deck/speaker question

[kid_ding]

I've looked for this but couldn't find the answer, maybe I just didn't know where to look. Will the stock HU be adequate to be able to handle a 4channel amp, 12" sub and a nice pair of front 6x8 speakers? I'll leave the rear speakers as is. Or do I have to get a whole new HU? Do I have to do anything about the power source either?

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[chuyler1]

If you want to connect aftermarket amplifiers to the stock stereo you have two options.

1) Purchase an amplifier that has speaker-level inputs and connnect the speaker outputs on the back of the head unit directly to the amplifier.

2) purchase a LOC (line-out-converter) in addition to your amplifier. The LOC will convert speaker-level outputs from the stock head unit into line-level for the amplifier.

To power an aftermarket amplifier you need to purchase an amplifier wiring kit. You will need to connect the power cable for the amp directly to the battery (with a fuse within 18" of the battery) and you will need to connect the ground cable for the amp to the chassis of the car (usually a seatbelt bolt or equivalent works fine). There is also a turn-on lead which you will need to connect. I'm not sure where people are connecting this on the Mazda3 but you can search for "turn on lead" to find out more.

Also, don't limit yourself to 6x8" speakers. You can also fit most 6.5" speakers by building a simple adapter out of MDF or birch plywood. Although 6x8"s are easier to install, 6.5" speakers are much more popular and will give you a greater selection to choose from.

 

[mazda3zoom]

yeah, what he said.(first)

 

[ender 00]

yeah, what he said.(first)

i'm still pretty new here, but do we have a sticky or anything like that to do like a mazda 3 electronics FAQ?

 

[tsunami]

i started working on one once... but when work re formatted the comp it got lost and i haven't got around to doing it again...

 

[mazda3zoom]

i started working on one once... but when work re formatted the comp it got lost and i haven't got around to doing it again...

slacker......




j/k

 

[chuyler1]

Additional Stereo Information for Proteges and Mazda3s can be found in this thread...

http://www.msprotege.com/forum/showthread.php?t=8940

 

[kid_ding]

Thanks for all the information, guys. I decided I'm going with Focals and I'm still looking around in terms of an amp. Tsunami, thanks for your advice. You too, wongpres. It'll be a while before my whole Mazda 3 project is done (probably around end of july) but I'll be sure to keep you guys updated.

 

[tsunami]

slacker......




j/k

i was doing it at work if that gives any clue... lol