Explain Preouts, please

[c_hayhurst 10+ year member]

I'm confused as to what pre-outs are used for. I assume they allow you to plug components into your head unit, such as amps, auxiliary audio devices (e.g., i-Pod) and DVD players. Is this correct?

Also, what importance is the voltage on preouts?

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[iceteebone 5,000+ posts]

preouts basically carry a music signal to an external amp. you do not run anything into them, that is what the aux input is for.

the voltage has minimal importance. you match the amp's input with that of the preout voltage

 

[Worlddre 5,000+ posts]

preout are the little rca jacks on the back of your HU they are used to send the audio signal from your cd and such to an amp or crossover....the voltage is basically the strength of the signal...the stronger the signal the less you have to turn up the gain on your amp(s) to to match the input

 

[SkwurlyFab 10+ year member]

The pre outs are used to send a signal to your amps using rca cables. Theres pre outs for the front speakers, rear speakers, and sub/s. To connect an iPod you use the auxilary input. On some HU's it's just a set of RCA inputs, on others you ahve to buy special adaptor cables. Pretty basic.

And you only use the pre outs if you're powering your speakers with amps, if you're just wiring your speakers to the HU to use it's internal amp, you don't use the pre outs.

 

[c_hayhurst 10+ year member]

Duh!! I knew that!

Man, I've been studying waaaaaayyyy too much lately. It's making me forget things I already know.

Wow.

Thanks, guys