Hi all,


Just wanted to let everyone know that I complete my install in my '06 TSX w/nav yesterday.

I was replacing the OEM amp with a Pioneer 4-channel amp, and used the splicing-into-harness-to-get-RCAs-method (thanks eldude, btw!).

I'm very happy to report that I have absolutely no noise. I think I am getting a *very* slight turn-on thump, but I don't care about that because it is barely audible.

I used Phoenix Gold twisted pair RCAs to run the length of the car, but other than that I did not use any extra equipment for this install (no line drivers, no GLIs...)

The sound is freakin' awesome! I can't believe how loud + clear it comes through. Couldn't be happier. The only regret I have is waiting so long to do this (I waited because of some of the horror stories I heard on this board pertaining to noise, etc.)

I used a special tool to pull up the center console, made my job really easy. It's basically just a pick, with a right angle at the end. It is thin enough that you can slip it in the crack and then just pull up, it was incredibly easy. I'll take a pic if of this tool + my install later.

Anyone on the fence about doing this b/c you're afraid of noise: JUST GO AHEAD AND DO IT! I took very minimal precautions and have no noise whatsoever.

now, eldude, if you're reading this: i'm fully ready for the fiberglass box group buy

 

defjunkie,

This is great news. I am going to do an amp replacement sometime soon myself. Can you elaborate on your splicing? Did you use the old ElDude install pinouts? Did you have to change any of the directions from the front page of that (like the suggestions page 2 and onward), or follow the front page instructions exactly?

Also, when you say you used twisted pair RCS to run the length, was this for a signal for a future sub setup, or what will these be used for?

Also, you retained full navi voice functionality, correct?

Looking forward to pics and more info!

 

I used the exact instructions from the very first page of eldude's post. The colors of the wires were different, so I just went by the pin-outs, and they were identical.

My point of reference was the slightly bigger gauge yellow/green wire, which I used for the remote turn-on (B7 I believe). From there, I just went across the harness and made the appropriate splices.

I grabbed the front + rear signals, as I am running a 4 channel amp right now. I plan on maybe adding a sub later by just bridging the rear output of the amp. Right now, it's powering a set of polk db6500 components in the front, and Alpine S-type 6*9s in the rear deck. I don't have a signal going to the rear doors right now, and I don't miss them at all.

So, it's a total of 4 RCAs running from the splices to the amp in the trunk.

I also spliced in to the "A" harness (it carries the speaker wires from the OEM amp to the speakers) and ran speaker wire into the trunk to connect to the amp. This eliminated the need to run the speaker wire throughout the car (especially the door looms). I only grabbed the wires for the front doors + tweeters. I am simply running the 6*9's straight from the speakers to the amp (short distance).

I am happy to say that my Bluetooth and Navi functionality are intact.

I cannot stress how useful the special tool was. I first tried to pull up the center console without it, to no avail. I believe I got the tool as part of a cheap durabuilt "automotive tools" set. Like I said, it's just like an ice pick (obviously smaller), with a right angle at the end.

The signal coming from the HU must be pristine, because the sound is amazing. It gives off a pretty decent voltage, because it sounds plenty loud w/ my gains set in the middle on the amp. I have yet to tweak the loudness, but so far it sounds amazing.

Oh, and did I mention NO NOISE! I am so happy right now. Good luck to ya, if I can do it you can too (trust me).

 

nice going on the install. please post pic of the center console "special tool" thx

 

I'm just happy I finally goy my center console out last week. I don't think I'm re-installing it any time soon until I'm absolutely sure I'm done working on the electrics.