Adding a amp and sub woofer to standard audio

[Konrad C]

I have been PM 'd by a new member regarding adding a sub woofer and amplifier. He owns a Mk3 Avensis. As you know there are no pre-outs.

My first response was why as I find the standard audio has plenty of bass. Anyway I researched the subject and found that the speaker wires need to be spliced. Checking the Autoleads catalogue, there may be adapter cables for the purpose but may need conversion to ISO. 

I will cut and paste my findings later, but if somebody has added a sub woofer please reply. 

Thank you. 

[gazza1286]

I've added a subwoofer to the stock Head Unit of my MR2 using this RCA adapter. Works perfectly. 

 

 http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/SPEAKER-TO-RCA-CONVERTER-HIGH-TO-LOW-LINE-LEVEL-CABLE-ADAPTER-2-CHANNEL-/331348757495?nav=SEARCH

[Konrad C]

This is my reply to the PM

Hi,

Before you start, listen to the stereo. I find the sound quality bass orientated, and the midrange sound very weak. The tweeters do a good job for the top end. Since my stereo has only bass and treble control, I have left the bass flat and the treble at +1 or +2. If I could add a graphic equaliser, I would raise the midrange by +2. That is coming from a person who listens to drum and bass, deep house, reggae and dance music! All bass orientated music.

If your car has the standard audio and not the premium system with the extra amp and 7 Speakers, then there are a few ways to add a amp or sub woofer.

The best way I found is an adapter cable from America. I have not found a Euro seller yet. 

http://www.amazon.com/Metra-70-8112-Wiring-Harness-Integration/dp/B0002BEUBW

I am searching the usual places Autoleads and Connects2 and not found anything yet.

I found this video showing the cut and splice way:  

Here is a link to the pin-outs for the Toyota wiring connector:

http://www.thenomagazin.com/Auto-radio-car-connector/TOYOTA-Car-Radio-Wiring-Connector.htm

There is an official Toyota link to add JBL sub woofer, but not for the Avensis:  http://www.toyota-tech.eu/Aim/Aim.aspx?pubtype=AIM&menuitem=1

When I got my car, my main concern was to have USB, so my research focused on that. I looked at changing the unit, but that would expensive using Toyota and not original with after market.

As I stated at the beginning listen to the system and decide if it worth the change.

I think I have a possible solution. I checked the Autoleads catalogue and found leads that may work without cutting:-

SOT-062 is the lead that converts Toyota to ISO. This adapter lead is normally used for Parrot type bluetooth Kits. It plugs both ends into the stereo and the car.

Next is PC9-450 (2 channel) or PC9-451 (4 channel) ISO high to low adapter cable to connect the stereo to the amp or powered sub woofer.

The is a cable PC9-423 that is for the active system but I am not sure about this.

You need to contact Autoleads and get more info from them. 

 

The second reply was to clarify the pin-outs. 

 

Every one of the images have labelled the pins including the photos. 

 

Bat+ - permanent power for memory

ACC - switched power when key is turned to ACC or accessory position. Stereo works with this is on.

ILL - illumination. Switches on stereo illumination or changes brightness when car lights are on.

AMP+ - this may be to send switch signal to external amplifier (needs clarification).

ANT - signal to power antena

GND - ground, negative or earth

FL+ - front left speaker positive

FL- - front left speaker negative   

FR+ - front right speaker positive

FR- - front right speaker negative

RL+ - rear left speaker positive

RL- - rear left speaker negative

RR+ - rear right speaker positive

RR- - rear right speaker negative

 

This is only what I have researched so far, but do not intend to install a sub-woofer or amp. This is for info only! 

[Konrad C]

On 3/18/2016 at 11:07 AM, gazza1286 said:

I've added a subwoofer to the stock Head Unit of my MR2 using this RCA adapter. Works perfectly. 

 

 http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/SPEAKER-TO-RCA-CONVERTER-HIGH-TO-LOW-LINE-LEVEL-CABLE-ADAPTER-2-CHANNEL-/331348757495?nav=SEARCH

Thanks Gary, 

Hopefully the it will be spotted by the relevant person, but he will have to find vendors for his country. He had questions about routing the cable through the bulkhead, but since his car is left hand drive, I cannot really help.

I found this product Phonocar 4/136 high level adaptor, and in combination with SOT-062 cable, is a clean way to add phono out: http://caraudiosecurity.com/phonocar-4-136-high-level-adaptor

Autoleads does a similar projects: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Autoleads-PC9-450-2-Channel-ISO-to-RCA-Line-Output-Converter-For-Car-Amplifers-/171023873087

I prefer to do subtle modifications and additions, plug and play without cutting cable. Things that can be swapped back quickly.  

[gazza1286]

I've avoided using the ISO adapters with Toyotas so far. The added benefit of the 'splice in' option is that the original connectors are retained - only 4 wires need to be spliced/soldered.  Plus the 'balance' adjusters on the unit for L and R gain may be useful depending upon where the Sub is placed in the vehicle. 

