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AudioControl LCQ-1 6-channel line output converter with equalizer — add amps to your factory system (White)

Item # 161LCQ1

AudioControl's LCQ1 6-channel line output converter (LOC) with 11-band equalization and bass restoration allows you...

AudioControl's LCQ1 6-channel line output converter (LOC) with 11-band equalization and bass restoration allows you...

19 questions - 33 answers

Item # 161LCQ1

Shop all AudioControl Line Out Converters

About the AudioControl LCQ-1

Ken Nail

Add amps and fine tuning to your factory system

AudioControl's LCQ1 6-channel line output converter (LOC) with 11-band equalization and bass restoration allows you to add aftermarket amps, speakers, and subs to your car's factory radio, so you can enjoy better and more powerful sound without losing climate controls, voice-activated functions, or other built-in factory features. The LCQ1 accepts speaker-level signals, so you can use it with just about any setup, even high-powered amplified systems.

Add amps and fine tuning to your factory system

AudioControl's LCQ1 6-channel line output converter (LOC) with 11-band equalization and bass restoration allows you to add aftermarket amps, speakers, and subs to your car's factory radio, so you can enjoy better and more powerful sound without losing climate controls, voice-activated functions, or other built-in factory features. The LCQ1 accepts speaker-level signals, so you can use it with just about any setup, even high-powered amplified systems.

Summing

The LCQ1 sums its input signals together, even if they've been crossed over for tweeters, mids, and subs by the factory system. That way, you can count on a strong, smooth, full-range signal for your processors and amps. The LCQ1 features six RCA preamp outputs that'll handle a traditional front/rear/sub setup.

Equalization

The LCQ1's graphic equalizer will help make your music sound fantastic in your car, utilizing 11 bands of adjustment for sonic fine tuning. Most car audio problems occur in the bass frequencies, so this processor's subwoofer channel gives you five bands of equalization between 31.5 and 100 Hz. The front and rear channels each feature six bands of equalization at varying intervals from 125 Hz up to 8,000 Hz.

Why you have to restore the bass

Many factory radios actually turn the bass down as you increase the volume to protect the cheap factory speakers, subsequently removing much of your music's power and punch. AudioControl developed a patent pending AccuBASS™ circuit that restores the bass the factory radio erased, giving you much fuller and more enjoyable sound. The AccuBASS is applied to the subwoofer output channel, so your sub amp can have the entire, restored signal to work with.

Level-matching with an LED indicator

AudioControl makes it easy: set your factory stereo to about 3/4 maximum volume, turn the output level control of the LCQ1 until the "Maximized" light begins to flicker, then adjust the gain controls on your amps and you're done. You've level-matched the output of your receiver to the amplifier's input, so you can count on getting maximum performance and minimum noise from your system.

Convenience

The optional dash-mounted ACR-2 wired remote allows you to adjust the volume of the bass while you're on the go, and to bypass and reengage the EQ to demonstrate your fine tuning. The speaker-level inputs sense incoming signals and turn on the LCQ1, while a built-in 12-volt trigger turns on your amps as well. If your factory system only has channels for front and rear speakers, AutoMode™ will create the output you can use for your subs.

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Product highlights:

  • 6-channel line output converter plus 11-band equalization and bass restoration
  • 6 speaker-level inputs (each can handle up to 400 watts RMS)
  • internal channel summing
  • 11-band graphic equalizer
    • subwoofer channels: 5 bands (center frequencies: 31.5, 50, 63, 80, 100 Hz)
    • front and rear channels: 6 bands (center frequencies: 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000, 8000 Hz)
  • AccuBASS™ bass restoration circuitry
  • 6 preamp outputs (up to 8.5 volts RMS)
  • level matching controls with Maximized Indicator LED
Other Features:
  • optional wired remote subwoofer level controller available (item 161ACR2)
  • AutoMode™ turns 4-channel input to 6-channel output
  • GTO™ signal-sensing turn on
  • 12-volt turn-on lead output
  • recommended fuse rating: 2 amps
  • 6"W x 1-1/4"H x 5-7/8"D
  • warranty: 5 years
  • MFR # LCQ-1 - white

What's in the box:

  • 6-Channel signal processor
  • 4 Connector blocks (pre-installed)
  • Owner's Manual
  • Quality Control note

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More details on the AudioControl LCQ-1

Stacey B.

