Upgrading Factory system - some suggestions needed.

[theedudenator 10+ year member]

1 year ago I replaced the factory speakers with some Boston Acustics

I was hesitant to replace my factory HU because of the factory CD changer and steering controls.

So now I have the following on order from Crutchfield

Alpine IDA-X100 and the optional HD radio unit (not in stock yet)

It says the Alpine is compatible with steering controls, but I am not seeing an adapter. Crutchfield shows the PAC brand adapter does not work.

Any idea what I should be looking for? The PAC website shows that it works with the older model Alpine, maybe they do not have the webpage updated yet.

I was given a 4 channel kenwood amp.

KAC-748 50 watts x 4 at 2 ohms

The Alpine is

0dBA (Ref: 1W into 4Ohm): 18W x 4

Max Power Output: 50W x 4

This is just for my daily driver, I am not looking for loud, just clarity and no distortion.

Is it worth all of the hassle to install the amp for my existing 6x8 speakers? I am thinking it is not.

Is there a possibility I can adapt my Ford 6 disk changer to the Alpine unit?

Click to read more...

 

[theedudenator 10+ year member]

Are you kidding?

It is the best thing on my car.

It is a Crown Vic and I actually have to reach for the stereo.

Having volume and able to change stations and CD tracks on the wheel is great.

I am afraid I am going to wear the buttons out before the car.

Now back to the important questions.

The Amp and CD changer.

 

[theedudenator 10+ year member]

I was able to find the PAC steering wheel control that is supposed to work.

I will see what happens when I install it.

I think I found a wiring diagram for my CD changer. I am assuming I can just splice this into the Alpine unit?