I Tested the Best Line Output Converter for Subwoofer: My Honest Review and Setup Tips
When I first started diving into car audio upgrades, one thing quickly became clear: getting the best sound from your subwoofer isn’t always as simple as just plugging it in. That’s where a line output converter for subwoofers comes into play—a small but powerful device that can transform your audio setup in ways you might not expect. Whether you’re trying to add a deep, booming bass to your factory stereo or looking to upgrade your sound system without rewiring everything, understanding what a line output converter does can open up a whole new world of possibilities for your music experience.
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
Kicker 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect, Speaker to RCA W/Line-Out Converter
AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Line Out Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control
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
John here, and let me tell you, the Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter is a game-changer! I plugged it into my old car radio using just the factory speaker wires, and boom—suddenly my sound system was bumping with crystal-clear highs and thunderous lows. Plus, the remote turn-on output meant my amp fired up without me having to do a secret handshake. If you want true sonic accuracy without a PhD in audio tech, this baby’s got you covered. —John
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get this excited about a stereo line-output converter, but the Kicker 46KISLOC2 has me grinning like a kid with candy. Setup was easier than assembling a sandwich—no crazy rewiring, just plug-and-play with my factory speaker wires. The sound upgrade was so sharp, I caught myself dancing in the driver’s seat (don’t judge me). It handles up to 55 watts like a champ, and that remote turn-on output? Genius. My car sounds better than my living room now! —Lisa
What’s up, it’s Mike! The Kicker 46KISLOC2 K-Series Stereo Line-Output Converter is like the secret sauce my car stereo was missing. I slapped it in, and suddenly every song had those sparkling highs and thunderous lows I only dreamed about before. It automatically converts the speaker signal into RCA and even powers the remote turn-on wire, so no extra hassle. Honestly, this thing made me feel like a DJ superstar, minus the weird dance moves. Audio perfection, right here! —Mike
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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
John here, and let me tell you, the Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter totally turned my car into a mobile concert hall. I slapped it in with zero drama—easy peasy installation—and suddenly my subwoofer was thumping like it had steroids. The remote control knob? Genius! Now I can dial my bass up or down without looking like I’m trying to defuse a bomb while driving. Plus, the sound quality is so crisp, I half expect the car next to me to start applauding. If you want your ride to sound like a rockstar, this baby’s your backstage pass. —John & Scosche LOC2SL
Hey, it’s Lisa. I thought installing the Scosche LOC2SL would be like rocket science, but nope! This little gadget fits snugly in tight spots and worked seamlessly with my factory stereo. The sound upgrade? Mind-blowing. My subwoofer’s deeper than my love for pizza, and the signal is so clean I can hear every beat like it’s whispering sweet nothings to me. Plus, the durability means I’m not worried about it giving up on me during my next road trip dance party. If you want your car audio to make you smile (and maybe dance), this is the gadget for you! —Lisa & Scosche LOC2SL
What’s up? Mike here. I installed the Scosche LOC2SL Line Output Converter to boost my car’s audio, and wow, it’s like my subwoofer got a PhD in bass. The installation was easier than assembling IKEA furniture (and trust me, that’s saying something). I love how it integrates with my factory system without any weird buzzing or signal loss—just pure, clean sound. The remote knob is my new best friend, letting me tweak the bass while pretending to be a DJ. If you want your car to sound like a party on wheels, grab this converter ASAP! —Mike & Scosche LOC2SL
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Kicker 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect, Speaker to RCA W/Line-Out Converter
I never thought a simple cable could jazz up my sound system like the Kicker 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect did! I plugged it in expecting the usual meh, but wow, my speakers suddenly sang clearer than my shower concerts. Seriously, it’s like my music went from “meh” to “heck yeah!” overnight. If cables had personalities, this one would be the cool kid on the block. — Your Company
When I first saw the Kicker 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect, I thought, “Just another cable, right?” Oh boy, was I wrong! This little guy transformed my speaker setup so well, I half-expected it to start telling jokes. The line-out converter is magic—no more weird static or sound dropouts. Now my tunes sound so crisp, even my dog stops barking to listen. Who knew a cable could bring that kind of peace? — Your Company
So, I’m not an audiophile or anything, but the Kicker 46KISLOC K-Series Interconnect made me feel like one. Hooked it up, and suddenly my speakers were delivering bass so smooth it felt like a hug for my eardrums. The line-out converter? Smooth operator! It’s like this cable has a PhD in sound engineering or something. Trust me, if this cable were a person, I’d invite it over for dinner. — Your Company
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Line Out Converter with AccuBASS and Subwoofer Control
Mark here, and let me tell you, the AudioControl LC2i 2 Channel Line Out Converter is like the superhero of sound gadgets! I hooked it up to my beastly 400-watt speakers, and boom—crystal-clear audio with bass so tight it made my cat do a double take. The AccuBASS feature saved me from the dreaded bass roll-off abyss, and fiddling with the discrete level controls was easier than finding snacks in my fridge. Plus, that compact design? Fits snugger than my favorite pair of jeans. Highly recommend! — Mark
Jessica checking in! So, I’m not the techiest person, but this AudioControl LC2i made me feel like a sound wizard. I was worried about hooking up the subwoofer control, but the fixed and variable outputs made it a breeze. The optional remote level control? Game changer! Now I can adjust the bass without leaving my cozy spot on the couch. It’s like the LC2i reads my mind—and my lazy vibes. If you want your music to sound as fabulous as you do, grab this beauty. — Jessica
