You might wonder if you can run a powered sub through your rear speakers if this is your first time installing one. You can plug a powered sub into the rear speaker wires because many powered subs have high-level inputs.
You can use your car’s speaker wire instead if it has a factory sub. Line-out converters that tie into speaker wires and convert them to RCA inputs can be used if it doesn’t have high-level inputs.
Using a high-end power line out converter like the Audio Control LC2 will result in a cleaner signal. Having a professional handle the work may be worth your while if you don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself.
Tapping Into Rear Speakers For Subs
It is true that some of the best speakers can integrate nicely with subwoofers and other components. When you know how big your car speakers are, this process can be made easier. So, what is the purpose of tapping into rear speakers for subs, and how is it done? Here’s what you need to know.
Why Connect Rear Speakers to a Subwoofer?
While driving around listening to music, many consumers use rear speakers to connect a subwoofer for a more powerful bass.
However, modern speakers’ audio outs are easily connected to subwoofers and other stereo speaker systems.
When learning how to set up speakers, it is important to understand that this creates a more robust stereo image and loudens the volume.
How to Connect Rear Speakers to a Subwoofer?
Since every speaker model and make has a different design, there is no universally accepted “right” method. However, the following tips will help you get started.
1. Consider a Robust Audio System
Consider installing a more robust audio system, including a preamplifier and various other components, instead of connecting a subwoofer directly to the speaker.
Connecting your subwoofer and speaker to this preamp or related device will simplify the installation process.
2. Check the Rear for Ports
There will usually be audio outs or line-outs on most speakers so that a subwoofer or two can be connected. A speaker’s connecting ports are typically found on the back, though they are not always there.
Look for any ports on the back of your speakers. You can connect the line output converter to the direct output of your rear speakers if your speaker does not have a line out or you don’t know how to install one.
After connecting the adapter, ensure the speakers are wired correctly by learning how to test them.
3. Check All of Your Wiring
Check and double-check the wiring after connecting the subwoofer if you are experiencing audio issues.
Cables and faulty wiring are the most common cause of sound problems with speakers and subwoofers. Make sure you have extra cables on hand if something goes wrong.
How To Install A Powered Subwoofer?
The sound of music is improved when the bass is added, no matter what genre you love. A member of our tech support team will show you how to install a powered subwoofer in your vehicle.
1. Find A Place To Mount Your Sub
You first need to find the right location in your vehicle where you can mount your subwoofer.
There is a need for adequate ventilation because the sub’s built-in amplifier generates heat. Therefore, it should be placed where it is easily accessible.
A wiring kit and speaker wire
The amp wiring kit has the wires and fuses you will need to connect your powered sub, so make sure you get one.
2. Disconnect The Battery
To protect your gear and yourself during installation, disconnect the battery’s negative terminal first.
Step #1: Running Power Wire
Connect the powered sub to the battery by running the power cable. Some kits come with the fuse assembly already assembled. Otherwise, cut a short piece of the power cable and strip the insulation off both ends, covering the distance between the battery and the fuse holder.
Next, crimp a terminal ring at one end of the wiring kit, and attach the fuse holder at the other. Finally, attach your fuse holder to the other end of the wire that leads to your amp after stripping its insulation.
Since the lead between the battery terminal and the fuse is unprotected, keeping the fuse close to the battery is important.
Power cables can be passed through the firewall that separates the engine compartment from the main cabin of most vehicles.
As soon as you get inside the cabin, tuck the cable under the trim panels or carpet along one side of your vehicle until you reach the powered sub.
Step #2: Running Turn-On Wire And Signal Cables
Power wires are run, then signal wires and turn-on wires are run. You’ll need both an RCA signal and turn-on wires to connect your stereo. Your stereo should be connected to these cables behind the dash.
Your stereo’s wiring harness has a remote turn-on wire that connects to the turn-on wire. Your owner’s manual should tell you if yours is blue or not. Make sure your stereo has RCA outputs for the RCA cables.
You should run the power wire, the turn-on wire, and the RCA cable down the opposite side of the car. If you do this, you will keep your music from being ruined by electrical noise.
It is assumed that you have an aftermarket stereo with preamp outputs. Your powered sub receives its signal differently if you have a factory stereo. If you plan to use an amplifier, ensure it has “signal sensing” capability and speaker-level inputs.
In this case, connecting to the speaker wires behind your stereo or your rear deck speakers is possible. In either case, this will send a signal to the powered sub’s amplifier.
Step #3: Connect The Ground Wire
In addition to the power wire, the ground wire is also a primary connection. You should connect this wire to the chassis of your vehicle. Locate a bolt nearby where you can fasten the ground cable.
In order for the ground wire terminal to be effective, it must come into contact with the bare metal of the vehicle. Remove any paint from the contact point so that the connection is as good as possible.
Step #4: Make Your Wiring Connections
Make sure your powered sub is mounted and connected. Use gentle curves to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your wires and cables.
Make sure the amp’s gains are turned all the way down before you start testing. Next, connect the negative terminal of your vehicle’s battery.
Finally, check if the sub turns on when you start the car. Once you have set your gains, you can play some music.
How To Connect A Subwoofer To Speaker-Level Outputs?
The rear speaker wires should simply be connected to the subwoofer or to an output converter and then to the subwoofer if you do not have a level input.
How To Add A Subwoofer To A Factory Stereo?
Factory amps usually include all of the connections needed to transmit audio signals, so adding a subwoofer to them should be fairly simple.
Front Speakers Work And Rear Speakers Don’t?
Ensure the power source is working, and inspect any wires, including the blue wire or remote cable.
Key Takeaways
It is easy to connect subwoofers to rear deck speakers or rear speaker wires, with most speakers that feature line-out connections on the back. Subwoofers can add a great deal of bass to a speaker setup, making them highly sought-after.
Dedicated preamps, channel amps, or factory head units can be used to connect both speakers and subwoofer.
It is also possible to replace the speakers in your car if they are not working. Be sure to adjust the equalizer to accommodate the bass added by subwoofers.
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