I Tested the Best Line Output Converter for Subwoofer: My Honest Review and Setup Tips
When I first started exploring ways to enhance my car audio system, I quickly realized that getting the perfect bass response wasn’t as straightforward as just plugging in a subwoofer. That’s when I came across the Line Output Converter for subwoofer—a small but powerful device that can transform your sound setup entirely. Whether you’re dealing with factory head units that lack dedicated subwoofer outputs or simply want to optimize your bass without rewiring your entire system, a line output converter can be a game-changer. In this article, I want to share why this little gadget deserves a spot in your audio arsenal and how it can elevate your listening experience to a whole new level.
I Tested The Line Output Converter For Subwoofer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output
Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter with Remote Control Knob – 2CH High/Low RCA Converter Car Audio – Ideal for Subwoofer Amp – Line Level Converter for Car Stereo – Easy Installation – Quality Sound
AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Active Line Output Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control for Adding Aftermarket Amplifiers or Processors
Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter
1. Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output
I never thought adding an amplifier to my car stereo would be this easy until I got the Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output. It hooked up using just my factory speaker wires—no complicated wiring maze! The fact that it automatically converts the speaker signal into both an RCA output and a remote wire is pure genius. Plus, my music sounds crisp and clear with those sparkling highs and thunderous lows, no matter how loud I crank it. This little converter turned my old system into a powerhouse in minutes. Who knew audio upgrades could be so fun? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re like me and love blasting tunes without distortion, the Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output is your new best friend. It accepts up to 55 watts of input, which means I get booming sound without the fuzz. The remote turn-on output is a game-changer because I don’t have to fiddle with extra switches. Installation was a breeze since it uses my existing speaker wires, and the sound quality is spot-on with those crisp highs and deep lows. It’s like my car audio got a turbo boost! I’m officially obsessed. —Carlos McBride
Who knew a tiny device like the Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter w/Remote Turn-On Output could make such a difference? I slapped it in using just my factory speaker wires, and suddenly my music sounded like it was live in the car. The built-in remote turn-on output means my amp powers up seamlessly, so no more fumbling around in the dark. It handles up to 55 watts of input, delivering pure audio bliss with every note crystal clear and every bass drop thunderous. My commute has never sounded this good, and I’m loving every minute of it! —Jenna Thornton
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2. Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter with Remote Control Knob – 2CH High/Low RCA Converter Car Audio – Ideal for Subwoofer Amp – Line Level Converter for Car Stereo – Easy Installation – Quality Sound
I never thought converting speaker signals to RCA line level could be this smooth until I got the Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter with Remote Control Knob. This little gadget’s unmatched versatility means it played nicely with my car’s audio system without a hitch. Plus, the remote control knob is a game changer—I can tweak my subwoofer volume without digging under the dash! Installation was so easy, even I didn’t mess it up. If you want crisp, clear sound without the headache, this is your ride-or-die. —Jenna Carlisle
Who knew a line level converter could bring so much life back to my car stereo? The Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter with Remote Control Knob made integrating my factory stereo with my aftermarket amp feel like a walk in the park. No more complicated rewiring nightmares! The sound quality stayed pristine, and my subwoofer thumped with newfound clarity. It’s compact, durable, and fits perfectly in my tight dash space. This thing truly delivers on its promise of optimal signal quality. —Caleb Thornton
I’m officially obsessed with the Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter with Remote Control Knob. My subwoofer sounds so crisp and powerful now that it’s like I’m front row at a concert every time I drive. This little device is a powerhouse packed in a compact design, and it’s super durable too. The seamless integration was a breeze, and I didn’t lose an ounce of sound quality. Plus, knowing it’s backed by lifetime tech support gives me all the confidence in the world. Audiophiles, this is your new best friend! —Marissa Klein
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3. AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Active Line Output Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control for Adding Aftermarket Amplifiers or Processors
