Audio devices for high-quality sound reproduction consist of several components. This is a low-frequency amplifier and a certain number of speaker systems called satellites. The high-quality sound system is labeled 7.1. This means that it includes seven devices with full-range speakers and one low-frequency or bass system. This device reproduces a narrow band of audio frequencies. The lower threshold is 20-25 Hz, and the upper one usually does not exceed 150-180 Hz. Low frequency design comes in two types. This is a passive or active bass system.
The passive unit for reproducing bass frequencies consists only of a cabinet and a woofer. The resistance of the device matches the resistance of the voice coil. The passive unit can be connected in parallel with full-range speakers, and the total resistance is reduced. To avoid burning out the low-frequency amplifier, you need to calculate the resulting system resistance. The main component of an active sound system is a low-frequency amplifier with a correction filter at the input.
Types of subwoofers
Car woofers equipped with a custom housing can have a built-in amplifier or are connected directly to the car radio.
The use of an additional amplifier allows you to relieve the head unit. To perform adjustments across frequency ranges and match the signal with other acoustic devices, a separate crossover is placed. The subwoofer volume is adjusted using a separate rotary potentiometer mounted on the body of the product. The design has a special bass reflex, which provides expansion of the frequency range due to the resonance effect. There are designs of low-frequency devices in which the loudspeaker is placed on a dividing partition inside the housing.
The passive subwoofer is connected through the rear speaker connectors or to special plugs located on the head unit. Such a switching scheme increases the load on the electronics of the radio and negatively affects the operation of the components of the car's acoustic system. But since equipment without an amplifier has a low price, car owners are interested in the question of whether it is possible to connect a subwoofer while minimizing loss of sound quality.
Examples of circuits for connecting active and passive subwoofers
Please note that not all car radios have LV. As a rule, factory models do not have this connector.
In such cases, it is recommended to additionally purchase a special adapter to connect a passive subwoofer, which connects to a radio that does not have a LP. In turn, the subwoofer will be connected to this adapter. How to do this correctly is shown in the diagram below.
Active connection diagram. subwoofer to a car radio without a LV channel via an adapter.
Passive connection diagram. SBV through an amplifier.
How to connect a subwoofer without an amplifier
Step-by-step instruction:
- On the rear panel of the car radio there are two inputs through which the subwoofer and the radio are connected using a linear cable.
- Then the power is connected: the power cable is laid under the interior trim and connected to the “+” terminal of the battery with one edge, and the other is connected to the subwoofer.
- The negative contact is connected to the battery “-” terminal and is grounded to the housing with a bolt connection. For these purposes, the edge of the wire must be stripped in advance. Cleaning is done with a knife and wire cutters.
- Since the power supply to the battery is 12V, the connection is only permissible through a fuse, which is installed on the power cable near the battery.
- Next, the connecting RCA wires are laid from the subwoofer through the interior and connected through the LOW-Input connectors, having previously cleaned the edges. If the connectors in the radio do not have RCA connectors, then you can connect them via the HI-Input connector.
Important! When connecting a device, do not confuse the active with the passive; remember that the active already has a built-in amplifier, while the passive does not, so the connection diagrams are different in both cases.
Problems you may encounter when connecting
The following difficulties may occur when connecting the device:
- A factory car radio usually does not have a special audio connector for an amplifier - this can be solved by purchasing a special adapter;
- Setting and correlation of low and high frequencies with the main acoustics of the car.
Please note: to properly connect the subwoofer to the car radio, you must have basic knowledge of electrical engineering. Otherwise, it is better to contact a car service center for specialist help.
What you will need
How to connect a radio
To install a passive subwoofer without an amplifier on your own you will need:
- speaker cables required for switching;
- plastic buffers to hold the woofer housing in the luggage compartment of the car;
- plastic screwdriver for removing plastic interior trim;
- side cutters for cutting cables;
- plugs needed for connection;
- PVC tape or protective tube;
- flexible clamps;
- protective corrugated tube for laying cables.
Before starting installation work, you should make sure that the purchased equipment is compatible. Connecting speakers with inappropriate coil resistance causes the radio amplifier to overload, which damages the device. If the player has a security code, you need to make sure it is there. Otherwise, after connecting the battery to the on-board network, it will not be possible to restore the radio’s functionality.
Make-up capacitor
There is one more nuance when connecting a subwoofer. As the listening volume increases, “dips” may occur in the music. This is due to the “drawdown” in nutrition. That is, the battery is not capable of quickly delivering high current.
For powerful subs, a subwoofer feed capacitor is required
To exclude them from the power supply circuit of the amplifier or subwoofer, connect a capacitor with a capacity of 0.5-2.0 farads in parallel to the power terminals. It acts as an additional power source.
Audio wires
If you have not yet encountered connecting audio equipment, you will definitely be surprised by the cross-section of audio wires. Subwoofers have serious power and the wires running to them are thick. They can be distinguished from power ones by the presence of special connectors at the ends. They are called “tulip” for their similarity in shape, and the inputs with which they “join” are labeled RCA.
To connect you need a good shielded cable
Speakers often come with wires for connection. Do not use simple RCA wires used in everyday life to connect music. centers or TV. They have a very poor screen and the input of the amplifier will receive interference in the form of a buzz from the generator and the crackling of spark discharges. If you use it, the sound will not be normal. Even if the equipment is chosen perfectly.
