Passive subwoofer. How to connect a passive subwoofer? How to choose the right subwoofer for your speaker system

A subwoofer is an acoustic system that reproduces low-frequency sounds. The approximate range of frequencies converted by the device varies from 20 to 160 Hz. A person finds it difficult to perceive low frequencies, which is why it feels more outgoing vibration. However, sound waves can create the necessary atmosphere when listening to music or watching blockbusters, so the device is often included in the speaker system.

There are two types of subwoofers in relation to the power amplifier:

• passive;
• active.

Passive and active subwoofers

The separation is associated with an amplifier, which is either built into the device or is absent, which requires its additional connection.

Passive subwoofers

A passive subwoofer is quite simple in design. It consists of a housing and one or more low-frequency heads. It is they who are later connected to an external amplifier. This type of device also differs in connection type. When transferring sound signal both the subwoofer and other speakers experience strong sound distortion, so direct connection Not recommended. To achieve purity when listening to music transmitted sounds, should be connected passive subwoofer through a crossover filter as it separates the bass from the higher frequencies.

Active subwoofers

An active subwoofer is a more advanced device, since it already has an amplifier and crossover filter built into it. This technique can connect directly to the sound source, so it does not cause difficulties during the installation process. U active subwoofer built-in functions for adjusting signal level and frequency, back panel equipped with line-type input and output connectors. A high-quality device allows you to clearly reproduce sounds from a wide range of low frequencies, which is important for good speaker system.

The difference between the two types of subwoofers

Depending on the purpose for which the device is purchased, it is better to give preference to one type or another. The standard active subwoofer settings are good for heavy or rhythmic music. The device better transmits low frequencies and allows you to adjust their degree of expression. A similar effect can also be achieved with a passive subwoofer, but this will require expensive equipment connected to a powerful system.

Active subwoofers are already equipped with an amplifier, so problems with power differences cannot arise. A passive subwoofer requires an external amplifier, since often the sound source and the speaker system have different powers. If you connect them directly, distortion will occur. sound waves, causing noise to be heard or the sound to be quiet even at maximum volume.

A passive subwoofer, when properly configured, can produce clearer sound that will outperform an active subwoofer. True, to achieve such a result you will have to spend a lot of time and effort. Moreover, not every average person understands these subtleties so deeply. Thus, for the average listener, an active subwoofer would be much preferable, while a passive subwoofer is more often purchased by true connoisseurs of high-quality sound.

Why does a passive subwoofer sound cleaner?

As already mentioned, a passive subwoofer correct settings capable of producing a denser and more spacious sound. This is due to a number of parameters:

• no overheating of the air inside the device;
• possibility of connecting additional filters;
• external amplifiers have a large number of parameters for configuration;
• The power and depth of sound are enhanced due to the fact that there are no unnecessary obstacles in the cabinet.

In addition, when comparing active and passive subwoofers with similar parameters of converted sound waves, the latter will cost less, since they are not overloaded with additional devices. True, you will have to buy an additional amplifier, which will significantly increase the final costs.

How to connect an active subwoofer?

There are three ways to connect a powered subwoofer to a sound source. The diagram shows the most common version of the inputs and outputs of speaker system devices.

The subwoofer has two inputs high level, so you will need a long and thick speaker cable to connect the device. When connecting, RCA cables or, in other words, “tulips” are used. One end is connected to the subwoofer, the other to the input on the rear panel of the receiver labeled “Subwoofer”. If the panel has two RCA type connectors or four, then a white connector is used.

You can also use the outputs to connect speaker systems. In this case, both the subwoofer and the system will operate in parallel in the low-frequency range. It is possible to connect active subwoofers to the amplifier, but this will only increase the load on the device, causing the sound quality to suffer.

How to connect a passive subwoofer?

If the subwoofer has two terminals, the device is connected through an amplifier to the Pre Out Subwoofer output. The connection diagram can be represented by the following chain: Passive subwoofer – Speaker cable – Amplifier – RCA cable – Receiver. In this case, it is necessary to set settings on the receiver that limit the frequency of reproduced frequencies.

Often, passive subwoofers are connected in parallel with the front speakers. For this:

• the three terminals on the back of the subwoofer are a plus front speakers and a general disadvantage;
• The four terminals on the back of the subwoofer are the pros and cons of the front speakers.

