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AudioControl DQ-61 Factory sound processor with equalization and time delay (Blue)

Item # 161DQ61BL

You want good sound in your vehicle but you can't (or won't) change out the factory receiver.

You want good sound in your vehicle but you can't (or won't) change out the factory receiver.

6 questions - 13 answers

Item # 161DQ61BL

About the AudioControl DQ-61

Buck Pomerantz

Your factory receiver can drive an aftermarket system

You want good sound in your vehicle but you can't (or won't) change out the factory receiver. Audio Control's DQ-61 6-channel digital processor hooks up to your vehicle's speaker wiring, and transforms your factory radio's output into a balanced, equalized, and time-aligned signal that'll get superior performance from your aftermarket amps and speakers. And the DQ-61 will work with just about any factory setup, even amplified systems.

Your factory receiver can drive an aftermarket system

You want good sound in your vehicle but you can't (or won't) change out the factory receiver. Audio Control's DQ-61 6-channel digital processor hooks up to your vehicle's speaker wiring, and transforms your factory radio's output into a balanced, equalized, and time-aligned signal that'll get superior performance from your aftermarket amps and speakers. And the DQ-61 will work with just about any factory setup, even amplified systems.

Perfect tone and balance

You need a lot of tone control to achieve high-quality sound in the quirky acoustics of the mobile environment. With seven bands of equalization on each pair of front, rear, and subwoofer channels, the DQ-61 can tune the complete audio spectrum almost to perfection. Its Signal Delay function centers the musical image so it sounds balanced at about windshield height, instead of down around your left knee. An included wired remote lets you make adjustments and control the sub level from your front seat.

Bring back the bass

Many factory radios turn the bass down as the volume increases, protecting the vehicle's cheap factory speakers, but losing low-end power and punch. AudioControl developed a patent pending AccuBASS™ circuit that restores the bass the factory system erased, giving you much fuller and more enjoyable sound. The AccuBASS works on the DQ-61's subwoofer output channel, so your sub amp can work with a totally restored bass signal.

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Product highlights:

    General information
    • 6-channel factory sound processor with EQ and Signal Delay (Cascade Blue)
    • designed to work with any factory stereo
    • 6 speaker-level inputs (each can handle up to 400 watts RMS of power)
    Signal processing
    • input level controls with maximization indicator LED
    • 7-band graphic EQ on front, rear, and subwoofer channels
    • Signal Delay control adjusts time alignment for left-to-right and subwoofer-to-front balance
    • AccuBASS bass restoration circuitry
    • AutoMode creates subwoofer channel when needed
    • internal signal summing available when used with factory systems with crossovers
    • output level controls to match amp inputs
    • maximum output level: 7.5 volts RMS
    More info
    • ACR-3 Dash Control Remote included
    • GTO™ (Great Turn-On) signal-sensing turn on
    • 12-volt 1-amp turn-on lead output
    • recommended fuse: 2-amp
    • dimensions: 8-5/8"W x 1-1/4"H x 5"D
    • warranty: 5 years
    • MFR # 8410747

    What's in the box:

    • 6-Channel Line output converter/Equalizer
    • ACR-3 wired remote control
    • 18' Remote cable (RJ-14 plug on both ends)
    • Owner's manual
    • QC checklist
    • Quick reference card

    Customer reviews for AudioControl DQ-61

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    4.5 out of 5 stars
    25 reviews

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    More details on the AudioControl DQ-61

    Russ B.

    Product Research

    Features

    Overview: The DQ-61 is a 6-channel active line output converter, with built-in signal delay circuitry, equalizer, and AudioControl's AccuBASS processor.

    Line Output Converter: The six channel active line output converter allows you to keep the factory radio, and still dramatically improve your car audio system performance. The DQ-61 accepts up to six channel (front, rear, and sub) speaker-level input from your factory radio or amplifier(s), and converts to six high voltage pre-amp signals, to feed aftermarket amplifiers. The speaker level inputs are compatible with nearly any factory stereo system, even most Bose systems. There are three pair of inputs that will accommodate up to 400 watts per channel.

    Time Alignment: By delaying the left speaker output a few milliseconds, the Signal Delay feature lets you effectively center the listener (driver) between the left and right speakers, thus optimizing the sound stage. The Signal Delay feature also allows adjustment of the front speaker output relative to the subwoofer, to effectively bring the subwoofer forward in the car. AudioControl offers a free set-up app for iPhone and iPad, available at the AudioControl website.

