Car Audio Subwoofer Wiring Diagram

Car audio subwoofers are an essential component of any good sound system, providing deep bass and an immersive listening experience. However, they can be tricky to wire up correctly. In this article, we will take a look at the basics of subwoofer wiring and provide a comprehensive diagram to ensure your system is properly connected.

Understanding Subwoofers

Before we dive into the wiring diagram, it is essential to understand the basics of subwoofers. Subwoofers are speakers designed to reproduce low-frequency sounds, such as bass and drums. They generally range in size from 8 to 15 inches and require an amplifier to power them.

Subwoofers come in two main designs: enclosed and open-air. Enclosed subwoofers are housed in a box, which provides added protection and helps to enhance the sound quality. Open-air subwoofers are not enclosed, and their sound quality may suffer as a result.

Types of Subwoofers

There are two main types of subwoofers: single voice coil (SVC) and dual voice coil (DVC). SVC subwoofers have one voice coil, while DVC subwoofers have two. DVC subwoofers are generally more flexible and can be wired in a variety of ways, making them a popular choice for custom sound systems.

Subwoofer Impedance

The impedance of a subwoofer refers to the amount of resistance it presents to the amplifier. Subwoofers come in a range of impedances, including 2, 4, and 8 ohms. The impedance of the subwoofer must match the impedance of the amplifier to ensure proper operation.

Wiring Diagram

The wiring diagram for your car audio subwoofer will depend on the number of subwoofers and their impedance. For this example, we will assume you are installing two DVC subwoofers with an impedance of 4 ohms.

Subwoofer Voice Coil 1 (+/-) Voice Coil 2 (+/-) Total Impedance
Subwoofer 1 Positive (+) Negative (-) 4 ohms
Subwoofer 2 Positive (+) Negative (-) 4 ohms
Total Impedance 2 ohms

Step 1: Connect Positive (+) Voice Coil 1 of Subwoofer 1 to Positive (+) Voice Coil 1 of Subwoofer 2

Connect the positive (+) terminal of voice coil 1 on subwoofer 1 to the positive (+) terminal of voice coil 1 on subwoofer 2. You can use a wire harness or crimp connectors to make the connection.

Step 2: Connect Negative (-) Voice Coil 1 of Subwoofer 1 to Negative (-) Voice Coil 1 of Subwoofer 2

Connect the negative (-) terminal of voice coil 1 on subwoofer 1 to the negative (-) terminal of voice coil 1 on subwoofer 2. Again, you can use a wire harness or crimp connectors to make the connection.

Step 3: Connect Positive (+) Voice Coil 2 of Subwoofer 1 to Positive (+) Terminal of Amplifier

Connect the positive (+) terminal of voice coil 2 on subwoofer 1 to the positive (+) terminal on the amplifier.

Step 4: Connect Positive (+) Voice Coil 2 of Subwoofer 2 to Positive (+) Terminal of Amplifier

Connect the positive (+) terminal of voice coil 2 on subwoofer 2 to the positive (+) terminal on the amplifier.

Step 5: Connect Negative (-) Voice Coil 2 of Subwoofer 1 to Negative (-) Terminal of Amplifier

Connect the negative (-) terminal of voice coil 2 on subwoofer 1 to the negative (-) terminal on the amplifier.

Step 6: Connect Negative (-) Voice Coil 2 of Subwoofer 2 to Negative (-) Terminal of Amplifier

Connect the negative (-) terminal of voice coil 2 on subwoofer 2 to the negative (-) terminal on the amplifier.

FAQ

Q: What happens if I connect my subwoofers with the wrong impedance?

A: If you connect your subwoofers with the wrong impedance, it can damage both the subwoofers and the amplifier. Always ensure that the impedance of the subwoofers matches the impedance of the amplifier.

Q: Can I wire my subwoofers in a series instead of a parallel?

A: Yes, you can wire your subwoofers in a series, which will increase the total impedance of the system. However, this may result in a decrease in power output.

Q: Can I connect multiple subwoofers to one amplifier?

A: Yes, you can connect multiple subwoofers to one amplifier. However, you must ensure that the total impedance of the subwoofers matches the impedance of the amplifier.

Q: Do I need a separate amplifier for my subwoofers?

A: Yes, you will need a separate amplifier to power your subwoofers. Most car audio systems come with an amplifier for the main speakers, but a separate subwoofer amplifier is required for the subwoofers.

Q: Can I install my subwoofers myself or should I have a professional do it?

A: Installing subwoofers can be a challenging task, especially if you are not experienced with car audio systems. It is recommended that you have a professional install your subwoofers to ensure the proper wiring and installation.

In conclusion, wiring your car audio subwoofers correctly is essential to achieving the best sound quality and preventing damage to your equipment. By following the wiring diagram and understanding the basics of subwoofers, you can ensure that your system is properly connected and ready to deliver an immersive listening experience.