Hey gents,

I've come upon two schools of thought on this one: Do you need a relay when running several outputs off the remote out from the head unit? I've been told if all the devices turn on, then no. I've also been told you DO need one when running more than two amplifiers (general rule). I tested my setup (Clarion EQS750, Clarion DPX 1001.2, and two Pioneer GM X564's off of a Clarion DXZ725) and found they all turned on (no relay). However, the new addition of the in dash EQ seems to have removed the bass from my system and the backlighting on the EQ tuning knobs is non-existent (I'm returning it to the shop where I bought it for them to test it; I'll know if it was defective or my if it was my install that was lacking). What's the board members thinking on this one?

[ August 12, 2004, 08:04 PM: Message edited by: timmyturtle ]

Yes you should run a relay.
IMO, if you're using it to power up more than one piece you should use a relay.

Better to pay the couple of dollars it costs to use it than to have to pull the deck, pay to get it fixed, and be without tunes while it's in the shop.

Definately. It's an easy upgrade, and cheap. I run four amplifiers, and installed the relay when I started.

Also, since my system is on a toggle switch rather than keyed on the ignition, I can add whatever I want to the relay power. Lights, fans, more amps, whatever. I have it on a toggle because the stereo's battery is switched off from the main battery when the vehicle is off. I can run my stereo for hours, killing it's battery, and still be able to start the van and drive away, alternator charging both batteries.

ill usually relay it when its turning on more than 2 pieces.

I went to pricess auto and got mine.
The thing is little black box with pins sticking out of it.
I found it hard to mount because it looks like it needs to be pluged into something rather than mounting it by itself.

It works great, but I`m sure there is a better product available.. suggestions?

pick up what seahag got it is a boss automotive relay.

Seahag you can get a base for the relay if you want
but I just use spades on the pins

How do you mount it?.
hot glue :D ?

Better product available? I doubt it, relays are commonly used in automotive. Pop the hood on almost any less-than-10-yr-old vehicle, there is a "power centre". Pop it's lid, and lo & behold, there's a whack of relays inside.

Some come with a little tab built in that you can use for screwing it down onto your amp board, some do not as you just add all your term. connectors to it under your dash, then run the power line output to wherever. You can also get a standard "plug & pigtail" for them, a plug that blugs into the relay, with pigtail wires for you to hook up.

ALL automotive parts stores stock these, as well as most stereo shops.

I'll be adding one for sure. As for the eq... I'll have to sort it out (remove it and rehook my deck up and ensure everything sounds as it did before...then have the store have a look at it...). Are there any suggestions at replacements? (in dash, good/decent quality, five or more bands).

^ I thought the Coustic EQ7 was a good deal. They disco'd it a couple of years ago but they pop up for cheap on Ebay.

Seahag - a transistor can be used in place of a relay if desired.