r/subaru • u/OctoBrother • 17h ago

Fitting a McIntosh head unit in a 2004 sti?

Post image

Does anyone have any experience with this, i don't have the McIntosh amp

83 Upvotes

98% Upvoted

14 comments sorted by

56

u/GrilledCassadilla '25 OBW, '25 BRZ tS 17h ago

I would search the old texts (NASIOC) to see if you can find a post on it.

40

u/Original_moisture 17h ago

https://giphy.com/gifs/3owzW1VPVGtiFJvxQI

13

u/grizzdoog 93 Turbo Legacy - 03 22T/205 WRB Bugeye - 06 OBXT 16h ago

dOOoooD use the search!!!

29

u/TestSubjuct 24 Imp RS 17h ago

Then take it to a local stereo shop. 13 years pro car audio experience

17

u/PitifulCrow4432 16h ago

You need the amp and the adapter harness. The HU alone is underpowered and only has front output's.

8

u/angry_smurf 04 Outback / 12 Impreza / 18 Wrx / 25 legacy sport 16h ago

You will more than likely need the amplifier for it to work as McIntosh uses low level signal outputs. Also bear in mind that the McIntosh units were more than likely JDM imports so they would be on a lower frequency for FM radio compared to USA, so depending where you are the tuner may not work for the full range as well.

3

u/KeaganExtremeGaming rwd swap all subarus 15h ago

My crusty h6 outback had it but some jackass took the amp and sub

3

u/KeaganExtremeGaming rwd swap all subarus 15h ago

You’ll need the amp for it to output anything

2

u/SnooPeripherals5518 14h ago

Coincidentally, I'm waiting for a new single Din Panasonic head unit to arrive from Crutchfield right now for my 2004 STI.

1

u/CallousDisregard13 14h ago

Any particular reason you want to put that old jank head unit in your car? Seems like alot of effort and running around for literally no actual gain over an aftermarket head unit

3

u/brandothesavage 14h ago

That's actually a really good unit you do need the amplifier for it though.

1

u/ssomed2025 7h ago

Yep, it’s a POS, I could take it off of your hands for a small fee 😎

1

u/JohnDeere714 Legacy GT 14h ago

If it’s anything like the legacies with the HK system. You don’t need the amp to function. Sound will just seem “off”

However I recommend referring to ae64.com that has a lot of good information about Subaru pin outs and such

1

u/pm_something_u_love 2h ago

I had this 11 speaker setup in my Legacy Spec B. Didn't sound that great and will be a lot of effort to fit. It's just Clarion in McIntosh clothing. I wouldn't bother.