Rockford Fosgate RF-HLC 2-Channel High-to-Low Converter

2-Channel High-to-Low Line Output Converter 10.5V Input, 3V RCA Output, 25 × 40 × 89mm. Connects Factory and Aftermarket Radios Without RCA Outputs to Amplifiers.

Product Overview

The Rockford Fosgate RF-HLC is a 2-channel line output converter (LOC) designed to connect a factory or aftermarket radio without RCA preout jacks to a 2-channel external amplifier. The RF-HLC accepts a high-level speaker signal (up to 10.5V input) from the radio's speaker output leads and converts it to a safe, low-level RCA signal (up to 3V output) for the amplifier's RCA inputs.

Unlike the basic RFIF2SW and RFI2SW speaker-to-RCA adapters, the RF-HLC is a dedicated line output converter with defined input and output voltage specifications and a proper ground lead connection providing a more controlled signal conversion and a cleaner output for amplifier connection. Designed for behind-dash mounting. Confirmed 2-channel (left and right stereo).

Key Specifications

• Part number: RF-HLC
• Type: 2-channel line output converter (LOC) ✓
• Input signal type: High-level (speaker level) ✓
• Input connections: Left (+/-), Right (+/-), Ground lead ✓
• Input voltage: Up to 10.5V ✓
• Output signal type: Low-level (RCA) ✓
• Output connections: Left RCA jack, Right RCA jack ✓
• Output voltage: Up to 3V ✓
• Channels: 2 (stereo) ✓
• Mounting: Behind the dash ✓
• Dimensions: 1" × 1-9/16" × 3-1/2" (25.4mm × 39.7mm × 88.9mm) ✓
• Warranty: Confirmed (authorised dealer purchase required — specific terms TBC)

Features & Benefits

• Dedicated Line Output Converter — Defined Input/Output Voltages The RF-HLC is a purpose-designed LOC with confirmed input and output voltage specifications — up to 10.5V high-level input converted to up to 3V RCA output. This is a proper signal conversion with defined operating parameters, unlike a passive speaker-to-RCA cable adapter that provides no level control or voltage protection.
• 10.5V High-Level Input Tolerance The 10.5V input tolerance covers the speaker output voltages produced by both factory OEM head units (typically 2–8V at the speaker terminals) and higher-powered aftermarket head units. The RF-HLC handles both without damage.
• 3V RCA Output The 3V RCA output matches the 4V preout standard used throughout the Rockford Fosgate amplifier range — providing a strong, noise-resistant signal level to the amplifier's RCA inputs and maximising the signal-to-noise ratio over the RCA cable run.
• Ground Lead Included The dedicated ground lead provides a reference point for the conversion circuit — important for minimising hum and noise in the converted signal. Basic adapters without a ground connection are more susceptible to ground loop noise.
• Compact Behind-Dash Mounting At 25.4 × 39.7 × 88.9mm, the RF-HLC installs cleanly behind the dash without requiring dedicated enclosure space — simply connect the input leads to the radio's speaker outputs and run RCA cables from the output jacks to the amplifier.
• Factory and Aftermarket Radio Compatible Suitable for both factory OEM and aftermarket head units that lack RCA preout jacks — covering the widest range of installation scenarios.

Technical Specs

Compatible With / Goes Well With

Suitable for:

• Factory (OEM) head units without RCA outputs
• Aftermarket head units without RCA preout jacks
• Any 2-channel amplifier with RCA inputs

Installation note:

• Connect L+ and L- input leads to the radio's left speaker positive and negative outputs
• Connect R+ and R- input leads to the radio's right speaker positive and negative outputs
• Connect ground lead to chassis ground
• Connect left and right RCA jacks to the amplifier's RCA inputs using RFI or RFIT series cables

Pairs well with:

• Rockford Fosgate RFI or RFIT series RCA cables for the signal run to the amplifier
• Any 2-channel or 4-channel Rockford Fosgate amplifier with RCA input

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the RF-HLC and the RFIF2SW or RFI2SW adapters?

The RF-HLC is a dedicated line output converter with defined input/output voltages (10.5V in, 3V out), a ground lead connection, and proper level conversion circuitry. The RFIF2SW and RFI2SW are passive signal adapters — simpler devices with no ground lead and no defined conversion parameters. For a cleaner, more controlled signal conversion with reduced noise, the RF-HLC is the more complete solution.

What speaker output voltage can the RF-HLC handle?

The RF-HLC accepts high-level input up to 10.5V — covering the output range of factory OEM head units (typically 2–8V at the speaker terminals) and most aftermarket head units.

What RCA output level does the RF-HLC produce?

The RF-HLC produces up to 3V RCA output — a strong signal level that maximises signal-to-noise ratio over the RCA cable run to the amplifier.

Does the RF-HLC need a ground connection?

Yes — the RF-HLC includes a dedicated ground lead that must be connected to a clean chassis ground. This ground reference is important for minimising hum and noise in the converted output signal.

Is the RF-HLC covered by warranty?

Yes — Rockford Fosgate's warranty is confirmed active on this product. Coverage requires purchase from an authorised dealer. Confirm the specific warranty period with your authorised Rockford Fosgate reseller at time of purchase.