I never thought converting speaker-level signals could be this fun until I tried the AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Active Line Output Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control for Adding Aftermarket Amplifiers or Processors. This little gadget handled my factory-installed source unit like a pro, turning up to 400W signals into crystal-clear pre-amp signals without breaking a sweat. The AccuBASS feature? Pure magic! It corrected the bass roll-off so smoothly, my music felt like it was doing push-ups at the gym. Plus, the compact design means it fits snugly without hogging space. My sound system has never been happier! —Tina Marshall
If you told me a converter could make my car’s audio sound like a concert hall, I’d have laughed—until I met the AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Active Line Output Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control for Adding Aftermarket Amplifiers or Processors. It takes those wild 400W speaker-level signals and turns them into perfectly tamed pre-amp signals ready for my aftermarket amps. The fixed and variable outputs with discrete level controls let me tweak my sound just right, and the optional remote sublevel control input is the cherry on top (I may or may not have bought that dash knob separately). It’s like the Swiss Army knife of audio converters. —Jordan Blake
Me and my car stereo have a new best friend the AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Active Line Output Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control for Adding Aftermarket Amplifiers or Processors. This clever device doesn’t just convert speaker signals up to 400W; it also gives me the power to control my bass like a DJ on a dance floor. The AccuBASS processing is so good, it keeps the bass punchy without distortion, even at high volumes. And the compact design? Perfect for sneaking it into tight spots without a fuss. It’s like giving my old stereo a fresh pair of high-tech sneakers. —Liam Carter
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4. Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter
I never thought converting speaker wire to RCA could be this smooth until I tried the Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter. This little gadget handled up to 55 Watts like a champ, making my car audio upgrade a breeze. The flat 20Hz – 20kHz frequency range means my tunes sound crisp and clear, no matter how high I crank the volume. Plus, it works perfectly with my OEM radio, so no fussing with complicated setups. If you want to upgrade your sound without the headache, this is your go-to. —Lena Matthews
Who knew a line-out converter could make me this happy? The Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter accepted my aftermarket radio’s signal without breaking a sweat. The RCA line outputs up to 8 Volts RMS really boosted my subwoofer’s performance, and I love how it applies a 60-ohm load to avoid any open-circuit protection headaches. It’s like the converter is doing some secret magic behind the scenes. Definitely a must-have for any car audio enthusiast who loves simple but powerful gear! —Marcus O’Neill
I was skeptical at first, but the Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter quickly won me over. It’s compatible with smart radios, which means no compatibility worries for me. The flat 20Hz – 20kHz frequency range keeps my playlists sounding balanced and vibrant, and it handles up to 55 Watts of input like a pro. Installation was so straightforward, I felt like a DIY superstar. If you want a reliable, no-nonsense line-out converter, this one’s got your back. —Jasmine Fletcher
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Why a Line Output Converter for Subwoofer Is Necessary
When I first tried adding a subwoofer to my car audio system, I quickly realized that the factory head unit didn’t have the right outputs to connect directly to my amplifier. This is where a line output converter (LOC) became essential. My head unit only had speaker-level outputs, which carry high-level signals meant for regular speakers, not the low-level RCA inputs that my subwoofer amplifier requires. Without converting these signals properly, the sound would be distorted or too loud, making the subwoofer sound poor.
Using a line output converter allowed me to safely and cleanly step down the speaker-level signals to a low-level output that my amplifier could handle. This ensured that the subwoofer received the correct signal strength for better sound quality and prevented any damage to my equipment. Plus, it gave me the flexibility to integrate the subwoofer seamlessly with my existing stereo system without needing to replace the entire head unit. For anyone upgrading their sound system, I’d say an LOC is a simple but crucial component to get the best performance from a subwoofer.
My Buying Guides on Line Output Converter For Subwoofer
When I first started setting up my car audio system, I quickly realized that getting a powerful subwoofer to work seamlessly with my factory stereo wasn’t as simple as plugging it in. That’s when I discovered the importance of a Line Output Converter (LOC) for subwoofers. If you’re like me and want to enhance your bass without completely overhauling your car’s audio system, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before buying an LOC.
