2023 Pacifica build log - Speakon disconnects, voltage difference, Helix tuning questions
Been working on the audio in our 2023 Pacifica with base 6 speaker system (non premium) for a while and wanted to share where things are at. Main goal is better sound and fully concealable since I’m still in warranty. Amp rack is located in spare tire well and will be completely covered up with a panel.
Had to keep the factory radio obviously. Using the PAC LPHCH42 harness connected to the 2 runs of blue 9 wire. Still on the stock speakers for now while I figure out replacements. Looking at the Kicker KSS269 3-way sets but haven’t decided yet. Sub is a Kicker TRTP 12. Helix DSP Mini MK2 and a Pioneer GM DX975 5-channel amp are going on a removable rack. Already bypassed the ANC at the back of the radio with a bypass I found online.
I ran all the cables long on purpose so I can trim them to a clean length later once everything is set.
For disconnects, the sub already has a Speakon on it just for fun. Planning the same idea for the speaker wires to/from the head unit (8-pole Speakons). I will mount 2 more chassis mount connect for the high level inputs to the helix and amp outputs to the speakers onto the amp rack as well. The speaker wire speakons can be bridged with a coupler to be back to stock instantly. Also have an NVX XQDC4 coming for a power and ground quick disconnect so the entire rack is fully removable.
Everything is wired and playing through the stock speakers right now. Sounds better than stock already but nothing is properly tuned yet and speakers are still TBD.
The voltage difference is tripping me up a little. I have full range on the fronts but the backup park assist chimes go through the rears. At max unclipped volume (volume 30 of 38 with a 40 Hz 0 dB test tone) I’m getting:
Front doors: 6.4 V
Rear doors: 9.5 V
The rears are “amplified” from the factory. Not sure if it’s an actual amp or just the ANC module or head unit doing it. ANC is already bypassed but the difference is still there. Thinking about putting resistors on the rear channels before they hit the Helix so the input voltages match the fronts for better overall volume and cleaner gains, but I’m not sure if that’s the right move. I currently have the Helix input voltage set to 6.6vrms which is why I have omitted the rear channels for now.
Questions:
- How are you handling a 6.4 V front vs 9.5 V rear difference on a Helix? Resistors on the rear inputs, different sensitivity settings, or something else?
- What’s your actual process for Helix Auto EQ with the Mini MK2 and PC-Tool? Mic placement, how many positions, what you hit first, and what you always change after it runs?
- What measurement mic are you using with Helix? Looking for something solid without going crazy expensive.
- Anyone tried the Kicker KSS269 3-ways? Worth it or should I keep looking?
Open to any other thoughts on the system!
Thanks.