Bose Audio Upgrade

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CJ Rodarme

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I've got a 2003 Yukon with the Bose (non-premium) system. I am planning on doing a full upgrade on the audio system. I have purchased 4 6.5 3-way door speakers, a 5 channel amp, a 12 sub w a box, a radio and a generic wiring kit for the head unit. I did not purchase an interface as losing the features that go with the interface do not matter to me. However, I need help with the installation. If I use the wiring kit (it is GM specific) will the radio work? Mind that I am completely ditching the bose amp. Additionally, is there anything else I should purchase (minus things like amp wiring kit, RCA's, Fuses, etc)?
 

WildBill

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Without the interface box you'll lose chimes, onstar, steering wheel controls, rear audio, rear seat video, and maybe a few other features. Its been a few years since I did my 2003. Other normal radio features should be in the harness (power, ground, keyed power, dimming, etc) If youre adding nav, speed, reverse, and parking brake are all separate wires down by the pedals.

If you end up buying an interface box, skip Metra. I had a bunch of trouble with them. PAC worked right from day one on the Yukon and on the suburban O have now.
 

Doubeleive

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your better off just changing the head unit and using a proper interface adapter, those speakers are not going to sound even close to what the bose does, the sub will help a lot but if you want a comparable or better system ditch the 3 ways and get components & crossovers. the infinity kappa series are good and durable. just my 2 cents
 

Shaw520

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I agree with the above post. If you dont use a proper interface you are going to lose all of the factory features, including all warning chimes, delay off, SWC, onstar and factory phone capabilities. I just install a kenwood with the PAC interface and infinity Kappa speakers,.. I retained factory bose amp and ALL the factory features, and even added a backup camera that is activated when reverse is engaged. Good luck
 

HiHoeSilver

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I agree with the above post. If you dont use a proper interface you are going to lose all of the factory features, including all warning chimes, delay off, SWC, onstar and factory phone capabilities. I just install a kenwood with the PAC interface and infinity Kappa speakers,.. I retained factory bose amp and ALL the factory features, and even added a backup camera that is activated when reverse is engaged. Good luck

I know you have a couple threads going... Did you write all this up with parts, etc?
 

HiHoeSilver

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I have not,.. but if you feel it beneficial to the group I will.

I know all the info is out there, but sometimes there are install tricks/tips guys find along the way. Everyone's experience is a little different, so in my book, there's never too many how-to/install threads. It's always appreciated when someone takes the time to put all their info together in one place. I like the sound of your setup, and would be interested in it.
 

Sgtduckyboy

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your better off just changing the head unit and using a proper interface adapter, those speakers are not going to sound even close to what the bose does, the sub will help a lot but if you want a comparable or better system ditch the 3 ways and get components & crossovers. the infinity kappa series are good and durable. just my 2 cents

not sure how you can judged the sound already, we dont even know what brand yet! I have the kappas on my harley, they do sound great, but i have JL Audio 2ohm with stock amp and they sound great too! i dont think OP is trying to blow the roof off, or he'd have listed the make/model of all the parts. i do hope he matches the speakers to the amp so he has correct resistance throughout.
 

Doubeleive

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not sure how you can judged the sound already, we dont even know what brand yet! I have the kappas on my harley, they do sound great, but i have JL Audio 2ohm with stock amp and they sound great too! i dont think OP is trying to blow the roof off, or he'd have listed the make/model of all the parts. i do hope he matches the speakers to the amp so he has correct resistance throughout.
I can judge the sound from experience with this as well as many others can that have been down this road, I am simply stating the sound will not be the same as it was and that components would be a better choice. maybe the op will be perfectly happy with it.
 

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