To connect a passive subwoofer to an amplifier, it is recommended to use speaker cables with a thickness of 2.5 to 4 mm. During the connection process, the poles of the plugs and channels must be observed. When using the device in home theater The subwoofer outputs are connected to the satellites.

Connecting a subwoofer in a car

Since space in the car is limited, most owners vehicle prefer active subwoofers. This is due to the fact that connecting a passive one requires installation additional device– amplifier. To install the speaker system, you will need to perform a number of steps:

• connect the linear outputs of the radio to the subwoofer inputs using a “tulip”. If there are no such outputs, the connection is made to HI INPUT;
• The subwoofer is powered using a positive cable from the battery to the twelve-volt terminal of the subwoofer and a negative cable to the GND terminal. The fuse must be installed 20 cm from the battery;
• The subwoofer is connected to the radio via the REM control wire. It is carried out from the radio to the terminal on the subwoofer; it is better to take a thinner cable.

Which device should you choose?

If you want to purchase a subwoofer, you need to decide which one is more suitable, taking into account the user’s goals. Some people need bass in their car, others need bass to listen to their favorite music, others prefer surround and multi-faceted sound when watching movies. For regular user an active subwoofer is more suitable, as it does not require complex settings and comparison of parameters different devices when connected.

Few users prefer passive devices, since setting them up requires special knowledge. If you have a suitable amplifier and the ability to adjust the parameters to the required needs, you can give preference to this type, which can give a denser sound.

An active subwoofer is responsible for high-quality sound of low tones in speech and musical compositions. This is a complex speaker system. Only 1 device is enough, because the human ear will not recognize where low sounds are coming from. It doesn't matter where the device is located.

Types and features of subwoofers

A standard small subwoofer has a cut-off frequency range of 40 to 20 Hz. The product is manufactured with a sound emitter. The diameter of the flat membrane in the center is about 30-50 cm. Such a subwoofer is considered home, but sometimes it can be up to 1 m (stage). Compact active subwoofer - a good option, if you need to mount the device discreetly in the car so that it does not take up much space.

There are also differences in the designs of the devices. For example, a closed subwoofer is sealed. Its design is durable and sounds are virtually undistorted. One of the disadvantages is that the larger the speaker, the greater the power of the membrane movements.

A bass reflex subwoofer is well suited for home use. The sound will be bright and rich.

Operation is based on the reverse movement of air flows through the bass reflex during the vibration of the membrane.

The bandpass subwoofer is considered the most expensive option due to its technical excellence. This design is a mix of devices with a bass reflex and a closed one. The disadvantage is the large size of the device.

A good option for a car is devices like FreeAir. It is a closed subwoofer with an air chamber. Columns give good sound when mounted in the trunk and use the interior of the vehicle to create deep bass.

Active

An active subwoofer for a car is an acoustic system that contains a powerful built-in amplifier, a separating filter and several speakers. This means that such a structure is a single block.

The sound quality is more effective than the passive option, according to most users. Although it depends on the settings. And connecting an active sub is much easier.

Passive

Considering what a passive subwoofer is, we can say the following: it is a design in which there are 1 or more low-frequency speakers that are assembled into a single housing. The material used is wood and plywood.

In order for the device to reproduce vibrations, you need to connect it to an amplifier.

Comparison

If you need to understand how an active subwoofer differs from a passive one, pay attention to the following criteria:

• Price. Active costs more. Due to the fact that it has a built-in amplifier, there are more expensive parts.
• Installation. The difference is that the passive version is more difficult to connect: you need to additionally install an amplifier and filters. And the active one will save space, because the parts are already built-in.
• Sound quality. Active ones have better sound quality, but it depends on the settings. In practice, if you properly install a passive sub, the sound can be much more effective. In addition, you can choose the settings yourself depending on your own perception.
• Settings. Active ones have more capabilities, but if powerful outdoor amplifiers are used, then this feature is not important. In addition, the possibility of connecting a bass regulator is taken into account.

When choosing which subwoofer is best, you need to consider the advantages and disadvantages. The advantages of passive include: low cost, the ability to customize the sound according to your own needs.

But for this you need to select an amplifier, filters and dynamic heads.

Passive subwoofers can have different designs - bandpass, bass reflex or classic box.

Active ones will not be able to use different cases due to additional electronics. But their advantages include built-in filters and amplifiers. The system can be connected to a car radio without other devices. But because of this, either electronics or dynamics have to be placed in one case.

