There is little doubt that anything will improve a car or truck’s sound system more then adding a good quality car audio subwoofer. Of course to produce great sound, you have to select the correct subwoofer for your specific system. The shopper really has to spend some time doing research and deciding exactly what type of sound he wants to create.
The first decision to make is what type and size subwoofer is best for your application. Through the years, I’ve met many shoppers after they had made the wrong decision and were unhappy with the results. While car audio subwoofers are available today in sizes from six to fifth teen inches in diameter, shoppers are sometimes surprised at the volume produced by even the smallest of subs. Nothing will effect the subwoofer’s performance more then matching it to the correct enclosure.
Available space usually dictates the size sub box that can be installed. Custom fit subwoofer enclosures make a great installation if available. A custom-fit subwoofer enclosure is a sub box that has been made to fit in an “out of the way” location and usually results in a factory look when installed.
If no custom fit box is available, your next choice will be standard sealed or ported truck subwoofer boxes. Your choice of sealed or ported will be governed by the specifics of the subwoofer you select. The easiest way to shop for a universal subwoofer enclosure is to check your box measurements. A ported enclosure will always require more air space then a sealed box of similar subwoofer size. So measure your install area first, match a subwoofer that you like to the boxes volume or air space.
The final step in adding a subwoofer is to match it to a good subwoofer amplifier. Again you have to check your subwoofer’s spec sheet to determine the proper power requirements. Don’t allow this procedure to deter you from adding a sub, the results are worth the effort. As you might guess, there are several variables in the selection process that I can’t discuss here. Be sure to click through to see detailed articles on selecting the correct components for a subwoofer installation.
