How To Hook Up/Install a Powered Subwoofer In Car 2022
By Robert Jones · 2020-10-29
In cars, we use passive or non-powered subwoofers while at home theater
Alright, listen up. Getting a powered subwoofer into your car isn't rocket science, but there are a few bits you need to get right. I've been fiddling with car audio for longer than I care to admit – seen some cracking setups and some right disasters too. This guide's for those of you who want to add a bit of rumble to your daily commute without blowing the budget or, more importantly, blowing your car's electrics. ### Why a Powered Subwoofer, Anyway? Now, you might be thinking, "Robert, why not just get a regular subwoofer and an amp?" Fair question. But a *powered* subwoofer? That's a sub with its amplifier built right into the enclosure. Less faff, fewer wires, and often a bit more compact. For a lot of folks, especially if you're not looking to enter any SPL competitions, it's the sensible choice. I've got a little 8-inch powered unit under the seat of my old Ford Focus, and honestly, it does the trick perfectly for adding that bit of low-end warmth. ### What You'll Need Before you even think about unscrewing anything, get your bits together. Nothing more annoying than being halfway through a job and realising you're missing a key cable. * **The Powered Subwoofer:** Obvious, I know. Make sure it'll actually fit where you want it to go. Measure twice, buy once. * **Wiring Kit:** This is a big one. Don't skimp here. You'll need power cable (thick enough for your sub!), ground cable, an RCA cable (or a high-level input cable if your head unit doesn't have RCA outs), and a remote turn-on wire. Good quality copper