Name: AudioControl ACX-BT1
Brand: AudioControl
SKU: 161ACXBT1
Price: 71.87 USD
Availability: LimitedAvailability
Rating: 4 (14 reviews)

by Crutchfield's Bob Bihlmayer

Bluetooth a la carte

Bluetooth connectivity offers a host of conveniences, but until now you've had to install a new radio in order to access these benefits. AudioControl's ACX-BT1 Bluetooth adapter lets you add Bluetooth to any radio or amplifier with an RCA or AUX input. You'll get Bluetooth 4.1 for better connectivity, more dependable streaming, and greater range, as well as aptX HD support for streaming hi-res audio.

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Bluetooth a la carte

Ready for the great outdoors

The module features a remote turn-on output circuit which activates downstream amplifiers only when audio is being streamed. And since the ACX-BT1 is IPX5 rated, it's perfect for adding Bluetooth to your boat, motorcycle, ATV, or any other application requiring weather resistance. The ACX-BT1 can also be used as a no-head-unit solution in vehicles with a small amp instead of a radio. If you've been wishing you could have the convenience of Bluetooth with your current or new system, the time is now with the ACX-BT1.

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Product highlights:

Bluetooth adapter connects to any radio with RCA or AUX input
can also be used as a standalone solution for applications without radios
Bluetooth 4.1 technology with aptX HD support for high-res audio
remote turn-on output activates downstream amps only when streaming audio
IPX5 rated for weather resistance
warranty: 5 years
MFR # ACX-BT1

What's in the box:

AudioControl ACX-BT1 owner's manual

Bluetooth receiver w/attached 17" wire harness (inline 2A mini-ATO fuse) and 3M adhesive backing
Wire legend on box

Scratch & Dent items may be missing non-essential accessories. In some cases the manufacturer's accessories have been replaced with generic equivalents.

See the difference between "Open Box" and "Scratch & Dent" Outlet items

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14 reviews

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Researched by Crutchfield's Mark G.

Product Research

Features

Overview: The AudioControl ACX-BT1 lets you add high definition Bluetooth audio streaming capability to your powersports or marine craft. The Bluetooth adapter features a stereo RCA audio output (1.5V nominal) that can be used with an auxiliary input on a headunit or plugged directly into an amplifier as a stand-alone source.

Bluetooth: Featuring Bluetooth version 4.1, the ACX-BT1 allows for high-definition low-latency audio streaming from a Bluetooth enabled playback device. The interface supports aptX HD, for 24-bit/48kHz audio streaming from devices with aptX codec, and features a signal-to-noise ratio of 95dB. The ACX-BT1 has a maximum data transfer rate of up to 3 Mbps with typical rates at approximately 1.6 Mbps. Bluetooth range is up to approximately 33 feet.

Note: The ACX-BT1 does not support Bluetooth hands-free phone calls.

IPX5: The ACX-BT1 carries an IPX5 all-weather rating, making it ideal for both marine and powersports applications, such as in UTVs and ATVs, side-by-sides, jet skis, boats, and more.

Remote Output: The ACX-BT1 includes a Remote Out wire that can be used to trigger an outboard amplifier when the interface starts receiving Bluetooth audio from your device.

Mounting: The AudioControl Bluetooth interface features two mounting tabs that can be used to screw the module into place or be held with wire-ties (hardware sold separately). The included 3M adhesive backing lets you attach the module to a clean flat surface.

Wiring: The ACX-BT1 includes built-in 17" wire harness providing the audio output along with power, ground, and remote out. The Bluetooth module draws approximately 35mA of current.

Red (inline 2A fuse): Attaches to vehicle +12VDC switched or ignition power.
Black: Chassis ground.
Blue: Remote turn-on output. Provides a +12VDC/20mA output.
RCA: Audio output.

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11 questions already asked

Says you can connect through an Aux port. How do you do that?

jay Mar 21, 2024

1 answer

Hey Jay, great question. So by default, this component will use RCA for connectivity. With a simple RCA to Aux adapter, we can make those connections go from an RCA mal to an Aux male to connect into an Aux Input: https://www.crutchfield.com/I-rET1c402/p_00735RCA/Crutchfield-RCA-Adapter.html?tp=35005

red Mar 21, 2024 (Staff)

Does this unit make a noise when Bluetooth is connected? Like a bleep or a chime?

jayson Sep 09, 2023

1 answer

I would be happy to help, Jayson. The pairing instructions for the AudioControl ACX-BT1 are posted below, and I do not see any indication of an audible beep when connected. Paring steps are: 1. After the ACX-BT1 is powered up, you will see a small blue LED flashing quickly from within the unit. 2. Open the Bluetooth settings or connections on your mobile device. 3. Find the device called "AudioControl BT1" and tap or click on it to pair your device. 4. Once paired, the blue LED will illuminate continuously. 5. Once music (or any sound) is playing, the red LED will shine from within the ACX-BT1. I hope this is helpful!

