Question about Saab 9-5 install

OK, I finally traded my Yukon Denali for a Saab 9-5. Quite a difference. I want to keep the stock stereo for now but want to install my empeg. One possibility is a remote install but at present there is no auxillary input adapter sold. I can replace the headunit using a kit sold in the UK but there is one problem (possible problem). I understand that the headunit in the Saab links to the amplifier using "balanced professional audio signal" as opposed to "single ended consumer audio signal" which I assume would include the empeg. Could someone explain the difference and even better suggest a solution (short of changing the rest of the system)...?

If there is a kit for that model of Saab, then it should do the appropriate conversion from balanced to line-level for you. Make sure that the kit can accept line-level inputs as opposed to speaker-level inputs.

I think the kit is for mounting a DIN size player in the 2DIN hole of the Saab. I don't think it comes with a converter. So far I haven't seen any converters available for this vehicle.

Ah. Well, then put your own amp in. Not a large problem at all.

In a Saab 9-3 and 9-5, you have little choice but to remove the entire system. The CD changer input is unusable since the head unit can only be married to Saab branded changers. If it's not a Saab CD changer, it's not going to work as an AUX input.

On this site under "Fitting Hints" there is a diagram of an 8-pin DIN connector that provides pre-amp outputs. However, although Saab head units look similar between models and years I'm pretty sure they could be made by 3 different companies (Clarion, Pioneer, and Harmon Kardon). The stereo in my Viggen did not have this connector. Even if it did, there would still be the problem of getting the empeg to play through the stereo (FM modulator being the only option).

The dash opening on a previous-gen 9-3 is 1-3/4 DIN which made finding a pocket a pain in the butt. I am pretty sure that the 9-5 is standard Double Din, so you should have no trouble finding a DIN pocket after ripping out your head unit to install the empeg.

By the way, since you're in Albany you should join the New York Saab Owners Club, or at least come to some events. We always have a great time and we're headquartered in Saratoga County. Many of us from the club (including myself) will be in Brookline, MA this weekend at Swedish Car Day. If you come, just look for the Viggen with NY empeg plates!

Thanks Rob for the info. Though I can't make it to Mass this weekend I'll definitely look into attending future events. My friend also has a Saab, I'll talk him into coming along.

Bob

Join our mailing list and checkout Saabrun.com for upcoming event info. Hope to see you at some events!

Apparently what I would need is an unbalanced to balanced 4 channel signal converter. Does anyone know if Soundgate or others sell a converter like this?


Rob: Definitely will get on the mailing list and keep an eye on club events. Couldn't be any closer to my home.

Apparently what I would need is an unbalanced to balanced 4 channel signal converter.

I wouldn't trust that this is actually the exact thing you need, unless you're speaking to someone who's specifically had success with it on his Saab. In which case he'd have the company and model number of the converter for you...

I agree Tony, I emailed Soundgate to get their input on the situation.

For those interested Soundgate emailed me with the following:

"The interface you would need to install an after market head unit in the Saab is the XR4. This will allow the signal to match from the new radio to the factor amp with no damage, as long as it is installed correctly. The retail on this part is 99.95. Thanks CHET."

The XR4 sounds pretty interesting:

http://store.yahoo.com/logjam/soundoem4a.html

Hey Rob, question, is their room behind the map pocket to fit a tuner and adapter or does the map pocket run all the way back in the radio opening?

Bob

I don't have a 9-5 so I don't know. I will ask someone who does though...