Adding sub to factory system

[ikpthegame 10+ year member]

So since I'm going back to my stock radio, for adding my sub to it should I go with the EPICENTER Micro Bass Restoration Processor & Line Output Converter or LC2i? I have a 18 Forester with the Harman kardon system but I'll be tapping the signal B4 the amps. Also I can't find a good pin out on Google for the life of me, any help would be great

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[CarAudio.com - Hal AI Bots]

So since I'm going back to my stock radio, for adding my sub to it should I go with the EPICENTER Micro Bass Restoration Processor & Line Output Converter or LC2i? I have a 18 Forester with the Harman kardon system but I'll be tapping the signal B4 the amps. Also I can't find a good pin out on Google for the life of me, any help would be great

Great to hear you're working on your 2018 Forester with the Harman Kardon system! Adding a subwoofer while retaining your stock radio can definitely enhance your audio experience. Let’s break down your options for the signal processing and the pinout information.

Choosing Between EPICENTER and LC2i​

1. EPICENTER Micro Bass Restoration Processor:
   • The EPICENTER is designed to enhance low frequencies and restore bass that may be lost in the audio signal. It works well for those who want to bring out the bass in their music, especially if you’re using a subwoofer.
   • It can be beneficial if you listen to music genres that heavily rely on bass and you want to ensure you’re getting the best performance from your subwoofer.
2. LC2i (Line Output Converter):
   • The LC2i is a high-quality line output converter that allows you to tap into the factory audio system and convert the speaker-level signals to line-level signals suitable for your amplifier.
   • It features a built-in summing circuit that can combine the left and right signals, which is useful for a subwoofer setup. The LC2i also has a remote turn-on feature, which can be helpful for controlling your subwoofer amplifier.

Recommendation:​

If your primary goal is to add a subwoofer and ensure you have a clean signal with good control over the bass, the LC2i is generally the better choice for this application. It will provide a reliable signal for your amplifier while allowing you to maintain the stock radio setup. The EPICENTER can be used in conjunction with the LC2i if you find that you want to enhance the bass further, but it may not be necessary unless you’re specifically looking for that bass restoration feature.

Pinout Information for the Harman Kardon System​

Finding a detailed pinout for specific vehicles can be challenging, especially for factory systems like Harman Kardon. However, I can guide you on how to approach this:

1. Service Manual: If you can find a service manual for your 2018 Forester, it may contain wiring diagrams and pinout information. These manuals can often be found online or purchased.
2. Factory Radio Removal: When you remove the factory radio, you can inspect the wiring harness. Often, there will be a label or color coding that can help you identify the speaker wires.
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3. Use a Multimeter: If you have access to a multimeter, you can test the wires for continuity and identify which ones are the speaker outputs by playing audio through the system.
4. Forums and Community Help: Since you're already on a car audio forum, consider posting a request for a pinout or wiring diagram specific to the 2018 Forester with the Harman Kardon system. Other members may have already done the same installation and can share their findings.

Final Thoughts​

Once you have your line output converter and pinout figured out, you should be set to integrate your subwoofer effectively. If you have any further questions or run into any issues during your installation, don’t hesitate to ask! Also, I encourage other members who have experience with the Forester’s audio system to chime in and share their insights. Good luck with your installation!

 

[RobGMN Premium Member]

Have you looked into any of the Metra (or similar) wiring kits? They have the pin-out specs right on the packaging.

What sub amp are you planning on using? The LC2i sounds like it may be where you want to go for a Subie, especially since the factory stereo automatically reduces the bass as the volume is increased.

 

[ThxOne Premium Member]

You have other options. Many sub amplifiers have high level inputs already built in. You mentioned the Epicenter and an LC2i.... two AudioControl products. You could just get an AC sub amp.

 

[Old_Slapper]

So since I'm going back to my stock radio, for adding my sub to it should I go with the EPICENTER Micro Bass Restoration Processor & Line Output Converter or LC2i? I have a 18 Forester with the Harman kardon system but I'll be tapping the signal B4 the amps. Also I can't find a good pin out on Google for the life of me, any help would be great

The Epicenter is only good if you listen to music that doesn't have deep bass, like rock and Hispanic music. This is why the Epicenter is so popular in the Spanish community. You can use it with hip-hip, but I, personally, think it sounds like shi-poopoo.

 

[ikpthegame 10+ year member]

I have everything already in the car with an aftermarket radio but I'm having issues with it causing my factory amps to pop that's why I'm switching back. So lc2i is the way to go?

 

[Old_Slapper]

I have everything already in the car with an aftermarket radio but I'm having issues with it causing my factory amps to pop that's why I'm switching back. So lc2i is the way to go?

If you have an aftermarket radio and factory amps, why not just replace the factory amps with aftermarket ones?

 

[ikpthegame 10+ year member]

If you have an aftermarket radio and factory amps, why not just replace the factory amps with aftermarket ones?

More work and money than I wanna spend to rewire it all. Plus the Harmon kardon system sounds good

 

[1aespinoza Premium Member]

More work and money than I wanna spend to rewire it all. Plus the Harmon kardon system sounds good

If you really want to fix it, put a chick in it, and make her gay.