Installation in the car

Many people are interested in how to properly connect an active subwoofer on their own. Even a beginner can handle this.

Installing an active subwoofer in a car is as follows:

1. During installation, use signal and power wires. The positive cable must be connected to “+” on the battery. It must have a large diameter.
2. Install a fuse short circuits and overloads. It is recommended to leave the part in the engine compartment, as close to the battery as possible. If needed, there will be free access to it.
3. Secure the negative cable to the vehicle body. For this, a nearby point is used. You will get a “-” connection between the weight of the body and the GND of the device.
4. If the car radio has separate connectors, then the connection with the active device is more convenient. It is required to lay a coaxial type wire in the screen with the required connector. The cable is fixed on one side with the SubOut output on the car radio, and on the other with Lineln on the subwoofer.

This connection scheme is the most common. It can also be used after equipment repair.

There are several ways to connect to a stereo amplifier:

1. The subwoofer is connected to the outputs to which the speaker systems are already connected. There will be parallel work in the low frequency range.
2. You can connect the subwoofer to the receiver, and the acoustics to the outputs on the subwoofer itself. In front of them are high-pass filters that will eliminate wheezing, noise, etc. But you need to take into account that with this connection method, the load on the speaker system increases, so it may break.

Manual setting

Exist special programs, which can . They are called tone generators. This option is simple and convenient.

You need to consider the size of the interior, the power of the amplifier and the direction of the music when creating a wooden box for the subwoofer.

The following filters are used:

• LPF. Trims high frequencies. Standardly located on the amplifier. Open the regulator and turn it with a screwdriver until the frequency is 60 Hz.
• Subsonic. Responsible for cutting infrasound. Located on the rear of the amplifier. You need to turn the screwdriver so that it is 5 Hz less than the frequency of the bass reflex port.
• Adjusting the Gain level. This is the input sensitivity of the device. Located on the amplifier. First you need to set the control to minimum and turn on the sound with a gradual increase in volume. Continue until the first defects appear. Then turn the knob back until a clear sound appears. Now you need to turn the regulator clockwise until defects appear. Then move back a few divisions.

How to turn active into passive

An active device can be turned into a passive device, and you don’t even need to spend money. This increases trunk space.

For example, there is active option subwoofer Kicx ICQ 300BA and amplifier Blaupunkt GTA-475 with 4 channels. The latter is connected to 4 speakers. But those located in the rear doors are not used. A subwoofer can be connected to 2 channels. This option is used when they want to replace the built-in amplifier with a more powerful one.

The process is as follows:

1. Disassemble the subwoofer.
2. Remove partitions. After removing the amplifier, there is quite a lot of space left.
3. Cut out the back wall from a plywood sheet. Attach it with Moment glue and self-tapping screws. Seal the joints inside with sealant. The thickness of the plywood sheet should be 1.2 cm.
4. The holes must be coated with sealant. Contacts - secure.
5. When everything is dry, you need to connect the devices. That is, channels 3 and 4 will be under a subwoofer.

The sound of bass becomes better, as users note, unpleasant defects disappear.

When choosing a subwoofer, pay attention to the manufacturer, build quality, price, installation, and customization options. These have proven themselves well best manufacturers, like Sony, Alpine, Pioneer, Helix, JBL, Kicx, Yamaha.

As for the latter company, the devices are quite expensive, but the sound is good. Electronic circuits are the standard of quality.

Pioneer also has extensive experience in developing such products. You can purchase subs for both home and professional use. A striking example is the Pioneer TS W304R. The top subwoofers also include Alpine SBE 1244BR. The manufacturer is a French company.

• Pioneer TS-WX210A. It is distinguished by increased sensitivity and the ability to remotely control. The disadvantage is that it can only be attached to the floor.
• Alpine PWE-V80. The only drawback is that the settings are carried out from the remote control.
• JBL Basspro SL. It has an economical amplifier with low cooling requirements. But you need to take into account that the connectors are located inconveniently.
• Eton USB 10. Small in height and low power.

Among the best active subwoofers are the following models: Kicx ICQ 300BA, Pioneer TS-WX206, Alpine SWE-815.

Probably, any fan of high-quality music would like to enjoy their favorite compositions on good and powerful sound equipment. Well, that's why speaker systems appeared powerful subwoofers. As a rule, the main dilemma when purchasing such a system is which subwoofer to choose - active or passive.

