Chevrolet Impala Audio

night_owl1 · December 2001

This is why I love this board and the members and why I feel that, collectively, we know more than any Chevy dealer. You guys are totally correct. The amp drives all four speakers. I looked at the manual again and I can't figure what made me think otherwise. The only pathetic excuse I can come up with is that the pinouts are all marked "output" and none are marked "input." I am humbled by your greater knowledge. *grovel*

The amp present signal circuit explanation comes straight out of the manual. From the pinout diagram from the C1 radio amplifier, A5 turns the amp on (it is also the antenna enable circuit) and A6 is for the amp present signal.

[Deleted User] · December 2001

That makes more sense! :-)

night_owl1 · December 2001

Congrats! A good news story. Great to hear after all the gloomy ones.

impalad · December 2001

Got my windshield replaced today. With a $500 deductible, I paid $250 and the insurance paid the rest (total well over $500.) I called all major windshield repair shops in St. Louis. Everywhere wanted to charge over $300 from my pocket. I wanna give a shout out to everyone at Expert Auto Glass! I'll post if any problems arise. Just FYI I had a rock kick up from a semi on the hwy from Houston to Saint Louis. Great job clarifying the rear channel issue. I've been wondering & asked back in post #894.

impalad · December 2001

Wifie said start looking for speakers before X-mas. What's better, MB Quart DKC-169 2-way or the DTC-169 3-way. I heard there are draw backs to 3-way. I will see about running my Kenwood KAC-748 4 channel amp instead of the factory amp, while running at line level input (option on this style amplifier.) I've decided this route as a temporary setup until I run zero noise RCA cables from the Alpine I'm hesitant to buy. Probably in January. At that time I will route 4 RCA's, the T-harness for the OEM connector if ever needed, & 4 gauge power wire from the battery thru fire wall & on back to a distribution box. I even have a Coustic crossover w/ wire sub remote & Kenwood 1 DIN graphic equalizer begging to get installed some how in the trunk (maybe I‘ll find other spots to custom mount other speakers.) My other half thinks I should not install my 2 12's in the bandpass box. Note: I had a custom Acura Legend that had to go if I want the Impala. I bought that car the day I met my wife. It meant a lot to me. So many more options to play with.
Hey moondog, I mean nite owl, you think I should let the installer know about the auxiliary power drop connector when installing the Alpine? Peace, Impala_D

[Deleted User] · December 2001

If you replace the power amp, you don't need the aux power drop. You would use the existing amplifier power drop, as well as in and out connections.

As for speakers, if you use the MB or DTC, make sure you get a powerful amp. They are not efficient speakers, and require lots of power. IMO, most of the so-called high-end car audio speakers are just hype. Expensive hype.

I might recommend Alpine, Infinity, or the ones I used, JBL Power Series. If you use efficient speakers, you probably won't need an amp upgrade.

You will also need to install tweeters in the front, as well. I put them in my upper door panels. Unless you have ears in your ankles, the existing door speaker location is the worst place for tweeters and mids.

3 ways are the way to go. I don't know what drawbacks you are referring to. A quality 3 way speaker will sound better, especially with vocals, guitars, etc.

Why not do your upgrade in steps? First, the speakers. If that doesn't do it for you, then the amp. If there is still something lacking, then the head unit. You may end up saving quite a bit of money.

The factory speakers are definitely the weakest link in the system, without a doubt.

BTW, I was a concert soundman for many years. Roadie before that, and AV engineer since then, so I'm not just blowin' smoke.

night_owl1 · December 2001

Actually, Gary, I think ImpalaD is referring to an Alpine head unit, not the amp. The factory head unit does not use an ACC line to turn it on. The car's computer sends a signal to turn it on. So if you are installing an aftermarket radio, you will have to find an ACC source. If the installer is unfamilar with the Impala, I would tell him about the aux power drop. Otherwise they will start poking into your harness looking for the ACC source. I am assuming that is why you are asking the question.

[Deleted User] · December 2001

Duh! I'm sorry. I keep forgetting about the head unit. It must have been that subconscious preference for keeping the factory head unit. ;-)

impalad · December 2001

I'm keeping the factory head unit, just in a safe box in my closet until I need it for anything via the T-harness 17' relocation kit. The Alpine is on order, can't wait till next week. Still gotta order the extension T-harness. Already have the zero noise RCA cables & power cable kit with distribution block. The Kenwood 4 channel amp I got retails $269 & is rated at 35 watts x 4 channel @ 4 ohms. Sounds low but this amp blew one of my Infinity Kappa 6.5" in my Acura. You have to remember to adjust the frequency filter or you can damage speakers. I could be using it already since it has line level inputs optional. I guess I just don't want to cut the factory amp wires since I can wait till next week & bypass it completely with the RCA's. With 2 sets of RCA's I can play with the subwoofers totally independently with the Alpine. JL Audio makes awesome subs. JBL I don't know. I think of JBL as something better than Pioneer but not much better. MB Quart are hand made. Alpine has studio recording technology. I do agree however about mounting extra tweeters. Do keep in mind that sound imaging can get affected when tweeters are mounted too far from other frequency speakers. There’s technology to counter that by delaying the signal. I'm thinking of a custom enclosure for the subs. Something like: http://www.angelfire.com/tx/bigodaman/SUB0001.jpg

