Hey Guys, I'm in the process of restoring my 65 Cadillac Sedan Deville and the time is here to address the sound system. I want to leave the factory AM/FM Radio intact & just leave it out of my new install. I'm looking to install the amp and run a direct RCA > 1/8inch from a iPod or similar media device to the amp.. Cutting any head unit out of the equation. Have you guys seen this type of install before? Seems common and simple enough.. right? I'm also looking for a prebuilt trunk enclosure and speaker replacements for both the front dual mono's and the rears. Do you guys have any idea on the original factory sizes?
Just wanted to ask the experts - best regards, patrick schramm. ...............................................................................
Anything that can drive the amplifier properly should work. This means the correct output voltage AND impedance. You need to know what the output is of the preamp you're using (in your case, you're using the iPod as a preamp), meaning it's output voltage range AND impedance. If these are within the input specs for the amp you're using, there's no reason it won't work.
both the front dual
Perhaps you'll want to custom build a trunk unit. That way, you can make something that won't look like your usual "grey carpeted gansta stereo" type stuff.... something that'll fit in with the car better, keeping more of a stock look. (That's if you're interested in stock looks.)
As for speakers, look on eBay. There's literrally hundreds of speakers available there, and I'm sure there's something that'll retro-fit yours. I don't think you could use the originals if you wanted to. Most GM cars us a speaker impedance that standard stereo equipment doesn't like. (If I recall correctly, 10 ohms.)
Just measure what you have. Measure the actual cone of the speaker, then measure the screw holes, since that'll be the most important thing. For instance, you can have a 6x9 speaker hole, but it might use a strange mounting like one screw each end (instead of the usual 4 screws). It's not that hard to find. Heck, I found replacements for my Edsel, so you shouldn't have a hard time either.
You can probably hide the input jack for the amp under the dash too, making for a nice stealth installation. Stereo gear is really easy. It's pretty much all about voltages and impedance, then comes down to "what fits". No real voodoo if you understand the basics. :-)
Be sure your alternator can deliver enough power for the amp to work properly too, especially when you've got the lights, wipers and heater motor running. (Which is a common situation.) Some of these new car stereos really pull a lot of current at full output.
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