Hi guys! I am eagerly awaiting my new Element EX and have several questions on a headunit install with only 2 pre-outs. I have a Pioneer P5200 with pre-outs for fronts and a sub. I was wondering which of the following 3 options would be better.

1. Wire front pre-outs to both front and rear channels to amp and lose fade control

2. Use HU's line outs and get a PAC sound system interface

3. Use front pre-out for front and get a line output converter for rear channels

I also need some advice on some cheap component speakers for the front. I have a set of Polk co-axial for the rear but I am undecided on what to use for the front.

I know some ppl find Infinity to be tinny but I am not sure if this only applies to the Kappa series which has C.M.M.D. tweeters. The older 6000cs series has textile dome so the highs should be more natural?

Another option would be a set of CDT Audio CL-61 I found for an amazing price of $149. I know Emass was raving about Eurosport Comp series but has anyone listen to their Classic series?

Finally, what dash kit are you ppl using? I know Metra and Scosche both have one but which is a better fit?

Thanks in advance.

I would wire one set of pre-outs for the front channels going through an amp, connct the other set of pre-outs to an amp goint to the sub, and use the rear line level leads (head unit powered) to power the back speakers.

If you would like more info on why I recommend people do it this way, -a search on the term "rear fill" in the Mobile Electronics Forum should produce the info you're looking for. :D

Bloody PHP scripts are acting up and I can't do a search. Ack! I thought of this option also but wouldn't that mean I would have to run new wiring to the rear. I am guessing the factory wiring routes everything from the dash wire harness via the amp to the speakers.

And if you are feeling generous, I'd like your opinion on the CDT components I mentioned above. Outside of mainstream brand names, I know nothing about speakers. I have heard good stuff regarding CDT Audio but would like the opinion of someone with more experience.

BTW, I love Focals but I am too cheap to spring $250 on a pair of speakers. :D

I've recommended CDT Audio numerous times on this board - they're one of my favorites! 8)

On the wire routing, yes the rear line level wiring would go thru the EX factory amp but with any good head unit you can (and should) fade the rear speakers down so as not to detract from the front soundstage imaging anyway so quality is not so important there.

Sorry if I am being a little dense here but are you suggesting that I use the line outs for the rear from the headunit to the amp? I thought the factory amp does not take line level input.

*Damn this search engine*

That's exactly what I'm suggesting. The factory amp only accepts line level and those wires would be spliced directly if you wish. I was under the impression however that you were considering using an aftermarket amp for the front speakers and sub and those typically would accept rca pre-outs.

DOH! *Homer Style* I feel so stupid. So basically if I want to use the factory amp I would either:

1. Get an PAC OEM-2 Interface to convert all my speaker level output to line level output

2. Get a Line Output Convertor for the rear speaker level outputs only and use the existing pre-outs for front and sub

Dang...where am I gonna fit all this stuff behind the HU? :shock: Thanks again for your help!