Except I think I can use an Impala logo in plexiglass. Maybe even an internal neon light in blue or lightning. (Possible with the power distribution box.)

Anyway I’m gonna start looking into optional input sources thru the Alpine. I’m wanting to have portable MP3 capability. You think there’s an adapter for the CD changer input? - D.

[Deleted User] · December 2001

You're an audiophile salesman's dream come true. Enjoy those "zero noise" cables. They're very expensive, so they must be good.
And, yeah, I want a person to hand wind my voice coils. Humans are just so much more accurate than machines, when it comes to working with ultra-fine guage wire. ;-)

impalad · December 2001

Alpine won't fit afterall, I had a gut feeling since I bought Big Tex it's 2 DIN. Keeping the AC Delco head unit won't be so bad. I will be running the RCA's still, but now I gotta get the converters. I chose to definitely not use hi level input & feel it's a waste if I don't use the zero noise cables by simply attaching the converters in the trunk at the factory amp connection. I'm not giving up on the head unit replacement. I like the look of the Eclipse 7301 double din CD/Tape player w/ 5.8" monitor. My friend drives a 2001 Acura TL & has the in-dash navigation. He sure would be surprised to see this in my car! Peace, D.

impalad · December 2001

What it looks like custom fit in an Audi.

http://www.audiworld.com/news/99/tunes/precis05.jpg

impalaboy2001 · December 2001

I gotta say that that eclipse HU sounds great, I installed the slide out eclipse 5.8" TFT display along with the 8 disk CD Changer. I posted pictures and procedures on how to install an aftermarket headunit in an Impala. I have a couple of errors which i need to fix on my website, but you can get the general idea on how to install an Eclipse HU. http://members.home.net/chrbut/Interior.htm

If you have any questions you can email me at chrbut@home.com

impalafreak · December 2001

I cut the factory amp wire harness, connected the amp using speaker level inputs...I have one problem...I need some way of turing the amp on. one of the left over wires from wire harness(purple one) will turn the amp on...but the amp wont turn off even after the key is removed and all of the interior lights are off.

[Deleted User] · December 2001

Did you open the doors? I know that the radio stays on until you open the doors, even if you remove the key.

impalafreak · December 2001

The radio is off the doors are locked the interiors light are off...I can see the amp lights are on with the rear car seats are down.(standing on the outside of the car). I am using the existing power drop to run the amp...but i need some way of trigger the amp on when the igniton key is turned.

[Deleted User] · December 2001

You should check nathan's site. I believe he has a section on the Impala audio system which includes the wiring harness diagram.
One of those circuits should be providing the signal to turn the amp on AND off. I believe it is called the "power antenna activation" circuit, or something along those lines, as it was originally designed to activate power antennas. Nowadays, it is usually used for trunk mounted amps.

night_owl1 · December 2001

Which plug did you cut off? Try the white wire on the C1 connector. I believe that is the signal that turns on the amp. Another option is to run another wire from the aux power drop connector. See the Impala radio FAQ for more info.

[Deleted User] · December 2001

I'm surprised the 12V power to the trunk amp isn't on the accessory circuit, which would power off when the car is shut down, regardless of the amp sensor/power antaenna signal.
If it's an always on circuit, it wouldn't be the smartest design in the world.

impalafreak · December 2001

I cut C1 and factory amp power connector. In last post I made a mistake... I am using the white wire(amp enable) not the purple from C1. It keeps the amp on all the time. I will try to run a wire from the aux power drop. thanks for the help..I will let you guys know how it turns out.

impalafreak · December 2001

Success!!!!
Now I just have tidy up the wiring...amp looks something Dr. Frankenstein is trying to bring to life.
Thanks Garypen&Nightowl

[Deleted User] · December 2001

Night Owl's the man. He preaches from the good book. (The Helm's Manual)

blueheart · December 2001

Where can I buy these speaker and not have to pay crutchfield prices. I also want to install them with the JBL PKIT. You have to remove the tweeter from the P632 and mount them with the PKIT. Where did you buy them?