Product Research

Features

Overview: The AudioControl LCQ-1 is a powerful six-channel signal processor that provides a gateway between factory installed source units and aftermarket amplifiers. It is a compact, six-channel, high-performance, OEM line-output converter with independent multichannel equalizers to custom tune your car audio system. The LCQ-1 allows you to easily "tune" your audio system & receive improved sound quality. An ideal combination of discrete equalization controls combined with AudioControl's unique OEM integration circuitry, the LCQ-1 maximizes the performance of factory installed audio systems. No longer will you have to compromise when performing basic amplifier additions to a factory installed audio system. The active circuitry used in the LCQ-1 provides dramatically better sound quality & enhances the bass response.

AccuBASS: Designed for maximum sound quality and enhanced audio performance, the LCQ-1 is the latest AudioControl processor to incorporate AccuBASS. This patent pending process automatically corrects for the bass roll-off that is common with many factory-installed audio systems. Factory installed amplifiers and woofers are (unfortunately) not designed to reproduce bass at high volumes. Car manufacturers adapt to this by taking the bass out of the signal when you turn up the volume. AudioControl developed the patent pending AccuBASS circuit to restore bass. After a quick and easy one-time setting, the AccuBASS circuit takes over the bass just as the factory system rolls off. You get smooth, seamless, and rock solid bass response regardless of volume level.

Individual Equalization Controls: To custom tune your system, the LCQ-1 gives you dedicated equalization controls for the Front, Rear, & Subwoofer outputs.

Channel Type Equalization Frequencies Level Adjustment
Front  125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 2kHz, 8kHz -12 to +12 dB
Rear  125Hz, 250Hz, 500Hz, 1kHz, 2kHz, 8kHz -12 to +12 dB
Subwoofer 31.5Hz, 50Hz, 63Hz, 80Hz, 1000Hz -12 to +12 dB

6ch Speaker Level Inputs: The LCQ-1 has active, high-voltage, high-impedance (20K Ohms) speaker-level inputs that accepts signals from high power, factory installed amplifiers (up to 400 watts per channel). This means the AudioControl LCQ-1 will work with factory-installed audio systems and give you a higher-quality signal with lower noise, lower distortion, and higher output voltage. These inputs get their signals from the speaker-level outputs of your factory installed source unit or amplifier. If your source unit has front, rear, & subwoofer speaker-level outputs, connect them to the three sets of inputs on your LCQ-1.

AutoMode Input: If the source unit only has front & rear outputs, the Auto Mode circuitry in your LCQ-1 automatically routes the Channel 2 input channels to the (Channel 3) subwoofer channels.

Internal Channel Summing: The LCQ-1 employs internal channel summing for interfacing with factory installed amplifiers with built-in crossovers.  Channel summing lets you eliminate any factory-installed active crossovers. Many of today's factory stereo systems include separately amplified & crossed-over tweeters, midranges, & subs. If you are going to add aftermarket amps and speakers to the car you will need to combine (or sum) these separate signals into a single full-range signal for the new system. The LCQ-1 has the capability to combine together multiple (2, 4, or 6) input signals from the factory source unit into 2 channels. The LCQ-1 has internal jumpers that allow you to select which input signals will be summed into the Main outputs. When the jumper is moved to the "Sum" position, there will also be a corresponding green indicator light on the front of the LCQ-1.

Note: The LCQ-1 is shipped from the factory in the non-summed (separate) position.

Preamp Outputs: The AudioControl LCQ-1 is equipped with 3 stereo preamp outputs (Front/Main, Rear/Ch2, and Sub/Ch3) to connect to your aftermarket amplifier(s). Each stereo preamp output has an independent level control which allows you adjust the signal level from your factory source unit to match the input of your aftermarket amplifier(s).

GTO (Great Turn-On) Circuit: The main speaker level inputs have a signal sensing circuit (GTO) that turns the unit "On" when there's a speaker level input signal, and turns the unit off when the signal disappears.

Remote Output: The +12 volt DC remote output will trigger an amp to turn on whenever the LCQ-1 is "On". The remote's maximum current output is 1 amp.

Optional Remote Control: You can add a multi-function dash control (161ACR2, sold separately) that allows you to set the level of the subwoofer. It also has an in/out switch for the equalizer function so you can hear the system before and after your tuning changes. The ACR-2 is a multi-function remote that gives you control over the level of the Channel 3/Subwoofer output so you can balance the bass level with the rest of the system. An additional feature of the ACR-2 dash remote is that it allows the equalization to be switched in and out of the audio circuit by tapping the switch. You can hear the system before and after the EQ adjustments.