Assembly and connection
How to connect a standard and non-standard radio in a car
There are several types of subwoofers, and each of them can be assembled with your own hands, installed yourself, or, of course, you can buy a ready-made one. There is nothing complicated in self-assembly and you can ultimately achieve good results by solving an interesting problem and using extra parts lying around. It is much easier, of course, to buy a ready-made one and connect it without outside help. Connecting yourself will help you save a significant amount. Connecting a subwoofer carries the risk of damaging the interior trim. The car may be damaged. There are no more risks. The wires must be hidden. In general, wires come in different colors, but in any case they will be noticeable.
What quality should the wires have?
It is best to purchase wires made of copper with good flexible insulation that does not crack in the cold. Copper-plated aluminum is a bad option. But what kind of wires are needed to connect the subwoofer, branded ones or from the nearest electrical goods store? Practice shows that there is no big difference in sound.
But a wire made from electrical goods may look simpler, and its insulation will not be as high quality. But the price will be significantly less. Good branded wires are usually made of high quality, their insulation is flexible and durable, they look chic, but they can cost the same as, for example, the subwoofer that you are going to connect.
Selection of cables and wires
Which subwoofer for a car is better, active or passive?
The wires for the speaker system in the car are multi-core cables that transmit sound signals from the head unit or amplifier to the subwoofer. They play no less important role than the equipment itself. However, choosing the right option is not always easy. The cables presented in specialized stores differ in cross-section, core material, insulation and cost.
According to their purpose, cables for car audio come in 2 types:
- acoustic (such products are required to transmit a signal from the amplifier to the speakers);
- interconnect (they are needed to transport low-voltage signals from the radio to the amplifier).
The first piece of advice that professionals recommend following concerns the price category of the product. Thus, a cheap cable for connecting a subwoofer should not be purchased for expensive equipment, since the quality of the reproduced sound will deteriorate. At the same time, buying expensive wires for budget acoustics will be a waste of money.
Depending on the core material, wire sets come in several types:
- Copper. They, in turn, are divided into those made of rough copper and oxygen-free copper (OFC). In the first case, the products are basic and have a relatively low price. The base made of oxygen-free copper allows you to increase the conductivity of the cable, but the cost of the product will be an order of magnitude higher. Another copper wire is PCOCC, in which the base is made of pure copper.
- Copper-plated aluminum. This is another inexpensive wire option. Among the list of disadvantages of such a product, professionals name increased fragility and brittleness.
- Silver plated or silver. Such products for connecting a subwoofer to a receiver have high performance and durability, but are much more expensive.
List of required components
To begin with, let’s decide on a general list of parts, namely their name and function, and then give a recommendation for selection.
- Power wire. Supplies power from the battery to the amplifier. For a medium-sized sedan you will need 5 m of “plus” and 1 m of “minus”. You can get more accurate dimensions by measuring your car yourself.
- Bulb with fuse. An important component. Serves as protection in the event of a short circuit in the power cable.
- Terminals. Allows you to simplify the connection of power wires to the battery and car body. You will need 2 pcs. ring type. If the connection to the amplifier is on the blades, you will need 2 more pieces. fork type.
- Tulips and control wire. Transmits an audio signal from the radio to the amplifier. Can come complete with interconnect cables or be purchased separately.
- Speaker wire. Transfers an improved signal from the amplifier to the subwoofer. You will need 1-2 m. If you have an active subwoofer, this wire will not be needed.
- Additionally, a distributor may be needed if two amplifiers are installed.
Determining the power of the audio system in a car
Calculating the power of the audio system will allow you to choose the right power cable. To do this, you need to know the rated power of all amplifiers installed in the car. You can look it up in the instructions or find it by the name of the active subwoofer or amplifier on the Internet.
If, in addition to the subwoofer, an amplifier is also installed on the speakers, the power of all amplifiers should be summed up.
For example, your car has 2 amplifiers. The first is for a subwoofer with a power of 300 W, the second is a 4-channel with a channel power of 100 W, installed on speakers. We calculate the total power of the audio system: 4 x 100 W = 400 W + subwoofer 300 W. The result is 700 W.
It is for this power that we will select the power wire; if in the future your audio system is replaced with more powerful components, we advise you to choose wires with a reserve.
A set of cables for a subwoofer, a budget option for weak systems
A common option is to purchase a ready-made set of wires. This solution has its advantages. Firstly, such kits are inexpensive. Secondly, the box contains everything you need to connect.
There is one minus. These kits use aluminum wires coated with copper. They have high resistance, which affects throughput. Depending on conditions, they oxidize and rot over time. This option is suitable for those who have a modest budget and low system power, for example, for connecting an active subwoofer.
Wires for subwoofer
The positive power wire is laid from the battery terminal and connected through a fuse.
You can draw the negative power wire from any metal bolt that is screwed to the car body. The recommended cross-section for the positive power wire is about six to eight square millimeters. Such a large cable diameter is explained by the high current consumption. Do not forget about the need to use a fuse that will protect the circuit from overload and short circuit. This fuse should be installed under the hood as close to the battery as possible. The second negative power wire, also called the ground wire, is screwed to the body at any convenient point. As a rule, its connection is made directly next to the installed subwoofer. This power wire is connected to the (-) terminal or to the terminal marked GND.
