Play music through your receiver at about one-quarter volume. Turn up the gain of the subwoofer amp until the sound from your subwoofer completely overpowers the other speakers, without distorting. Turn the gain up until it distorts, then back it off until the sound is clean again.
Full Answer
Can you hook up a subwoofer to a stock car stereo?
It is possible to hook up a subwoofer to a stock stereo and with the right equipment, the process isn’t too difficult. You will need an amplifier, subwoofer, amplifier wire kit, and a line-out converter to correctly hook up a subwoofer to your car’s stock stereo system.
What is the difference between 8-inch and 10-inch subwoofers?
10 inch subwoofers take it up a notch over 8-inch subwoofers. A 10-inch subwoofer is the smallest, "true subwoofer." Not to take anything away from the 8-inch subs, but a 10-inch subwoofer handles more power, plays louder, and will not feel like a compromise. Most 8 inch subwoofers just don't have the guts that a 10" offers.
What is the best 10 inch subwoofer for the money?
The best 10 inch subwoofer is the Rockford Fosgate P300. If you are looking to upgrade your factory speakers or just want more power, then this is the sub to get. It’s affordable and delivers impressive bass output. What is the best 10 inch subwoofer for the money? The best 10 inch subwoofer for the money is the Rockford Fosgate P300.
How do I Make my subwoofer louder without distortion?
Play music through your receiver at about one-quarter volume. Turn up the gain of the subwoofer amp until the sound from your subwoofer completely overpowers the other speakers, without distorting. Turn the gain up until it distorts, then back it off until the sound is clean again.
Will subs work with stock stereo?
Adding a subwoofer to a factory stereo is an excellent method to boost your sound while retaining your factory controls. The nifty devices can produce bass and sub-bass sounds at low frequencies. Thankfully, it's pretty simple to wire one into an existing car stereo system.
How do you hook up a sub amp to a factory radio?
3:236:05How to: Add Aftermarket Subwoofer and Amp to Factory Stereo. - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou would run cable that goes from that and plug directly into here I have speaker inputs and so nowMoreYou would run cable that goes from that and plug directly into here I have speaker inputs and so now what that does is it allows you to tap off of a speaker wire.
Does 10 inch subs sound good?
Most 10 inch subwoofers will give you the ability to rattle the trunk, but if you don't like that, you don't have to turn the bass up. A 10-inch subwoofer in a sealed box is perfect for crisp, tight, punchy bass that makes sure you get the right amount of bass for your listening style.
How can I make my stock radio sound better?
Here are four different ways you can make your factory stereo sound better....4 Small Upgrades That Will Drastically Improve Your Factory Sound...Replace Your Factory Speakers. Most brand new cars come with the cheapest possible speakers. ... Add Satellite Radio. ... Add A Subwoofer. ... Install Sound-Deadening Mats.
Can you add an amp to a stock stereo?
Usually, you'll be installing a 4-channel amplifier with speaker-level inputs. The best way to connect it to a factory system is to tap into the stereo's speaker outputs for the amp's input signal. Then send the amp's outputs back to the stereo's harness, and on to the speakers through the factory wiring.
Can you run a sub without an amp?
In nearly all cases, the answer is yes. Unless you have a system in your car or boat that is already powering a subwoofer, you'll need to find an amplifier that will power your sub. Your head unit will typically provide a low-power signal (RCA output) that can be used for an amplifier to power your subwoofer.
Do 10 inch subs sound better than 12?
If you want a basic subwoofer that gives you accurate bass without distortion and doesn't require too much space, go for a 10″ subwoofer. If, however, you want something with a bit more power and deeper bass response, then the 12″ might be better for you.
What size subwoofer is best for bass?
A 12-inch subwoofer is known for generating extra bass production with decent bass response Overall the sound quality is not sacrificed, but if you are playing your sub at peak power your system will suffer. It is always recommended to use the RMS Wattage to best utilize your woofer.
Do 10 or 12 subs hit harder?
But, generally speaking, given adequate power, the two 10" subs will sound a little cleaner and punch harder because their combined cone surface area yields more sound pressure. The single 12" sub, however, may sound a little deeper.
How do I get more bass on my stock speakers?
Install a subwoofer. Subwoofers are the best way to get more bass out of your car stereo system. You may be able to do this yourself, but a professional may be a better option.
How can I make my subwoofer sound better?
If you like the sound, live with the new position for a few days, and then move it again. Try moving the sub to different corners of the room to see which one maximizes deep bass output. Or do just the opposite and place the sub closer to the center of the wall; that may result in smoother, more accurate bass response.
How do I get more bass from my door speakers?
Tech Tip – Improving Mid Bass responseDeaden the outer sheet metal of the doors: Use a high quality sound. ... Seal up the inner sheet metal of the doors: ... Deaden the inner sheet metal of the doors: ... Cover sound deadened inner sheet metal with closed cell foam: ... Gasket each speaker: ... Decouple the speaker from your vehicle:
In a Hurry? Here Are the Top 3 Best 10 Inch Subwoofers
For bass lovers who don’t mind being a bit over the top while getting good bass for extremely cheap.
Conclusions for the best 10 inch subwoofers
We have reached the end of the best 10 inch subwoofers article. I had so much fun testing and tuning these subwoofers, and I have heartlessly removed those that were not up to my standards.
Do 10 or 12 subs hit harder?
If everything is matched up than the 12″ subs will hit harder than the 10 inch one because it can handle more power and will sound deeper. However if you have two 10″ then the two cones creating a larger surface area it will create more sound pressure.
What size subwoofer hits the hardest?
15 inch subwoofers will hit the hardest. Since they are so big they will deliver the deepest bass and also you need a big car to house one because they take up a lot of space typically they are installed in large trucks and SUV’s.
How big is a car subwoofer?
Car subwoofers range from 6.5 inches, all the way up to 19 inches in diameter. While there are many sizes, the three most popular sizes are 8 inch, 10 inch, and 12-inch subwoofers.
What is an 8 inch subwoofer?
8-inch subwoofers deliver tight bass in a relatively small space. Many newer vehicles today that come with a subwoofer will come with a factory-installed 8-inch subwoofer. You can upgrade your existing subwoofer, or you can easily add some low end to your stereo system without taking up much space or spending a ton of money. An 8" subwoofer is going to give you tight, clean bass. There are some 8-inch subwoofers that sound really nice and some might even compare them to a lower end 10" or 12", but generally speaking, an 8 subwoofer is going to give you nice, affordable, clean bass. If you are getting your first subwoofer, an 8" will get you in the door with a subwoofer without breaking the bank on both the subwoofer or your amplifier.
What is the best subwoofer for a car?
The best subwoofer for you will be one that fits in your vehicle, one that you can properly power, and one that fits your budget. If size, power, space, and budget aren't issues, go with the 12 inch subwoofers. If 12s won't work, go with 10 inch subwoofers. If 10-inch subwoofers won't work, go with 8 inch subwoofers.
What size subwoofer is best for hotel California?
If you want to feel the kick drum in Hotel California, a 10-inch subwoofer is perfect. You will still hear it with an 8", but it will just sound that much better if you have one or two 10s. We probably sell more 10 inch subwoofers than any other size and 10 inch subwoofers are perfect for classic cars to ensure that you get enough bass ...
Can a 15 inch subwoofer be used in a 12 inch subwoofer?
Yes, 15-inch subwoofers are pretty "standard" but not all brands make a 15" in every size , and the market for 15s, just isn't close the to market for 12's due to the significant size difference. A 12-inch subwoofer can do everything that the 10-inch model can, but the 10-inch version cant do everything the 12" can.
Can a 10" subwoofer be loud?
Most 8 inch subwoofers just don't have the guts that a 10" offers. A 10" subwoofer is usually going to require you to install a box or enclosure somewhere but you get bass that is going to hit hard and it's going to be able to get loud. The ability to get loud and playing loud are two different things though.
Which is better, a 12 inch or a 12 inch subwoofer?
The 12-inch subwoofers handle more power, they play louder, they are boomier, and many people find that they just sound better. But, 12-inch subwoofers are more expensive, they usually handle more power and you end up buying a bigger amplifier, and you need more space for both the mounting diameter and overall enclosure volume.
Where are the rear speakers on a boat?
Your rear speakers are on the rear deck, so its easy to tag on to your speaker wires there.
How to connect RCA speaker wires?
All you need to do is get a rca wire, cut in half, strip both the outer and inner wire. then take a piece of speaker wire, strip and slit about 2 inches. take the outer cover off your back speakers and connect the two ends of the speaker wire to the stock speakers, one end to possitive and one to negative. then attach the other ends of the speaker wire to each end of the stripped rca's. repeat to the other side and now you have to rca wires to plug into your amp.
Do rear speakers have EQ?
Since they want to put together the cheapest stereo they can and charge a boat load of money for it, they use crappy speakers and EQ them to sound better. Generally the rear speakers have the least EQ on them as the higher frequency stuff doesnt matter when the speaker is 4' behind you and firing into the back glass.
Does the Ranger tie into the rear channel?
Yes, what he said. I tied into the rear channel of my old ranger and that worked perfectly.
Can you P/UP a line out converter?
You can P/Up a line out converter that converts speaker level to rca... or some amps have a high level input. You would be best to tie into the rear channel, this can be done @ the stock head unit. Good luck it will make a huge improvment. PM me if you need more help
Why won't my subwoofer sound the same?
The reason is that you’re not enhancing the voltage of the stereo, and therefore aren’t giving it the proper “juice”.
What is line out converter?
A line out converter is like a hi-low converter – but on steroids.
Can a puppy work with a factory amp?
This little puppy can even work if you have a premium factory system in your car – but still want to get more bass. It takes the hi-level signals of your factory amp and drops them down to the line level that your amplifier needs – all without compromising the fidelity of the factory system.
Which is better, a 10 inch or 12 inch subwoofer?
10 inch subwoofers are more controlled and accurate than 12 inch subwoofers. This is because 10 inch subwoofers are cleaner and tighter compared to 12 inch subwoofers. They are also made of smaller drivers that contain large cones meant to increase SPL and sensitivity.
