'04 MCS w/ H/K and want to add sub. Does anyone have a how-to or instructions?

 

If i know properly, the H/K has an output on the amp. i don't know but i think.

 

its a pain in the *** to add to the HK system. i can help ya out a bit if you want to, i only know the theory of it though.....

 

Anyone have more input?

 

I am going through the process right now. The HK amp does not have dedicate sub low-level outputs; rather, it only has dedicated speaker-level outputs for each of the three speaker "sets" (I say "sets" because the top door speaker is actually a midrange/tweeter combination and because the rear is a dual voicecoil arrangement). Most people who have added only a sub and sub amp to their HK systems seem to have harnessed one or more the speaker outputs from the HK amp. How best to do this is somewhat open to debate, although the consensus appears to be that the rear speaker outputs should be used.

My suggestion is that you visit your local TRUSTED car audio shop for advice.

Good luck.

 

Thanks!
Still hoping for more input before the big day!

 

I didn't think it was that big of a pain in the butt.

I did it last year on my '05 and documented it as much as possible.

http://www.geekshocker.com/Claire/audio/ampInstall.php

Let me know if you have any questions about it.

 

I'm very impressed that you were able to remove the H/K amp without taking off the trim panel

 

Sweet!
Ian, take a trip down and help me!

 

If only I didn't have this job

 

Oooh It wasn't easy.

 

Using Shankrabbit's directions I've been able to connect the audio wire to the H/K amp that will eventually be run to my Sub amp. I just hit a snag when I realized I lost the line level input cable for my amp so I either need to find a new cable or buy a line level converter.

I didn't however manage to run cable without taking any covers off, however in that I drive a convertible, my amp was under the seat.

But I will say Shankrabbit's guide was of great help to me.

 

Sweet! Glad to hear it was helpful.

(oh... and I so need to upgrade the pictures. my sub box is no longer a 1960's home speaker enclosure.)

 

I too followed shankrabbit's instructions and used Ian's H/K connector diagram. Excellent instructions, really simple install with those instructions in front of you if you have ever done a sub install before.

Actually, considering the location of the battery in the MINI it was the most simple sub install I've done on any of my cars. Granted I have a line level input on my Rockford amp. Thanks!

 

Great directions, I made the mistake (before I knew anything about NAM) of tapping the Line Converter behind the HK Headunit. I tapped into the front two speakers as advised by the insturctions on the Line Converter! whoops. Didnt know about the digital out for the stock amp, and was stuck with a constant bass from the woofer unless i had the volume at 0.

All fixed now with an upgraded HU and the infamous HKenabler.

BTW, spent some time running the stock HU under the passenger seat until the HKenabler arrived, worked, but the auto volume reset was a problem. Now im just looking for my MFSW connection and Ill be up and running at 100%

 

Yes, before I developed the HKenabler initially had my stock HU still connected in the trunk, then a stripped down HU which I could hide away!



Check with MikeyTheMINI - he seems to be able to do most aftermarket HUs, and he has a useful list on MINI2

 

ehhh, not seeing anything on the list...its not a pressing matter now, ive moved on from the interior and finally looking to do some engine work...
I have a Kenwood819 DVD. Ill look/get the MSFW when I decide to get the Nav and Bluetooth add ons...do it all in one shot.

As for the HU, yes I stumbled upon your information for the idea/solution to the problem, hence the purchase of the HKenabler... still getting the configs with the button down, but for one, an aftermarket HU with HK amp means needing to fine tune the freq inorder to avoid distortion, any suggestions? Ive been mixing an matching and all...

 

I simply adjusted the front/rear fade towards the rear, so that the signal going out through the front speakers and in to the H/K amp was low enough to give a good balance of volume range.
Especially if you have a "loudness" type feature which boosts some frequencies at lower volumes, adjusting fade towards the rear will work well for you.

If you are able to measure the signal in to the H/K amp, you want to stay below 5Vp-p with the loudest volume music source.