• The move to the new server is done. There are some software and database maintenance updates in process. This has us passing the hat around to help out. We appreciate any donations. Seriously, even a dollar helps. The payment page may be found here - https://www.audiokarma.org/support.html

adding an amp to a passive subwoofer

V

Victorusa

New Member
I have a JL Audio passive subwoofer as part of my sound system. I recently saw a youtube video regarding attaching a 25 watt plate amplifier amplifier to the back of the speaker. I am considering doing this as my Sony receiver STR-DE685 will not give me enough bass. Do you think I'm wasting time and money or should I go for it?
 
Register to hide this ad
It depends how much internal cabinet volume the driver needs in that enclosure to work properly. Installing a plate amp into the cabinet may make a difference, it may not (as the plate amp itself will take up some of that internal space).

Personally I wouldn't bother with 25 watts. Bass needs a lot of energy - I'd go with at least 100W. If you are going to do it, do it with style. These units are cheap enough to buy:

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sa100-100w-subwoofer-plate-amplifier--300-802
 
slimecity said:
It depends how much internal cabinet volume the driver needs in that enclosure to work properly. Installing a plate amp into the cabinet may make a difference, it may not (as the plate amp itself will take up some of that internal space).

Personally I wouldn't bother with 25 watts. Bass needs a lot of energy - I'd go with at least 100W. If you are going to do it, do it with style. These units are cheap enough to buy:

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sa100-100w-subwoofer-plate-amplifier--300-802
Click to expand...
+1 You could make a wooded frame deep enough to house the amp on the outside of the box. Drill a few 3/4" or 1" holes on a couple sides for cooling even. I've been thinking about doing that myself. Mounting the plate amp on top. Not so pretty, but easier to adjust. My plan is to buy one of the box and deliver combo's from P.E. along with a plate amp. You do want an amp with some power. 100 watts minimum.
 
slimecity said:
It depends how much internal cabinet volume the driver needs in that enclosure to work properly. Installing a plate amp into the cabinet may make a difference, it may not (as the plate amp itself will take up some of that internal space).

Personally I wouldn't bother with 25 watts. Bass needs a lot of energy - I'd go with at least 100W. If you are going to do it, do it with style. These units are cheap enough to buy:

https://www.parts-express.com/dayton-audio-sa100-100w-subwoofer-plate-amplifier--300-802
Click to expand...
I decided to put the 4 ohm subwoofer back in my Mini Cooper and found a very affordable powered subwoofer which is working adequately. Thank you.
 
I decided to go with an active sw which I found in a thrift shop. Thanks for the suggestion. I will google the amp you referenced to better understand.
 
Victorusa said:
I decided to put the 4 ohm subwoofer back in my Mini Cooper and found a very affordable powered subwoofer which is working adequately. Thank you.
Click to expand...
Update: Today I purchased Lafayette LR-2020A . I hooked it up to my Boston Acoustics CR5 speakers and tt. No subwoofer. I was pleasantly surprised by the frequency range including bass. I know think a subwoofer isn't needed. The tt sounds so much better the speskers not so bright. A good find.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom