Hi.
New to the Honda world.
What's the deal with the stock radio having to be kept in the car behind the aftermarket head unit?
Just want to clean up the sound. Would new 6x9s in the rear and 6 1/2s in the front do the trick?
I also want to use my ipod. I can use the stock cassette if the new speakers will clean the sound up enough, or I can replace the head unit. If I go with the replacement, what unit should I be looking at?
Thanks for the help.

Dean

 

The "FACTORY" keyless and security controls are in the head unit.....if your not going to use the factory security and keyless...unplug it and put it in your closet. BUT remember the aftermarket alarm/keyless connections are still made behind the radio, so don't cut the plug off. there are alot of options for most decks to connect an ipod. Look at www.peripheralelectronics.com The PXDPA series of adapters.

 

Thanks.
What do you think about the factory unit and new speakers?

Dean

 

It would clean up the sound a little bit. But remember, most aftermarket speakers need more power to get the best sound out of them. That isn't something a factory deck will give you.

 

Yeah, I figured as much.
So can I just add an amp or do I need a new head unit also?

 

If you take your factory radio out your domelight will also NOT WORK...There is a fix for it on the forum, just search it.

You CAN simply add an amplifier between the stock head unit and the aftermarket speakers. It will not be plug and play, there will be some splicing required (from factory connection points to aftermarket) as well as a good bit of wire ran (headunit to amp THEN amp to speakers.) You will also have to figure out which wires (+ & -) go to which speaker and plug into which slot on the amp...
I will probably go this route because I like the facory look on THIS dash and I'm a glutton for punishment!

If you get new speakers and no amp, there is something else to consider... Most will agree that too LITTLE power will harm speaker coils just as much as too MUCH power...and your factory head unit is not gonna power the new speakers very well.(not so good sound either)..Temporary is fine but long term will junk the speakers

If you have the money I would replace the headunit AND the speakers...

As far as headunits...thats personal preference. I like going to the crutchfield site and gettin an idea of what will fit and what is out there, (they review their products pretty well for customers) BUT I usually find and buy what I want elsewhere for cheaper! Suprisingly enough I've had good luck with ebay! I've purchased two new headunits and a sirius box off there and they are TOP NOTCH!!

Good Luck

 

Here's a solution to install an aftermarket stereo in a 96-98 Civic and keep the dome light triggered by the door switches w/o hiding the factory radio inside the dash or cutting any wires:

On the larger green plug-in harness find the light green wire w/ black stripe and the light green wire w/ red stripe.

Create a 2" jumper wire out of slightly larger gauge braided wire.

Trace the location of each of these wires into the plug-in and firmly press the jumper into each of their locations.

Check that the dome switch is in the center position and open each door to make sure that the switches are again working.

Secure the jumper in place by taping it to the plug-in, reinstall your aftermarket unit, and enjoy...
I just did my system and all is working great
pics soon!!!!
Im running a clarion head unit (bought it a few years ago for around $400.00..best one they had out)
Pioneer 3 ways 250w 6x9 with a jbl 300w amp(soon to be swapped for a better amp)
2 10" Orion's in a sealed box with a Directed Audio 1200w amp
I must say this thing hits crazyyyyyy
Never thought I can get such good sound with awesome base and clarity like crazy from my civic...
Even the guy that helped me set it up that owns his own AV and alarm shop loves the sound...

Good luck and hit me up if u have any questions....
Peace

 

Thanks for the input.
Lots to think about.