Speaker wiring question for the experts.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 7,631
Likes: 11
From: Rocklin California
Speaker wiring question for the experts.
Ok, I am going to install an amplifier and new head unit and I don't want to replace all the speaker wiring. (not going in a corvette) My plan is to run new speaker wire (16 gauge) from the amp to the dash where the head unit is and use a splice at that point into the OEM speaker wires. I have heard different opinions on this subject and some say it is fine and others say that it is dumb, don't do it. Here is what I have:
JVC KW-NT50HDT head unit, ARC Audio KS125.4 Amplifier, Hybrid Technology Imagine front speakers and Hybrid Technology Mirus rear speakers. (6 1/2" coax).
Opinions?
JVC KW-NT50HDT head unit, ARC Audio KS125.4 Amplifier, Hybrid Technology Imagine front speakers and Hybrid Technology Mirus rear speakers. (6 1/2" coax).
Opinions?
Tech Contributor
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 7,036
Likes: 135
From: North Augusta, SC
Most oem amps don't put out squat for power, so they can get away with using some thin wires to the speakers. IMO that's the only issue, but it can be a big one. If you aren't careful it could cause problems.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 8,718
Likes: 20
From: Dyer IN
Cruise-In IX Veteran
IMO its fine... did it as an installer all the time on some vehicles where owner didnt want to pay to have wires ran etc. hell its like that on my DD for 4 years and no issues. Does car have an OEM amp?
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 7,631
Likes: 11
From: Rocklin California
No OEM amp. Speakers just run off of HU now. I can replace all the speaker wiring if it really makes a difference in sound quality but most of the time or I should say pretty much all of the time I listen to music below 50% of top end. So I am not sending a lot of power to the speakers. But the speakers are nice coaxial 6 1/2" from DD Mods and I do want them to sound as they should. My biggest reason to keep the stock wiring is to leave everything as much as possible in tact. In case I ever want to switch it back to factory and sell it.
Tech Contributor
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 7,036
Likes: 135
From: North Augusta, SC
It shouldn't be a problem to use the oem wires, but IMO the hardest part of running new wires is taking the panels off, and since you'll already be in there to replace the speakers.....
You don't need to spend big bucks on the wire. I use the 'better' wire from Home Depot. IIRC a 100' roll is under $25.
You don't need to spend big bucks on the wire. I use the 'better' wire from Home Depot. IIRC a 100' roll is under $25.
Thread Starter
Le Mans Master
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 7,631
Likes: 11
From: Rocklin California
It shouldn't be a problem to use the oem wires, but IMO the hardest part of running new wires is taking the panels off, and since you'll already be in there to replace the speakers.....
You don't need to spend big bucks on the wire. I use the 'better' wire from Home Depot. IIRC a 100' roll is under $25.
You don't need to spend big bucks on the wire. I use the 'better' wire from Home Depot. IIRC a 100' roll is under $25.