Definition

Passive subwoofer It is distinguished by its extremely simple design - it consists of a housing and one or more low-frequency heads, which are then connected to an external amplifier. There are also two types of passive subwoofer connections. The first type is the least preferable due to the presence of sound distortion and lower quality of its transmission - in this case, the stereo amplifier signal is supplied not only to the subwoofer, but also to other speakers. Connecting with an electronic crossover filter makes much more sense because it effectively separates the bass from the signal going to other speakers.

Part active subwoofer includes both a crossover filter and a power amplifier. Thus, an active subwoofer is a mobile combination of several devices that can be found separately. The active subwoofer has line inputs and outputs, as well as the function of adjusting the signal level and crossover frequency. As a rule, a good active subwoofer expands significantly dynamic range speaker system, which, of course, will have a beneficial effect on the quality of the music.

Comparison

Firstly, an active subwoofer with its standard settings on average it is better suited for heavy or danceable and rhythmic music as it delivers better bass frequencies and has more flexible settings and adjustments (except in cases where an expensive speaker system and a very high-quality passive subwoofer are used). Secondly, active subwoofers have their own amplifiers, while passive subwoofers require external amplifiers. However, a system with a passive subwoofer can be configured so that it will sound better system with an active subwoofer, but this is a very painstaking and delicate process. In this regard, an active subwoofer is much more convenient, because it is much faster and easier to set up, but many connoisseurs good sound prefer to spare no time and effort in setting up passive systems.

Conclusions website

1. An active subwoofer has a built-in amplifier. A passive subwoofer requires connection to external audio amplifiers.
2. Setting up a speaker system with an active subwoofer is much faster and easier.
3. With the most accurate and high-quality tuning, a system with a passive subwoofer, as a rule, produces more spacious and dense sound than a system with an active subwoofer.

From many modern devices, systems and devices, the subwoofer is responsible for the low tone of music/speech. That is, this complex system (of an acoustic nature) can reproduce lower register sounds externally. All low frequencies, including infrasound (below 20 Hz), are most clearly and correctly transmitted by this device.

It is difficult for those who want to listen to audio materials in good sound/quality to do without a subwoofer. For this it would be necessary powerful speakers, usually expensive and bulky. Use the same special device for reproducing low frequencies will help facilitate the work of the sound reproduction system itself (the speakers themselves). They are not “forced” to produce more bass and therefore the sound is less distorted.

Often the subwoofer is presented separate device, assembled into a housing. Only one of these is needed for an audio system, because the human ear is not able to recognize the direction from which low sounds are coming. Therefore, the only subwoofer, no matter where (in the most convenient place for the owner), will cope with its task. And any pair of speakers will suit it.

What types of subwoofers are there?

You need to choose a subwoofer based on a few parameters that determine their types. Firstly, the very design of this acoustic system “sets the tone” and predetermines its capabilities and use:

1. A design resembling a box, closed and sealed - when the speaker itself, reproducing low register sounds, is fixed on the wall of this “closed box” - the most common type of subwoofer design.
2. Bass reflex - in its design, air is removed from the rear of the device (diffuser) from tuned special pipes, “pushing out” the sound.
3. Bandpass, the so-called bandpass, which, due to its characteristics, has attracted more attention from car enthusiasts than others. Because, unlike the previous ones, it combines filters responsible for high and low frequencies.

The types of subwoofers described above and their differences relate to assembly, appearance and the actual design of the acoustic system. As for the more fundamental, controversial types of subwoofers, they differ in the operation/design of the power amplifier, divided into passive and active.

Features of a passive subwoofer

Its structure is simple, main element its housing - head/s - is “joined” with an external (separate) amplifier. Among them there are design differences:

1. Subwoofer device (passive) with signal transmission to stereo amplifier, which is not divided by speakers different frequencies, which distorts the sound somewhat.
2. In its design, to eliminate the shortcoming of the previous one, there is electronic filter with the task of separating and sorting frequencies by speakers.

The disadvantage of a passive subwoofer is obvious: to perform given tasks, it requires a lot: a divider, an amplifier (which is also separate connection"will request").

Active subwoofer device

This type of speaker system “absorbed all the best”: a separation filter and amplifier (built-in, proprietary) similar to the parts of a passive subwoofer. Therefore, its connection/installation is not difficult. It clearly distinguishes inputs and outputs (linear), frequency controls and other settings (frequency separation, their level). That is, the active subwoofer has smooth, good sound quality.

