24 messages,
Last post on Jan 30, 2011 at 8:01 PM
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Subaru Legacy & Outback Forum.
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Subaru Legacy, Audio, Wagon
#20 of 24 2005 stereo replacement
by ericcoughlin
Aug 16, 2009 (7:26 pm)
What is the difference in sound quality from getting an aftermarket board that connects to the CD player vs getting a faceplate replacement from crutchfields and installing an aftermarket stereo with a line in for aux? Also, does Subaru sell a later model stereo unit with the aux option that I could buy and install into my outback (manual ac)?
#21 of 24 Re: 2005 stereo replacement [ericcoughlin]
by dcass602
Aug 17, 2009 (5:53 am)
"What is the difference in sound quality from getting an aftermarket board that connects to the CD player vs getting a faceplate replacement from crutchfields and installing an aftermarket stereo with a line in for aux? Also, does Subaru sell a later model stereo unit with the aux option that I could buy and install into my outback (manual ac)? "
If by "an aftermarket board" you mean something like an FM modulator, know that the sound quality from a modulator (whether hard-wired to your system or transmitted through the air) can never be guaranteed. In other words, it's almost always worse than actually replacing the radio with an "aux in" or "usb in" capable aftermarket head unit.
Note, you should be able to replace your head unit, since your hvac is manual, but read carefully your installation information from Crutchfield AND talk with people from Subaru about the installation BEFORE doing it. If you do not PROPERLY disconnect the hvac controls, you WILL break something.
In general both the head unit and the speakers are the primary factors in sound quality. Replacing either or both will do the most for you.
#22 of 24 Re: 2005 stereo replacement [dcass602]
by ericcoughlin
Aug 17, 2009 (9:52 pm)
not an fm modulator but a circuit board that allows me to link in to the CD audio like the one that jazzy engineering makes. You have to run a blank disc with it.