[Arto]

Really big thanx to You Konrad for all the help/tips and advice that U gave to me!
Got the amp and woofer working/assembled.

I didn't use any adapters - i used those 'abiko' connectors to "steal" the signal from rear speaker cables (behind the original radio/cd player) and used 1,5m2 speaker cables to lead it/the signal to the trunk. In the trunk, next to the amp i have that speakercable signal->to rca converter.

And yes, in my Avensis the driver seat is on the Left side.
One of the problems was that where and how can i easily get that power cable for the amp - from the Battery...is there any bushings?
Well, yes there is!
It is on the passenger side (right side) behind the glove box. So that was easily done!
 

[2009joe]

On 3/18/2016 at 11:07 AM, Konrad C said:

This is my reply to the PM

Hi,

Before you start, listen to the stereo. I find the sound quality bass orientated, and the midrange sound very weak. The tweeters do a good job for the top end. Since my stereo has only bass and treble control, I have left the bass flat and the treble at +1 or +2. If I could add a graphic equaliser, I would raise the midrange by +2. That is coming from a person who listens to drum and bass, deep house, reggae and dance music! All bass orientated music.

If your car has the standard audio and not the premium system with the extra amp and 7 speakers, then there are a few ways to add a amp or sub woofer.

The best way I found is an adapter cable from America. I have not found a Euro seller yet. 

http://www.amazon.com/Metra-70-8112-Wiring-Harness-Integration/dp/B0002BEUBW

I am searching the usual places Autoleads and Connects2 and not found anything yet.

I found this video showing the cut and splice way:  

Here is a link to the pin-outs for the Toyota wiring connector:

http://www.thenomagazin.com/Auto-radio-car-connector/TOYOTA-Car-Radio-Wiring-Connector.htm

There is an official Toyota link to add JBL sub woofer, but not for the Avensis:  http://www.toyota-tech.eu/Aim/Aim.aspx?pubtype=AIM&menuitem=1

When I got my car, my main concern was to have USB, so my research focused on that. I looked at changing the unit, but that would expensive using Toyota and not original with after market.

As I stated at the beginning listen to the system and decide if it worth the change.

I think I have a possible solution. I checked the Autoleads catalogue and found leads that may work without cutting:-

SOT-062 is the lead that converts Toyota to ISO. This adapter lead is normally used for Parrot type Bluetooth Kits. It plugs both ends into the stereo and the car.

Next is PC9-450 (2 channel) or PC9-451 (4 channel) ISO high to low adapter cable to connect the stereo to the amp or powered sub woofer.

The is a cable PC9-423 that is for the active system but I am not sure about this.

You need to contact Autoleads and get more info from them. 

 

The second reply was to clarify the pin-outs. 

 

Every one of the images have labelled the pins including the photos. 

 

Bat+ - permanent power for memory

ACC - switched power when key is turned to ACC or accessory position. Stereo works with this is on.

ILL - illumination. Switches on stereo illumination or changes brightness when car lights are on.

AMP+ - this may be to send switch signal to external amplifier (needs clarification).

ANT - signal to power antena

GND - ground, negative or earth

FL+ - front left speaker positive

FL- - front left speaker negative   

FR+ - front right speaker positive

FR- - front right speaker negative

RL+ - rear left speaker positive

RL- - rear left speaker negative

RR+ - rear right speaker positive

RR- - rear right speaker negative

 

This is only what I have researched so far, but do not intend to install a sub-woofer or amp. This is for info only! 

hello there Konrad quick question i am wondering what wires should i connect my alpine 554 amp to on my stock headunit .but the problem im having on my 2014 toyota avensis touch 2 radio is the pinout so i know what ones to wire up .im not sure what wire should i wire up to tell the amp to turn on im not sure is it the power antenna pin i  should wire up my amps wire to tell the amp to turn on here is a pic i found online but im nt sure its not the best description as it dont show amp+ pin i should connect to . i know the amp only needs ing on wire connected ,power which im going to go to the Battery,ground which im going to wire it to the frame of the car somewhere. the only wire im not sure about is the wire to tell the amp to turn on.

[Konrad C]

Can you link to the Alpine manual with the full model. To be clear, you are changing the complete Multimedia unit to the Alpine version or adding Alpine amplifier to your existing Toyota multimedia unit, so boosting the power output? I don't have the wiring pinouts of the Toyota Touch 2, though seen somewhere on the Forum, and I don't remember seeing any pre-out. The amp will need to be connected to the speaker output of the multimedia unit. 

