Are you wondering why there are so many types of car subwoofers? You need not worry, as this guide is here to unveil the different classifications and help you understand everything you need to know.
Subwoofers play a crucial role in enhancing the overall sound quality when reproducing deep bass and low frequencies accurately. They add depth and impact to your audio experience to make it more immersive and enjoyable. You can easily enhance your car's audio system with an informed decision about the car subwoofer type.
Let’s take a holistic approach to understanding the critical details of different car subwoofer types.
Table of Contents
Car Subwoofer Types by Technology Classes
The technology behind car subwoofers has evolved significantly and resulted in different classes of subwoofers. Let’s go through them.
Class A
Class A subwoofers are designed to provide the most accurate and natural bass response. They operate by using a single-ended amplifier and always keeping the output signal on to result in a more linear response.
Class A subwoofers, the oldest class technology, tend to be larger in size, consume more power, and are more expensive than other classes.
Class B
This type of subs operates by using a push-pull amplifier configuration, where one transistor is responsible for the positive half of the waveform, while another transistor handles the negative half. As a result, these subs provide improved efficiency and reduced power consumption. One concern about Class B subs is that they suffer from crossover distortion and produce some distortion in the audio signal.
Class AB
Class AB subwoofers combine the characteristics of both Class A and Class B subwoofers. Class AB subwoofers use a combination of single-ended and push-pull amplification. It allows them to provide a clean and accurate bass response with improved efficiency compared to Class A subwoofers. They also generate less heat compared to Class B subwoofers.
Class D
Class D subwoofers are known for their high efficiency (up to 90% or more) and compact size. They operate by using a switching amplifier, which rapidly switches the output transistors on and off to regulate the audio signal. This switching process results in higher efficiency and reduced power consumption compared to other classes.
They can deliver high power output while generating less heat and can easily fit into tight spaces. However, Class D subwoofers may not offer the same sound quality and accuracy level as Class A or Class AB subwoofers.
Car Subwoofer Types by Voice Coil
Let’s look at the subwoofer types by voice coil, which impacts subs’ performance, wiring options, and compatibility.
Single Voice Coil (SVC) Subwoofer
Single-voice coil subwoofers are the most common type found in car audio systems. As the name suggests, they have a single voice coil wound around the speaker's former, which converts electrical signals into mechanical vibrations to produce sound.
SVC subwoofers are relatively simple to install and can be powered by a single-channel amplifier. They are available in various sizes and power ratings, making them versatile for different car audio setups.
However, SVC subwoofers have limited wiring options, which can affect the flexibility in configuring your system's impedance.
Dual Voice Coil (DVC) Subwoofer
Dual voice coil subwoofers have two separate voice coils wound around the speaker's former, each with its own terminals. This design allows for more wiring configurations to enable you to match the impedance of your subwoofer to your amplifier.
These subs are especially useful if you have a multi-channel amplifier or plan to add additional subwoofers to your system. They provide more control over the impedance and can be wired in series or parallel to achieve different load values.
However, DVC subwoofers tend to be slightly more complex to install than SVC subwoofers.
Car Sub Types by Configuration
How a subwoofer is housed within an enclosure can significantly affect its sound output and suitability for specific applications. So, we will next see sub-types based on the enclosures.
1. Active Subwoofer
Active subwoofers (aka powered subwoofers) integrate an amplifier within the unit. This self-contained system simplifies setup and eliminates the necessity of a separate external amplifier.
They are ideal for users seeking an easy-to-install, compact solution, especially beneficial in limited-space environments without the complexity of additional equipment.
2. Passive Subwoofer
Passive subwoofers are the ones requiring an external amplifier to function. They offer more flexibility regarding system configuration and can be matched with amplifiers to achieve desired sound characteristics.
These subs are more suitable for audiophiles and those who prefer a customizable audio setup to fine-tune their audio experience.
3. Component Subwoofer
Component subwoofers are standalone subwoofers designed to be mounted in a separate enclosure. They offer more excellent customization options as you can choose the enclosure type that best suits your car's available space and desired sound output.
They are great for producing deep and accurate bass as they can move air freely without the limitation of a pre-built enclosure.
4. Sealed Enclosure Subwoofer
Sealed enclosures (aka acoustic suspension enclosures) provide a tight and accurate bass response and are designed to prevent air leakage for a controlled and precise low-frequency output.
If your favorite music genres demand tight and well-defined bass, such as rock or jazz, this sub-type is the best fit for your car audio system. But it might not be the go-to for earth-shaking bass or maximizing the sub’s potential.
5. Ported Enclosure Subwoofer
Ported enclosures are designed to enhance the bass output by utilizing the principle of a tuned port. They are famous for their ability to produce louder and more boom-boom bass for music genres like hip-hop and electronic music.
They also tend to be more efficient to let the subwoofer produce more output with less power.
6. Bandpass Enclosure Subwoofer
Bandpass enclosures combine the characteristics of both sealed and ported enclosures. They consist of two chambers – one sealed and one ported – which work together to produce a specific range of frequencies.
This combination provides them with the ability to produce loud and punchy bass.
Factors to Consider for the Right Car Sub
Now that you understand the various car subwoofers better, it's time to dive into the factors you need to consider when choosing the right ones for your car audio system.
- Power Handling: The power handling capabilities of a subwoofer are typically measured in terms of RMS (Root Mean Square) power, which represents the continuous power output the subwoofer can handle. You should match the subwoofer's power handling capabilities with your amplifier's power output.
- Enclosure Type: It plays a significant role in the overall performance and sound because of the configuration and ability of air to flow in and out of the enclosure.
- Impedance: It is essentially the resistance a subwoofer presents to the amplifier's current flow. It plays a crucial role in the power handling capability of the subwoofer and how it interacts with the car's amplifier.
- Sensitivity: A subwoofer with higher sensitivity requires less power to produce the same volume level as a subwoofer with lower sensitivity. It makes it more efficient and especially important in systems with limited power availability.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the right car subwoofer type is a critical decision that can greatly enhance your car audio experience. Try to consider the different classes of subwoofers, understand the factors to consider, and avoid common mistakes. Afterward, you can easily find the perfect subwoofer that suits your sound system needs and preferences.
Read Related Posts: