How to Properly Install a Car Subwoofer Filter
Understanding how to properly install a car subwoofer filter can enhance the audio quality of the car. This is because a subwoofer filter can improve the quality of bass sound, making the output clearer and free from distortion.
Types of Subwoofer Filter Kits
Before discussing the correct way to install a car subwoofer filter, it is advisable to recognize the types of subwoofer filter kits. This can facilitate the process of installing the subwoofer filter in the car. The types of filter kits are as follows.
1. Type 1 and 2 Subwoofer Filter Kits
This type of subwoofer filter kit has a similar design, especially in the input and output paths. The type 1 filter kit has 1 potentiometer that functions as an audio controller. Meanwhile, the type 2 filter kit has 2 potentiometers. The first potentiometer functions as a volume controller, and the second potentiometer functions as a frequency controller.
2. Type 3 Subwoofer Filter Kit
This type is different from the previous types. The type 3 subwoofer filter kit requires a resistor in the input and output paths.
Proper Installation of Car Subwoofer Filter
There are several ways you need to pay attention to when installing a car subwoofer filter to maximize the sound quality produced. The methods are as follows.
1. Installing the Subwoofer Filter with Type 1 and Type 2 Kits
The installation process for type 1 and 2 subwoofer filter kits is quite easy; you only need to inject bass sound (low notes) into the active speaker. After this injection process is done, the resulting bass sound will be clearer, especially at stereo audio level 2.0.
2. Installing the Subwoofer Filter with Type 3 Kit
For the installation of the type 3 subwoofer filter kit, you need to use resistors in the input and output paths. Then, you just need to adjust the resistor values according to your car audio needs or preferences. The use of resistors in this type of filter kit serves to clarify the bass sound, ensuring it is intact without distortion.
3. Installing the Subwoofer Filter without Tone Control
Audio files nowadays are generally equipped with equalizer features. Especially if you play those audio files using a smartphone. For installing a subwoofer filter without tone control is very easy; you only need to inject the filter into the active speaker. You do not need to add tone control to the bass sound.
4. Installing the Subwoofer Filter by Assembling Audio
The complete steps are as follows.
- First, you need to turn off all power sources in the car. Then turn the stereo volume to the lowest position before installing the subwoofer filter.
- Prepare the subwoofer filter components, including inductors, capacitors, and resistors.
- Next, ensure that the impedance of the subwoofer filter matches the impedance of the subwoofer to avoid damage.
- Then, connect the subwoofer cable from the amplifier to the input section of the subwoofer filter.
- Also, connect the subwoofer cable from the output section of the filter to the subwoofer.
- Next, ensure that the polarity of the subwoofer cable is correctly connected to the filter. The negative cable must connect to the negative terminal, and the positive cable must connect to the positive terminal.
- Then install the capacitor and inductor to the positive subwoofer cable. This installation serves to eliminate high frequencies so that only low frequencies are captured by the subwoofer.
- Then install the resistor to the negative subwoofer cable to eliminate distortion.
Read Also: Don't Get It Wrong, Here Are the Differences Between 2 Ohm and 4 Ohm Subwoofers
Thus, here are some methods you can follow when installing a car subwoofer filter. If you feel less skilled in performing the installation, you can ask for help from a skilled mechanic by visiting Daihatsu's official workshop.