Any Thoughts on a Direct Swap of Bose Sub for another Passive Spare Tire Subwoofer?

[Bluenoser]

I'm hoping this question hasn't already been addressed but I've combed through the threads and couldn't find an answer.

I already have a Cerwin Vega VS12 12" Spare Tire Subwoofer which is a passive subwoofer. I know others have used the powered version with good results. I'm curious if anyone has tried a passive spare tire sub as a direct replacement for the BOSE, utilizing the factory amp already in the performance Z. I am currently waiting for an appointment at my dealer to have ANC and ASE switched off before I start cutting wire harnesses.

I suppose as a part 2 to my question, if it is not advisable to run the VS12 directly from the factory amp can any audiophiles on here recommend a suitable amp that would pair well with the VS12?

I'm not after window rattling bass but my 2017 Titan SV has a factory sound system that is wildly better than that of the Z. I think it's a definite shortcoming of our Zs.

Thanks!

 

[Thelife]

I don’t have a recommendation on an amp replacement (just went with powered Cerwin Vega), but I did use an adapter from OWC to just tap the factory harness and not cut any wires. Made install a breeze.

https://www.owc-upgrades.com/produc...io-interface-harness-adapters-platinum-series

 

[troymdaniels]

Just a heads up, prepare for a wait if you order from OWC. I assume it’s a one man shop which I’m all for supporting, but I’m approaching week 8 now and regretting not just using the high level on the factory wire/Bose sub connection and getting ANC shutoff at the dealer. Thought I would be saving some hassle with plug and play bypass, but two months is kind of crazy to wait.

 

[Ramman]

I have had installed the powered Cerwin Vega . The installer used the adapter so that the original plug is still available. It comes with a wired remote which is tucked in the space between the driver's seat and the console and is virtually invisible. It gives amazing control as far as earth moving sound if desired. It took the dealer about a month to get the speaker but was well worth the wait. I also had him replace the door speakers with JBLs.

 

[kevinbonds]

I have had installed the powered Cerwin Vega . The installer used the adapter so that the original plug is still available. It comes with a wired remote which is tucked in the space between the driver's seat and the console and is virtually invisible. It gives amazing control as far as earth moving sound if desired. It took the dealer about a month to get the speaker but was well worth the wait. I also had him replace the door speakers with JBLs.

This is relevant to my interests. I cannot stand the stock Bose system. Can you list the part numbers, because the bass in my car is non existent, it's really bad. Based on this post, I can just order the CW sub and an adapter, and it's plug and play?

 

[Matth1000]

The stock bose amp that powers 2x 4 inch "subs" wont be enough to power a 12 inch sub

 

[Ramman]

Thats correct. I had the Cerwin Vega amp installed between the cars amp and the speaker. To have the remote control of the speaker I needed to have the additional amp.

 

[kevinbonds]

Thats correct. I had the Cerwin Vega amp installed between the cars amp and the speaker. To have the remote control of the speaker I needed to have the additional amp.

Can you document how this was done please ? Did the installer need to run a power cable from the battery and a new ground etc.? Or did the CW get power from the stock amp wiring?

 

[Thelife]

Can you document how this was done please ? Did the installer need to run a power cable from the battery and a new ground etc.? Or did the CW get power from the stock amp wiring?

You will need to run power and ground. If using high (speaker) level input no remote turn on is needed. If you use low (line) level inputs through the RCA connection you’ll need to run remote turn on too.

 

[kevinbonds]

You will need to run power and ground. If using high (speaker) level input no remote turn on is needed. If you use low (line) level inputs through the RCA connection you’ll need to run remote turn on too.

Thanks! So except for the power and ground, the installer can tap into the high-level input, and then use that to connect to the amp? Is there any cutting or splicing, or with the exception of power and ground can you use the existing Bose connecter? Also, do you have a link to the CW speaker you bought and any of the other neceesary pieces for install. I need to do this!