If you are using your subwoofer with a stereo receiver that lacks a subwoofer output (and many of them do), you can connect the subwoofer using an extra set of speaker cables, as shown above—provided the subwoofer has speaker-level (speaker wire) connections, as the picks in our Best Budget Subwoofer guide do.
How do I connect my subwoofer and amp to my stock stereo?
The best way to connect it to a factory system is to tap into the stereo’s speaker outputs for the amp’s input signal. Then send the amp’s outputs back to the stereo’s harness, and on to the speakers through the factory wiring.
Can you add an AMP to a stock stereo?
To add an amp, you’ll have to use the factory amplifiers’ outputs for your aftermarket amp’s high-level inputs. Make sure it can handle at least 12V, otherwise you’ll need to use a line output converter (LOC) for the amp’s input.
What do you need to hook up a sub to a factory radio?
Use a Converter
You will need a line output converter if you have a factory car stereo in your car. This is because the factory head unit generally tends to have speaker wires but does not have a preamp output that can convert them into RCA signals.
Can I connect a subwoofer to a stereo? – Related Questions
Is subwoofer cable just RCA?
Subwoofer cables are basically the longer and more powerful versions of RCA cables. They have thicker insulating material and more shielding to protect them from interference and noise, which can degrade your audio quality. They also use heavier-gauge wire to prevent power loss.
Can you install subs without amp?
Typically without an amp the standard speakers and the subwoofer output won’t produce a louder sound and the bass frequencies will be flat.
What do I need to hook up a sub?
You will need either a receiver or a preamplifier and amplifier. Using a subwoofer cable (RCA cable), connect the subwoofer to the AV receiver by running the cable from the receiver’s subwoofer output to the subwoofer’s line input.
What wires do you need to hook up subs?
For subwoofers, use 16- to 12-gauge wires.
What wiring do you need for a subwoofer?
If your sub system is going to put out more than 1,000 watts RMS, you can use 12-gauge speaker wire. But 16-gauge speaker wire works well for most installations.
What wires do you need for a sub in your car?
For the installation, you need the following items:
- A 20 ft (6.1 m) power wire.
- A ground wire at least 3 ft (0.91 m) long.
- A 15 ft (4.6 m) RCA wire with both red and white connectors.
- A 15 ft (4.6 m) blue remote wire.
- Speaker wire, which can also be bought separately.
- A 60-amp in-line fuse and fuse holder.
How much should a subwoofer install cost?
You will likely want a 100% copper wiring kit for optimum sound quality, with reliable wiring kits costing between $30 and $60. THE TOTAL COST OF SUBWOOFER INSTALLATION Add all of the components up, and your total cost of subwoofer installation can range from $100 to over $600.
How to install a line output converter to a stock radio?
How to Install a Line Output Converter
- Disconnect the negative battery terminal. Disconnect the negative battery terminal.
- Remove your factory head unit.
- Review your wiring diagrams.
- Strip Wires and Make the Proper Connections.
- Test your System and Tidy Up the Install.
How much does it cost to have a sub installed?
For subwoofer installation, parts typically cost $20–$300, but will vary. Any additional charges will be assessed after the installation is complete. If you’d like more detailed information regarding installation on your specific vehicle, I would call your local store and speak with a Geek Squad Autotech.
Is adding a sub worth it?
All in all, a subwoofer is an essential part of your system. If you’re on a budget or in the infancy of your home-theater development, start with just one subwoofer. As your system grows, think about adding a second low-toned beast to your setup. You’re adding more bass and evenly distributing it throughout the room.
How long does Best Buy take to install subwoofers?
1-1 of 1 Answer
The AUTOTECH will tell you how long it will take! It depends on your car! Most take from 2 to 4 hours!
Is installing a subwoofer worth it?
Subwoofers add bass and clarity to your stereo’s sound. And they can also add to a system’s performance in a variety of ways. A quality subwoofer will add depth and realism to your music that you would otherwise miss out on with a factory car stereo system.
Do you have to tell your insurance about a subwoofer?
Installing a new stereo and sound system alone won’t invalidate your car insurance – but not telling your insurance provider about it could. The most sensible thing is to talk to your insurance provider before investing in an audio system. They’ll be able to tell you if it will affect your premium.