If your standard radio has separate connectors necessary for connecting an active type of subwoofer, then such switching is carried out without any difficulties. From the radio it is necessary to lay a coaxial shielded signal cable, which has corresponding connectors for connecting a subwoofer. On one side, this cable is connected to the radio in the SubOut connector, and in the subwoofer it is connected to the LFE or LineIn connector.
In cases where there is no corresponding output on the radio, you need to use an additional converter that allows you to transform the signal. The converter is connected to the output of the main speaker system.
This will allow us to obtain a linear standard signal at the output of the converter. Subsequently, such a linear signal is supplied to the corresponding subwoofer outputs. The connection is made using the same signal wires as in the first case if there is a subwoofer output.
To ensure the required sound quality, signal and cable products must be selected from professional manufacturers. The choice in specialized stores is extremely wide. We can recommend that you use cables from the following manufacturers - Profigold, Kimber Cable, Ost, Monster Cable. But what we wouldn’t recommend you do is buy a cheap Chinese cable.
It is quite possible that the cost of such a cable will seem attractive to you, but its quality is at a mediocre level, and you will not receive any return from the installed subwoofer. When performing installation work, the following rules must be observed. The cable is laid using the shortest route. Avoid sharp bends in the cable. When passing the cable through metal elements, rubber bushings should be used to protect the cable from chafing by metal.
These installation instructions will allow you to do all the work yourself and will significantly improve the sound quality of the standard stereo system in your car.
Our requirements
At the output we want to get:
- High-quality sound transmission in the frequency range 20-200Hz, free from the disadvantages that we listed above
- But we don’t care about the quality of transmission in other frequency ranges
- Symmetrical wire design with low conductor resistivity and low linear capacitance
- The presence of an effective single interference shielding layer
- To avoid microphone effect
- Maximum cable flexibility
- It is fully compatible with 1xrca 2xrca connectors in diameter
- Availability and reasonable cost
Search results
According to our requirements listed above - availability and reasonable price of the product, we decided to look for wires that would satisfy these conditions among the huge range of microphone and instrument cables that are produced by companies focused on studio and professional equipment, and not on construction.
So:
- To begin with, we studied the product range of various manufacturers, from which we then selected wire models that were of potential interest
- We tested the most interesting and suitable ones
- As a result, we selected a cable that fully meets the stated sound requirements
- This cable turned out to be Cordial CMK222, the first photo of my article
- It is a classic symmetrical cable, with a cross-sectional area of 0.22 millimeters of its stranded conductors, a dense spiral copper screen
- Plus has a low linear capacitance conductor/screen and conductor/conductor, as well as low resistivity
- Available in an assortment of colors and averages a dollar per meter
How to connect a subwoofer to an amplifier
Single channel connection
Connecting a subwoofer to an amplifier is not difficult; just connect the amplifier's audio output jack to the subwoofer coil or coils using speaker wires.
The wires should not be thin. In most cases, choose copper wiring with a cross-section of 4 mm and there will be no problems.
Connecting speaker wires
This subwoofer connection diagram is suitable for one channel of an amplifier or monoblock.
Connecting to a subwoofer via terminal block
Connecting to a subwoofer directly
Connecting a subwoofer with a bridge
In the case of using a multi-channel amplifier, the sub can be connected to two channels simultaneously, using the minus of one and the plus of the other, this connection is called bridged, with this method the power output by the amplifier increases significantly (see the specifications for specific numbers).
So you can connect a subwoofer to a two or four channel amplifier, using 2 channels for acoustics, and the remaining 2 for the subwoofer.
To connect a subwoofer with a bridge, make sure that your amplifier supports this feature.
If you connect a low-frequency speaker to an amplifier by changing the polarity, that is, connect the plus of the subwoofer to the minus of the amplifier output and vice versa, then the speaker will work in antiphase, there is nothing wrong with that, sometimes such a connection is used intentionally if the amplifier does not have phase adjustment (more about adjustment phases).
Connecting the subwoofer coils
The technical documentation for the subwoofer states the resistance of its coils (1 Ohm, 2 Ohm, 4 Ohm, rarely 0.5 Ohm), and the technical documentation for the amplifier indicates what resistance it can work with, this information is needed so that you connect correctly and effectively subwoofer to amplifier. The lower the resistance of the sub, the more power the amplifier will produce, provided that it can operate at this resistance. A subwoofer speaker may have several coils (1 or 2, rarely 4).
When the coils are connected in series, the resistance increases, while in parallel it decreases. If you don't want to learn definitions and count fractions, just save this cheat sheet (parallel and serial connections).
Connection options
How much ohm to connect the subwoofer
The higher the resistance, the better the sound quality; the lower, the more power the amplifier delivers. If you need a lot of loud bass, then turn it to the minimum that the amplifier can provide, and if the overall sound quality of the system comes first, then it is 2 Ohms or 4 Ohms, depending on the power output.