Installation: The LCQ-1 needs to be installed in the signal path between your OEM source unit (or factory amplifier) and aftermarket amplifier(s) and/or processor(s). Do not connect the LCQ-1 between the factory head unit and the factory amplifier. Locate the amplified speaker wires that are coming from your factory source unit and/or amplifier and connect them to the speaker-level inputs on the LCQ-1. In many cases you can find factory speaker leads in the rear of the vehicle or at the factory amplifier. Then use RCA connecting cables to connect the RCA outputs of the LCQ-1 to your aftermarket amplifier(s). Finally, connect +12V power and ground. The LCQ-1 has a 12-volt trigger input, but normally you will just let the GTO turn on circuit take care of that by itself.

Specifications:

  • Maximum Speaker Level Input: 400 watts
  • Maximum Output Voltage: 8.5 volts RMS
  • Output Gain: +/-12 dB
  • Frequency response: 10Hz-22kHz
  • THD: 0.01%
  • Input Impedance: 20 kΩ
  • Output Impedance: 150 Ω
  • Power Draw: 350mA

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Customer Q&A

19 questions already asked

Q
I own a 2009 370Z Touring Sport with the Bose system. I have 1 factory Bose amp that gets signals from the Bose factory head unit then out to the speakers then another factory amp for the factory subwoofers. If I was to use the LCQ-1 would I need to tap the wires before the 1st factory Bose amp for the speaker signal to the LCQ-1 or tap the output wires from the 1st factory Bose amp? I have a 5 channel amp I'll use for powering everything and I understand how to wire that side up. I'm just confused about what wires to tap for the LCQ-1.
ryan c  Mar 16, 2017
2 answers
A
Tap the speaker wires after the amp.
michael  Mar 18, 2017
A
I'm not 100% sure about the answer I'm going to give. I would think if you are going to use a completely different amp I would think you would need to tap into the wires coming from the head unit to send the signal to the LCQ-1 and from there to your new amp. Hope this helped you. You may want to talk to one of the crutchfeild techs to be 100% though. Or maybe try to research on you-tube.
justin  Mar 17, 2017
Q
Concerns about integration in 2010 Ford Expedition without NAV or RSE but does have in-dash 6 Disc player. Also of concern is rear backing assist tones from a rear speaker. When radio/LCQ/system is off, will I still hear these tones? Will the LCQ detect these tones and turn on and pass these tones?
kevin t.  Jan 18, 2014
1 answer
A
You will want to contact an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat to discuss compatibility with your factory system. They will be able to pull up your vehicle and see if this will integrate. If it does not, then they will also be able to discuss other options with you.
jeff  Jan 19, 2014 (Staff)
Q
which sound processor should I get?
simon  Dec 26, 2013
3 answers
A
Thanks
chet  Jan 14, 2014
A
What do I need to connect a Sony CDX-M60ui receiver to a MB Quartz NA540.6 Amp? Thank you,
chet  Jan 14, 2014
A
Thanks for your question. For information on comparing two or more models I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone or online chat. They will be able to help determine the differences and help you make the best choice for your system and your budget.
jeff  Dec 27, 2013 (Staff)
Q
Does the lcq1 have a built in crossover?
kenneth  Dec 26, 2021
2 answers
A
no but it takes your front and rear channels and gives you a third channel for a sub woofer but it has an equaliser built in I use infinity coaxial and they sound awesome it's is a signal processor and eq. it's with the money you won't be disappointed
joseph  Dec 30, 2021
A
Yeap!! Lcq1 is like a crossover, you can use an amplifier for front/rear speaker and subwoofer, and cut/add frequencies for all. The result is a fine tuning sound.
melvin  Dec 28, 2021
Q
Can I flatten the EQ my factory amp is sending with this or would I need a DSP to do that properly?
tim  Oct 15, 2021
1 answer
A
Installed this is my mazda 6, factory deck that can't be replaced, a DSP for a lot more money will obviously be better, but I find this device works quite well on its own!
joshua  Oct 16, 2021
Q
I plan on using 4 front speakers. Can I double up the front inputs? Does this unit accept RCA inputs? Manual looks like it can but picture on Crutchfield website looks like it only uses wire harness leads. If that's the case how do I hook up a sub?
dr. jameson  Oct 08, 2021
2 answers
A
For the front speakers you can get away with using a 4 channel amp with the RCA from the converter. The converter hooks up from the factory front and rear speaker wires. To hook up a sub you will take the rear speaker wires from the factory radio and hook them up to the converter. I'm the instructions you will have to open up the converter and switch a couple things that will allow the converter to take the rear speaker input and convert them to subwoofer RCA input. It's quite simple. I've currently got this converter hooked up to my factory radio in a 2017 f350 single cab pushing a JL subwoofer for now. Hope this helps!
