Replacing factory stereo but keeping factory speakers: How many watts per channel?

[atmo]

I have a 1996 Olds 98 that I'm wanting to replace the factory stereo in.

I've been very happy with the sound of the factory system, but as of late the cassette deck has quit accepting any cassette adapter I put into it, so I can't listen to my iPod through the system anymore.

I want to replace the factory stereo with a newer unit which has an aux input on the front so that I can plug my iPod in, but I don't want to replace the factory speakers since I like the way they sound and they're still in great shape.

How can I find out how many watts the factory speakers will handle so that the new stereo I buy doesn't exceed what the speakers can handle?

Click to read more...

 

[maylar 10+ year member]

Head unit power has been pretty much standard for years. Typical ratings are anywhere from 16-22 watts rms (depending on how they measure it) with 50 watts peak. Any of the current stuff that will fit your car will be fine with the stock speakers.

 

[atmo]

Thanks for the info, Maylar, I'm off to choose a new unit. Will let you know how things turn out.