    Equalizer: The front, rear, and subwoofer outputs have independent 7-band equalizers. The front and rear EQ bands are centered at 125 Hz, 175 Hz, 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz, and 8 kHz. The subwoofer bands are centered at 31.5 Hz, 40 Hz, 50 Hz, 63 Hz, 80 Hz, 100 Hz, and 125 Hz. Each dial is continuously variable from -12 dB to +12 dB and there's a notch at the center position so it's easy to return to the flat setting.

    AccuBASS: AccuBASS automatically corrects the intentional bass roll-off common in many factory installed audio systems. This patent pending (as of 10/2/13) circuitry maintains and restores the bass output level as the volume is turned up, improving the overall audio performance.

    Remote: The included ACR-3 wired remote gives you easy access to the subwoofer output level. The remote is also used to program the Signal Delay circuit, and to bypass the signal processor, for an A/B comparison with and without the Signal Delay, equalizer, and AccuBASS circuits. The remote is designed to be dash mounted, within reach of the driver; it can be mounted under the dash with the supplied bracket, or the bracket can be removed and the knob and LEDs can be custom mounted through the dash. Dimensions:

    • Width: 2.558"
    • Height: 1.477"
    • Depth: 1.811" (2.465" including knob)

    Input/Output Level: The input gains and output levels are set independently for the front, rear, and sub channels. To help correctly set the input, a Maximized LED lights to indicate the input is just below clipping. The adjustable output level allows you to increase the source line voltage to the top of your amplifier's input range; up to 7.5 volts RMS.

    Channel Summing: If your factory audio system has separate amplifier channels with built-in crossovers, connected directly to tweeters, midranges, and/or woofers, those signals will likely need to be combined (summed) into a single full range signal. The DQ-61 has internal jumper settings that allow you to select which input signals will be combined (none, front/rear, or front/rear/sub).

    Auto Turn-on: The GTO (Great Turn-On) Circuit turns on the DQ-61 when it detects a signal on the front speaker level input. There is also remote out terminal that provides a trigger to turn on your amplifier. The GTO circuit can be turned off if you prefer a wired turn-on trigger.

    Ground Isolation: The power supply ground is switchable, in case of ground loop noise. The factory position is fully isolated (typically the best choice), but can be changed to Ground or 200Ω.

    AutoMode: Some cars have low level or other unusual signals on their speaker leads that may not trigger the AutoMode circuit and result in signal switching. When this occurs you can manually turn off the AutoMode function by changing the internal jumper setting.

    Terminal Blocks: The power terminal and the three speaker level input terminals are removable; the wiring is attached to the block, then the block is plugged into the DQ-61. Each terminal block will accommodate wire up to 12 gauge.

    Specifications:

    • Maximum Speaker-Level Input: 400 watts per channel
    • Maximum Output: 7.5 volts RMS
    • Output Gain: +/-12 dB
    • Frequency Response: 10 Hz-22 kHz
    • THD: 0.01%
    • Input Impedance: 20 kΩ
    • EQ Frequencies:
      • Front/Rear: 125 Hz, 175 Hz, 250 Hz, 500 Hz, 1 kHz, 2 kHz, 8 kHz
      • Sub: 31.5 Hz, 40 Hz, 50 Hz, 63 Hz, 80 Hz, 100 Hz, 125 Hz,
    • Signal Delay:
      • Left/Right: 10ms max
      • Front/Sub: 35ms max
    • Output Impedance: 150 ohms
    • Current Draw: 350 mA
    • Recommended Fuse: 2 amp
    • Remote Trigger Output: 1 amp max