bo Sep 09, 2023 (Staff)

Hi, I have an old school cd head unit (McIntosh MX400) that has a pair of rca inputs. Can I use this to stream from my phone through the head unit without connecting to an amplifier?

dane Feb 24, 2023

1 answer

We weren't able to fully confirm if the RCA inputs are full range like you would would find on an amplifier. To make sure that adapter would definitely work we would highly suggest reaching out to the manufacturer directly. The support line for McIntosh is 800-538-6576

arielle Feb 24, 2023 (Staff)

Question 1. I have a Jaguar XJ8 2001 with original factory radio. I want a Bluetooth transmitter (hidden) not a cigarette lighter version - do you have? Question 2. Do you have a controller that can adjust the frequency range on each speaker independently?

professor danny Jun 07, 2022

1 answer

A device like this one is designed to be plugged into an aftermarket amplifier to give Bluetooth streaming/control from your mobile device. In terms of the frequency range adjustments, if you were to replace the factory speakers and add an aftermarket amp to drive them, you could accomplish both things at once: Bluetooth control and EQ control for each channel.

trevor Jun 07, 2022 (Staff)

can you do it in a6 volt car?

frank Feb 20, 2022

1 answer

I don't think so. I believe it's 12v only. From the details: Red (inline 2A fuse): Attaches to vehicle +12VDC switched or ignition power. Black: Chassis ground. Blue: Remote turn-on output. Provides a +12VDC/20mA output. RCA: Audio output.

john Feb 26, 2022

Will this Bluetooth adapter disconnect the Bluetooth when making or receiving calls, or will it stay connected and therefore stream the call audio (using the phone's built-in mic)?

mattd7800 Dec 10, 2021

2 answers

Bluetooth remains connected but calls are NOT sent over Bluetooth. These module does not support handling phone calls unless your phone forces calls over Bluetooth. My Galaxy S21 Ultra does NOT send calls through this Bluetooth module, but as soon as the call if over, music resumes through Bluetooth.

david Dec 25, 2021

It functions the way the way it shou6as far as receiving a call either through your hand phone or car audio. When you finish talking you hang up and music resumes if it was playing prior to your call.

darryl Dec 11, 2021

Do any of these bluetooth adapters auto-connect to iphone once the device has been paired?? My existing Fusion BT adapter on boat requires that I go into settings and select the device every time I get on boat....or if the audio power is cycled or whatever. This is annoying. I'm looking for a BT adapter that auto-connects to my phone just like my Bose headphones or other devices.

nicholas Jun 11, 2021

2 answers

Can't answer for the iPhone but android is automatically connected on start up every time once paired initially. Works great.

connor Jun 11, 2021

I have a JL Audio BT adapter in my boat and it auto connects to my Samsung S9 Plus.

barry Jun 11, 2021

Will Bluetooth adapter work with Clarion CMD5 Marine AM-FM CD/Mp3 iPod SatReady Marine Stereo Reciever v2?

ron May 29, 2021

2 answers

Yes, the CMD% has an RCA Aux input on the rear of the unit. This device will work with it!

thomas Jul 27, 2021 (Staff)

I'm not sure if your unit has RCA input jack's on the back of the unit. If not you may need to get creative. I cut the RCA jacks off and hardwired/soldered the unit to a pre-existing aux port in my Subaru. Works great-love the unit.

connor Jul 27, 2021

Can you use it to add a amp and subs in a factory system?

mitchell Apr 12, 2021

1 answer

ACX-BT1 is not a hi to low level adapter which is what you need, It's a bluetooth adapter. You can use it as a stand alone source to an amp since it has a turn on lead. I'used Audio control's LCI2 and it worked out great. Here's a link: https://www.crutchfield.com/p_161LC2IB/AudioControl-LC2i-Black.html?tp=2001

peter Apr 26, 2021

Does it make a sound to show that its connected when it connects to bluetooth?

john Mar 30, 2021

How do you connect this to a 5 channel system ?

mark Mar 28, 2021

2 answers

This Bluetooth is compatible with amps that can use one set of inputs as the audio source for all its channels. I recommend contacting an advisor by calling 1-800-324-9695 to get a personal recommendation on one that will work

jason Apr 13, 2021 (Staff)

It only outputs two channels. Stereo right and left. If you are connecting it to a head unit that has something like a Dolby 5.1 surround output, as long as the input is encoded with Dolby 5.1, it should stil provide surround sound. Keep in mind this adapter only has RCA outputs, not a 3.5mm aux plug like I thought the description said.

david Apr 13, 2021

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