Why do 12 inch subs distort?
12-inch subwoofers distort more compared to the 10-inch sub. This is because of the large surface area that is harder to control than that in the 10 inch sub.
What Is a Subwoofer?
A subwoofer is a loudspeaker designed to play the lowest bass frequencies in the range of 20Hz to 200 Hz . Unlike ordinary speakers, a subwoofer allows produce clarified lows that make your music come alive.
How does a subwoofer work?
A subwoofer converts electrical signals from the amplifier into audible sound by creating an air pressure difference in front of the speakers.
What kind of music can a 12 inch subwoofer play?
A 12-inch subwoofer works best with slow-paced music, for example, RnB, Blues, and Rap.
What is the importance of size when buying a subwoofer?
Besides having an impact on the space available, the size of the subwoofer determines how loud or low the speaker can go. It also influences the sound quality, power usage, bass, and distortion the subwoofer produces.
Does a subwoofer driver have more bass?
While a more significant subwoofer driver is guaranteed to achieve more outstanding bass, it’s not the only way. The subwoofer’s performance is based on many other factors such as enclosure, power handling capability, sensitivity, OHMs, among others.
How to connect a voice coil to a speaker?
Series voice coil connections: Similarly, (1) connect the first set’s positive terminal (+) to the positive speaker wire. From there, connect that set’s negative terminal (-) to the positive terminal of the 2nd set. Run the amp’s negative wire to the negative wire of the second set.
Where to find amp specs?
The amp’s specifications are usually listed on the box, in the owner’s manual, the manufacturer’s website, or the product info from the retailer.
How do I know what Ohms rating my car amp can handle?
One thing is ALWAYS true: the best way to find out the minimum Ohms rating for your car amplifier is by checking the specifications! Unfortunately, in my experience a lot of people don’t bother and then can’t figure out how to correctly wire their subwoofers to their amp.
How to connect a DVC speaker to an amp?
Series-series connection: Connect the first positive terminal of the DVC speaker to the amp’s positive wire. Connect the negative terminal to the 2nd set’s positive terminal. Next, connect the 2nd set’s negative terminal to the positive connection of the SVC speaker, then out from its negative terminal to the amp’s negative speaker wire.
What is the difference between a car stereo and a home stereo?
Home stereos, on the other hand, have higher voltage available and can use a higher speaker impedance (8 ohms, typically).
Why do you wire speakers in parallel?
Because of how they work, you’ll get the most power from your amp and to each speaker when they’re wired in parallel. Parallel speaker wiring is generally best for audio speaker systems like in the car or home.
How to connect parallel voice coils?
Parallel voice coil connections: always connect the terminals using the same polarity on both sides. For example, if you connect your amp’s positive wire to the positive terminal on one set of voice coil terminals be sure to do the same for the 2nd set.
How to turn up bass on sub amp?
Turn your sub amp's gain to its lowest, most counter-clockwise position. Switch its low-pass filter on and set it as high, clockwise, as it will go. If it has a bass boost, turn it off. If it has a remote level control, set it to its middle position so, later, you have the choice of boosting or cutting the bass on an individual song.
What do you like about subwoofers?
One of the things I like most about subwoofers is that I can feel the musical emotion directly with my body. The low frequency beat often forces me to dance around, or, at the very least, nod my head along with the rhythm. That's why we all like music in the first place — it moves us.
How to stop distortion coming from subs?
If you hear distortion coming from your subs, turn down the sub amp's gain. If, at this point, you cannot get enough bass out of your subwoofer to keep up with the other speakers without distorting, then you will need to get a bigger subwoofer and amplifier combination, with higher power-handling abilities.
How to balance bass on subwoofer?
Turn up the receiver's volume to its maximum, distortion-free position. Then slowly turn up the subwoofer amp's gain until the bass sounds balanced with the rest of the music. That should do it.
Why don't subwoofers work in cars?
Because of the size of the acoustic space in a car, subwoofers sometimes don't combine their sound constructively with the rest of a system's sound waves. If your bass has plenty of volume but seems to lack punch, you can sometimes help it by reversing your sub's speaker leads.
How to make a bass drum sound good?
For ported subwoofers, use a subsonic filter on your amplifier to tame any overly loud low notes . This will help decrease the levels of the notes at which the enclosure resonates. Fine-tune all the filters some more to make the bass drum sound tight and dry or loose and reverberant, according to your personal taste. I like reggae and soul, so my bass is plenty loud, but it's a bit drier than most people might like. The important thing is to keep adjusting your system until you hear something you like. When you're satisfied with the tone of your system's bass and kick, turn the sub amp's gain all the way down.
How to use a 3 way crossover?
John, When using such a 3-way active crossover, you must first match the input and output levels on the crossover to produce the full-strength signal with no distortion. Then, you'll need to set the amplifier gains to produce the full-strength output with no distortion. Seeing as the amp is being fed signals that are already crossed-over, set the amp filters where they'll interact the least with each signal.
.JPG)