Aftermarket Radio interconnected to Linc v1.0

[maxxwell]

Is there any way to connect an aftermarket radio to the Linc v1.0? I want to change to Alpine radio so you can Zone the speakers on the tower away from the internal speakers. Has anyone done this?

[nyryan2001]

Maxx- 99% sure the link software is brand specific. For the 2013s/14s I know for a fact it is. So no, you would not be able to control an Alpine HU from your Link.

However, another perhaps better way to achieve the aims you are looking for would be to install an WS420eq or the Exile ZLD between your head unit and your amps.

Both units give you amazing easy control of you audio zones, that far exceed anything you can do with the Link, and they do it easier... yet you retain the ability to also control via your link, auto-volume etc etc. You also get the added benefit of higher pre-amp volts on your RCAs going into your amps.

[maxxwell]

nyryan,
Thanks for the info, I am also going to find out how the clarion talks to the Linc System... I may be able to replicate from the Alpine... maybe or maybe not... I will look into your idea...
Mike

[nyryan2001]

It uses an S-Video looking data cable...... that goes from the HU over to the Linc display and plugs in there.

However, understand that the software to control it IS brand specific. With 2013/2014 Gs there is 2 sofware flashes available for the Link....one for Polk and one for Clarion. I can tell you for certainty that the Clarion flash will in no way control the Polk HU in any way. 100% do not talk or work with the wrong sofware flash.

You may get lucky and find that the clarion software flash will work with the Alpine... but I wouldnt be overly confident.

To install an EQ as described.... all you need to do is run one of these from your amp location over to the driver's dash:

http://www.showmecables.com/product/SSC-910-20.aspx 20ft? 4 pair RCA bundle (1 for HU --> EQ input, + 3 pair out for 3? amps)

and run a 12v + (fused) , ground and remote turn on(fused) from the exact same power source as the HU or you can introduce noise via ground loop. Then you can run the Apline HU you want and control each of your 3 zones: tower, inboats, sub like a boss....just not from the Link but from the EQ now mounted in your dash area. Ive used both WS420 and the ZLD now, both will do what you describe you want.

Good luck.

[kopp210]

It uses an S-Video looking data cable...... that goes from the HU over to the Linc display and plugs in there.

However, understand that the software to control it IS brand specific. With 2013/2014 Gs there is 2 sofware flashes available for the Link....one for Polk and one for Clarion. I can tell you for certainty that the Clarion flash will in no way control the Polk HU in any way. 100% do not talk or work with the wrong sofware flash.

You may get lucky and find that the clarion software flash will work with the Alpine... but I wouldnt be overly confident.

To install an EQ as described.... all you need to do is run one of these from your amp location over to the driver's dash:

http://www.showmecables.com/product/SSC-910-20.aspx 20ft? 4 pair RCA bundle (1 for HU --> EQ input, + 3 pair out for 3? amps)

and run a 12v + (fused) , ground and remote turn on(fused) from the exact same power source as the HU or you can introduce noise via ground loop. Then you can run the Apline HU you want and control each of your 3 zones: tower, inboats, sub like a boss....just not from the Link but from the EQ now mounted in your dash area. Ive used both WS420 and the ZLD now, both will do what you describe you want.

Good luck.

Do you like the 420 or the zld better?

[nyryan2001]

12 months ago I liked the ZLD better over the original WS420, which lacked IMO due to sound quality and ergonomics, and lacked true 3 zone control..... they have since released a new WS420sq, which spec to spec is now superior to the ZLD by most all accounts, as it has several additional features the ZLD doesnt have.

With that being said, the ZLD does everything I need and want it to do for less $$. Exile is about to release their next gen ZLD here shortly, so we'll see where specs and pricing on that are once its out.

Both work great to ramp up pre-amp volts and good 3 zone control, after that, its up to your budget and personal prefs.

I was tight on the budget and wasnt satified with the original WS420, so I went to ZLD then and have been very happy with the ZLD. I have no experience with the new WS420sq.

[RacingSims]

Does this mean if the HU was swapped out for say another Clarion HU and assuming the Linc was flashed to the original Clairion, it would work?

[RacingSims]

I just wanted to send a quick update. I removed the head unit (CMD7) from my 2013 210 and replaced it with the Clarion CMS2, as the new head unit has Bluetooth, and 6 channel pre-outs, Front, Rear, and sub and additional features. Separate bass/treble settings not necessarily just different EQ settings. The install was extremely easy as we used the existing wiring harness to simplify things. The Transom remote and LINC dash plugs right in without any issues. My LINC screen now indicates information I did not have prior. Artist, Song, Input, and full control of the radio through the screen as well. A re-flash was not needed in my case. Again this is a 2013 which had originally had a Clarion.

[Kporsch]

What did you use to cover your existing hole where the cmd7 was ? Have any pics?

[RacingSims]

I bought a piece of ABS from McMaster Carr. I have left over, I will post a few pics of the install tonite.

[lucky7t]

I bought a piece of ABS from McMaster Carr. I have left over, I will post a few pics of the install tonite.

From the looks of it I don't think it would have been too much abs as it looks to be close to the same size. Am I correct?