Subwoofer Wiring Diagram: How To Handle With Different Devices

What is a subwoofer wiring diagram? How to deal with different types? Read the article below to find the accurate answer with specific instructions.

In any audio system, a subwoofer is an excellent addition to the perfect sound. With its ability to deliver deep bass, it surpasses most other speakers. Not only that, but the woofer also enhances the sound of the movie soundtrack.

The problem is that many people do not understand the subwoofer wiring diagram. They wonder how to set up the wires of this type of speaker. 

In the article, we will share helpful information about subwoofers. Do not skip the article if you want to improve your bass!

*Read more related reviews:

What Types Of Subwoofers Are There?

There are two types of subwoofers, passive and active subwoofers. These two types have a big difference, so before learning about wiring diagrams, let's distinguish the two types of subwoofers.

Subwoofer Wiring Diagram

Passive subwoofers (Youtube)

First, passive subwoofers operate on an external amplifier, while active subwoofers have a built-in amplifier. So, in general, passive subwoofers are the ideal choice for small and medium-sized rooms. These somewhat limited spaces don't need to sound too loud.

In addition, to fit the limited use space, the passive subwoofer has a smaller and less bulky design and produces less intense sound than the active subwoofer.

Also, regarding space, active subwoofers are suitable for installation in fixed locations. But you can ultimately connect it to an external amplifier to improve the sound if necessary.

Subwoofer Wiring Diagram

Active subwoofers (link)

Although subwoofers have many outstanding advantages, in fact, active subwoofers are the more popular choice. It provides deep sound, and you don't need to buy any additional parts.

Subwoofer Wiring Wizard

The application includes schematics for SVC single voice coil speakers and DVC dual voice coil speakers. As follows:

  • The SVC speaker consists of a voice coil and terminal. They are equivalent to one negative (-) and one positive (+).

  • The DVC speaker consists of two voice coils. Each coil has its own set of terminals. Thanks to this design, DVC speakers will offer more options.

However, some of the wiring options in the application will not be compatible with the amplifier. The reason is low impedance loads. So check with the manufacturer's manual to determine the best option.

How To Wire A Subwoofer To A Home Audio Device

Subwoofer Wiring Diagram

Wire To A Home Audio (link)

To wire the subwoofer, you can use a regular speaker wire. However, we think you should choose a cable specifically designed for super-range speakers for the best results. It will significantly improve the sound quality.

Location

First, you will need to find where to place the subwoofer. Usually, there are two good places to place speakers: in front of the viewer or the corner of the room:

In front of the viewer: The simple placement helps the speakers' sound easily blend.

In the corner of the room: when placing the speaker in this position, you will receive the advantage of minimizing the situation where the bass meets dead spots in the room. As a result, the sound quality is significantly improved.

Besides, you can flexibly place the speaker based on the size or structure of the room. But it is best to put the speaker at least 10-15 cm away from the wall.

Output selection

Next, you need to consider whether the device and it are compatible with the best sound quality. 

If the subwoofer is not powerful enough, your speaker system will not benefit from the support from the amplifier and yourself. 

On the contrary, if the speaker is too powerful, it will overwhelm the device and cause damage. It will cost you a fee to repair or replace the amplifier.

Pairing

When you're ready, check the user manual provided by the cable manufacturer, where you'll find the best connection for each specific audio device. In general, this combination will require patience and some skill.

Even professionals in the audio industry or those with experience need meticulous research and fail. So do not be discouraged; try to slow down and follow the steps in the guide.

How To Connect A Subwoofer To A Car?

Subwoofer Wiring Diagram

Connect To A Car (Youtube)

Installing one in your car is a great way to get the most out of your music. In many cases, you will need to pair them with an amplifier. However, if your budget is limited and you can't afford to buy both, you can still link up. The method is straightforward as follows.

Prepare

First, you need to prepare carefully to ensure safety during the connection process. You need to disconnect the battery completely. And to start the process, you'll need to do some work to remove the speaker from the base and grant access to the wiring.

Next, you need to reroute the stereo and power cables to the speakers and connect them. You should test the crossover to make sure everything is working correctly and double-check the original settings before doing the reset.

Speaker placement

Speaker placement is essential, and it affects your sound quality. Even the space in the car is small, and you can flexibly choose where to place the speaker. We don't have an exact answer for the best location because it depends on the car design.

The type of fabric used in the interior and the shape of the car will affect the speakers' sound. So experiment with multiple locations to find the one that provides the best sound.

How To Connect A Subwoofer To Stereo?

The device is undeniably an indispensable support tool to achieve the desired stereo sound quality. To connect a subwoofer to a stereo, follow these basic steps:

Connect to the amplifier

First, you need to connect the speakers to the amplifier, whether you already have a powered or passive one. Without this step, your speaker will not work.

If the amplifier has a "Sub Out" jack, connect it to the RCA input jack on the subwoofer. These operations are line-level connections and are therefore not amplified. The purpose is to power the speaker.

If you are missing the "Sub Out" jacks on the amplifier, connect them similarly when connecting two speakers. By combining the main speaker output on the amplifier to the one input. In this step, you need to make sure the terminals of each wire are the same.

Speaker wiring

You will do this step if the "Sub Out" jack is missing from the amplifier. By using the left and right speaker outputs on the semi-subwoofer, connect the left and right speaker wires. At this time, the signal will go to the main speaker through the line from the amplifier to the subwoofer.

Adjust stereo settings

If you connect the speakers to the amplifier using the sub-out jack, ensure the speakers are on first. Next, set the speaker size to large and adjust the crossover frequency. At this point, you will slowly perform the task to the desired level.

Also, refer to the amplifier or preamplifier instructions provided by the manufacturer. That way, you'll know the adjustments available to make them more accessible.

Conclusion

Hopefully, with the information that we share with you, you will better understand the subwoofer wiring diagram. After this article, we think you are ready to connect it to any device.

In addition, you can also refer to our other articles or leave questions below the comment section; we will respond as quickly as possible.

Thank you for your interest in the article!

5
1 ratings
Adam Hunt
Adam Hunt
Andrew Hayes, more commonly known as Andres, is a home theater enthusiast and self-proclaimed movie buff. He has a near-obsessive interest in optimizing the sound and picture quality of his home theater setup. His current setup is the envy of all his friends and family members. Andres loves nothing more than spending an evening at home watching a good movie with loved ones. He takes great pride in having created the perfect environment for enjoying films, and he is always happy to share his knowledge and expertise with others who are interested in doing the same.