Video on how to connect 2 subwoofers or more. Subwoofer connection diagram 2x2 Ohm, 4x4 Ohm, 1x1 Ohm. Serial connection of speakers. Parallel connection of speakers. Basic principles.
Happy connections!
Manufacturing
To make a cable, we take the following materials with tools:
- A piece of the length we need
- A pair of 1xrca 1xrca connectors
- Lead-free silver solder (Asahi, for example)
- Rosin flux (neutral)
- Sections of heat shrink tube with a diameter of 6.4 mm and 12 mm
- Soldering iron
- Nippers or side cutters
- Sharp knife
- Ruler
- Tweezers
- Gas lighter
Let's get to work
On each side of our cable, using a sharp knife, carefully, in order to preserve the shielding braid, remove 1 centimeter of outer insulation, then:
- Orient the cable in the direction opposite the inscription printed on the insulation surface
- From the left end of the cable, carefully cut the cotton thread that wraps the conductors with a knife or cutters
- From the right end, in addition to the cotton thread, you need to cut off the bare copper conductors that make up the shielding braid, and they are cut in such a way that they do not protrude beyond the external insulation
- Then you put a piece of heat-shrink tubing on the cable on both sides, the length of the pieces is 1.5 centimeters (diameter = 6.4 mm)
- Then put on the protective cap of the connector
- Then remove the retaining rings from the springs that are included in the connector kit and put them on the cable on both sides (just do not confuse the sides of the rings)
- Put the springs aside as unnecessary.
- Then shorten the signal conductors (they are white) on both sides of the cable by 3 millimeters
- Strip 4 millimeters of insulation from the signal conductors
- Collect the conductors of the shielding braid into a bundle on the left side and twist it tightly
- Then cover the exposed parts of all conductors and the screen with flux
- You also coat the contact surfaces of 2xrca 2xrca connectors, which are intended for soldering, with flux
Note: Lead solder reduces the conductivity of signals and degrades their quality, so the use of lead solder in acoustics is excluded.
- Now solder the red wires to the central signal pins of the RCA connectors
- In this case, on the right side of the cable, solder a white signal conductor to the “ground” contact of the connector, and on the left side, in addition to it, a shielding braid is also soldered there
- Then install the plastic clamps on the cable, push the retaining rings towards them and tightly screw the protective caps on the connectors
- Move the heat-shrinkable tube, which is previously placed on the cable, close to the edge of your protective cap, and use a lighter to shrink it
- Now from a heat-shrinkable tube with a diameter of 12 millimeters, cut two pieces, 3 centimeters each
- Place these tubes on the connector surface so that one edge protrudes beyond the connector surface and covers the corrugated notch on its surface, and the overlap should be at least 1 millimeter
- Place them on the surface, all your cable is ready for use
- It is connected by the side with which the screen was soldered to the audio signal source, the other side goes to the subwoofer
- This rule is fundamental, so try to follow this particular direction of connection
Additionally, we recommend you a visual video.
Instructions for connecting the Mystery passive subwoofer to the Pioneer radio
The schematic diagram of low-frequency speakers of both active and passive types is almost the same, with the exception of small additions related to non-active subwoofers.
For this reason, we will analyze the general method and then make changes.
The process of turning on a car radio with a passive subwoofer is very simple: it is connected directly to the amplifier, which, in turn, is connected in series to the car player.
The role of the standard amplifier in this circuit is to transmit the signal received from the sound of the playback device (car radio) to speakers with high and low resolution frequencies. Where the subwoofer itself acts as a converter of low-frequency signals, and its satellites act as a converter of high-frequency signals.
Due to its rather large dimensions, the installation of the subwoofer is carried out mainly in the luggage compartment of the car and the power supply wires have to be pulled through the entire cabin to the battery. Which does not improve its (interior) appearance.
Not active subwoofer
You can connect a passive subwoofer to a radio without an amplifier in 4 steps.
- Through the technological hole in the engine compartment we stretch the supply wire to the battery. We install a fuse on the positive (plus) wire closer to the battery.
- We pull the wiring into the cabin and stretch it to the trunk, if possible disguising it under the interior trim parts.
- We insert the wires through the finished technical hole (if necessary, we make it ourselves) into the trunk of the car. And we connect directly to the low-frequency speaker, according to the diagram (on, to -).
Connecting the subwoofer to the Pioneer radio via a single-core power (blue) wire and a wire with tulip connectors
What should the interconnect cable be like?
The highest quality you can afford. The connectors should be made of reliable material that would not break after several connections, and the cable itself should be well shielded, since it is the interconnect that picks up interference the most.
By the way, the interconnect cable is the most expensive of all the wiring needed to connect a subwoofer and amplifier. Some car audio enthusiasts make their own interconnect cables. It's not as difficult as it might seem. You need to buy connectors, a high-quality cable and solder it all correctly. Instructions can be found in the article “Do it yourself interconnect cable” on our website.
The interconnect cable, when placing the amplifier in the trunk, is needed about 4-5 meters long. It will be better if you measure the required distance with a tape measure before purchasing. You don’t need to calculate back to back, but you shouldn’t make a large reserve either.
Where to install
For some motorists, installing acoustic equipment can be a big problem. The matter concerns both the size of the device itself and the car model.