[Deleted User] · December 2001

You could do that. You could also do what I did, which is install the complete P632 in the lower door, and add an additional PT22(?) tweeter in the upper door, using the supplied capacitor filter.
I purchased them on the web at Netmarket.com. I believe I paid $99 plus $48 for the tweeters. I also bought the 6x9 3ways for the rear for $119, I believe. Those are member prices. But, the prices are a little higher if you're not. I believe they have a free trial membership, 30 days or something. After that, they charge your credit card an annual fee. If you buy a lot of stuff, it's worth it. Otherwise, use the trial membership for the speaker purchase.

96g11 · January 2002

I have finally figured out why the front speakers didn't work on my police package impala. I found a police package supplement to the owners manuel. As part of the package, a wiring pigtail is rolled up under the passenger side floor covering. The pitail has 2 blue connectors and 4 wires. The pigtail is provided to allow the connection of the front speakers to a police radio. If anyone runs across an officer driving one of these impalas, and would would like to impress him by telling him how to hook up the front speakers, just tell him to pull back the floor covering on the passenger front side and look for the pigtail with blue connectors. Disconnect the pigtail and hook the reamaining 2 connectors back into each other. They will only fit one way so no mistake can be made. This entire process takes about 5 mins. Made me a happy camper to be able to actually hear my "good time radio" as we call it in police lingo.

bh0001 · January 2002

Now that IS some good information to have on hand! Now I just have to be sure the nice officer is driving an Impala the next time I get caught for speeding - and that they care about listening to the "good time radio" 8^)
Brad

[Deleted User] · January 2002

The CHP that pinned me was driving a Ford. :-(
A big black unmarked Ford. I can't believe I didn't see him! Good thing I had a radar detector! (He wasn't using radar.)

bh0001 · January 2002

I thought all CHP officers rode motorcycles and had huge smiles with too-white teeth!

[Deleted User] · January 2002

I should have realized he was behind me when I heard that 70's disco music. waka waka waka waka

impalad · January 2002

Got around to installing those MB Quart 3-way 6X9's & Kenwood 4-channel amp Saturday. The process took about 4 hours but it was worth it! Had to remove the dash, loosen front & rear plastic edges, remove back seat, remove plastic trim around the rear triangle windows inside, & of coarse rear deck. At 3 notches on the volume, it's as loud as almost full volume was before. And it's not just more powerful but alot better quality. This amp is too strong b/c distortion occurs past two thirds volume now even on these new speakers. I've adjusted the X-over on the amp (it has low & high pass on front & rear channels) as well as bass on the head unit just the way I like it. I enjoy every CD I have like I just bought them & took off the wrapping. Someday soon I'll fork out the $450 for the top of the line front components, but for now I'm doing A OKAY!!! I even have the power distribution box installed if I decide to add the 2 12's in bandpass box in the trunk. Don't need subs, these 6X9's rip so good. Oil & brakes are next on my list. Mobil 1 of course & checking out those Baer brakes instead of turning the factory rotors. - D.

impalad · January 2002

What it took to do it right:
(Hardware)
Line level converter qty. 2
Zero noise RCA cable qty. 2
4- gauge power wire 20'
8- gauge power wire 10'
distribution box
speaker wire
ground wire
remote wire
Kenwood KAC746 4channel amplifier
MB Quart DTC169 rear speakers
miscelaneous hardware (connectors, battery adapter, mounting spacers, zip ties, etc.)

(Contributed Info): for ease & simplicity
Nathan's How To WebPage

(Labor)
by 7 years experienced installer w/ much more complex custom systems under his belt.

[Deleted User] · January 2002

Sounds great. Throw some matching speakers in front to replace those $20 factory jobs, and you'll be set!

night_owl1 · January 2002

If you are thinking about installing a CD changer into your Impala, I have some new info in the CD Changer How-To article.

http://home.hawaii.rr.com/impala/

shrubs · January 2002

Will the CD player read CD-RWs? I know it will do CDR.

Thanx
Forrest

shrubs · January 2002

I tried an RW disc today. The CD Player wouldn't play it.

Forrset

impalad · February 2002

I myself burn discs all the time & they work fine. Just don't save it as MP3 data format, use standard non-erasable audio format. I only cary a small CD binder with all my favorite tracks from online & my CD collection. By the way, I couldn't resist it anymore. The 12's & 2 channel amp are install.

[Deleted User] · February 2002

"non-erasable format" is actually called CD-R. Erasable format is actually called CD-RW, which apparently will not work on the Impala CD player.

