Thread: How to control an AMP with dual input

I did search under every rock, no dice. I have 2002 Bravada with Delco (factory) radio, non-Bose with RDS and OnStar. There are a lot of Aux-in devices out there for all cars and GM, any year up to 2001 and 2004 and up, 2002/2003 modles don't have XM ready radios so I can't use an adapter. I called PIE, Crutchfield and every other guy out there. The only option I have is to replace the HU and lose:
1- Onstar (I don't use it)
2- Ding/Ding warninings (I need them)
3- Steering wheel controls.
4- Back seat audio zone controles (back seat can have its own audio source).

In addition to the price of the unit, I need a $70.00 adapter since I have Databus class II, also, a nother $70.00 to add steering wheel controls, yes for safety, that is $140 + new HU + instalation (my time) - Oh, and it is not that easy to find RDS HU out there, they cost a lot of $$$, yes, the teens in the back seat like to see "HOT 97.1 FM, YOUR HUNKY PUNKY FM STATION" - you get the point.

they make adapters for #2 and #3, #1 is self taken care of.

bummer about #4, though

actually, now that I think about it, they make an adapter for #1, too, for those out there that do use onstar.

so if they make an adapter for #4..... youd be set!

Looks like this is the road I am going to take, but it would set me back about $400/$500 bucks! when it is all done.
My local audio shop has a Pio control for back seat, that is another $200. ( I would not do it though)

I have a better suggestion - whatever happened to heapphones for the kids in the back seat. Just get them a couple of cheap portable FM radios ..... then listen to what you want on the system.

Another option would be to use a Line Level Converter (LLC) and an Automatic Audio Switch (AAS). Connect the H/U SPKR outputs to the LLC, the CarPC audio and the LLC ouputs to the AAS. Then the AAS would go to the amp's low level input (Phew!).
I've seen AAS's for automotive use, I don't remember where.