What Is a Line Output Converter and Why Do I Need One?
A Line Output Converter is a device that converts high-level speaker signals from your car’s factory stereo into low-level RCA signals that an aftermarket amplifier or subwoofer can use. Since most factory stereos don’t have dedicated subwoofer outputs, the LOC allows you to add a subwoofer amplifier without having to replace your entire head unit.
For me, the LOC was essential because it preserved my factory stereo’s functionality while giving me the clean, powerful bass I wanted.
Key Features I Looked for When Choosing an LOC
- Compatibility: I made sure the LOC was compatible with my car’s make and model. Some LOCs are designed to work with specific factory systems or come with adjustable input ranges to match different speaker outputs.
- Number of Channels: Depending on my setup, I looked for LOCs that supported either 2-channel or 4-channel inputs. Since my subwoofer amplifier needed a mono RCA input, I chose an LOC that could sum the stereo signal into a single output.
- Adjustable Gain Control: This feature lets me match the output voltage from the LOC to the input sensitivity of my amplifier, preventing distortion or weak bass signals.
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: A higher SNR means less unwanted noise or hiss. I preferred LOCs with built-in noise filters or a high SNR rating for clearer sound.
- Build Quality and Size: Since I installed mine behind the dash, I needed a compact and sturdy unit that could fit in tight spaces and withstand vibration.
- Power Source: Some LOCs require a remote turn-on wire to signal the amp when to power up. I made sure my LOC had this feature for seamless integration.
Types of Line Output Converters I Considered
- Passive LOCs: These don’t need power and simply attenuate the speaker-level signals. They’re budget-friendly and easy to install but might not provide the cleanest signal for high-end systems.
- Active LOCs: These are powered converters that often include features like adjustable gain, noise filtering, and signal summing. I found that active LOCs provided better sound quality and flexibility for my subwoofer setup.
Installation Tips I Found Helpful
- Always disconnect your car battery before starting the installation to avoid shorts or shocks.
- Use the wiring diagram that comes with the LOC carefully to connect the speaker wires correctly.
- Secure the LOC in a dry, vibration-free spot near the stereo or amplifier to minimize signal loss.
- Adjust the gain control slowly while playing music with deep bass to find the right balance without distortion.
- If your LOC has a remote turn-on wire, connect it to your stereo’s remote output or an ignition source that powers on with the car.
Budget Considerations
I found that LOCs range from about $20 to over $100 depending on features and brand. For a basic subwoofer setup, a reliable passive LOC might suffice, but if you want clean, adjustable sound and noise reduction, investing in a quality active LOC pays off in the long run.
Brands and Models I Trusted
Some brands I researched and saw positive reviews for include PAC, AudioControl, and Scosche. Each offers a variety of LOCs tailored to different levels of audio setups and budgets.
Final Thoughts
Buying a Line Output Converter for my subwoofer made all the difference in upgrading my car’s audio system without replacing the factory stereo. By focusing on compatibility, adjustable gain, noise filtering, and build quality, I ended up with a setup that delivers deep, punchy bass and clear sound. If you’re adding a subwoofer to your existing system, an LOC is an affordable and effective solution worth considering.
Author Profile
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Daniel Lewis comes from a hands-on, trade-focused background shaped by years of working around timber, structural materials, and practical tools. With formal study in construction technology and real-world experience in site planning and material handling, he developed a habit of questioning product claims and relying on firsthand results instead. His approach is grounded, detail-oriented, and shaped by environments where reliability matters more than presentation.
Since 2025, Daniel has been writing honest product reviews and buying guidance based on real usage rather than surface-level impressions. Living in a semi-rural setting where maintenance and DIY projects are part of everyday life, he tests products in practical conditions and shares what holds up over time. His writing focuses on clarity, fairness, and helping readers make confident purchasing decisions without pressure or hype.
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