There's an even simpler method: upgrading your Volkswagen head unit with our plug-and-play RCD330/RCD360 wireless carplay Android auto units, available at https://autoupgradeclub.com/collections/oem-head-units
Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of upgrading your car's sound system by modifying the motherboard and swapping out some key components. If you're keen on boosting your ride's audio performance, this guide is for you.
Step 1: Removing the Motherboard
First things first, we've removed the motherboard. It's essential to get a good look at the motherboard to understand what we're working with.
Step 2: Replacing the Chip
We're replacing the chip with a TDF56 amplifier chip. This 45W model incorporates MOSFETs, similar to the 7850, which can handle high current and offers a high power output. However, I do not recommend upgrading to the 7850 because:
- The improvement in sound quality is minimal, and you might not notice a difference.
- The 7850 has different pin definitions and control methods, potentially leading to operational instability over time.
Step 3: Capacitor Filtering Section
Next up, we’re examining the capacitor filtering section. Here, we have surface-mounted power filters, a large filter, and a small filter. We're replacing these with:
- 220μF 25V capacitor with a 10,000μF 25V Nichicon capacitor.
- 47μF 25V capacitor with a 470μF 50V paper capacitor.
Additionally, we will add an ACC zero-resistance capacitor for high-frequency filtering to improve performance.
Step 4: Understanding the DAC Chip
Our host device uses an AKM DAC chip, specifically the AK7738, which is also found in the Alpine A09, a high-end model. However, unlike the A09, our device does not use the digital output of this chip but rather the analog signal after decoding. This signal then goes directly into the amplifier chip without an operational amplifier circuit design or voltage boost, which affects the sound quality.
Step 5: Improving Sound Quality
To enhance the sound quality, we need to:
- Improve Capacitor Filtering: Upgrade the capacitors as mentioned earlier.
- Add a Pre-Amp Board: Since there is no operational amplifier chip in the original setup, we will insert an operational amplifier board between the DAC chip and the amplifier chip. This board will include four operational amplifier chips and two BB1s for tuning. The analog signal will pass through this board, significantly enhancing the sound quality.
Step 6: Managing Power Supply
Operational amplifier chips perform best when powered by dual power supplies (±12V, 15V, or higher). Our pre-amp board can take a 9-36V DC input and output ±15V, ensuring optimal performance for the operational amplifier chips and boosting the sound quality.
Final Steps: Start the Modification
- Remove the two coupling capacitors and the filter capacitors.
- Remove the four coupling capacitors in front of the amplifier chip.
- Insert the operational amplifier board into the circuit.
And there you have it! By carefully replacing and adding components, you can significantly enhance your car's sound system, making your drives more enjoyable with crystal-clear audio.
For more guides on car upgrades, including CarPlay installation, large screen navigation setups, and dash cam installations, check out AutoUpgradeClub.com. They offer a wealth of resources to help you get the best out of your car’s electronics.
Happy modding!