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    Customer Q&A

    6 questions already asked

    Q
    Where can i get a video to watch on how to wire the dq-61 in a 2018 chevy silverado ?? Do the soeaker wires running to my amp actually need to be takin out pand hooked up to the dq61 then the rca go from the amp to dq61? Or do i need to have seperate speaker wires ran from head unit and spliced into the existing behind the the head unit??? Please help my truck is takin apart as i try to figure this out
    rickey  Jul 11, 2021
    2 answers
    A
    HI, Rickey first thing to do is to figure out your speaker diagram to see what speakers are positive and negative. To power up this device there are different ways of doing it some get the power from one of the fuses in your car the way I did it is by getting the power from the amplifier. This device is meant to use your cars speakers converts them into RCA then RCA cables run from the DQ-61 to your amplifier. Your going to splice into your cars speaker wires I tapped from the connection that goes into my cars radio or you can get it from each door speaker and then run that wires to the DQ-61. Call Cruthfield they are very good in guiding you through thanks for reaching out.
    jesus  Jul 11, 2021
    A
    I don't know of a video available for the DQ61, if the is too can probably find on YouTube. What you are doing is connecting the speaker wires from your radio to the DQ61. If you can find a harness on both sides, it will make it easier. If not you can probably get the wiring guide with the Scosche app. I installed one in a Toyota Camry and I found the harness for both ends, but on my 2016 VW Passat I had to splice. I used quick connects and labeled the cables. You can use 4 pairs of speaker wire or you can use 9 wire cable to run the signal back to the DQ61. You then run rca cables to your amps, if you only have 4 channels, the 3 output will send a signal your subwoofer. You will need to send the signal to input 2 if you only have 2 channels, if using a subwoofer, because if there is no signal there, the will be no signal to your subwoofer. You will need to provide power and I used the remote turn on to turn on my amps without out running a signal from your head unit, with the 9 wire you can provide you have the option just in case the DQ61 doesn't auto sense when the HU is turned on.
    michael  Jul 11, 2021
    Q
    I am installing this dq61 in a 2012 Ford Fusion. I have four speakers in the doors two speakers in the rear deck and a center speaker in the rear deck and in the dash. I will disconnect the front and rear center speakers. How would I wire the other 6 speakers according to channel 1 2 and 3? I am adding 2 Alpine 4-channel bridgeable amplifiers and a 12 inch Kicker subwoofer, I could use a little help or information from anybody that might have any. Thank you very much
    william s  Dec 29, 2020
    1 answer
    A
    It sounds like your Fusion has the Sony audio system in it. The only way this processor can be used with that stock system is to give up the rear door speaker audio which also means there is no way to fade the audio in the vehicle. If you was hoping to maintain the fader, you will need to get a different factory sound processor and we have advisors you can reach by calling 1-800-324-9695 to get a personal recommendation on a processor for setup and goals
    jason  Jan 17, 2021 (Staff)
    Q
    How much should I expect to pay to install this in a 2009 BMW 335I xdrive sedan? I am using the factory radio and speakers and have a JL Audio JX1000/d amp pushing 2 JL Audio subs. I am just curious as I was given a quote of at least $1000 by my local install shop. They also said I need to buy a 5 channel amp in place of my JL Audio amp to make the install easier and cleaner. They recommended I buy a Memphis Audio 16-PRX700.5.
    shawn  Mar 02, 2017
    1 answer
    A
    More information is needed to help work out the estimated cost of installing all the gear to upgrade the system in your 2009 BMW. I recommend contacting an advisor on 1-800-324-9695 to discuss this and work out all the details on the gear you need and to get the estimated install cost. We look forward to hearing from you soon! My Bio: http://www.crutchfield.com/Support/Bio.aspx?bio=101
    jason  Mar 12, 2017 (Staff)
    Q
    With the 400 watts RMS of power limitation, would this work with an Alpine PDX-V9 amp which has 500 RMA for the sub channel?
    william  Dec 21, 2016
    4 answers
    A
    The power rating for the DQ-61 is for the input stage the sub amp will be used on the output stage, so no worries there.
    steve  Dec 26, 2016
    A
    Yes, the processor is pre-amp meaning the amp comes to play AFTER the DQ-61
    lebron  Dec 22, 2016
    A
    I suggest you reread the spec's for this unit. This is made to go between a factory/OEM with speaker outputs into the DQ-61 (up to 400w) and then into whatever you want via RCA's out of the back. This unit has 3 channels of output, front, rear and sub. If your head unit already has RCA outputs, then you don't/won't need this. You could have 5000 watts of power in amplifiers, if you wanted. The 400w limitation is the factory deck power and is not relevant to your external amplifier power. If this doesn't help, I recommend you call Audio Control directly. Peace, Mark D
    mark  Dec 22, 2016
    A
    The 400 watt limitation is for the inputs. It is setup to accommodate that in case you're running off of an amplified factory system. The Alpine should work nicely.
    anthony  Dec 22, 2016
    Q
    Will this help eliminate the static from my receiver input such as bluetooth audio? The receiver picks up static just wondering if this will filter it out as it passes thru
    eddie  Oct 07, 2014
    4 answers
    A
    How to replace. Battery
    lewis  Oct 18, 2014
    A
    The processor will output the signal as it comes in. Granted, the processor allows for time alignment and EQ functions. This processor is dead silent. It will not add any noise of its own. The signal has to be "clean" in order for this to happen though. The static will still come through. I would try to resolve the problem at the source. My car has Bluetooth audio streaming & it does not have any noise issues.
    juan  Oct 08, 2014
    A
    I cant afford to shell out the $800 for the upgraded head unit and also i dont like the look. Any suggestions to get this fixed?
    eddie  Oct 08, 2014
    A
    Are you using a factory radio and in what car is it on?
    robinson  Oct 08, 2014
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