Where this fits in the build
This is a system-control or DSP component. The correct choice depends on the signal path, channel count, routing, retained features and the rest of the amplifier and speaker plan.
Description
PAC AP4-CH42 AmpPRO 4 2021+ Chrysler / Dodge / Jeep / RAM Amplifier Integration
Uconnect 5 moved the newer Chrysler-family vehicles into another audio architecture. CH42 is the AmpPRO path when the supported vehicle uses that newer 32-pin / 12-pin connection and the factory radio is staying.
AP4-CH42 gives the aftermarket system front, rear and non-fading/subwoofer preamp outputs while keeping the factory controls and prompts PAC supports. Instead of asking a DSP to undo whatever the factory audio path has already done, we start the new amplifier or processor from PAC’s integration point.
That makes CH42 useful for a full system built behind the factory screen: keep Uconnect and the normal vehicle behavior, then choose the DSP and amplifiers around the speakers, channel count and tuning goals instead of around the limitations of the stock amplifier.
Amplified and Non-Amplified Applications Are Not the Same Job
PAC supports CH42 on select amplified and non-amplified systems, but the application details matter. On a supported non-amplified workflow, the aftermarket amplification requirements have to be followed correctly; this is not a universal shortcut for adding only a subwoofer to every Uconnect 5 vehicle.
Newer support has also been added through firmware. PAC specifically issued updated CAN support for specified 2021+ Grand Cherokee, 2022+ Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer and 2025+ RAM applications. On those later vehicles, updated firmware and the exact factory-amplifier requirement are part of the fitment check.
Signal Options After AmpPRO
The standard preamp outputs provide up to 5V RMS analog signal. If the downstream DSP or amplifier accepts optical, PAC’s optional APA-TOS1 can provide a 48 kHz / 24-bit TOSLINK signal on the supported path. LPHEXT17 is also available when the vehicle-side connection and the equipment location need more physical reach.
If the system belongs on CH41 or uses the APH-CH42 expansion path with CH41 R.2 instead, use that application rather than treating all Uconnect 5 vehicles as interchangeable.
Manufacturer Specifications
- Model: AP4-CH42
- Product type: PAC AmpPRO 4 amplifier integration interface
- Application: Select 2021+ Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM vehicles using supported 32-pin / 12-pin radio architecture
- Factory audio: Supports specified amplified and non-amplified systems; requirements vary by application
- Outputs: Front, rear and non-fading/subwoofer preamp outputs
- Maximum analog output: 5V RMS
- Factory controls retained: Volume, fade, balance, bass, mid and treble in supported applications
- Supported factory audio retained: Uconnect, Bluetooth audio, navigation prompts and warning chimes
- Sub-level control: Included remote controller
- Digital option: Optional APA-TOS1 TOSLINK output
- Extension option: Optional LPHEXT17
- Firmware: Install PAC’s required firmware for newly supported applications where specified
Manufacturer: PAC