Differences between active and passive subwoofer

The difference between these two types of acoustic systems, which make it possible to clearly perceive low frequencies in the sounding audio, is manifested in the following:

• Availability, ease of operation: installation, settings - the active type is a clear leader in this.
• Passive, on the other hand, has a more complex, but more complete range of settings. This allows you to bring the reproduced sound to a professional level.
• A high-quality audio system, chosen by true connoisseurs, true lovers of full and good sound, is more likely to “establish a relationship” with a passive subwoofer.
• The sound produced by a passive subwoofer is more voluminous and dense, while an active one is smoother.
• An active subwoofer is good at playing rhythmic (dance) and heavy music, thanks to its flexible tuning and ease of adjustment.
• It also does “bass” better—it transmits bass frequencies.

It is also possible to convert one type of (passive) subwoofer into another, “smoothing out” their differences. To do this, you need to build (or attach/add to it) the missing components into the first one. This process is not as simple as it sounds. Therefore, it is better to choose, based on the advantages of the original types of subwoofers, the one necessary and suitable for the request and preferences of the owner of the audio system.

When purchasing car speakers, the question of choosing a subwoofer – passive or active – often arises. To briefly answer the question at the very beginning of the article, how an active subwoofer differs from a passive one, we need to give a definition. It's about about a special woofer that expands the bass frequency range and makes it richer and deeper.

A passive speaker is connected to an amplifier, giving the sound more High Quality. Active is an all-inclusive system with built-in amplifier. At the same time, convenience and savings affect sound quality.

Features of choice: which subwoofer is better

There is no clear answer as to which subwoofer is better: active or passive. It all depends on the specific situation of choosing between these proposals. WITH passive system will cost more. It will be more hassle to install and will require the purchase of an amplifier. But with proper installation, sound awaits you Hi-Fi class. With this formulation of the question, which is better, there is no point.

True, in order to get professional sound in a car, in addition to high-quality acoustics, you will need a car radio with sound processor. This device takes into account the features of the interior shape of the cabin. So, with all the advantages “at the output”, a passive subwoofer has two major disadvantages - high cost and installation complexity.

You can connect the active sub yourself immediately after purchase. Moreover, with some preparation for the issue, you can purchase a very high-quality speaker. When choosing specific brands, it is quite difficult to say which is better and choose between an active and passive subwoofer.

Manufacturers come up with various tricks that level out differences in sound quality, while the active version has a number of advantages (in such models the question of which is better is not relevant):

• compact sizes;
• no need to purchase additional equipment;
• ease of installation.

The principles described will help you understand the differences and differences, and choose which subwoofer is best for you. If desired, you can make a passive subwoofer into the car yourself by adapting the housing to the car’s interior. In this case, the difference in ease of connection and price will not greatly affect your media system. But such installations are for passionate people and professionals.

So, active and passive subwoofer: we figured out what the difference is. Now let’s look at the question of what is different, the choice of functions and qualities of the system, let’s look at it in more detail.

What does the choice promise?

As they say, every case is personalized. If the car owner has paid close attention to the issue, then they know perfectly well what the difference is. The purchase is related to certain factors: price, personal, installation features in the car. In general, we can recommend taking the active version from a good manufacturer.

This will protect you from a number of problems. If you want a sound no worse than the Maybach, then go for the passive model, but provided that you have a complete stereo system in your purchase plans good quality. Putting this all together is not that easy.

It is quite difficult to complete such a system, since, by definition, the passive versions are intended for home theaters. Models with a bass reflex are designed only for large rooms.

They are not intended for cars. Thus, the smaller your salon, the more you need to lean towards a good quality active model. This option is also suitable for those users who do not place excessive demands on car acoustics and are looking for best option for your car.

Conclusion: between rationality and functions

As a result, the difference between an active subwoofer and a passive one is its purpose. The first version is more suitable for regular class cars. The second is exclusive cars with a large interior or versions for those people who love good acoustics and masterfully understand it.

High quality model with a built-in amplifier solves most of the problems of organizing good sound. In most cases, the sound improvement will not be felt in a small car interior, so you can choose a system with average parameters.

The passive version is purchased mainly by connoisseurs high quality sound, giving preference modern music. Since the sub makes the bass richer. Choose this option if this is the difference you are interested in. Now you have a clear idea of ​​what is better: an active or passive subwoofer. You can also watch a video on how to connect speakers to the system.