Hatchback and minivan. In cars with this type of body, you can easily find space even to accommodate a large system. This is explained by the good trunk capacity.
Sedans. The trunk in sedans has a smaller volume, so there is not always room there to install a subwoofer. The problem can be solved by installing speakers in the armrests or on the rear shelf.
Cabriolet. In such a body, it is most difficult to connect a subwoofer to the car, since space is at a premium here. In this case, it is better to choose bandpass type acoustics or FC cabinets equipped with a bass reflex.
Power cable for active subwoofer
To supply power to the subwoofer, you must pull the cable from the battery. You should not connect it to the cigarette lighter, turns, locks and other devices. And the sound will be bad, and the safety will be low.
Acoustics are one of the most powerful consumers and the cable is needed from the power category. Well insulated, with a large cross-section and made of good copper. The cross section is selected depending on the power of the column. Let's say right away that it will be considerable.
Table for determining the cable cross-section for connecting the power supply to an active subwoofer
The table shows the recommended diameter depending on the power of the connected device. Dimensions are given in AWG - the American system for measuring wire cross-section. This is the first number. The correspondence in square millimeters - mm², which is accepted in our country, is given in brackets.
You will not find an exact match on our market. For example, 6.5 mm² is definitely not. Available in 6.0 mm² or 8.0 mm². It is better to take the nearest larger one. That is, if you need 6.5 mm², then it is better to take 8 than 6.
Cables for power supply to active subwoofer
Take the length with reserve. Splicing of power cables is not permitted. If it turns out to be short, you will have to pull a new piece. You will also need terminals, which you attach along the edges of the cable. Preferably copper ones, made of thick, good copper. Ideal - tinned (white, but copper inside). They oxidize less.
Technical issues
With an amplifier, the car audio system has higher power consumption. If with a conventional car radio the consumption is about 10 A, then when installing a subwoofer with an amplifier it can be up to 60 A. This must be taken into account when choosing equipment and when connecting the radio. When choosing, take a radio/amplifier of higher power (and with 4 channels); when connecting, take wires of a larger cross-section.
Set for connecting a subwoofer amplifier: two power cables, interconnect, control and acoustic
If your radio is connected normally, and you decide to add a subwoofer, it is better to replace the power wire with a thicker one. And the sound will be better (you can check), and the wires will heat up less. And you probably know what heating up the wiring in a car leads to.
When choosing a cable cross-section for supplying power to the amplifier, the total (total) power of the amplifier must be taken into account. It depends on the number of channels and the power it delivers to the channel.
Table for selecting the cross-section of power cables for connecting the amplifier
The amplifier specifications indicate the channel power. We take it and multiply it by the number of channels. For example, 30 W goes into a channel, we have four channels. The total power will be 30 W * 4 = 120 W. This is the number we use when selecting the cable cross-section. Next we use the table.
Types of subwoofers
DIY subwoofer installation diagram
First, a little about the product itself. A subwoofer is a speaker that produces low-frequency sound (bass). There are two types:
- Passive;
- Active;
Sub in the case
In the first case, the design consists of 1-3 speakers installed in a wooden case. Many people are interested in how to make a passive subwoofer? - very simple. To do this, you only need a pair of low-frequency speakers, for which the housing should be made of wood. The disadvantage of this product is that its power is high and for normal operation it will require the installation of an amplifier. Will the subwoofer work without an amplifier? - of course, this is an ordinary speaker, but its sound will leave the best (you won’t be able to get loud and clear bass with this connection).
subwoofer without housing
Active subwoofers differ in that they already have an integrated amplifier and can be directly connected to the radio.
Some radios may also have amplifiers in their design, which allows you to connect woofers directly, without additional equipment. But before you connect it to a standard radio, you should make sure that the parameters of its amplifier are higher than those of the subwoofer.
Subwoofer in a car: features and differences
So, you can improve the sound in your car by installing an active subwoofer or a passive subwoofer. First of all, at the initial stage it is important to select a subwoofer based on power. If we talk about features, there are several types of subwoofers, but often a passive or active subwoofer is installed in cars.
Passive may have one or more low-frequency dynamic heads (woofer head) in a solid plywood or wood casing. In this case, such a subwoofer must be connected to an external amplifier through a low-pass filter. This filter only passes low-frequency signals. The amplifier and filter are purchased separately, taking into account customer preferences and financial capabilities.
In turn, an active sub is a completely ready-made and universal solution (speaker, filter and amplifier are enclosed in a housing). Such devices are easier to connect (just connect the power and sound a beep).
However, often the integrated components in an active subwoofer device are of low or average quality. For example, the built-in amplifier in an active subwoofer will often be of poorer quality and weaker in power compared to external amplifiers for a passive subwoofer.
Taking into account the above, when buying a subwoofer, you should pay attention to the fact that a passive subwoofer is initially cheaper than an active one, and you will need to purchase an amplifier and low-pass filter separately. As a result, such a good quality kit turns out to be more expensive than a ready-made active sub.
At the same time, the ability to select components allows you to get more powerful and high-quality sound, while an active subwoofer is a budget solution with average performance.
