Upgrade audio -simple swap?

rb61 · Post by **rb61** » 29 Aug 2017, 00:40

I would like to add a CD changer to my 2001 S80.
Is it a simple swap if I find a used Volvo audio unit with multiple CD capability from the same year?
Thanks

DrDan · Post by **DrDan** » 30 Aug 2017, 01:42

What radio do you have? If you go from HU-601 to the HU-801 (which has an internal CD changer) you also need to add an external amplifier if you do not have it already and you need to add a center speaker in the dash. At least that's the case with the V70, I guess S80 is the same with a rounded corner on the radio.
I have retrofitted the external 10 CD changer in the trunk of my 02 V70 which was quite easy as most of the cables were already there. I would suggest looking into that. It's inexpensive - except you and me, who wants a CD changer these days?
That said, if you get a unit from the same *model* year, you should be fine software-wise. I also have done that, worked fine (HU-403 to HU-603), it set a permanent fault code but everything works. If you lay out your plans in more detail I would be glad to help - but there's also a lot of reading you could do on MVS and other fora.

Post by **oragex** » 05 Sep 2017, 17:00

While the center speaker helps quite a bit, it is not mandatory. You will need to get a cable that goes from the radio to the amplifier and as mentioned, really look for a radio from the same or very closer year of your car.

rb61 · Post by **rb61** » 13 Sep 2017, 22:01

Dr Dan,
Thanks for responding and your offer of help. I am past retirement age and prefer to be a decade or so behind in technology if possible. I drove a Mitsubishi 3000Gt for 24 years. I have the 601 audio unit and I miss a disc changer. If I can find the correct radio and amp, what additional cables will I need? There is a center speaker grill, but I will have to check for speaker.

This is my first Volvo and after a month, I find it to be a great ride. Not as perky as the 3000, but I can get in and out of the S80 without hurting myself.

Thanks again
Ray

rb61 · Post by **rb61** » 13 Sep 2017, 22:07

oragex,

Thanks for the information regarding the center speaker and the required cable. If I go roaming through salvage yards, how difficult is it to retrieve the cable?

Thanks,

Ray

Post by **oragex** » 16 Sep 2017, 11:23

rb61 wrote: ↑13 Sep 2017, 22:07 oragex,

Thanks for the information regarding the center speaker and the required cable. If I go roaming through salvage yards, how difficult is it to retrieve the cable?

Thanks,

Ray

The cable is very hard to pull from where it is originally, and a little bit more easier to install on your car. It passes through a tiny hole in the center console, I'd say it takes a skillful hand to pass it there. I don't remember exactly if it can be passed just by the side of the center console, if it's long enough for that.

Don't forget the HU-800 radios are not the most reliable. Problems with the CDs getting stuck inside or the CD skipping.

I am selling this one, a complete kit
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Amplifier-Volvo ... K6&vxp=mtr

Post by **June** » 16 Sep 2017, 18:50

rb61 wrote: ↑13 Sep 2017, 22:01 Dr Dan,
Thanks for responding and your offer of help. I am past retirement age and prefer to be a decade or so behind in technology if possible. I drove a Mitsubishi 3000Gt for 24 years. I have the 601 audio unit and I miss a disc changer. If I can find the correct radio and amp, what additional cables will I need? There is a center speaker grill, but I will have to check for speaker.

This is my first Volvo and after a month, I find it to be a great ride. Not as perky as the 3000, but I can get in and out of the S80 without hurting myself.

Thanks again
Ray
wheels 1_edited-2.jpg

Wow that is a good looking car! I forget how great black looks. I sure miss the 8 series radio my 2002 S80 had it sounded so way better than the 6 series radio my 2004 has. I have the 10 disc in the trunk as my car had it. I asked back when the 2004 was new if my dealership could upgrade the stereo to the premium surround sound 8 series and they said no it couldn't be done.

I am very interested in upgrading my S80 and want to know exactly how you achieved the switch. I have read on other posts that the car's computer must be reprogrammed. Also that the steering wheel controls won't work. Anyway please keep us posted. You must have the 2.9 NA rather than the T6 if it is not spunky enough. June