Mono Sub out to stereo amp questions
 

I am picking up a Head Unit that has a Mono RCA out for the subwoofer. That is ONE RCA output labled as Sub Out.

My Alpine amp requires a stereo input even though it is a mono amp. The head unit i purchased has an already weak Low level output voltage. I think its around 2.2v. No if i use a Y-Adapter to remedy this, will this further hinder my crappy output to the amp. Should a line driver be used? If so where can i get a good one for cheap? Used anyone?

Thanks in advance!

Just use the Y cable, most amps though will be able to sum the signal mono by only plugging the rca into the left channel input. Verify if your amp has this ability. Do not buy a line driver, save your money and buy a better head unit at some point down the road.

In the alpine manual it says that the input must be stereo and damage can result. I also remember testing this and i do not get full output unless a signal is driven into both inputs.

Getting a different deck is NOT an option. This unit is an OEM replica with add-ons like low level inputs/outputs ect. This is the last head i will be getting.

So my original question stands. How does a Y-adapter effect the voltage on pre-amp outputs?

What amp is this that you have? I want to do some reading on it.

Alpine MRP-M500

User manual http://vault.alpine-usa.com/products...M_MRP-M500.PDF

Page 12

I was wrong. It technically doesnt mention that i can damage the amp. But it does mention that it can result in low output. Which i have tested...

low input= higher gain?? what subs are you going to use?

i have dune this type of thing before myself and never noticed any thing change.

I have one JL 10w3v3 4ohm sub. In a sealed 0.6cuft box.

With the stereo sub outs of my Pioneer F700BT i had the gain set pretty high to get maximum power from the amp. I believe that the output of the new deck is similar in voltage but is only mono.

Use the y splitter for now. If you are planning a system of a certain calibre, most certainly add a line driver, preferably a multi channel one if you want to expand your system at a later date.