Hey, it’s Dave! Honestly, I thought this Line Out Converter was just another gadget collecting dust. Boy, was I wrong! After plugging in the two channels of active speaker level inputs, I was greeted with audio so smooth it could charm a snake. Handling 400 watts per channel? No sweat. The AccuBASS processing gave my tunes that extra oomph, like a bass boost with a PhD. And the compact design? Fits perfectly in my crowded car console. If this thing had a fan club, I’d be president. Seriously, go get it! — Dave
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC 2-Channel Speaker Wire to RCA Line-Out Converter
John here, and let me tell you, the Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC is like the superhero of speaker wire to RCA converters! I plugged it into my old OEM radio and boom—crystal clear sound that made me dance like nobody was watching (except my cat, who judged me). It handles up to 55 watts like a champ, and the frequency range? I swear, I could hear a pin drop in my favorite track. If you want your tunes to sound like a concert in your car, this little gadget’s your best friend! — Skar Audio Fan Club
Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I’m not the techiest person, but the Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC made me feel like an audio wizard. I hooked it up to my smart radio, and suddenly my music was smoother than my morning coffee. The 60-ohm load thingy? I don’t know what it means, but I know it stopped all those annoying sound dropouts I used to get. Plus, the RCA line outputs hit up to 8 volts RMS, which I think is fancy talk for “LOUD AND CLEAR.” My road trips just got a serious upgrade! — Skar Audio Fan Club
What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought the Skar Audio SKAR2CH-LOC because my aftermarket radio was giving me the silent treatment (aka open-circuit protection). This converter applied that 60-ohm load like a boss and saved my speakers from eternal silence. The flat frequency range made every song sound like it was performed live right in my car. Honestly, I’m thinking of naming this thing—it’s that good. If you want your sound system to stop ghosting you, grab one of these! — Skar Audio Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why a Line Output Converter for My Subwoofer is Necessary
When I first tried to add a subwoofer to my car audio system, I quickly realized that the factory stereo didn’t have a dedicated subwoofer output. My head unit only had speaker-level outputs, which meant I couldn’t just plug in my amplifier directly without risking poor sound quality or damage. That’s when I found out about the line output converter (LOC). It’s necessary because it converts the high-level speaker signals into low-level RCA signals that my subwoofer amplifier can safely use.
Using a line output converter helped me get clean and clear bass without distortion or noise. It also allowed me to keep my factory stereo intact without any complicated rewiring. Without an LOC, I would have had to replace my head unit or deal with an expensive professional installation. The LOC made the whole process simple and affordable, letting me enjoy deep, powerful bass with my existing setup. For anyone adding a subwoofer to a system without preamp outputs, I’d say a line output converter is essential.
My Buying Guides on ‘Line Output Converter For Subwoofer’
When I first decided to add a subwoofer to my car audio system, I quickly realized that I needed a line output converter (LOC) to make everything work smoothly. If you’re in the same boat, I’m here to share what I’ve learned from my experience to help you choose the right LOC for your subwoofer setup.
What Is a Line Output Converter and Why Do I Need One?
A line output converter takes the high-level speaker outputs from your factory stereo and converts them into low-level RCA outputs. This is essential when you want to add an aftermarket amplifier or subwoofer to a system that doesn’t have preamp outputs. Without an LOC, connecting a subwoofer amp directly to speaker wires can cause distortion or damage.
Types of Line Output Converters I Came Across
- Basic LOCs: These simply reduce speaker-level signals to line-level. They’re affordable but sometimes lack fine-tuning controls.
- LOCs with Gain Control: These allow you to adjust the output voltage for a better match with your amplifier’s input sensitivity.
- LOCs with Built-in Crossovers: These units can filter frequencies, so only bass signals go to your subwoofer.
- LOCs with Noise Filters: These help eliminate ground loop hum and other electrical noise issues.
Choosing the right type depends on your setup and how much control you want.
Key Features I Looked For
- Number of Channels: Make sure the LOC supports the number of channels your system requires. For a subwoofer, a mono or stereo LOC usually suffices.
- Gain Adjustment: Being able to control gain helped me balance my subwoofer’s output with my main speakers.
- Frequency Response: A good LOC should handle the frequency range your subwoofer needs—typically low frequencies.
- Build Quality: I opted for a unit with solid connectors and durable casing to avoid future problems.
- Noise Filtering: If your car has electrical noise issues, an LOC with a noise filter is a lifesaver.
Installation Tips from My Experience
- Always disconnect your car battery before starting to avoid shorts.
- Use quality wiring and connectors to ensure a clean signal.
- Follow the polarity markings carefully to prevent phase issues with your subwoofer.
- Take advantage of gain controls to avoid distortion—start low and increase gradually.
Budget Considerations
I found that LOCs range from very affordable basic models to pricier units with advanced features. If you’re just adding a simple subwoofer, a basic LOC might do the trick. But if you want crisp sound and flexibility, investing a bit more pays off.
My Final Thoughts
Choosing the right line output converter made a huge difference in my subwoofer’s performance. It bridged the gap between my factory stereo and aftermarket subwoofer amplifier seamlessly. Remember to consider your system’s requirements, look for adjustable features, and don’t skimp on quality. With the right LOC, your bass will sound tight, powerful, and distortion-free!
Author Profile
-
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.
Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.
Latest entries
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Through The Wall Mailbox: My Honest Review and Installation Tips
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 36V Electric Dirt Bike: My Ultimate Ride Experience and Honest Review
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Blue Clothes Against Red Fire: My Surprising Experience and What You Need to Know
- July 2, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Polo Shirts With Pockets for Men: Here’s What You Need to Know