3rd Gen JBL Subwoofer Upgrade

Unfortunately taco tunes hasn’t released anything we can use for the JBL system, but apparently OEM Audio+ has been working on a solution. They’ve been saying that for a couple years though so who really knows

That might be a good option if you don’t mind figuring out the wiring for it. Someone just confirmed that the Maestro DRS-1 harness will work with the JBL so that’s an option as well.
Here’s another thread with some good info from a few very knowledgeable members so feel free to ask them more specific questions https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/replace-oem-jbl-sub-and-add-an-amp.546017/page-5

 

JBL owners can use this to easily wire up additional amps. Can be had for under $150 online. https://catalog.pac-audio.com/catalog/amppro-amplifier-interfaces/ap4-ty12

 

interesting. Their site is over 300 going to see if its somewhere else

 

I got it from a vendor on Newegg. In the mail as we speak. $146 shipped. Although now I searched and it appears to be unavailable at that price. Either way I’ve read it’s an excellent plug n play solution.

 

Good find. Crutchfield is always a good source but they're around $280-300. I'm a little ashamed to admit I got mine from Walmart for about $175. But I've been running it for over 2 years without any issues. It's definitely worth the price either way to simplify the entire process and save you from headaches during the install and in the future

 

ah I see. Well let us know how it turns out when you got it all set and done

 

Hey, nice setup. Audio noob here and was wondering why you decided to keep the JBL amp since you ended up scrapping the JBL sub and putting in the RF subs and RF amp

 

JBL amp has to stay connected if you’re keeping the factory radio. If you’re doing a full gut including the radio, it can be removed.

 

Gotcha so if you swap factory HU for an aftermarket HU, the factory amp can be disconnected?

(for reference, I have a stock JBL system with aftermarket Pioneer headunit. Underwhelmed by the bass quality. Was initially thinking about swapping the sub out for an aftermarket sub but the stock plastic enclosure is subpar. Thinking about fully gutting the JBL system--amp and sub-- in exchange for a proper dual box sub enclosure and a better amp)

 

Really helpful intel and sharp final product thanks for sharing your build badfish_55

 

I appreciate it. I hope you got the info you needed but let me know if you have any questions. I just finished installing some Morel components using the AmpPro as well and it was pretty straightforward

 

So @badfish_55 just to be clear - the built in amp now just drives the doors/tweeters and the subs are completely handled by the PAC AmpPro + Punch AB Amp? Also - what size subs are those P3's? 8 or 10?

Thanks for all the info posted so far!

 

Correct, the stock JBL amp can still power the door speakers/tweeters and needs to stay in because all the chimes, navigation, or anything that produces sound goes through the stock amp. The AmpPro basically overrides the channels you select (front, rear, sub) and gives them a clean signal to an aftermarket amp that the stock amp ignores.

If anyone is curious,I just installed a new set of components with the tweeters in the sail panels and before unplugging the JBL tweeters in the dash, they retained full functionality and played along with the new components. So the AmpPro could double the number of channels you have

And yes those P3s are 10”. Very solid subs and are probably the best option with our limited space. I actually just switched the RF punch amp to run the components and got the new kicker key 500.1 to power the subs and I’m very impressed with that little guy

 

Awesome, super informative @badfish_55 - thanks!

 

Hate to bring an old thread up but if I strip all speakers, jbl sub, head unit, tweeters, etc can I install anything I want or no

 

Yeah a full system gut allows anything that fits to be installed. Opens up lots of possibilities. You will still a wiring harness for the radio for things like power/ground/accy and to retain functions like steering wheel controls. You can also still use the APH harness normally paired with the AmpPro to retain the factory speaker wires. Or you can run all new wiring from your new amp to your new speakers .

 

Hmm thinking of installing a pioneer avic 8500 not sure yet about everything else. Just really hate the jbl sound system nothing about it is premium

 

The price tag.

 

JBL amp?? Ok been years since I had upgraded car audio equipment so out of the loop. I now have a 2021 Tacoma TRD pro. It’s a lease so I don’t want to spend a chunk. Thinking of just the sub, kicker comp8 or fosgate 8”. Nonetheless, I am curious to the factory amp? Seems complexed but cannot find all the details on it and wiring diagram. Seems of the crossover for the sub could be adjusted it would make a difference. Anyway, asked for understanding of the factory JBL integration into the vehicle and audio. Anyone help?

 

Awesome build @badfish_55, thank you! Could i possibly not use the jbl amp at all and install a 5 or 6 channel amp to run all speakers?

@destin_meeks Is there a difference between the amp pro and lc7i?

Thank you again, I appreciate your time!!