How to setup
Correctly setting up the subwoofer allows you to make the most of all the capabilities of the speaker system in your car. Some music lovers still use factory settings, but this can greatly affect the sound quality. This feature is explained by the fact that the manufacturer cannot take into account the preferences of each listener. In addition, the quality of the reproduced sounds is greatly influenced by the type of car body and the installation features of the subwoofer.
Inaccuracies when connecting the subwoofer to the standard radio and setting up the system cause resonance in the car and rattling of individual elements of the plastic trim. To correct the sound, experts suggest using a specialized disc. It can be found in auto stores. This disc contains musical compositions with which you can fine-tune the settings.
Active subwoofer
To properly set up an active subwoofer in a car, you need to go through several stages of work. The stages of work are similar for any type of connection (to a monoblock or through amplifiers).
First of all, turn on the low-pass filter. It can be located on the radio itself or on the amplifier. The filter can be called as follows: Low Pass Filter (abbreviated LPF), as well as LF or low-pass filter. This action is necessary to minimize the sound of mid and high frequencies. When the filter is turned on, only bass will be heard.
Initial volume and frequency settings. Before you properly configure the sub, you need to find the filter frequency control - it is located on the amplifier and marked Frequency. Its indicator should be at around 80 Hz. The sensitivity control can be recognized by the inscription Gain or Level. Its level must correspond to that of other regulators.
Switching polarity. Only the fact in which direction the speaker cone will begin to move depends on the specific connection. In order to adjust the parameter, you need music in which the bass is reproduced clearly and clearly. After this, you need to find a sound option in which the subwoofer will produce sounds that are indistinguishable from the sounds from other elements of the speaker system.
The next task is to adjust the subsonic. This name refers to a subtonal filter that cleans musical compositions from excessively low sounds. In most cases, a level of 20 Hz will be sufficient. Those who prefer the loudest bass possible may need a level of 40 Hz.
It is equally important to configure the subwoofer taking into account mid-bass performance. This again requires volume control and a low-pass filter.
If you need soft bass, set the volume higher and the filter lower.
Passive subwoofer
Some buyers think about adjusting the radio for the subwoofer at the stage of choosing a speaker system. At the same time, there is an opinion that an active subwoofer is simpler and more convenient to operate, install and configure. This is not entirely true.
The advantage of active devices is simple, quick installation. Meanwhile, the absence of a separate amplifier for the subwoofer in the car reduces possible adjustment modifications.
Ready-made factory kits somewhat limit the buyer’s choice. You won’t be able to buy a powerful, high-quality product for relatively low prices. Well-equipped devices require large investments. To purchase an active subwoofer for a car, in some cases you will have to make concessions on certain parameters.
The highest quality and most flexible connection settings are those devices that were made to order. In these cases, you can make a parallel-connected subwoofer and make the most fine-tuning of the radio, subwoofer and other individual components of the system.
Tips and tricks
As you can see, there are several options and diagrams for connecting a subwoofer. At the same time, we also add that car speakers and a subwoofer are also in some cases connected via a crossover.
If you connect a subwoofer through a car crossover, you can significantly improve the sound quality. First of all, a crossover is a device that divides the frequency range, performing the functions of a frequency filter.
In other words, in order for only low frequencies to be fed to the sub, without admixtures of the upper and midrange, a frequency filter is required. This is also true for other speakers in the car, especially high-frequency tweeters. This signal separation allows for better detail in the music.
As for the crossovers themselves, they are active, passive, single-way and two-way. Passive ones are cheaper and much simpler in design; they do not have active elements.
We also recommend reading the article about what an engine autostart module is. From this article you will learn how to install autostart on a car, as well as what advantages and disadvantages this solution has.
In fact, such a crossover is an inductor, capacitance and resistance. As a result, the device reduces signal strength, withstands lower peak loads and fails faster. This type of crossover is connected in front of the speaker itself.
In turn, an active crossover costs more and is placed in front of the amplifier. This filter differs from a passive one in that it allows for precise and detailed adjustment of frequency cuts.
Let us also add that any work on connecting electrical equipment in a car must be carried out by removing the terminals from the battery. When installing, it is important to remember that the connections must be reliable, the wires must have the required cross-section, be in high-quality insulation, secured with clamps, laid in corrugation, etc.
The same can be said about securing equipment. All elements, including acoustics, amplifiers, crossovers, subwoofer, radio and other elements must be securely fastened.
It is forbidden to ignore the need to install a fuse. Fuses must be selected taking into account the power, energy consumption and other rating characteristics of the devices that are installed and connected in the car.
CORRECTLY CONNECTING A SUBWOOFER TO AN AMPLIFIER
The subwoofer is connected to the amplifier using a car audio converter (adapter, adapter). This is a small device with a pair of RCA outputs and two pairs of wires, two of which are used to connect a dynamic emitter. The rest of the wires can simply be hidden - they are not needed for now. The line output wires (RCA OUT) must be connected to the amplifier.
The principle of connecting a subwoofer to a single-channel amplifier
To connect a car subwoofer to a mono amplifier, you will need to connect the positive and negative voltage wires from the amplifier to the same terminals of the subwoofer - that's all. Connecting several passive subwoofers is a little more complicated. Their connection is carried out in a parallel or series circuit, but with the obligatory precise calculation of their internal resistance.
