Adding an amplifier to the subwoofer enhances the audio-listening experience. You can either connect the subwoofer through the subwoofer output of a receiver using an LFE cable or an RCA cable. You can also use the speaker output of the receiver to hook up if the subwoofer features spring clips.
To connect the subwoofer with an amplifier you need to place them accurately in the car, locate the plug, and connect the cables of the subwoofer to the amplifier. You need an RCA cable to establish a secure connection. Connect another end of the terminal at the back of the subwoofer which is marked as Line In. Finally, insert the audio disc, which has a deep bass sound, and press the Play button.
You can adjust the volume level based on your preference. Also, you need to set the phase control of the amplifier to zero, so that you get the minimum output.
If you are still confused, then we have a detailed step-by-step process that you can easily follow.
In This Article:
Items Required for Establishing the Connection
Here is the list of items that you need to connect a subwoofer to an amplifier:
- LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) cables
- RCA cables
- Speaker Wire
- Allen wrench
- Screwdriver
2 Methods to Connect a Subwoofer to an Amplifier/Receiver
You can choose any of the methods based on your preference and ease.
Method 1: Use RCA Cables
Here are the steps that you must follow:
Step 1: Prepare the Work Station
To add an amplifier to the car subwoofer, you have to connect it with a solid power that is going through the positive terminal of the battery directly to the trunk. Connect the RCA cables from the back of the radio deck. However, if you have a line-out converter that joins with the factory speaker you do not need to run the RCA, which reduces the hassle of wiring. Thus, you need a remote wire connecting the deck or the LOC.
Also, you must get a solid ground cable that connects the bolt, and you need to ensure that it is connected to bare metal. You need to sand down the paint coating on the metal. After you have made the wiring secure, you need to connect the amplifier to the subwoofer.
Step 2: Get a Compatible Amplifier
Get an amplifier that is compatible with the subwoofer. You need to check the wattage and RMS so that a mismatch does not occur, otherwise, it can damage the subwoofer permanently. Also, you must never overpower the subs. So, start with disconnecting the negative terminal of the car battery to prevent any mishaps, such as a blown fuse.
You need to mount the amplifier in its perfect position and it should have enough airflow so that it does not get overheated. You can choose to mount it behind the seats or on the top of the subwoofer. Moreover, you can use velcro strips to make the adjustments and this would also ensure that there is a sleek look and it stays secured.
Step 3: Connect the Wires
Connect the RCA cables to the correct slot. So, match with the red and white connection. The colored ones connect with the exact color marked on the slots. Now, connect the positive and negative speaker wires to the subwoofer. Even if you have a subwoofer enclosure, still there will be positive and negative terminals. Here, you will find that the black color denotes negative and the red denotes positive.
You need to connect one side of the negative speaker wire to the negative terminal of the subwoofer box and simultaneously connect the positive end to the positive terminal. You also need to connect the negative end of the speaker wire to the negative slot of the amp and the positive speaker wire to the positive slot of the amp.
Moreover, you will also find a ground cable, which you have to connect to the slot labeled as ground on the amplifier. Next, you will find the remote labeled slot on the amp and connect the remote wire to it. You also need to connect the power wire to the power wire. Finally, when all the connections are made, you need to ensure that they are secured.
Step 4: Adjust the Setup
You have to reconnect the negative terminal of the car and ensure that the power light of the amplifier is on. Now, the entire setup is ready for you to enjoy the audio. Adjust the volume based on your listening experience and always choose audio files that are high quality and compatible with the format.
Method 2: Use LFE Subwoofer Output
This is the most recommended method of connecting the subwoofer with the amplifier, where you have to use an LFE (Low-Frequency Effects) cable. So, connect a subwoofer to the subwoofer output of the receiver. If you are looking to set up a dedicated channel output with bass content then connect the LFE or subwoofer output jack on the receiver/amplifier to the LINE IN or LFE IN jack on the subwoofer. Basically, it is a single cable with RCA connectors on both ends.
How to Connect More than Two Subwoofers?
If you want to connect more than two subwoofers, then connect one receiver output to one subwoofer and the second output to the other subwoofer. Other than this, you can also use an RCA Y adapter to send two parallel low-frequency audio signals to two separate subwoofers.
What Cables Are Required to Connect a Subwoofer to a Receiver?
To connect a subwoofer to a receiver, you need LFE, RCA, and speaker wire.
What is the Length of the Subwoofer Cable?
The length of the subwoofer cable is a maximum of 20 feet and it is always advised that the length should not go beyond this, otherwise, it can generate electromagnetic interference.
