Poor radio reception after installing aftermarket stereo
 

Just like the heading says. I installed my stereo and now I barely get any reception. I heard that all of the European cars all use a powered antenna signal booster. AmazinglyI cannot find ANYONE in my area that sells them anymore. I mean you used to be able to walk into just about any store and find a powered signal booster. Now no one sells them. So if it is true that they are powered, where is the wire to power it up? During the install, I noticed a small wire with a fitting on it that is wrapped with the stock antenna plug that went into the stock radio. Is that it? After I installed the aftermarket antenna adapter, there was no where for that extra wire to go so I was wondering if that wire could have been the booster. And if so, how can I power it back up? It seemed more like a coaxial cable than a wire I can splice a hot lead into it. I'm hoping you guys can help. I actually like listening to the radio sometimes.

Thanks

RE: Poor radio reception after installing aftermarket stereo
 

You're correct, you need an antenna amplifier...like this:
http://scosche.com/products/sfID1/15.../productID/211

Connect the single wire to a +12VDC ACC/switched signal. You can find them at most car audio shops, ebay, online, etc.

RE: Poor radio reception after installing aftermarket stereo
 

So this is EXACTLY the one I need? If so, it's only a few bucks so no need in shopping around and possibly ending up with a cheap product. Thanks.

Like I said, NO ONE around here has them which was surprising to me.

RE: Poor radio reception after installing aftermarket stereo
 

Yes, that's exactly the product you'll need.

RE: Poor radio reception after installing aftermarket stereo
 

Well that one says it's for the A4. I know they're probably the same for both cars but didn't want to risk it. I went ahead on ebay and searched around. It cost me about $15 so no biggie.