How To Connect A Subwoofer To Speaker Level Outputs?

If you own a complete home theater setup, you are probably already familiar with its components.

In most cases, it consists of several speakers and a subwoofer. However, many people overlook the subwoofer even though it is an essential part.

We will discuss how to connect a subwoofer to speaker level outputs.

Let’s read on to discover!

A complete home theater setup consists of several speakers and a subwoofer. Source

5 Steps to Connect a Subwoofer to Speaker Level Outputs

There are many ways to connect a subwoofer to speaker-level outputs. Here is the simplest way that anyone can follow, even beginners.

Our step-by-step guide includes the following five steps:

• Check out the specifications of the receiver

• Check out the specifications of the sub

• Use two speaker wires to connect your sub 

• Adjust the filter on your sub

• Enjoy your bass

Step 1: Check Out the Specifications on the Receiver

It is essential to take a look at the specifications of the receiver before starting the pairing process. It allows you to understand the available options regarding input and output audio connections.

Then, you need to locate the high-level output. They are used to connect your main speakers to the subwoofer. 

Step 2: Check Out the Specifications On The Sub

Once you have a solid grasp of the specifications on the receiver, it is time to check out the specifications on the sub.

It helps ensure that any connections you intend to establish are available through the details on your subwoofer.

Let's start by looking for input and output connection options. It includes checking how many components the input connection has and where it is located. On the back, front, or both sides of your subwoofer?

Once you have a solid grasp of the specifications on the receiver, it is time to check out the specifications on the sub. Source

In most cases, a connection option will be located on both the front and back of the subwoofer. However, there are some exceptions.

Knowing what you are doing before proceeding to establish a connection will give you many advantages. Specifically, you can minimize the waste of cost and time in this project. 

Once you know what you are working with, it is time to start the pairing process.

Step 3:  Using 2 Speaker Wires to Connect To Your Sub 

Here, it is possible to connect the subwoofer to speaker level outputs using two different options. These include:

• Connect two speaker wires to your sub.

• Use a speaker connector to connect to the high-level audio connection.

1. Connect Two Speaker Wires to Your Sub

It is true to say that the former option is a lot more popular.

So, how it works?

You need to thread one of the speaker wires from the left, then proper audio channels to the front of your sub. Finally, thread the remaining wire to the back of your sub. Then, it is possible to adjust the bass emission using the sub’s filter.

2. Install the Speaker Connector To the High-Level Audio Connection 

As mentioned above, this solution is the perfect pick for those who don't prefer to use their speaker wires. 

Start by finding a speaker connector. Make sure it comes with the appropriate connection types. It is essential to connect the end of the speaker connector to the back of the subwoofer. 

After that, attach the remaining three wires to your receiver. For this connection, in most cases, you need to connect two wires to the two positive ports and plug the other wire into the negative port.

After completing this connection, your sub will receive the same audio signal sent to your other speakers. However, your sub will be "selective" and only output the bass it's built to play.

Step 4. Adjust the Filter on Your Sub

Last but not least, it is time to make some adjustments to the filter on your sub to make the audio clearer.

Before adjusting the filter, notice how the bass comes out of your sub. So, we recommend that you use specialized equipment to make more precise measurements.

Step 5: Enjoy Your Bass

After every connection has been adequately completed, enjoy the bass by running some tests. Again, enjoy the great bass but don't forget to look out for any problems related to the quality of the bass.

After every connection has been adequately completed, enjoy the bass by running some tests. Source

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Are Speaker Level Outputs On The Sub?

Speaker level outputs, which are on a subwoofer, are designed to connect the main speakers to your sub. It also allows you to connect a powered subwoofer to a mixer easily and quickly.

2. Is It Easy To Find a Sub That Comes With Speaker Level Inputs & Outputs?

Yes, it is easy to find subwoofers that have speaker level inputs & outputs. Here are the brands you can trust:

• Bowers & Wilkins

• Polk 

• Klipsch

• And more

3. Is a subwoofer cable just an RCA cable?

In general, sub cables are packed with RCA connectors on both ends. In general, these cables create an intense, deep sound. Moreover, their quality is very well.

4. What cables do I need for a subwoofer?

You can use any type of connection, maybe direct wired or RCA. However, we highly recommend using shielded & heavy gauge cabling, which is designed for subs. These cables create a cleaner signal.

Final Thought

Hopefully, you know the method to connect a subwoofer to speaker level outputs. Are you ready to optimize your audio experience?

A subwoofer is one of the must-haves in your audio setup. The reason is that it covers the very low-frequency tones that the speaker cannot.

Besides, it provides you with powerful bass and excellent sound quality.