What is it called?

legion · 07-20-2006, 11:39 AM

The stereo in my 951 has a small issue: the subwoofers are way too loud.

My head unit has outputs for the four front channels that run to a five-channel amp (I don't use the sub channel on that amp), and two sub channels that run to a separate two-channel sub amp. I have the input sensitivity and output of the sub amp turned all the way down.

I can turn down the sub channel from the head unit, but if I disconnect the battery for maintenance (which seems a frequent occurence lately), the subs are back to being very loud.

I stopped by the local stereo shop and they told me I needed an "RCA level adjuster" (which they don't carry). Essentially what I understand as something that I can plug two RCA cables into from the head unit, adjust the volume of both channels with a single knob, and plug two more RCA cables into that run to the sub amp.

I've searched Google, Circuit City, Best Buy, Crutchfield, Amazon, and Radio Shack looking for this mythical device. I can't find it anywhere. Any ideas?

Joeaksa · 07-20-2006, 12:55 PM

Might PM Bell. Believe that he works with audio...

Steve Carlton · 07-20-2006, 03:23 PM

Check out the Alpine sub-woofer control 4313.

bryanthompson · bryanthompson's Garage

When tearing the stereo out of my 944 I found two Alpine "3517" units. I gave one away already, but if it will help I'll give you this one. My 83 came with an option code for 'premium sound package' or some such, so it might be useful to you.

Big Ed · 07-20-2006, 04:12 PM

Or you could leave it alone and sell your car to some of the guys I hear driving by my office regularly, they seem to like the "music" that way.

Course, a 951 with 20" chrome spinners might not look so good.

lendaddy · 04:45 PM

Doesn't the sub amp have a gain pot? I'm sure it does, I have never seen an amp without one.

What is the make and model of the sub amp?

actually, have you adjusted the gain on the other amp? Perhaps that one is too low.

legion · 07-20-2006, 04:42 PM

Byan,

I looked up "Alpine 3517" and it looked to me like an amplifier. I'm guessing what you have is older than that.

Do you think you could post or PM me a picture?

...

Steve,

I looked up the unit you recommended. From what I could gather, it would solve my problem. Unfortunately, it looks to me like it isn't made anymore.

Thanks everyone!

lendaddy · 07-20-2006, 04:54 PM

I just re-read your post and saw this "I have the input sensitivity and output of the sub amp turned all the way down."

Are you sure? Usually these give a HUGE range, I can't imagine there not being a sweetspot between the gains of both amps. But who knows.

legion · 05:22 PM

I think the root of the problem is that the head unit and 5-channel amp are the same brand and designed to work with each other (in fact, this particular head unit can't be used without the amp). The sub amp is a different brand and calibrated for different input "volume".

The head unit/5-channel amp are Kenwood.

The sub amp is (I'm embarrassed to say) Sony.

The gain on the 5 channel amp shouldn't affect the sub outputs as those come directly from the head unit.

lendaddy · 05:30 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by legion

The gain on the 5 channel amp shouldn't affect the sub outputs as those come directly from the head unit.

No, but it will increase the level of the highs/mids without increasing the level of the subs. So at a giving volume your subs will be the same as before and your mids/highs louder....meaning a more proper balance.

If your really as far out of balance now I'm betting the five channels gains are waaaay low.

legion · 07-20-2006, 05:36 PM

I see what you are saying now.

(Ran out to double-check...) The gains on the 5-channel amp are all the way up.

lendaddy · 07-20-2006, 05:53 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by legion
I see what you are saying now.

(Ran out to double-check...) The gains on the 5-channel amp are all the way up.

Wow, that is weird. Then I guess a passive control is your best best.

Steve Carlton · 07-20-2006, 06:22 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by legion
Steve,

I looked up the unit you recommended. From what I could gather, it would solve my problem. Unfortunately, it looks to me like it isn't made anymore.

I called a friend of mine who works at Auto Symphony in SF. I get the impression that's a unit they're currently using. Maybe you could buy one from them? His main advice was to have a car audio specialist deal with it, FWIW. (415) 292-3300.