jonathan  Oct 08, 2021
A
The LCQ1 is basically a line out converter. There are no rca inputs. You use existing speaker wires in your vehicle to get the signal to the unit. From there, you use the LCQ1's rca outputs to go to aftermarket amps. Using my vehicle as an example, using 9-wire, I tapped into the front speakers behind my head unit and ran those to the front inputs on the LCQ1. Same with the rear. I then ran RCAs from the appropriate outputs on the LCQ1 to my 4 channel amp and connected front and rear speakers to the amp. The LCQ1 has a cool feature in that it automatically sums up the signals and sends them to a third set of outputs for a subwoofer amp. No need to connect any more wires between the head unit and the sub channel on the LCQ1. So I have the subwoofer outputs on the LCQ1 going to my mono amp to push my subs. Hope that helps.
sean  Oct 08, 2021
Q
Can this still be used with a aftermarket head unit or only factory?
jared  May 21, 2021
1 answer
A
You can use it with an aftermarket unit. If you want to use the pre-amps outs of your head unit then you'll need to convert the LCQ other side into speaker wire.Itherwise you can just use the speaker outputs of the head unit because they are obviously regular speaker wire.
john  May 21, 2021
Q
Can you pair this with an LC7i, or would this replace the LC7i? I purchased from crutchfield but was wanting to add a equalizer. I haven't unboxed it yet.
christopher a  May 11, 2021
3 answers
A
I would say replace. It looks like the lcq-1 has the same features as the lc7i plus equalizer capabilities.
justin  May 12, 2021
A
LCQ-1 is an LC7i on steroids. I have used this but find that for 50$ more go with the DQ-61. Both DQ-61 and LCQ-1 will be same line out conversion + equalizer. Both will completely replace the LC7i
craig  May 12, 2021
A
It would replace the LC7i and give you far better control of your sound. The LCQ1 also provides bass restoration. I highly recommend the LCQ1 and went that direction at the suggestion of the crew at the shop I frequent. Take your time and get the adjustments where you want them and install it in a place that allows for relatively easy access. If you are anything like me, you'll tinker with it for weeks before you have it to your liking, but it made my factory head unit sound not like a factory head unit. You can do the LC7i with an in-dash eq, but the circuitry in the LCQ1 is fantastic and really does the job.
sean  May 11, 2021
Q
I want to use this in my 2020 Jeep unlimited Sahara w itâ??s existing alpine system! I want run the factory amp by itself for the tweeters and 12inch sub. Is this possible adding the alpine its-30fw tough pack and 4 alpine R-s65.2???
ricardo  Apr 10, 2021
1 answer
A
I'm not completely sure what your question is trying to say. What the audio control LCQ-1 does is takes speaker input and converts it to amplifier RCA cable output to then send to an additional amplifier. So the box doesn't do any amplifying it just gives you extra fine tuning and also converting before going to an amplifier. If you have anymore questions feel free to ask I hope this helps you
jonathan  Apr 10, 2021
Q
I'm a little confused about the control knobs. I'm gonna be pairing this with the 5chan RF 1000W amp. So do I go with the PLC2 knob that pairs with the amp or do I get the ACR2 knob that goes with this LOC? Are they different/the same?
tai  Apr 02, 2021
1 answer
A
We have not received any answers from other customers on your question. I would recommend reaching out to an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They should be able to help answer your question.
thomas  Apr 28, 2021 (Staff)
Q
my car only has 2 front speakers without FADE control on it .. I want ot plug this into a 5 channel amp. How do I adjust adjust the volume of the rear speakers to make them louder? Thx
first  Mar 07, 2021
3 answers
A
Hi: you must connect the two channels you have from your radio to the "front" input of the LCQ-1 and put in "sum" position (see instructions in the LCQ-1) the "rear" and "subwoofer" channel, in this way you have signal for all channels and you can adjust the volume of all of then in the LCQ-1. I hope I have been able to help you.
melvin  Mar 22, 2021
A
There are outputs for the rear on this unit
nicole  Mar 22, 2021
A
If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer.
kristina  Mar 22, 2021 (Staff)
Q
I notice it says 6 speaker level inputs (400 watts a piece) I plan on running two amps, one being a 1000 watts mono amp running , would this be ok or is 1000 watts to much?
jonathan  Aug 08, 2020
3 answers
A
If I'm not mistaken, I think it's referring to the max amount of watts each input can handle coming from the factory unit.
caleb  Aug 09, 2020
A
I'm actually just now in the middle of the build because of chance of vehicles. I am planning on using the exact same set up. A 4 channel and a 1000 watt class d mono amp. Hoping it works out ok
