I'm new to the forum and ready to go. Man I have definately learned alot here and I thank you all for that.

I have been out of the game for a while now. Business and marriage can do that sometimes..lmaoo

In my hayday I installed all of my own systems. However I am stuck, actually more frightened then anything. I just purchased a 2005 9-5 Saab. In a nut shell these cars are definatley not aftermarket friendly. Now, I could make things alot easier by replacing the head unit however I am not inclined to do this.

I do know that the factory deck has pre-outs that can be used but I am far to chicken to try this myself. This would be ideal though.

All I want to do is add an amp and two 10" subwoofer(Jl audio). There are work arounds but I am worried about sound quality. Best way I have found is to splice the leads from the headunit going into the factory amp, with a RCA converter. Then obviousely run it back through to the trunk.

What I am looking for is someone here who is familiar with Saab's(proof would be nice) in general. I live in Maple(Canada's Wonderland), but am not limited to this area and am willing travel for a job well done. I have heard and read horror stories with these cars as they can be very tricky.

I appreciate your help and look forward to meeting my saviour.lol

 

If the deck has factory preouts that can be used as you mentioned then there is no need to spice into anything. You need to confirm this first as it will dictate the direction that you need to take. If it means heading into a shop then head into a shop to find out for sure. If you are 100%, then all you need is a amp preferably with a remote level control. The remote level control is strictly for adjusting the level of the output from the subs indipendent from the levels of the main stereo. It will mount somewhere up front in the vehicle. Again, this is the very first thing that you need to know, whether or not the current unit has preouts that can be used. After that then you can start the quest for amps and subs.

 

i just did a friends 2001 (i think) 9-5 and it was a bitch to do. i used a stinger SALOC to keep the factory radio. splicig into the factory wiring was a pain in the ***. it does sound alright, but i'm like 90% sure some connection came undone from behind the deck cause his system to not sound as loud as it should (thats my fault though)

I suggest looking at an aftermarket deck, making sure first that you dont have individually amp'd speakers first. (luckly my friend didnt)

 

Take it to the pros. It's a very tricky car to work on. The head unit does have line rca level outs on the back that can be spliced into. The head unit however decreases bass output as you turn the volume **** higher to protect the factory speakers as also has a subsonic filter at my best guess would be around 45Hz. So it's very difficult to get the lower end bass.

What I'd suggest is take it to a reputable shop and have them do i, and buy an Audiocontrol Epicenter or similar "Bass restorer" so that you can have proper bass.

 

Well that's exaclty my point. I do want to take it to a professional as I mentioned in my original post. Now if I only knew who? I don't know of any that are "professional" and familiar with Saab's.

I guess this is what I really want to know. Anyone??

 

Find a installer that has been at it since Christ was in diapers and knows how to use a meter properly. It would help to know where in Ontario you were to point you in the right direction.

 

Hahahaha. I take it you have played with a Saab or 2. Yeah these cars are disasters when it comes to this. 2 ohm door speakers and 6 ohm 6x9 for bass, just to name a few stupid things. 9 speakers total and 2 factory amps. Don't get me wrong, anyone who has heard this factory systems would probably agree that they are loud and relatively crisp for factory. But damn, I feel like the company still owns a part of my car!

I'm live in a city called Maple about 30 minutes north of Toronto. Like I said I am ready to travel and have family in Rochester, which I do regularly visit if that helps. Obviosely I would like someone closer to home.

Thanks for your help and imput guys.

 

I know East Hamilton radio can handle that job. Try calling selective sounds, I believe they are in the GTA as well.

 

Thanks for those!! If anyone has anyothers they would care to indulge me with that would be great. I'm not in any hurry and willing to try out more than a few places to feel secure. You can learn alot going from place to place!

 

I have been dealing with Lee at Radioactive in Burlington. I don't know if they have Saab experience or not but might be worth it to give them a call and ask.
Nick