Full-range speakers can be expanded with a set of subwoofers. Subs are extra-efficient at producing powerful basses since they're essentially large speakers focussed on nothing but low frequency reproduction. Setting up subwoofers takes a load off your full-range speakers, resulting in deeply enhanced PA sound.
Why Buy a Passive Subwoofer?
Unlike active subwoofers, passive subwoofers aren't equipped with a built-in amplifier. This keeps the weight down, but it also means they need to be hooked up to your external amplifier and speakers of choice.
What Else Does a Passive Sub Need?
Whether you're building a pro-grade set-up or a more budget-friendly system, you'll need some speaker cables for your passive speakers. Crossover systems and speaker management solutions can also go a long way towards pulling optimum performance out of your system. The same goes for upgrading your current gear with the right speaker components.
How To Connect a Passive Subwoofer or Speaker
Since passive subwoofers aren't equipped with a built-in amplifier or mixer like powered subwoofers are, they need to be connected to an external amplifier via either wire terminals, speakON ports or mono jack ports, depending on the inputs and outputs fitted to the unit. As such, the sound signal is always routed to your subwoofer via your amplifier.
Optimum Subwoofer Placement
Subwoofers are at their best when they're close to walls so they can pass on their vibrations. So, if maximum loudness is your goal, it's a good idea to set up your sub in a corner. Other than that, there's no fixed set of rules when it comes to subwoofer placement - it's simply a matter of trying out different spots.
Would a Small Passive Subwoofer Work for My Home Hi-Fi System?
It could, but you have to realise that PA subwoofers aren't optimised for living rooms. Both our active and passive subwoofers are purpose-made for PA systems.
Frequently Asked Questions About Passive Subwoofers
What's a passive subwoofer?
A passive subwoofer is a subwoofer without an internal amplifier. As such, it depends on an external amplifier.
How do I connect a passive subwoofer?
First, route the audio to an external amplifier. From there, the audio signal can be sent to your passive subwoofer via speaker cables, speakON cables or mono jack cables, depending on the ports fitted to your amp and sub.
