Adding Subwoofer

[Lemonnuff31]

Hi All,

I have recently upgraded the stock bose head unit in my V because it was rubbish. I only replaced the headunit and left the rest of the sound system stock. Since then I have really noticed the lack of bass from the stock system (had not noticed previously because only had three radio stations and no cd's worked).

The original speakers seem fine, but the overall sound is very tinny and lacks any depth whatsoever.

What I want to know is, how hard is it to add a sub to the existing set up? Will I need to replace the original amp with an aftermarket one? Do i leave that in and get a second added to run the sub?

I will not be looking for any crazy door-falling-off levels of bass, but do need something, so any dvice will be greatly appreciated.

Cheers

[Nightcrawler]

I upgraded the front splits on the factory wiring, then added an amp and sub in the boot run via RCAs from the head unit. Works a treat.

[Plattsy]

what nightcrawler says, thats the easiest way.

can i suggest to make it even easier to get an active sub, one which has the amp built in/on to the sub box, as a tip cash convertors has a shit load. i picked up a brand newish fusion 12 inch in a box for 50 bucks!

[The Max]

I agree with both the guys here. At least you've got the luxury of replacing your head unit with something actually worth a damn. This is one aspect of modern motor vehicles that shits me, I must say. Mine was quite the challenge with integrating into the OEM setup and it still has its pitfalls from an operational point of view but you're definitely in a better position.

Keep it all as simple as you can. Take advantage of your head unit's existing outputs, particularly if it has a subwoofer output, route your signal and power cabling to the boot (neatly!) and you're away.

The next obstacle is your boot height and hence, your choice of sub diameter. If it's anything like my V36, then you won't be able to fit a 12" sub if it's standing perpendicular. Many have gone the 10" approach though I'm having a hard time letting go of my old faithful Soundstream Exact 12" which has served me well for the past 14 years.

Which is why I'm in the process of building a wedge box but I won't crap on about the details in it here. You can keep an eye on my thread about fitting an amp in a V36.