[2009joe]

hi all im thinking of putting a amp in my stock headunit of my 2014 toyota avensis ive did a bit of research and well im thinking about either one of tnese whats your thoughts guys either a 

ALPINE MRV-F300

or a

Alpine KTP-445A 

ive came to conclusion i have bought these which will work in the headunit of mine 

CT10TY01 RADIO T-HARNESS BLUETOOTH PARROT MUTE SOT LEAD FITS TOYOTA YARIS

 

and well just need to buy 2 blank 16 pin plugs to plug direct into the amp

[2009joe]

On 3/18/2016 at 11:07 AM, gazza1286 said:

I've added a subwoofer to the stock Head Unit of my MR2 using this RCA adapter. Works perfectly. 

 

 http://m.ebay.co.uk/itm/SPEAKER-TO-RCA-CONVERTER-HIGH-TO-LOW-LINE-LEVEL-CABLE-ADAPTER-2-CHANNEL-/331348757495?nav=SEARCH

hi there quick question i have wired up a pioneer class d amp to my stock toyota touch 2 headunit the problem is my headunit dont have a amp remote turn on blue wire . i was wondering will this you have linked here work as i dont want to wire my amp switch on wire to the car key switch on wires .wht you think buddy 

[2009joe]

On 3/22/2021 at 9:24 AM, Konrad C said:

Can you link to the Alpine manual with the full model. To be clear, you are changing the complete Multimedia unit to the Alpine version or adding Alpine amplifier to your existing Toyota multimedia unit, so boosting the power output? I don't have the wiring pinouts of the Toyota Touch 2, though seen somewhere on the Forum, and I don't remember seeing any pre-out. The amp will need to be connected to the speaker output of the multimedia unit. 

hi there Konrad hows things my friend .quick question. i love my speaker upgrade with my pioneer plug and play amp upgrade .but i found in my other cars i have the sound from the rear Speakers sound better put in the rear parcel shelf .i half thinking of going to buy Alpine S-S69 and cutting them into my rear parcel shelf as i think the sound is better that way as the Speakers on the rear doors are ok but better sound from the shelf. whats your idead i know there are 2 boot hinges rods coming across but might try get then squeezed in whats your ideas

[Konrad C]

11 hours ago, 2009joe said:

hi there Konrad hows things my friend .quick question. i love my speaker upgrade with my pioneer plug and play amp upgrade .but i found in my other cars i have the sound from the rear speakers sound better put in the rear parcel shelf .i half thinking of going to buy Alpine S-S69 and cutting them into my rear parcel shelf as i think the sound is better that way as the speakers on the rear doors are ok but better sound from the shelf. whats your idead i know there are 2 boot hinges rods coming across but might try get then squeezed in whats your ideas

Hi Joe, I have the Tourer/estate model, so have not seen the boot and shelf area of the saloon in person. I have seen diagram of the boot hinges, spring and dampers as follows - http://www.japan-parts.eu/toyota/eu/2008/avensis/zrt271r-aefepw/2_273560_038_410W/body/6105_luggage-compartment-door-lock

Joe you will need to see where everything is located, then measure the space and clearance available. Personally shelf Speakers are better in saloons unlike hatchbacks and estates where the shelf has to be removed, for load purposes. Then you can choose your install. I am surprised Toyota didn't go this route for the saloons. They just use the same speaker setup for both saloon/estate, even with the 11 speaker system.

http://www.japan-parts.eu/toyota/eu/2009/avensis/zrt271r-awfepw/2_273560_041_410W/electrical/8602_speaker/1
http://www.japan-parts.eu/toyota/eu/2009/avensis/zrt271r-awfepw/2_273560_041_410W/electrical/8602_speaker/2

[2009joe]

10 hours ago, Konrad C said:

Hi Joe, I have the Tourer/estate model, so have not seen the boot and shelf area of the saloon in person. I have seen diagram of the boot hinges, spring and dampers as follows - http://www.japan-parts.eu/toyota/eu/2008/avensis/zrt271r-aefepw/2_273560_038_410W/body/6105_luggage-compartment-door-lock

Joe you will need to see where everything is located, then measure the space and clearance available. Personally shelf speakers are better in saloons unlike hatchbacks and estates where the shelf has to be removed, for load purposes. Then you can choose your install. I am surprised Toyota didn't go this route for the saloons. They just use the same speaker setup for both saloon/estate, even with the 11 speaker system.

http://www.japan-parts.eu/toyota/eu/2009/avensis/zrt271r-awfepw/2_273560_041_410W/electrical/8602_speaker/1
http://www.japan-parts.eu/toyota/eu/2009/avensis/zrt271r-awfepw/2_273560_041_410W/electrical/8602_speaker/2

thanks so much yep i rather have the Speakers in the rear parcel shelf i must check and see if can do that problem is with the speaker upgrade i have the 6x9 in my front doors and the smaller Alpine S-S65 6.5. i will have to maybe buy another 6x9 alpine for the parcel shelf .and plus sound dampiner stuff to stop the tin from making a noise .so u think will be a good idea doing that. yep my toyota is a saloon model