I don't think there was ever a question about whether it will play CD-R.

impalad · February 2002

How many cars produced today actually read RW, Mercedes, or Cadillac maybe? You wanna play MP3's, a tape adapter w/ a portable MP3 player (if you have the tape player), or replace the head unit with one of the numerous aftermarket CD/CDRW players. We already determined what a pain that would be. Blank CD's are so cheap, I burn new CD's & give my old ones to friends or discard them. Anyone know of slim tweeters that can be mounted externally with adhesive? I'm not about to put holes in my doors. -D

[Deleted User] · February 2002

Go ahead. Put holes in your doors. It won't hurt. ;-)

OTOH, most tweeter kits come with the option for surface mounting.

impalad · February 2002

Once again, anybody know of some high end tweeters I can surface mount? Let me reiterate SLIM depth. I'll do some research b/c I don't remember what brand I saw that were abnormally thin. -D

impalad · February 2002

You paid way too much for those 6x9's. With a little shopping around you could have saved $40. I spent the same amont on the MB Quarts & they value twice as much. Much greater frequency response & over one & half times the capable wattage. I guess if you don't plan on replacing the factory amp, you're good to go with those weak speakers. -D

impalad · February 2002

The right front door speaker finally gave out w/ the aftermarket 4 channel amp I installed pushing it too hard. I knew those stock "upgraded" speakers are junk. The baffle tore, so I'm looking at new front components. Also might as well install a capacitor b/c my instrument cluster dims with the thump of bass tones from the subs connected to the 2 channel amp.
Those of you thinking of replacing the alternator (there's a aftermarket 140-amp I had my eye on), it is easier & more economical to just add a capacitor. My friend's Escalade w/ over 3000 watts of continous power has a 5 farad cap & you couldn't tell at all if the lighting was being affected. -D
Anyone heard of aftermarket 6.75" speakers? If not I'll just build an adapter to 6.5".

night_owl1 · February 2002

Funny you should ask. I was looking at the Crutchfield catalog and they have a number of 6 3/4 speakers. Panasonic CJ-DC171U, Sony XS-F1721, Kenwood KFC-1738C, Pioneer TS-A1661, TS-A1667, TS-A1767 and TS-A1795, Infinity Kappa 952.3i, Rockford Fosgate FRC2206U, Cerwin-Vega HED-1652E, JBL GTO625 and GTO635, and Kicker K65.

I was thinking of the JBL GTO635. I am not planning on upgrading my radio or amplifier and the specs look pretty good. Yeah, I know Crutchfield isn't the cheapest place around, but it's hard to beat their customer service, installation instructions, and the even include vehicle specific installation kits.

impalad · February 2002

I didn't know those come in both 6.5" & 6.75". I did find out that the JBL DS965 6x9 (all gray color)is their low end 3-way model & they make the P9633 high end 6x9 (yellow high lights.) If you can find the P9633 for $99, grab it. Sorry garypen, if that's the ones you got, I'm not a JBL enthusiast & didn't realize they made 2 different 6x9 threeways. -D

[Deleted User] · February 2002

Lad- JBL makes 3 or 4 different 6x9 3ways, actually. Also, I believe they don't have different 6.5 and 6.75 sizes. They design their 6.5's to work in both applications. The "Power" series is their top of the line. Those models begin with "P". The yellow accents do nothing for the sound, of course, just as yellow accents on a car do nothing for performance. You wouldn't think so judging from the amount of yellow accents I see on boy racer cars.

NightOwl- GTO is next down the line. They sound pretty good as well, but not as smooth on the high end. The bottom is very tight, especially compared to the factory mud buckets in the Impala, but doesn't go down as low as the P's. I had "borrowed" the GTO's out of my Honda, temporarily before installing the P's. They were far better than stock.
Take it from an old soundman. You can pay a bunch for "audiophile" stuff. Or you can go with actual proven stuff recommended by an old sound guy. There are actually people who pay hundreds of dollars for speaker and power cable!!! Jeez.

wwnf · February 2002

I was one of those folks not fortunate enough to have a dealership that would replace the crappy Amp. But the parts department ordered one for me today. It's an interesting story and I will tell all when I pick up my new Amp. I can't believe it until I see it.

Navy Impala LS 8/99, 41K miles

Part should be in by Monday the 18th.

[Deleted User] · February 2002

If you're still looking for speakers, I'm removing the JBL's from my LS, with the intent of selling them.

wwnf · February 2002

I already installed JBL 630,930 in my LS. But you reminded me that I need to take a trip to Lowes and pick up some of those plastic fastners that hold the carpet behind the rear seats. I broke a couple when I installed my speakers, oops.

I didn't know that lowes actually sold that kind of stuff until recently.

[Deleted User] · February 2002

The difference is like night and day with the new speakers, don't you think?

night_owl1 · February 2002

Why are you changing out the speakers? Gonna cut holes in there for 12's?

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