Having loud subs outside the car is the dream for many car audio enthusiasts. Having loud subs outside the car not only adds to the overall aesthetic of your car but also enhances the overall listening experience.
However, making subs louder outside the car can be a bit tricky and requires a bit of understanding of the different factors that can affect the volume of subs outside the car. In this article, we will be discussing the different methods and techniques that you can use to make your subs louder outside your car.
Understanding the Basics
Before we dive into the different methods and techniques, it’s important to understand the basics of how sound travels and how it affects the volume of subs outside the car. One of the main factors that affect the loudness of subs outside the car is the placement and positioning of the subs.
Positioning of the Subs
That is, the location of the subwoofer plays a crucial role in determining how loud the sound that is emitted outside the car is.
Proper sub placement involves placing the subwoofer in a location where it can emit sound in all directions. This can be achieved by installing the subwoofer in a sealed enclosure and placing it in the trunk of your car.
Additionally, where the subwoofer is facing also plays a role in the volume of sound emitted outside the car. A subwoofer that is faced towards the rear of the car will be louder outside the car than one that is faced towards the front of the car.
Size of the Subwoofer
Another important factor that affects the loudness of subs outside the car is the size of the subwoofer. Larger subwoofers will emit louder sound than smaller ones.
This is because larger subwoofers have larger cones that can move more air, resulting in louder sound.
Amplifiers and Power
Another important factor in making your subs louder outside the car is the use of amplifiers. An amplifier is a device that increases the power of an audio signal, resulting in louder sound.
There are various types of amplifiers available in the market, such as mono-block, multi-channel, and class D amplifiers. Each of these amplifiers has its own pros and cons and choosing the right one depends on the specific needs of your subwoofer system.
Mono-block amplifiers are designed to power a single subwoofer and are known for their high power output and efficiency. Multi-channel amplifiers are designed to power multiple subwoofers and are ideal for those looking to power multiple subs in a car.
Class D amplifiers are known for their compact size and high efficiency, making them a popular choice for car audio enthusiasts.
When it comes to power, it is important to remember that more power does not always equate to louder sound. It is important to choose an amplifier that is properly matched to the power handling capabilities of your subwoofer. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the amplifier is properly wired to the subwoofer to ensure optimal performance.
Box Design and Construction
The design and construction of the subwoofer box is another important factor in making your subs louder outside the car. A properly designed and constructed subwoofer box can enhance the overall sound quality and volume of the subwoofer.
There are several types of subwoofer boxes available, such as sealed, ported, and bandpass boxes.
Sealed boxes are known for their tight and accurate bass response, making them a popular choice for those looking for a more precise sound. Ported boxes are known for their louder and boomy bass response, making them a popular choice for those looking for a more powerful sound.
Bandpass boxes are known for their high output and efficiency, making them a popular choice for those looking for a louder and more powerful sound.
When building your own subwoofer box, it is important to ensure that the box is properly sealed and reinforced to prevent any unwanted vibrations. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the box is properly tuned to the frequency response of the subwoofer.
This can be achieved by experimenting with different box designs and construction techniques.
Customizing Your Subwoofer System
Customizing your subwoofer system is another way to make your subs louder outside the car. There are several options available for customizing your subwoofer system, such as upgrading the subwoofer, adding a second subwoofer, and adding a crossover.
Customizing your subwoofer system will not only make your subs louder outside the car but also improve the overall sound quality of your subs.
When customizing your subwoofer system, it is important to ensure that the subwoofer is properly matched to the amplifier and that the system is properly wired to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the system is properly tuned to the frequency response of the subwoofer.
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Proper maintenance and troubleshooting can ensure that your subwoofer system is functioning at its best, which include producing louder sound outside the car.
Common issues that can arise with subwoofer systems include blown fuses, damaged speakers, and poor speaker placement. Blown fuses can be replaced and damaged speakers can be repaired or replaced. Poor speaker placement can be corrected by repositioning the speakers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, making your subs louder outside the car requires a bit of understanding of the different factors that can affect the loudness of the subs outside the car.
Proper speaker placement and positioning, the size of the subwoofer, the use of amplifiers, the design and construction of the subwoofer box, and how you customize your subwoofer system are all important factors to consider when trying to make your subs louder outside the car.
Proper maintenance and troubleshooting are also important aspects to consider when trying to make your subs louder outside the car. With the right knowledge and understanding, you can achieve the perfect sound experience for your car.
How do I choose the right amplifier for my subs?
When choosing an amplifier for your subs, you need to consider the power handling capabilities of your subwoofer and choose an amplifier that properly matches it. Additionally, you should also consider the type of amplifier (mono-block, multi-channel, or class D) that best suits your needs and preferences.
Can I use a ported box for a sealed subwoofer?
No, it is not recommended to use a ported box for a sealed subwoofer. Sealed subwoofers are designed to work in sealed enclosures and using a ported box can negatively impact the sound quality and loudness of the subwoofer.
Is it okay to install the subwoofer in the front of the car?
It is not recommended to install the subwoofer in the front of the car as this can negatively impact the volume of sound emitted outside the car. It is best to install the subwoofer in the trunk of the car or in an area around the rear of the car.
Can I use a class D amplifier for a large subwoofer?
Class D amplifiers are known for their compact size and high efficiency, making them a popular choice for car audio enthusiasts. However, if you have a large subwoofer that requires more power, it may be best to choose a different type of amplifier, such as a mono-block or multi-channel amplifier.
Can I add a second subwoofer to my existing system?
Yes, adding a second subwoofer to your existing system can increase the loudness of your subs outside the car. However, it is important to ensure that the second subwoofer properly matches your existing subwoofer and that the system is properly wired and tuned to ensure optimal performance.