AudioControl LC1i Review: Specifications, Installation and Comparisons
Quick summary: the buying decision
The LC1i is AudioControl's two-channel active line output converter: it takes speaker-level signals (up to 40 V) from a factory head unit or factory amplifier and turns them into clean preamp signals for aftermarket amplifiers. Selectable input loads help with factory systems that mute or distort when the factory speakers are disconnected.
AudioControl LC1i: what it is
The AudioControl LC1i is a compact 2-channel active line output converter that takes the best possible signal from a factory sound system to your amplifiers. Selectable input loads make it work with even the most finicky factory systems, and it doubles as a line driver if you later upgrade the head unit.
It also works as a line driver: if you later fit an aftermarket head unit, its two line-level inputs (7 kohm) let the LC1i boost the RCA signal to the amplifiers.
Key features
Two channels of active speaker-level inputs (up to 40 V) plus two channels of line-level inputs
Load selection switch (20 ohm, 60 ohm or 20 kohm) for easier OEM integration
Turn-on by GTO signal sense (DC offset), audio sense or 12 V remote input; 12 V remote output
Ground isolation switch
Output gain of ±12 dB with up to 9.5 V RMS output
Specifications explained
The speaker-level input handles up to 40 V RMS / 400 W (20 kohm setting), with a selectable input impedance of 20 ohm, 60 ohm or 20 kohm. Output is up to 9.5 V RMS / 13 V peak with ±12 dB of output gain and a 150 ohm output impedance.
AudioControl quotes 0.01% THD, a signal-to-noise ratio of more than 110 dB and a 20 Hz – 50 kHz (±1 dB) frequency response. The unit draws 120 mA and AudioControl recommends a 1 A fuse.
Full specifications as published by AudioControl:
Model: LC1i
Type: 2-channel line output converter and line driver
Speaker-level input: 1 (2 channels), up to 40 V RMS / 400 W (20 kohm setting)
Speaker-level input impedance: 20 ohm, 60 ohm or 20 kohm (selectable)
Line-level input: 1 (2 channels), 7 kohm
Preamp outputs: 1 (2 channels)
Maximum output level: 9.5 V RMS / 13 V peak
Output gain: ±12 dB
Output impedance: 150 ohm
Total harmonic distortion: 0.01%
Signal-to-noise ratio: More than 110 dB
Frequency response: 20 Hz – 50 kHz (±1 dB)
Turn-on modes: Remote in, GTO signal sense, audio sense; 12 V remote out
Current draw: 120 mA
Recommended fuse: 1 A
Dimensions (L x D x H): 4.8 x 3 x 1 in, including speaker connectors
Weight: 0.25 kg (0.55 lb)
In the box: LC1i, speaker and power connectors, manual, warranty card
Choosing the input load setting
Some factory amplifiers expect to see a speaker-like load and will mute, distort or shut down without one. The 20-ohm and 60-ohm settings present that load, while the 20-kohm setting presents a high impedance that suits most head-unit outputs. If you are unsure, start by identifying whether the car has a separate factory amplifier, and test the setting with the system at low volume before setting gains.
Levels, turn-on and noise
Because the LC1i can output up to 9.5 V RMS / 13 V peak, the amplifier gains can usually be set low, which keeps noise down. Turn-on can come from a 12 V remote input, GTO signal sensing (DC offset) or audio sensing, and a 12 V remote output switches on the amplifiers. The ground isolation switch helps if you hear alternator whine or ground-loop noise.
Mount the converter close to where you tap the factory signal, keep the speaker-level wiring short, and run RCA cables away from power cables. The unit measures 4.8 x 3 x 1 in, including speaker connectors.
Using it with factory load generators
Some vehicles need a load generator between the factory amplifier outputs and the converter. AudioControl's AC-LGD-60, AC-LGD-20 and AC-LGD cover factory amplified, non-amplified and Class D systems.
How it compares
AudioControl line output converters at VA3 Car Studio:
AudioControl LC2i PRO: 2-channel line output converter with AccuBASS, output gain ±12 dB, ₹25,490
AudioControl LC7i PRO: 6-channel line output converter with AccuBASS, output gain ±15 dB, ₹42,490
If you also want full DSP, AudioControl's DM-810 and the D-series amplifiers accept speaker-level inputs directly, so a separate converter is not needed.
Price and value in India
At the time of writing (October 2026), VA3 Car Studio lists the LC1i at ₹16,990, 15% below the MRP of ₹19,990. A converter like this is usually the least expensive way to add aftermarket amplifiers while keeping the factory head unit. Prices can change, so the product page always shows the current price.
Verdict: who should shortlist the LC1i
The LC1i is the simple, compact choice for adding one amplifier to a factory system, and it stays useful as a line driver if the head unit is upgraded later.
Real-world reviews and limitations
We have not yet published a VA3 installation report for the LC1i. The figures in this review are AudioControl's published specifications, not our own measurements, and real-world results depend on the installation, the wiring and the tune. If you have used one, we would welcome your feedback.
Frequently asked questions
What does the LC1i do?
It converts speaker-level signals (up to 40 V) from a factory system into preamp (RCA) signals for aftermarket amplifiers.
Which input load setting should I use on the LC1i?
Use 20 ohm or 60 ohm when a factory amplifier needs to see a load to avoid muting or distortion, and 20 kohm for most head-unit outputs.
How does the LC1i turn on?
From a 12 V remote input, GTO signal sensing (DC offset) or audio sensing; a 12 V remote output switches on the amplifiers.
Does the LC1i include AccuBASS?
No. AccuBASS and the included ACR-1 remote are features of the LC2i PRO and LC7i PRO.
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