ACM: High-Level vs Low Level - What you need to know!

[Je1279]

When using speaker level outputs to an aftermarket amp on a non-B&O ACM, does anyone know the maximum voltage output prior to clipping?

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[SoundsGoodStereo]

When using speaker level outputs to an aftermarket amp on a non-B&O ACM, does anyone know the maximum voltage output prior to clipping?

6-7v, around volume 20-21 on the factory radio. This is after you use ForSCAN to turn off the EQ

 

[randrball1]

I purchased a used 2022 F250 and wanted to upgrade the radio because it was the worst sounding system I have ever experienced. I purchased a T-harness so I could install a LC5i Pro and a 5 channel amplifier driving 6.5" front / rear door 80wRMS speakers and a 12" sub. Quickly discovered my speaker wires have less than 1.0 volt at maximum volume. Thinking my radio was bad, I quickly bought a replacement from a wrecked truck only to be surprised it did not improve voltage. I've tried different multimeters, ocilliscope, & ect to rule out instrumentation issues. Anyone know why my radio doesn't put out 6 - 7 volts like it should? It is causing some real sound quality problems as well as complete system amplifier gain / crossover settings.

 

[SoundsGoodStereo]

I purchased a used 2022 F250 and wanted to upgrade the radio because it was the worst sounding system I have ever experienced. I purchased a T-harness so I could install a LC5i Pro and a 5 channel amplifier driving 6.5" front / rear door 80wRMS speakers and a 12" sub. Quickly discovered my speaker wires have less than 1.0 volt at maximum volume. Thinking my radio was bad, I quickly bought a replacement from a wrecked truck only to be surprised it did not improve voltage. I've tried different multimeters, ocilliscope, & ect to rule out instrumentation issues. Anyone know why my radio doesn't put out 6 - 7 volts like it should? It is causing some real sound quality problems as well as complete system amplifier gain / crossover settings.

Are you testing the voltage on DC or AC voltage?

 

[randrball1]

AC voltage....

 

[SoundsGoodStereo]

AC voltage....

Good, did you flatten the EQ with ForScan already?

 

[randrball1]

I had flattened it inside of the autotechpro. I figured since this was a non-amplified Ford system, I should get a full 6 to 7 volts right out of the gate.

 

[SoundsGoodStereo]

I had flattened it inside of the autotechpro. I figured since this was a non-amplified Ford system, I should get a full 6 to 7 volts right out of the gate.

If the ACM is still in play, it probably will have the EQ still active. Also, be sure to check 40hz and 1khz, both 0db tracks

 

[randrball1]

If I flattened the eq or disabled it within Forscan, you think my speaker voltage issue will go away? I have been using 1Khz for the speaker gain settings and 50hz for the sub --> 100hz & 80hz for the crossovers. My biggest problem is not having a consistent voltage signal going to the LC5i Pro. I am about ready to dump the Autotechpro and Ford system all together. I have been looking at possibly getting a double din and new dash mounting kit.

 

[SoundsGoodStereo]

If I flattened the eq or disabled it within Forscan, you think my speaker voltage issue will go away? I have been using 1Khz for the speaker gain settings and 50hz for the sub --> 100hz & 80hz for the crossovers. My biggest problem is not have a consistent voltage signal going to the LC5i Pro. I am about ready to dump the Autotechpro and Ford system all together. I have been looking at possibly getting a double din and new dash mounting kit.

You would have to test each frequency to see if they are all the same. Also, you could use an RTA to see if you still have an EQ active.

 

[randrball1]

I was just in Nashville a couple of weeks ago, which appears to be really close to Juliet. Wish, I had stumbled across this site sooner and booked an appointment for my truck. What started off as what I thought would be a fun upgrade / integration has turned into a nightmare. It sounds ok to good for most people, but I know something is going on with those speaker line voltages going to the LC5i cause I can see it with my Fluke meter and it bothers me. I don't trust the shops around Memphis and may have to reach out for that appointment.

 

[randrball1]

AC voltage....

I will be turning off the ACM EQ as soon as possible. In addition to ACM EQ shitty settings, my LC5I Pro is having to be returned for a replacement. I'm sure as soon as both changes happen, the system will be much better. I appreciate your advice and help SoundsGoodStereo.

 

[SoundsGoodStereo]

I will be turning off the ACM EQ as soon as possible. In addition to ACM EQ shitty settings, my LC5I Pro is having to be returned for a replacement. I'm sure as soon as both changes happen, the system will be much better. I appreciate your advice and help SoundsGoodStereo.

You're welcome, also not sure if you mentioned it, but what amplifier are you running?

 

[randrball1]

Amp = NVX Vad 11005
Front Speakers = Alphine S-S65S Component
Rear Speakers = Alphine S-S65
Sub = SKAR VS-12

 

[SoundsGoodStereo]

Got it, so you do not need a LC device with this amplifier. Solder RCA tips on the wire, plug it in and click the Input Voltage to High. Then switch the Turn On Mode to DC so you do not need a remote and you are good to go

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