Hi all,

I'm new to H-T.com (been browsing around for a few months). I've got a '99 Integra LS. Stereo right now is the totally stock Acura CD player + speakers, which is pretty dissapointing when listening to rock CDs. So, I'd like to add an Infinity Basslink to supplement the stock system. Its not the ideal solution, but I only plan on keeping this car until I graduate in a year (ie, car needs to be able to return to stock easily), and I need the trunk space. So that rules out a box, any custom sub installs, and replacing the stock deck, speakers and wiring.

I've only dealt with home audio in the past, so I'm going to have a buddy help me install the sub. Before I do so I have some questions:

1. Besides an std amp install kit, and possibly some connectors, do I need anything else?

2a. Will I need to remove the headunit to tap into the speaker-level wires, or can I reach them from behind (looks like you could maybe reach them thru the opening in the back of the center console)?

2b. If I need to remove the headunit, do I need any special headunit removal tools for the stock headunit?

2c. I understand the Basslink comes with a harness to tap into the speaker-level wires. Is there any sort of adapter needed to plug into the Acura harness/headunit, or is it all splice connections?

3. Screwing this thing down seems like the most secure solution, but I cringe at the thought of driving screws into my trunk floor. Will this thing stay put with some industrial strength velcro? Otherwise, anyone come up with some creative mounting solutions?

4. Anyone got some pictures and links to basslink installs on 'Tegs?

Thanks in advance. I'll be having a friend do the install, who's done a bunch of his own installs in the past. But I want to understand the process, and make sure I have everything needed before we start.

Jonathan

 

If you haven't got the basslink yet ,replace head unit insted ,there are kits and harness so you won't have to cut or drill anything, and going back to stock will be a snap, and last but not least the sound will be much better evan the bass.

hope this helps 94

 

1. I never buy kits, I make the 'kits' myself, as I want specific parts, not a generic kit
2a. You can tap into the speakers directly at the rear speakers in the rear deck, no need to tap in back of the HU
2c. You can just tap/splice into the wires by the rear speakers. You can also use wire taps found in Home Depot or Radio Shack
3. I actually screwed up from under my trunk mat, into and through the Basslink using bolts and nuts (see my www pix)
4. I have an 02 Accord, but shows where you should mount it and how it looks

 

Thanks for the advice.

I was originally planning on mounting it in the back left or right corner. But the trunk matt doesn't cover that area, and its all sheet metal floor (ie not gonna screw into that). I think I'll mount it in the upper right or left, to the trunk matt.

Good point on the amp install kits. Most I looked at also try to sell me stuff I don't need (remote turn on leads, RCAs, speaker wire) and have thin power and ground leads. Really I just need some power and ground leads.

I didn't think about just tapping into the rear speakers. I know Infinity provides a harness to tap into all 4 speakers, so you don't get any bass fade issues. But I suppose as long as I don't fade my speakers forward, it won't fade out the sub. Of course my 'Teg is a hatchie, so I don't have the speakers conviently on the rear deck, but I don't think the speaker leads should be too hard to get to.

 

"If you haven't got the basslink yet ,replace head unit insted ,there are kits and harness so you won't have to cut or drill anything, and going back to stock will be a snap, and last but not least the sound will be much better evan the bass.
hope this helps 94"

I've heard that the Civic/Integra headunits really are a weakpoint, and the speakers really aren't much to write home about. But I wonder how much improvement I'd really get out of an aftermarket headunit. I'm sure it'd pump some more bass out of the speakers, but I wonder how good/bad they'd sound when pushed a little harder. The midrange and treble isn't bad (well, I can atleast live with it), but the overall lack of bass is completely irritating.

I'm also pretty picky when it comes to headunits (ie, I think most are pretty gaudy, and don't match the dash at all).

Believe me, if I were planning on keeping the car long term, the first thing to go would be the head unit, as soon as I found one that could match the stock dash lighting. Next thing I'd do is throw out the stock speakers for some MB Quarts or Focals, add a nice amp, then finally a small sub. That'll have to wait until my next car tho...

Jonathan