OEM Tape/CD player combo...will a pre-amp fix the problem?

I want to “upgrade” my factory tape player with an OEM tape/CD player combo. I know, I know...there are better aftermarket options out there but I’m trying to keep it original. When I pulled the original tape player I found the wiring harness doesn’t match the OEM CD/tape player combo. I was able to get power to the CD player but no sound, the tape player still worked. After doing a little research, it looks like there is a pre-amp that’s needed and it would plug into the original harness on one side, then the CD/tape player on the other side. Does anyone know if that’s all that is required? I found the pre-amp on eBay but don’t want to waste money if it’s not what I need. Thanks!

 

I, honestly, do not understand the audio system in my '95 T4R. It had an after-market system in it when I got it. The back speakers did not work.

I opened up the enclosures and found that they include a small amplifier(?) mounted with each one. I assume they were "blown-out" because the new system sent more power to the rear than the OEM system did.

I just routed directly to the speaker, by-passing the amps. Works just fine now.

 

Thanks for the reply Fishguy. I think those small amplifiers on each speaker were a factory “upgrade“ that came with the CD player.