My radio is only producing a mono, instead of stereo output. It’s been like this since I got the car, so I don’t know even know if it’s got a stereo speaker(?) The sound system is an old “Secret Audio†wired to an amp in the back where the pump for the power top would be (if I had a power top). The original AM radio is in the car, but doesn’t work, which is odd because the antenna is plugged into it. I can’t seem to get any AM signal, but can get an FM signal even though it’s not stereo.
Just wondering if anyone can help with trouble shooting this problem. How to check 1. if the speaker is stereo, 2. If it is wired correctly? 3. How to get to the speaker without pulling half the car apart! ðŸ§
If it makes it any easier, I’ve uploaded a pic of the secret audio control unit, in case anyone is familiar with it.
Bad antenna can produce mono like symptoms but that would usually come in and out. Best place to start is with the connections. Make sure all the contacts are good. Not knowing if it ever sounded different doesn't help. Speakers are and easy test. Get a new speaker and wire it up. Try it.
I'm not a stereo expert but I am currently replacing the system on my '68 convertible.
You say the original AM radio, though not functioning, is connected to the (original?) antenna. Does that mean your Secret system is NOT hooked up to an antenna? If not you should hook up an antenna and see if that makes things better.
Do you have 2 speaker outs (left/right) from your Secret system? If you have only one out then you can't have stereo (meaning the left and right speaker play different sounds at same time). I'm not sure what system that is but if you can play a speaker test it can help you tell if you are getting stereo sound from your speakers.
Removing the original speaker looked intimidating but wasn't terrible. To get to the dash speaker: Remove walnut trim, then the ashtray holder, then the radio, then loosen (but don't need to remove) the heater controls and that should give you access to the speaker. I was able to easily fit a new 4" multicone speaker to replace my original speaker (at least what was left of it). I might try to rig up a new bracket and fit a 2nd 4" in there too. Right now I am running a 2nd speaker to a custom arm rest/console to get "stereo" sound.
I ordered a modern radio that looks very similar to stock and fits in dash with no mods. It hasn't arrived yet but others have had good results with them.
Thanks to both of you for replying. I did as you both suggested. It turned out to be both a loose grounding and that the antenna was plugged into the old radio instead of the lead to the amp. The speaker itself turned out to be working fine. So problem solved. Thanks!
