Generating accurate and powerful bass sounds requires a lot of energy and a particular kind of speaker. It is easy for low tones and notes in music to become distorted in ordinary speakers, especially when you turn the volume up. To get a true bass, you want to invest in a subwoofer speaker, designed specifically for such low frequencies.
A subwoofer for car use needs certain components to reproduce low sounds well: an enclosure and an amplifier. The box enclosure creates greater resonance, and the amplifier increases the power of the audio signal. Some subwoofers come with one or more of these components already in place. For instance, an enclosed sub comes pre-mounted in an enclosure box. A powered sub is a subwoofer with integrated amplifier.
If you want to select each car audio component individually, choose a component subwoofer, which is just the speaker. Then you can select a compatible enclosure and connect your subwoofer to a car amplifier.
Because a lot of power is required to generate low sounds, the amplifier is an important part of making your car subwoofer play powerful, undistorted bass sounds. Your car audio receiver does not generate enough power to avoid distortion at low frequencies. So, you must incorporate an amp when installing a subwoofer. The amp can connect to multiple car speakers, your whole audio system or just the sub.
For an easier installation process, you can also consider getting a powered subwoofer. This sub speaker combines the subwoofer and amplifier in a compact arrangement that won't take up a significant amount of space in your car.
If you have decided to enhance your car audio system as a DIY project, make sure you have all of the installation parts and subwoofer wires that you need. Alternatively, if you find the installation process intimidating or confusing, you can always reach out for assistance from Best Buy’s professional car electronics installation team.