speakers.
Common Use Cases:
- Adding an Amplifier to a Factory System: This is the most common reason people buy a line out converter. It lets you add more power for better bass or clearer highs.
- Installing Subwoofers: If you want to add a subwoofer for deep bass, you’ll need an amplifier, and thus, a line out converter if your factory radio lacks RCA outputs.
- Upgrading Factory Speakers: Even if you’re just replacing your factory speakers with better ones, adding an amplifier powered by a line out converter can make a huge difference.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a line out converter if my car radio has Bluetooth?
A: Bluetooth is for streaming audio wirelessly. It doesn’t usually provide the RCA outputs needed for an amplifier. So, yes, you likely still need a line out converter.
Q: Can I use a line out converter with a factory amplifier?
A: Sometimes. If your car has a factory amplifier, the wiring can be more complex. Some line out converters are designed to work with these systems, but you should check the product specifications carefully.
Q: Will a line out converter affect my car’s warranty?
A: Tapping into your car’s wiring *could* potentially affect your warranty, especially if done incorrectly. It’s always best to consult your car’s manual or a professional installer.
Q: How do I know if my factory radio has speaker-level outputs?
A: Most factory radios have speaker-level outputs. If your radio powers your car’s speakers directly, it’s using speaker-level outputs.
Q: What’s the difference between a passive and active line out converter?
A: A passive converter simply reduces the voltage of the speaker-level signal. An active converter uses circuitry to actively convert the signal, often providing a cleaner and more stable output. Active converters are generally preferred.
Q: Can I use a line out converter to connect my phone directly to an amplifier?
A: No. A line out converter is specifically designed to convert speaker-level signals from a car stereo into line-level signals. You would need a different type of adapter for a phone connection.
Q: Will a line out converter hurt my factory radio?
A: If installed correctly, a line out converter should not harm your factory radio. It simply takes the existing signal and converts it.
Q: How much does a good line out converter cost?
A: Prices can range from $20 for basic models to $100 or more for high-end converters with advanced features. You can find good quality options for around $40-$70.
Q: Can I use two line out converters if I need 6 channels?
A: Yes, you can often use two 2-channel converters or a 4-channel converter and a 2-channel converter to achieve the desired number of outputs.
Q: Is it better to buy a converter with a built-in remote turn-on?
A: For most people, yes. The built-in remote turn-on feature simplifies installation by eliminating the need for an extra wire to tell your amplifier when to turn on and off.
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.