Just bought a 97 Firebird with the Monsoon system... except it's with the tape player and no cd changer. So I'm looking to replace the stock HU with a modern aftermarket deck. From what I understand the Monsoon system is kind of a headache to mess for various reasons, so I need a little help. I've read that I will need a PAC converter and some wiring harnesses so that my speakers won't blow, but I'm not sure which ones I need. Also, to keep my steering wheel controls I've read that I will need a PAC SWI-X, SWI-ALP, SWI-PS or SWI-ECL. Which is the best to use, and how easy is it to install it? I've talked to the people at Best Buy and Car Toys, and they either don't seem to understand the Monsoon system or are going to overcharge big time for not being able to just toss the new deck in. Thanks in advance!

 

You can put a new HU to monsoon system, it will not blow anything, if you splice some wires, you don't even need an adapter.
Here some info:
http://mods.firebirdv6.com/stereo.html
For steering wheel controls to work with new HU, you need an adaptor, try ebay.
With monsoon amp sound always will be crappy, nothing can be done to that. You'll have better sound wiring good aftermarket speakers to HU directly, no kidding Or get an ~$50 4-channel amp (MTX, Rockford) from ebay and you'll feel the difference. Later, you can finish system with a stealth sub.

 

Thanks for the response. I'm not too knowledgeable when it comes to the technicalities of audio systems, but isn't there some sort of conflict when it comes to the 2 ohm speakers that come with the Monsoon system? Will that not be an issue when switching to an aftermarket HU?

Also, has anyone messed with the adapter to keep the steering wheel controls? Is it reasonably easy to install?

 

the easiest way is to buy a wiring harness for gm 88-up cars. it's basically plug and play.

 

Speakers are connected to monsoon amp (except tweeters in doors), so they will be unaware of new headunit. Monsoon amp works well with high output signal from aftermarket HU. It works 100% reliable, but sound quality will be just OK, no more.
Can't help you with adaptor for controls, but install should be very straightforward.

Edit: just don't try to wire aftermarket HU directly to Delco speakers (instead of monsoon input); 2 ohms will fry output fet's of HU.

 

Okay, I'm looking at a few different models in the mid to low $100s. They are
Sony CDXGT200 & 300
JVC KD-G320
Kenwood KDC-MP232
Pioneer DEH-P3800M
Dual XDM7510

I need a remote and MP3 playback for sure, and would really like an easily accessible auxiliary input for MP3 players. Has anyone had any experience with these models? Or are any other similarly priced models I've overlooked that are good?

 

I vote for Pioneer, I am not familiar with this particular model, but all "premiers" I had were terrific. Even cheap models are great.

 

Okay, last question... I hope. Where do yall recommend I buy my wiring harness and dash kit from? I've been to many websites that have them, but I don't want to get an inferior product or have them take 2 weeks to ship. Thanks again.

 

walmart will be the cheapest place to buy the wiring kit. and i say go to checker/ schucks/ kragen auto parts, to get the dash kit. the kits they sell are flat, and do not stick out like the shoche mounts at walmart. you could probably buy them both at the part store, but walmart may be a few bucks cheaper for the wiring kit.

 

I got the Sony CDXGT300 because of the front axillary input and satellite radio ready and installed it today. Thanks for everyone's input!