So you want to replace your Bose Headunit...

[THatfield]

Alright, I have been searching and reading for days on what exactly I need to do to replace the Bose Headunit and get everything to work correctly. I can't replace the Bose speakers and crossover amplifiers just yet because I don't have money for new speakers. Perhaps this thread will clear things up and be used as a reference.

Here's what I know (or I think I know) from searching and reading

• 1. You CAN replace your Headunit, even if it is Bose
  2. In late model R50's and JR50's, (01-04), the Bose amps are wired into each speaker
  3. When replacing the headunit, the factory speakers will not work with the new headunit unless you buy an adapter to town down the power from the speakers so you don't burn up your new stereo
  4. You are better off running new speaker wire and installing new speakers, thus totally getting rid of the Bose system.
  5. Steering wheel controls will not work without a separate adapter (as expected).

Here is what I am unclear on:

• 1. So with the adapter to tone down the power, my stock speakers should work ok?
  2. When I install new speakers (in the distant future), once my Bose system is completely gone, I shouldn't have to keep that adapter installed, should I?

If there is anything else you feel should be cleared up or I am wrong on, reply below. Hopefully this thread will funnel all the information we have scattered around here about stereo upgrades/replacements into one place.

Thanks guys. Hopefully my system will be hooked up soon with your help.

[Towncivilian]

Your two assumptions are spot on.

To retain the stock Bose speakers with an aftermarket head unit, you will require a line output converter. If you remove the Bose speakers and their amplifiers, it is better to run new speaker wire to each door instead of hacking up the stock Bose wiring.

In 2001-2004 (unsure about earlier models), the two rear speakers share one Bose amp which is located behind the cargo area driver's side trim.

[THatfield]

Whew! All those hours of reading did teach me something.

Alright, so would this be the line output converter i need?

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_142C4NN03/ ... apter.html

This seems to be the tool, as it is able to tone down the power on each channel (speaker).

I just want to make sure I have everything I need to do this in a day. Once I'm back to work I'll buy some decent speakers and some speaker wire and do a full upgrade.

Hopefully this tool will do the job and this thread will clear some things up.

[Towncivilian]

Yep, that one looks right. Mine was slightly different, but that one looks like it will be compatible and work fine.

[THatfield]

Awesome!

Let the stereo upgrading begin... as soon as it stops raining.

[fastpakr]

Are you using a single or double DIN radio? If double, I'd love to hear what parts you use to mount it. Slowly prepping for my own install. My plan is to install an amp in the hidden cargo area compartment.

[yngw13]

if cost is the issue I understand...
but from a long term pt of view...
I would just bypass BOSE all together...
Install the Headunit...use the preamp...to an AMP...to New speakers...components 6.5...
I saw the price of that Integration adapter...and it totally turned me off to your idea...

I would use that money to order a $30 component speaker system ...like this..
and some cheap @ss amp to power them...

[THatfield]

It's single DIN, and I'm using a dash kit for 01-04 Pathfinders for installation

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_003NDK767/ ... r-Kit.html


The integration piece is 50% off with my stereo purchase, so 14.99. I didn't think that is bad. If I'm going to mess with speakers and installing them, I'm going to go with some quality stuff that way I'm not having to change it all again. I will probably install some Kenwood speakers or Polk Audio speakers once I buy some here in a few months once I get back to work. I'll go ahead and replace all 4 at the same time.

[Slumpert]

I noticed the BOSE factory radio in my pathfind sounds like it is constantly trying to eject a non-existant CD or tape.. I too will be looking to replace this with one more suitable for this century..