erica  Aug 08, 2020
A
It will work for you, make sure that the gain on the amp is turned down and level matched with an SMD-DD1 or other sound leveling tool.
harrison  Aug 08, 2020
Q
Do i need an RTA microphone/analyzer for this to setup properly? the manual says either you use one or have it professionally tuned. I will be installing this on a 2015 Ford Mustang base radio (currently using LC2i) connected to a 4-ch and a mono amp. i have focal PS165v comps and deadening on doors but the sound is underwhelming, would this improve it? or should i look for another product?
joneal  May 08, 2020
2 answers
A
The best thing to do for this products is to have it professionally installed and tuned if you don't have an RTA. The LCQ-1 will greatly improve your soundstage at all levels. It will be a great addition/upgrade to your system.
harrison  May 09, 2020
A
Depends on your preference. Typically you wouldn't want more than a 3db jump from one freq band to another. But I used this, tuned by ear and the difference was night and day. However, I would make sure your gains are fully set before adding this to the mix.
drake  May 08, 2020
Q
My factory stereo is only 4 (F1/2 R3/4) channels out. How do I utilize the sub channel (5/6) on the LCQ-1?
rodney  Feb 01, 2020
1 answer
A
Basic system using Factory Radio. (If the factory stereo does not have a sub out, the LCQ-1's AutoMode circuit will give you one) front rear need to be full range. Run your RCA signal cable from your LCQ-1 Sub/ch3 output into your sub aftermarket amp input. This will add your subwoofer to the amplified signal for your factory stereo.
harrison  Feb 01, 2020
Q
I have a BMW 335i xdrive sedan and am looking to achieve better sound. I currently just have the stock radio and stock speakers with a JL Audio jx/1000d amp pushing 2 JL Audio 12w3v2 subs. Will this give me more accurate sounding bass as well allow me to hear the highs and mids that I am missing now? I am torn between buying this AudioControl LCQ-1 or replacing my factory radio with an aftermarket.
shawn  Jan 29, 2017
1 answer
A
It sure will. Keep in mind that your getting an equalizer as well and the bass feature. I recommend getting the bass adjustable control as well. With out it you won't be able to use the EQ. Unless your a techi like me and get a phone line jack and splice the wires to create a loop.
elbert  Jan 30, 2017
Q
Do this help your sound tremendously ? For example a better question would be is , If you can hear me half a block could this audio control piece make it a full block ?
bubba  Dec 07, 2016
3 answers
A
To simply put, this box is more about quality than quantity
jonathan  Apr 10, 2021
A
This is more so to clean up the sound and restore "lost" bass from the factory system.
nicole  Mar 22, 2021
A
It will help clean up the sound so you get the most out of the speakers. Especially in vehicles where you can't make too many adjustments through the head unit. It helped make my mids and rear speakers sound better cause I could cut back frequencies that didn't sound right to me. Gave my sub amp a better signal but not necessarily that much louder.
richard  Dec 08, 2016
Q
I own and have the lcq1 installed and there is a constant white noise or hiss through the speakers constantly even when the gains on the lcq1 and my amps are turned all the way down. The volume doesn't effect the noise, and it's not alternater whine because it's there when the car is off. When I turn the volume up, it overpowers the hiss so you can't hear it, but when on lower volumes it's very anoyying. It doesn't it across every source(aux, bt, iPod/usb, radio, xm..) Has anyone else experienced this? And is there any way of fixing it? Also I have tested my amps in other scenarios and they work properly with no noise.
johnny d  Sep 13, 2016
1 answer
A
If you purchased the product from Crutchfield, feel free to contact our Tech Support team. They can walk you through the settings on the product and see if there may be a fix. Our toll-free Tech Support number is printed on your invoice, and is also available under the "My Orders" tab in the "My Account" section of our website. If you did not purchase the unit from Crutchfield, then you may want to contact the manufacturer. You can also post your question in our forums: http://community.crutchfield.com. Or try our online support center: http://crutchfield.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/kw/.
kristina  Sep 13, 2016 (Staff)
Q
Will this work with the 2015 mazda 3 bose digital amp?
jxdav  Jul 05, 2015
1 answer
A
For details on fit or installation please contact an Advisor by phone (1-800-324-9695) or online chat. They will be able to pull up your vehicle and give you the details on if this will fit and what you will need for an installation in your vehicle.
kristina  Jul 05, 2015 (Staff)
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