The principle of connecting a subwoofer to a two-channel amplifier
In this option, the connection is made using a bridge circuit. This connection technology works great with virtually all two-channel amplifiers, to which you need to add another subwoofer. Here, too, everything is simple - we take the positive wire from one channel, and the negative wire from the 2nd channel and feed it to the corresponding terminals of the subwoofer.
When making this connection, special attention should be paid to the internal resistance of the subwoofer, which should be 4 ohms. In addition, you should take into account that with this option, the output power of both channels is added
If the amplifier has the function of switching mono and stereo modes, then in this case the wires are connected to the positive and negative terminals of one channel. If there is a need to connect two subwoofers to the amplifier, then the speaker cable from them is fed to different channels.
For correct and clear operation of the subwoofer, you should provide an LPF low-pass filter, which will set the upper limit of the low frequency.
The principle of connecting a subwoofer to a four-channel amplifier
The standard connection of a speaker system to a four-channel amplifier is considered to be a scheme with two speakers and one subwoofer.
So, the typical way to connect an audio system to an amplifier would be the option of two speakers and a subwoofer. In this case, the sub is connected to the amplifier via a bridge circuit, and the audio speakers are each connected to their own channel. The peculiarity of this connection is that the speakers must work with the front channels, and the sub with the rear ones. But at the same time, it is possible to connect a pair of subwoofers to different rear channels.
Acoustic cable
The speaker cable must be thick and copper. For most systems, a cross-section of 4 mm² is sufficient.
For powerful subwoofers, you can use 6 mm², but you need to see if the terminal on the speaker will allow you to insert such a wire.
By the way, by trying speaker wires of different thicknesses, you can feel how the thickness affects the sound quality. The thinner the wire, the worse the bass will be.
If the amplifier is placed in the trunk, near the subwoofer, then you need a little speaker wire, 50-100 cm.
Four main types
The main types of subwoofers are:
- open;
- hull;
- active;
- passive.
An open subwoofer is the first option. It needs to be built into any of the car panels. This is a smart option for anyone who doesn't like to fiddle around for too long. There is a second option - case-based. It will have to be built into a special box. The calculation here must be accurate. This box increases the sound pressure on the speaker. The speakers are 100% engaged. With its help you can slightly adjust the sound.
There is also a distinction between passive and active. Passive is simple. It lacks an amplifier and crossover. It must be connected in parallel with other speakers. You can make a crossover yourself and include it in the system. But it’s easier to immediately install an active subwoofer, which has both an amplifier and a crossover. Connecting an active subwoofer to your car will solve many problems at once.
In addition, a passive subwoofer sometimes causes a quieter sound from the speaker system, which must be taken into account when making a decision. Active will give good volume. An amplifier and crossover simplify the wiring diagram. It is easier to install an active subwoofer with your own hands without experience, although some may disagree with this point of view.
The amplifier and crossover are important elements. Think about the available options, compare them with the final goal, which is drawn in the mind - rationally. If there is no time or desire to choose or think, in the worst case, an extra part may appear in stock, which is also not a disaster. The supplier or seller, alas, is not obliged to accept back the purchased item if there is no receipt, damage appears, and so on. The money spent could have been invested in something else, but you can always sell speakers, microphones, subwoofers to someone who really needs them. This will allow you to return most of the amount.
Several connection features
If you connect a passive speaker, then you need to do this through an amplifier. It already has special inputs and outputs designed for connecting a low-frequency device.
Its connection also occurs through the use of an speaker cable.
Connecting an active subwoofer to speakers
Note: to select a wire with a suitable cross-section for the subwoofer, you can use special tables.
Table for selecting wires for a subwoofer
The amplifier is connected directly to the radio using a cable with an RCA connector:
- If it is not possible to purchase an additional amplifier, then you can do without it. In this case, the device will be connected directly to the front speakers. But you need to understand that in this case the sound quality will be much lower. At the same time, when connecting an active device, you can do everything the same, but the speaker system will sound good;
RCA cable
- In order for sound to be filtered, a special filter can be installed at one specific connection point (see It’s not difficult to make a filter for a subwoofer yourself). Its location is usually indicated on the diagram.
Cable cross-section and proper selection
Note: It acts as an amplifier to some extent, but the bass performance is only slightly improved.
- Therefore, it is better to choose a connection through an amplifier, due to which the load on the speaker becomes less pronounced.
How to connect speakers to an active subwoofer
Subwoofer connection diagram
Before starting work, you should turn off the power to the car. To do this, you need to disconnect the negative terminal from the battery.
Only after this you can start working:
- First you need to decide where exactly the device will be located. After this, you will need to run a cable from the radio to it;
- The wires are laid under the interior trim. To facilitate work, there are special technical holes through which cables are routed.
Connecting an active subwoofer from the rear speakers
Note: it is advisable that the cable be run overhead, under the roof. Due to this, the load on the cable will be greatly reduced.
- The wire must be secured along its entire length. For this you can use special clamps. To prevent it from being visible in the future, the cable can be carefully disguised;
- In the place where the subwoofer will be installed, it is recommended to lay shock-absorbing material, which will protect the device from unnecessary vibrations;
- The amplifier should not be placed near the subwoofer as this may cause interference. It is desirable that it be located at some distance from it. In this case, both devices must be fixed with bolts;
- The cables must be inserted into the connectors provided for this purpose.
Connection instructions without amplifier
The location of the subwoofer depends on the car model and the design of the subwoofer. The equipment is placed in the luggage compartment and is kept from moving by stops attached to the floor covering. There are devices located under the front passenger seat. Flush-mounted subwoofers have reduced dimensions, allowing the device to be placed in a narrow cavity under the chair. During installation, it is necessary to take into account the location of the ventilation ducts and electrical cables of the standard seat heating system.
An acoustic double interconnect cable of the RCA standard is laid through the car interior along the standard electrical harnesses. To ensure protection of the cord, a corrugated sleeve is used, which is laid along the thresholds of the car. From above, the highway is covered with carpet floor covering and plastic cladding. At the ends of the cable it is necessary to install connectors intended for connection to the head unit and subwoofer.
A number of radios are equipped with a standard cable harness, which has a round connector for connecting a subwoofer. Since the equipment is connected via 2 plugs, it is necessary to use an additional splitter. The product is placed next to the speaker, an RCA cable is laid through the interior, but only 1 branch is used. The “tulips” at the end of the splitter are connected to the connectors of the low-frequency speaker.
To connect a passive subwoofer to the rear outputs of the radio, you should combine the outputs into a common circuit. Equipment with a power lower than the total output of the channels is connected to the rear speaker outputs. For example, Pioneer head players equipped with a 4-channel amplifier with a power of 50 W per stream allow the use of a woofer of no more than 70 W.
To ensure the functioning of the subwoofer, you must enable the required operating mode through the menu of the head unit. User can select normal or reverse phase mode. After selecting the required parameter, the settings are saved to the radio's memory. When you turn off the power or press the special reset button, the memory is cleared and the setting will need to be repeated again.
The cutoff frequency is separately regulated, which is selected from a range of values. The number of valid options depends on the modification of the player. To ensure rich sound, a high-pass filter is configured, which stops the transmission of the corresponding sounds through the standard front and rear speakers. Head units use a parameter for additional bass boost; the value is selected from a step range.
Since direct connection does not provide high quality sound reproduction, it is recommended to connect low-frequency speakers through an additional amplifier. The equipment is connected to the head unit with an additional signal cable, through which a switching pulse is sent. To power the amplifier, it is necessary to lay a separate line to the battery, providing it with a fuse installed in a special housing. It is prohibited to connect the amplifier to the side lighting or interior lighting circuits.
Bulb with fuse
A fuse is a jumper that is installed in a section of the power wire, as close as possible to the power source. Its task is to de-energize the wire in the event of a short circuit or heavy load, protecting the system and the car from fire.
For ease of installation and protection from dirt, a flask is used and a fuse is installed in it. Bulbs and fuses for the subwoofer come in different shapes - AGU, ANL and miniANL.
- AGU – Outdated format, but still common. Allows you to connect a wire with a cross-section from 8 to 25 mm2. We do not recommend using it, since a weak connection between the bulb and the fuse leads to power loss.
- miniANL – Replaced AGU. It has no disadvantages and is used for wires with a cross-section from 8 to 25 mm2.
- ANL – Enlarged version of miniANL. Designed for wires of larger cross-section - from 25 to 50 mm2.
You already know the power wire cross-section and length. The next task is to select the correct fuse rating. To do this, use the table below.
Ring and fork terminals
Ring terminals are used to securely fasten the wire to the battery and the car body. On the other hand, the wire is connected to the amplifier directly or through fork terminals, depending on its design.
Speaker wire
The last thing we need is speaker wire, which will carry the amplified signal from the amplifier to the subwoofer. The selection process depends on the length of the wire (mostly 1-2 meters) and the power of the amplifier. In this case, you can use branded speaker wires. Usually the amplifier is mounted on the back of the seats or on the subwoofer box.
Additional components
If the system consists of two amplifiers, for ease of connection you will need a distributor - a device that will allow you to distribute the power wire to two or more sources.
Polyester sleeve (in other words, snakeskin braid). Its task is to additionally protect the wire from mechanical damage. In addition, it adds aesthetics to the engine compartment, which is especially important when using industrial wires.
Where to connect the wires on the amplifier, radio or subwoofer
On the back of the radio or amplifier there are usually two separate ports - for connecting the power part and acoustics. There may be connectors of different shapes. Terminals for bolted connections are more reliable; in them, the wires are attracted by bolts with contact pads put on them. They need to be tightened periodically so that they do not become loose from shaking.
Example of connection to an amplifier. Same thing for the radio
We connect the cable from the battery to the terminal labeled +12 V. The negative is connected to GND or “–”. There is another terminal in the power block - RMT or can also be labeled as REM. This is the input for connecting the control cable. It serves to simultaneously turn on the amplifier and radio.
Connecting power cables to an active subwoofer
The subwoofer has a similar connector for connecting power cables. In the photo on the left he is below. There is the same input, labeled +12 V. We connect the cable from the battery here. The GND socket is the negative from the case, and the REM socket is for connecting control. As you can see, the power on all active parts of the system (radio, amplifier and subwoofer) is connected in the same way.
